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Serra da Capivara National Park adventures

Serra da Capivara National Park Adventures

Serra da Capivara National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site in northeastern Brazil renowned for its extensive prehistoric rock art and dramatic dry wilderness landscapes, offering unique hiking and archeological exploration opportunities.

420,000
Acres Protected
30
Miles of Trails
30,000
Annual Visitors
1979
Year Established

About Serra da Capivara National Park

 

Located in the state of Piauí, Brazil, Serra da Capivara National Park is one of the most important archaeological parks in the Americas. Covering a vast area of rugged terrain, the park features impressive sandstone formations, deep canyons, and a semi-arid climate typical of Brazil’s Caatinga biome. The park preserves thousands of prehistoric rock paintings and engravings, some of which date back over 25,000 years, making it one of the oldest sites of human activity in the Americas. These ancient artworks provide invaluable insights into early human culture and natural history.

The park's ecology includes xerophytic vegetation adapted to dry conditions, with fauna such as armadillos, various bird species, and other wildlife typical of the semi-arid northeast region. Visitors can explore numerous trails leading to rock art sites, natural viewpoints, and archaeological museums. Guided tours are often recommended to fully appreciate the cultural significance and fragile nature of these sites. Key landmarks within the park include the Pedra Furada rock formation and the extensive pictograph galleries found throughout the park's valleys.

Serra da Capivara appeals to those interested in archaeology, anthropology, and nature hiking, offering a combination of cultural discovery and outdoor adventure. The park’s remote location and challenging environment provide a sense of isolation and connection with prehistoric history rarely found elsewhere.

Highlights

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Extensive prehistoric rock art sites dating up to 25,000 years old

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The unique Caatinga biome with xerophytic vegetation

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The Pedra Furada archaeological site and iconic rock formations

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Remote hiking trails with spectacular canyon and valley views

Notable Natural Features

Prehistoric Rock Art

Thousands of pictographs and petroglyphs depicting human figures, animals, and symbolic shapes dating back over 25,000 years.

Pedra Furada

A natural stone arch and one of the park's signature geological landmarks alongside major archaeological sites.

Caatinga Ecosystem

A unique, drought-adapted dry forest biome offering diverse flora and fauna endemic to northeastern Brazil.