When you envision a trip to Brazil, maybe the celebrations of Carnival or a picture-perfect beach come to mind. Another side of the country to explore is the gorgeous Brazil national parks. There are many options spread throughout the country where you can encounter fascinating wildlife, enjoy adventurous activities, and learn from knowledgeable local guides. Keep reading for an overview of some of the most popular national parks in Brazil.

Aparados da Serra

Located in southern Brazil, Aparados da Serra is one of the most famous Brazil national parks. The most stunning part of the scenery is an immense canyon, covered in lush vegetation. Adventurous travelers plan a trip to hear to hike amongst waterfalls, go camping, mountaineering, or take photographs.

Chapada Diamantina

Located in northeast Brazil, this national park is known for its steep cliffs and scenic plateaus. Back in the mid-nineteenth century, a large number of diamonds were found here, which stuck with the name of the park. Travelers come here for eco-tours, hiking adventures, and activities on the park’s many rivers and streams.

Chapada dos Veadeiros

In the central west region of Brazil, travelers will find the majestic national park of Chapada dos Veadeiros. This park is filled with gorgeous landscapes, including mountains, waterfalls, and rivers. Named a World Natural Heritage Site, this park is ideal for bird watching, trekking, and camping.

Serra dos Orgaos

The Serra dos Orgaos National Park is located a one-hour drive away from Rio de Janeiro. Known most famously for its jagged rock formations, this park is worth a visit just to see the striking God’s Finger Rock formation. In this park, visitors come not only to admire the rock formations, but also to hike, go mountain climbing, and take photographs.

Chapada das Mesas

If you’re looking for Brazil national parks with the best waterfalls, you’ve got to check out Chapada das Mesas. This park is most visited for its variety of waterfalls, which are not only stunning for their plunging water, but for the color of the water in pools below. Be sure to bring along your camera.

Chapada dos Guimaraes

Located in central Barzil, Chapada dos Guimaraes is a mountain range of national park. Surrounded by the Amazon rainforest, this national park is popular with travelers who want to see the canyons, wildlife, and waterfalls of Brazil. This beautiful park is best explored on foot with a local guide.

Itatiaia National Park

This is the oldest national park in Brazil and was established back in 1937. With over 250 species of birds in the park, many birdwatchers are attracted to this area. If you’re looking for a place for some adventure, hiking and mountain climbing are popular in this park as well.

Lencois Maranhese

Located in northeastern Brazil, Lencois Maranhese national park is home to some of the most striking landscapes in all of Brazil. This area of low, flat sand dunes occasionally becomes flooded forming incredibly beautiful lagoons. Stretching to over 1000 square kilometers, it is strange to discover that this national park supports almost no vegetation (especially in comparison to other areas you might visit such as the Amazon rainforest).

No matter what national park you visit in Brazil, you are sure to be rewarded with some of the most beautiful sights on the planet.