São Joaquim National Park, located in the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil, is a protected natural area known for its rich biodiversity, dramatic landscapes, and cool mountain climate. Officially established on July 6, 1961, the park spans approximately 49,800 hectares and plays a key role in preserving ecosystems of the Atlantic Forest biome.
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| Sao Joaquim National Park |
🌍 Geography and Climate
The park is situated in the Serra Catarinense mountain range and covers parts of five municipalities: Urubici, Bom Jardim da Serra, Orleans, Grão-Pará, and Lauro Müller. Elevations range from 300 meters to 1,822 meters, with the highest point being Morro da Igreja, often referred to as the coldest location in Brazil. This peak offers stunning panoramic views and is home to Pedra Furada, a natural rock formation resembling a stone arch that has become an iconic symbol of the park.
The climate is temperate and humid, with cool temperatures year-round. During the winter months (June to August), it is one of the few places in Brazil where snowfall can occur, attracting visitors eager to see snow in a tropical country.
🌿 Biodiversity
São Joaquim National Park serves as a refuge for a diverse range of plant and animal species, many of which are threatened or endangered. The landscape includes:
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Araucaria (Paraná pine) forests
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Cloud forests
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High-altitude grasslands
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Canyons, rivers, and waterfalls
🌱 Flora
Notable plant life includes:
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Araucaria angustifolia (Paraná pine)
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Native orchids and bromeliads
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Alpine grasses and mosses
🐾 Fauna
Wildlife commonly found in the park:
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Maned wolf (Chrysocyon brachyurus)
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Puma (Puma concolor)
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Red-spectacled amazon (Amazona pretrei)
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Chaco eagle (Buteogallus coronatus)
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Various amphibians, reptiles, and small mammals
The park is also an important birdwatching location, hosting a variety of endemic and migratory birds.
🥾 Tourism and Activities
São Joaquim National Park is open to visitors year-round, offering activities such as:
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Hiking and ecotourism trails (some requiring a licensed guide)
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Photography and sightseeing
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Birdwatching and wildlife observation
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Scenic drives, especially along the Serra do Rio do Rastro, a famous winding mountain road near the park
The most visited area of the park is the Morro da Igreja, which provides access to the Pedra Furada viewpoint. Due to its environmental sensitivity, access to some areas may require registration or a guide, coordinated through ICMBio, the managing agency.
🚗 Access and Infrastructure
The most common access point is through the town of Urubici, which offers accommodations, restaurants, and tourism infrastructure. Other nearby towns include Bom Jardim da Serra, Orleans, and Grão-Pará. Roads leading into the park vary in quality, so a vehicle suitable for mountain terrain is recommended.
While the park’s entrance is free, certain areas may require a permit or prior arrangement, especially for guided trails and access to restricted zones.
🛡️ Conservation and Management
São Joaquim National Park is managed by ICMBio (Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation), which oversees environmental protection, scientific research, and sustainable tourism within the park. The park's primary goal is the preservation of native ecosystems, particularly the Araucaria Forest, one of Brazil’s most endangered biomes.
Through ongoing conservation efforts, the park contributes to protecting vital watersheds, maintaining biodiversity corridors, and promoting environmental education.
🔗 Useful Information
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Official Website: ICMBio São Joaquim National Park
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Location: Serra Catarinense, Santa Catarina, Brazil
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Nearest City: Urubici
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Entry: Free (permits required for certain trails or areas)
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Best Time to Visit: March–May (mild and clear) or June–August (for possible snow)
São Joaquim National Park is not only a sanctuary for wildlife but also a place where visitors can experience the rare beauty of cold mountain climates within tropical Brazil. Whether you're a nature lover, a photographer, or simply seeking serenity in the mountains, this park is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.