Praia do Sul Biological Reserve, Biological reserve in Ilha Grande, Brazil
Praia do Sul Biological Reserve is a protected area on Ilha Grande island comprising Atlantic Forest sections alongside coastal wetlands, rocky shores, and shallow lagoons. The reserve combines terrestrial and marine protection zones that support distinct ecological communities across several thousand hectares.
The reserve was established in 1981 to protect the island's natural ecosystems from environmental harm. In 2019, it gained recognition as part of a UNESCO World Heritage designation that acknowledged the region's combined cultural and natural value.
The name refers to the southern beach area of the island, marking a place where human activity has left traces over centuries. Today, the reserve embodies the connection between the local ecosystem and the stories of those who inhabited these shores long ago.
Entry to the reserve requires advance permission, as it primarily serves research and conservation purposes rather than casual tourism. Visitors should inquire locally about current access conditions and necessary procedures before planning a visit.
Archaeological evidence shows that people inhabited this island thousands of years ago and possessed specialized skills such as seafaring and diving abilities. These findings reveal that the area holds deep human history alongside its contemporary role as a nature reserve.
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