Macaé de Cima Environmental Protection Area, Environmental Protection Area in Serra do Mar mountains, Brazil.
Macaé de Cima Environmental Protection Area is a forested reserve in the mountains of Rio de Janeiro that spans two municipalities with dense vegetation and varied terrain. The landscape displays Atlantic Forest characteristics across different elevations and slopes.
The area received official protection status in 2001 through a state decree aimed at preserving remaining Atlantic Forest. This decision came as the region faced growing pressures from deforestation and land conversion.
The region's identity reflects how communities have adapted to mountain life and forest surroundings over generations. You can see this in local farming traditions and how people interact with the land today.
Visitors can hike, observe birds, swim in rivers, and cycle through the area while respecting private land boundaries. It is best to prepare in advance and bring appropriate gear for mountain activities and changing weather.
The area is home to rare species like cougars and specialized forest birds found only at these elevations. These animals are difficult to spot but demonstrate the ecological importance of this protected space.
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