Monte Pascoal Mountain

Address: Monte Pascoal National Park, near Porto Seguro, Bahia, Brazil

Website: http://www.icmbio.gov.br/portal/

Monte Pascoal is a coastal hill in the state of Bahia, Brazil, rising above the surrounding coastal plains and noted for its historical role in early European contact with Brazil.

The hill is set within Atlantic Forest remnants and is part of a national park that preserves coastal forest, trails and viewpoints. Visitors walk short trails to viewpoints that offer panoramic views over the nearby coastline and forested lowlands.

The hill was noted by Portuguese navigators in April 1500 and is recorded in accounts of the landfall by Pedro Álvares Cabral’s expedition. In the 20th century the area was designated for conservation to protect its ecological and cultural values.

Monte Pascoal lies in southern Bahia on Brazil’s Atlantic coast, within driving distance of coastal towns in the region and forming a distinctive landmark on the coastal plain.

• Historic sighting: Historically significant as one of the first mainland features sighted by Pedro Álvares Cabral’s fleet in April 1500 during the European ‘discovery’ of Brazil.

What to See#

• National park: Protected within Parque Nacional do Monte Pascoal, the hill rises from the surrounding coastal plains and Atlantic forest remnants characteristic of southern Bahia.

Monte Pascoal National Park is accessible by road from Porto Seguro. Local tour operators run guided trips that include transport from the town and guided walks up to the hill and park trails.

• Guided cultural visits can add context to the park's indigenous history and cacao-era stories.
• Wildlife viewing best early morning when bird and mammal activity is highest.
• The summit is accessible by footpaths and local guide services - trail quality varies.