Lagoa do Peixe National Park National Park

Admission: Free (park entrance managed by ICMBio; check local regulations for vehicle fees)

Lagoa do Peixe National Park is a protected coastal wetland area on the northern coast of Rio Grande do Sul state in southern Brazil, conserving lagoons, tidal flats and dune systems. The park protects a dynamic interface between freshwater and marine environments and supports large concentrations of waterbirds.

Birdwatching is the principal recreational activity, with seasonal arrivals of migratory shorebirds and waterfowl that use the lagoons and flats for feeding and rest. The park’s sand barrier and shallow lagoons also support local fisheries and coastal processes.

The protected area was established to conserve the coastal lagoons, beaches and associated birdlife and to regulate uses such as fishing and tourism. Management focuses on habitat conservation and controlled visitor access.

Geographically the park lies along the coast of Rio Grande do Sul, north of Porto Alegre and straddles several coastal municipalities; access is by regional roads and local park entrances.

• Bird importance: The park is an important stopover and wintering area for migratory waterbirds along the South American Atlantic coast.

What to See#

• Coastal lagoons: A system of shallow coastal lagoons and intertidal flats that provide feeding and resting habitat for migratory shorebirds.
• Dune barrier: A sand barrier and dune plain that separates the lagoons from the open Atlantic and shapes tidal exchange and salinity in the park.

The park stretches along the coast; common access points are near Tavares, Mostardas and São José do Norte. From Porto Alegre it is roughly a 3-4 hour drive south along BR-290 and BR-101 (distances vary by entry point). Local roads to the lagoon are unpaved in places; a high-clearance vehicle is useful.

• Bring binoculars-this is a major stopover for migratory shorebirds, including red knots and sticks of flamingos.
• Avoid the central nesting zones during breeding season and heed posted boardwalk signs to protect dune vegetation.
• Visit in late afternoon for migrating flocks and long, warm light on the sandflats.