Serra do Itajaí National Park National Park

Serra do Itajaí National Park is a federal conservation unit in the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil, protecting montane Atlantic Forest, river valleys and waterfalls. The park conserves remnants of a highly threatened biome and provides habitat for numerous forest species.

The landscape features steep forested slopes, river gorges and scenic waterfalls with trails and lookout points for visitors. Activities are primarily hiking, birdwatching and visiting waterfall viewpoints.

The park was established to protect the remaining highland Atlantic Forest and its water sources and to maintain ecological connectivity in the Serra do Mar/Serra Geral complex. It forms part of a network of protected areas in southern Brazil.

Geographically the park is located inland within Santa Catarina state, encompassing mountainous terrain typical of the region’s coastal range.

• Biological importance: Protects montane Atlantic Forest in the state of Santa Catarina and forms part of regional efforts to conserve southern Brazil’s forest biodiversity.

What to See#

• Atlantic Forest and watersheds: Highland Atlantic Forest remnants, including cloud forest pockets, river valleys and waterfall systems that support endemic flora and fauna.
• Trails and gorges: Trail networks and river gorges used for day hikes, waterfall viewing and wildlife observation in the park’s mountainous terrain.

Access typically from regional towns in Santa Catarina with transfers by road; local guides and park authorities provide routings for specific trails.

• If planning longer hikes, check park access points and river crossing conditions in advance-some trails can be washed out after heavy rain.
• Use authorized guides for cave and river exploration to ensure safety and compliance with conservation rules.
• Visit popular sectors (e.g., patronised trails) early in the day for better light and fewer people.