The park hosts an incredible diversity of wildlife, including many endangered and endemic species. Large mammals such as jaguars, pumas, giant otters, and various monkey species inhabit the area. The park is also home to over 350 bird species, including harpy eagles and various macaws. Numerous amphibian and reptile species thrive here, including several species new to science. The rivers contain diverse fish populations, including electric eels and various catfish species. Many of these species remain relatively unstudied due to the park's remote location.
The park protects an immense expanse of pristine Amazon rainforest, featuring extraordinary biodiversity with thousands of plant species. The vegetation includes dense tropical rainforest, mountain forest ecosystems, and unique highland savanna areas. Notable species include massive Brazil nut trees, various orchids, bromeliads, and numerous medicinal plants used traditionally by indigenous peoples. The canopy reaches heights of up to 50 meters, creating distinct layers of vegetation that support different ecological communities.
The park's landscape is dominated by the Tumucumaque Mountains, part of the Guiana Shield, one of the oldest geological formations on Earth, dating back over 2 billion years. The terrain features ancient crystalline and metamorphic rocks, creating a series of plateaus, isolated peaks, and deeply carved valleys. The highest point reaches approximately 700 meters above sea level. The park's complex geological structure includes numerous waterfalls, rapids, and distinctive rock formations shaped by millions of years of erosion.
Montanhas do Tumucumaque National Park was established in 2002 as Brazil's largest national park and one of the largest protected tropical forest areas in the world. The name 'Tumucumaque' comes from the indigenous Apalaí language, meaning 'the rock on top of the mountain.' The park was created to protect this vast wilderness area along Brazil's northern border with French Guiana and Suriname. Historically, the region was inhabited by various indigenous peoples, including the Wayãpi, Wayana, and Apalaí tribes, who still maintain traditional territories adjacent to the park.
Key attractions include the imposing Tumucumaque Mountains themselves, numerous pristine rivers including the Oiapoque and Jari Rivers, and spectacular waterfalls. The park contains some of the most remote and untouched rainforest in the Amazon basin. Research stations within the park provide bases for scientific studies, though public access is limited due to the area's remoteness. The park's borders contain important archaeological sites, including ancient rock art and evidence of pre-Columbian settlements. The area also serves as a crucial corridor for wildlife movement between Brazil and neighboring countries.
The park experiences a typical tropical rainforest climate with high humidity year-round. Annual rainfall averages 2,000-3,000mm, with a distinct rainy season from December to June and a relatively drier period from July to November. Temperatures remain consistently warm throughout the year, ranging from 22°C to 32°C (72-90°F). The humidity levels regularly exceed 80%, creating a characteristically steamy rainforest environment. Visitors should be prepared for sudden afternoon showers even during the drier season.
Brazil
1.8370°, -52.8750°
August 22, 2002
38874
Montanhas do Tumucumaque is Brazil's largest national park and one of the largest protected tropical forest areas in the world. The park features pristine Amazon rainforest and numerous mountain ranges. It hosts exceptional biodiversity and remains one of the most remote and least visited national parks in Brazil.