The park hosts a diverse array of wildlife, including approximately 300 bird species, 43 mammal species, and numerous reptiles and amphibians. Notable mammals include the maned wolf, giant anteater, armadillo, and several monkey species. The bird population features the rhea (South American ostrich), seriema, and various hummingbird species. The park also provides habitat for several endangered species, such as the jaguar and pampas deer. Visitors might encounter capybaras near water bodies and various raptor species soaring overhead.
The park showcases classic Cerrado vegetation, Brazil's second-largest biome. It features a mix of grasslands, savanna, and forest formations, with over 600 documented plant species. Notable vegetation includes the twisted-trunk pequi trees, buriti palms, and various orchid species. The park contains different Cerrado subtypes, from campo limpo (clean field) grasslands to cerradão (dense woodland). Many plants have adapted to periodic fires and drought conditions, developing thick bark and deep root systems. Several endemic species can be found here, making it a crucial preservation area for Cerrado flora.
The park sits on the Brazilian Central Plateau, characterized by ancient metamorphic and sedimentary rocks dating back to the Precambrian period. The terrain features gently rolling hills, quartzite outcrops, and extensive plateaus typical of the Cerrado biome. The area's geological formation includes significant aquifers that feed numerous springs and streams within the park boundaries. The soil is predominantly lateritic, rich in iron and aluminum oxides, which contributes to the unique vegetation patterns observed throughout the park.
Established in 1961, Brasilia National Park was created alongside the construction of Brazil's new capital city, Brasilia. The park was designed to protect the natural Cerrado ecosystem and water resources that supply the capital region. It spans approximately 42,389 hectares and represents one of the largest urban national parks in Brazil. The park's creation was part of a broader vision by architect Oscar Niemeyer and urban planner Lucio Costa to maintain ecological balance in the region while developing the modern capital city.
Key attractions include three artificial pools (Pedreira, Areal, and Dunas) that are popular for swimming and recreation. The park features well-maintained hiking trails, including the Capivara Trail and Crystal Water Trail, offering visitors opportunities to observe wildlife and native vegetation. A visitor center provides educational exhibits about the Cerrado ecosystem and park history. Several scenic viewpoints offer panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape, and there are designated picnic areas and rest facilities. The park also contains important water springs that contribute to the Federal District's water supply.
Brasilia National Park experiences a tropical savanna climate with two distinct seasons. The dry season runs from May to September with warm, sunny days (averaging 25-30°C) and cool nights (as low as 12°C), making it ideal for outdoor activities. The wet season occurs from October to April, bringing regular afternoon thunderstorms and higher humidity levels, with temperatures ranging from 20-28°C. The park's elevation of approximately 1,100 meters helps moderate temperatures year-round, though visitors should always carry water due to the relatively low humidity, especially during the dry season.
Brazil
-15.8690°, -47.8370°
1961
423
Brasilia National Park preserves the cerrado ecosystem near Brazil's capital city. The park features typical savanna vegetation, natural pools, and diverse wildlife. It serves as an important recreational area for the capital's residents and protects several endangered species.