Caparaó

Caparaó National Park protects the third highest peak in Brazil, Pico da Bandeira, and surrounding Atlantic Forest and high-altitude grassland ecosystems. Shared between Minas Gerais and Espírito Santo states, the park encompasses approximately 31,800 hectares of rugged mountain terrain ranging from 1,200 to 2,892 meters elevation. The dramatic topography creates numerous microclimates supporting exceptional biodiversity from lowland Atlantic Forest to alpine campos. Crystal-clear streams cascade down mountainsides, forming waterfalls and pools popular with visitors. The park offers accessible high-altitude hiking rare in Brazil, with trails to the summit requiring no technical climbing skills. The name Caparaó comes from indigenous language, reportedly meaning "origin of the waters," reflecting the area's role as a watershed source.