In the heart of Guaraqueçaba, Paraná, the Celebration of the Red-tailed Amazon Parrot transforms a quiet forest trail into a stage of vibrant flutter and wild chatter. This annual event summons adventurers and bird enthusiasts alike to witness the spirited presence of Amazona brasiliensis, a parrot fiercely protective of its coastal Atlantic Forest home. The trail stretches roughly 8 kilometers round trip, with a moderate 350-meter elevation gain along a well-marked dirt path that winds through dense patches of primary and secondary forest, offering intermittent, sweeping views of the bay and surrounding hills.

From the first steps, the forest feels alive, responding to your presence with the rustle of leaves and the sharp cries of these parrots echoing overhead. The earth beneath is firm but uneven, demanding sturdy footwear—roots and occasional wet patches challenge your footing without overwhelming. Late morning is ideal, when the tropical sun powers the parrots’ activity, lighting their green feathers aflame with hints of red and yellow.

Water is your best companion on this hike—humidity can build quickly in this subtropical zone, so carry at least 2 liters per person. The chatter of the Red-tailed Amazon Parrots often punctuates the forest’s calm, daring you to pause and look upward. Binoculars or a zoom lens can turn these sounds into vivid sightings, as families of parrots glide between canopy openings and feeding trees.

Prepare for a trail that demands steady legs and alert senses, but rewards thoroughly. The challenge is respecting this ecosystem’s sharp edges and unpredictable weather, which can shift from clearing blue sky to sudden showers in minutes. Timing your visit during the cooler, drier months gives the best chance for a clear, crisp experience.

As the celebration peaks, biologists and local guides conduct briefings about conservation efforts, inviting hikers to engage beyond observation—these parrots are vulnerable, their survival linked to the health of the forest you walk through. The event balances joy and education, making every sighting a reminder of what’s at stake.

For those ready to commit, the path eventually opens to a viewpoint overlooking the bay, where the parrots often settle after their foraging flights. Here, it’s easy to feel connected to something fiercely alive and worth protecting, reminding visitors that adventure is as much about listening and learning as moving forward.