Cabo Orange hosts an impressive array of wildlife, including endangered species like the West Indian manatee and various marine turtles. The park's waters support diverse fish populations and serve as important breeding grounds for several marine species. The mangrove areas provide crucial habitat for numerous bird species, including scarlet ibis and roseate spoonbills, while terrestrial areas support populations of jaguars, sloths, and various primate species.
The park's vegetation is remarkably diverse, featuring several distinct ecosystems including mangrove forests, coastal restinga (sandy soil vegetation), and Amazon rainforest fragments. The mangrove areas are dominated by red mangrove (Rhizophora mangle), while the inland regions support tropical rainforest species. Coastal areas feature specialized plant communities adapted to sandy and saline conditions.
The park encompasses diverse geological formations including coastal plains, mangrove swamps, and quaternary sediments. Its landscape features extensive mudflats, sandy beaches, and estuarine systems where the Oiapoque and Cassiporé rivers meet the Atlantic Ocean. The coastline is characterized by dynamic sedimentary processes, creating a constantly evolving shoreline influenced by strong ocean currents.
Established in 1980, Cabo Orange National Park was created to protect the unique coastal ecosystems at Brazil's northernmost point. The area has historical significance dating back to colonial times when it served as a strategic point for Portuguese navigation. The park's name comes from the Dutch Prince of Orange, as the region was briefly under Dutch control in the 17th century before returning to Portuguese possession.
The park's most distinctive feature is its extensive mangrove ecosystem, one of the largest protected mangrove areas in South America. The meeting point of the Oiapoque River and the Atlantic Ocean creates a unique estuarine environment. The park also includes pristine beaches that serve as important nesting sites for sea turtles, and its location at Brazil's northernmost point makes it a significant geographical landmark.
Cabo Orange National Park experiences a tropical monsoon climate typical of northern Brazil's coastal region. The park sees distinct wet and dry seasons, with heavy rainfall between December and May, and a drier period from June to November. Average temperatures remain consistently warm throughout the year, ranging from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F), with high humidity levels characteristic of the Amazon region.
Brazil
4.3210°, -51.4020°
1980
6190
Cabo Orange National Park protects a vast area of coastal ecosystems including mangroves and tropical rainforest. The park is located at Brazil's northernmost point and features unique coastal landscapes. It serves as an important habitat for numerous marine and terrestrial species.