Catimbau National Park
National Park Brazilian national park with dramatic sandstone canyons
Catimbau National Park in Pernambuco features sandstone canyons, rock formations and prehistoric rock art; visitors hike trails, photograph eroded cliffs and study archaeological sites in the semi‑arid Caatinga.
How to Get to Catimbau National Park #
The park is reached from Recife by road (approximately 260-300 km); the nearest town with services is Buíque. Bus routes connect Buíque to Recife; from Buíque local transport or guides provide access to park trailheads. A car or guided transfer is the most practical way to explore the park’s interior.
Tips for Visiting Catimbau National Park #
- Hire a local, licensed guide to visit rock-art panels - guides know the safe routes and the locations of panels such as the Painted Canyon.
- Visit early morning to avoid heat and to see the canyon light sculpt the sandstone pillars.
- Bring sun protection and expect desert dust; some stretches are remote and without services.
Best Time to Visit Catimbau National Park #
The park is best visited in the dry season (May-September) for reliable trail conditions and comfortable hiking temperatures.
Weather & Climate near Catimbau National Park #
Catimbau National Park's climate is classified as Tropical Savanna - Tropical Savanna climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 15°C to 29°C. Moderate rainfall (886 mm/year).
January
January is the warmest month with highs of 29°C and lows of 18°C. Moderate rainfall (66 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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February
February is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 17°C. Regular rainfall (87 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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March
March is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 17°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (134 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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April
April is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 17°C. Significant rainfall (122 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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May
May is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 17°C. Regular rainfall (99 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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June
June is mild with highs of 23°C and lows of 16°C. Significant rainfall (115 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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July
July is mild with highs of 22°C and lows of 15°C. Significant rainfall (103 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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August
August is mild with highs of 23°C and lows of 15°C. Moderate rainfall (52 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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September
September is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 15°C. Light rainfall.
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October
October is mild with highs of 27°C and lows of 17°C. The driest month with just 20 mm.
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November
November is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 17°C. Light rainfall.
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December
December is the warmest month with highs of 29°C and lows of 18°C. Moderate rainfall (38 mm) and partly cloudy skies.