The park provides habitat for numerous threatened species, including the jaguar, maned wolf, giant anteater, and pampas deer. Bird diversity is particularly remarkable, with over 200 species recorded, including the critically endangered Spix's macaw. The park also supports significant populations of reptiles and amphibians adapted to cerrado conditions, making it a crucial conservation area for Brazilian wildlife.
The park showcases classic cerrado vegetation, including campo limpo (grasslands), cerrado sensu stricto (savanna woodland), and gallery forests along watercourses. The veredas support distinctive palm groves dominated by buriti palms (Mauritia flexuosa). The park harbors over 1,000 plant species, many of which are endemic to the cerrado biome, including numerous medicinal plants traditionally used by local communities.
The park's geology features extensive plateaus formed by sandstone and quartzite deposits, with elevations ranging from 700 to 900 meters above sea level. The landscape is characterized by flat tablelands intersected by veredas - unique geological formations where groundwater emerges to create linear oases. These formations are crucial for the regional hydrology, serving as natural aquifers and water sources for local rivers.
The park was established in 1989 to protect the unique cerrado ecosystem and was named after João Guimarães Rosa's famous novel 'Grande Sertão: Veredas.' The area has historical significance as a route for cattle drivers and travelers crossing the sertão (backlands) between Minas Gerais and Bahia states. Traditional communities, including veredeiros (people living near the veredas), have inhabited this region for generations, developing sustainable practices adapted to the cerrado environment.
The park's most distinctive features are its veredas - linear oases characterized by buriti palm groves and permanent water courses. These formations create stunning visual contrasts with the surrounding cerrado vegetation. The park also features impressive canyons, waterfalls, and natural viewpoints offering panoramic views of the landscape. Cultural attractions include traditional communities and historical cattle-driving routes.
The Grande Sertão Veredas National Park experiences a tropical savanna climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Rainfall is concentrated between October and March, while the dry season extends from April to September. Average temperatures range from 18°C to 30°C (64°F to 86°F), with cooler temperatures during winter months. Visitors should prepare for intense sunlight during the day and significant temperature drops at night.
Brazil
-15.3670°, -45.8330°
1989
2308
The park preserves large areas of cerrado (tropical savanna) and features unique palm swamps called veredas. It is named after the famous novel by João Guimarães Rosa. The park protects numerous endangered species and contains important water sources.