Itatiaia National Park

You may find tropical orchids in the park.

Just north of the Rio-Sao Paulo highway, Itatiaia is the site of Brazil's third-highest mountain, the Pico das Agulhas Negras at 9,144 feet. The park is also home to 250 species of birds, and this diverse population attracts birdwatchers from around the world.

The park is located in the state of Rio de Janeiro. Its unusual rock formations resulted from temperature extremes and heavy rainfall. Some of the most famous are the Pedra de Taruga (the Turtle) and the Pedra de Mÿca (the Apple).

The park protects the large forest area of Serra da Mantiqueira. In the forests, you may see tropical plants such as orchids, Brazilian spider flowers, fuchsias, lilies and begonias.

There are two different parts to the park. The lower portion is easily accesible and has several short trails leading to waterfalls. There are also hotels located in this area.

The upper portion of the park is more difficult to reach and has more challenging trails.

There is no overnight camping permitted in the park due to the threat of forest fires.