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Brazil
Serra da Canastra National Park

Explore the national park Serra da Canastra, including things to see and best time to go

Explore Pantanal Matogrossense National Park
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Explore Serra da Canastra
UNESCO World Heritage site

Serra da Canastra National Park in Brazil offers backpackers a unique experience with its diverse landscapes, including waterfalls, canyons, and grasslands. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, such as the endangered Brazilian merganser and maned wolf, making it a great destination for nature enthusiasts. However, the park’s remote location and limited infrastructure can make it challenging to access and navigate, especially for solo travelers. Additionally, the park’s strict conservation regulations may limit certain activities, such as camping and hiking, compared to other national parks. Overall, Serra da Canastra National Park provides backpackers with an off-the-beaten-path adventure, but it requires thorough planning and preparation to fully enjoy its natural beauty.

💡 HighlightsTop things to do in Serra da Canastra

1. Cachoeira Casca D’Anta - Visit the stunning 186-meter waterfall, the highest in the park, and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

2. Canastra Mountain Range - Explore the diverse flora and fauna of this unique and biodiverse mountain range, home to many endemic species.

3. Serra da Babilônia - Hike to the top of this mountain for panoramic views of the park and its rugged terrain.

4. Canyons and Valleys - Discover the dramatic canyons and lush valleys that make up the park’s diverse and picturesque landscape.

5. Wildlife Watching - Keep an eye out for the park’s diverse wildlife, including maned wolves, giant anteaters, and armadillos.

6. Furnas Lake - Enjoy a boat ride or hike around this beautiful reservoir, surrounded by towering cliffs and lush vegetation.

7. Traditional Villages - Visit the charming villages surrounding the park to experience the local culture and sample traditional cuisine.

8. Cerrado Ecosystem - Explore the unique and diverse cerrado ecosystem, with its rich variety of plant and animal species.

9. Birdwatching - Spot a wide variety of bird species, including the endangered Brazilian merganser, in the park’s diverse habitats.

10. Stargazing - Experience the park’s pristine night skies and observe the stars and constellations in this remote and unspoiled natural setting.
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🌤️ When to go?Best time to explore Serra da Canastra National Park

The best time to visit Serra da Canastra National Park for backpacking is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During this time, temperatures are milder, ranging from 10-25°C (50-77°F) during the day and dropping to 5-15°C (41-59°F) at night. The dry season also offers clearer skies and less rainfall, making it easier to explore the park’s trails and waterfalls.

Visiting during the dry season also allows for better wildlife sightings, as animals are more active in search of water sources. Additionally, the water levels are lower, making it easier to access and enjoy the park’s stunning natural pools and waterfalls.

However, it’s important to note that the park can get crowded during the dry season, so for a quieter experience, consider visiting in the shoulder months of April or October. These months still offer favorable weather conditions for backpacking, with temperatures ranging from 15-28°C (59-82.4°F) during the day and 10-20°C (50-68°F) at night.JANFEBMARAPRMAYJUNJULAUGSEPOCTNOVDEC
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