Cavernas do Peruaçu Environmental Protection Area, Environmental Protection Area in northern Minas Gerais, Brazil.
Cavernas do Peruaçu Environmental Protection Area is an extensive protected zone in northern Minas Gerais covering limestone caves, deep canyons, and the Peruaçu River. The area spans Cerrado vegetation and displays a varied landscape of waterways and rock formations.
The protection area was established in 1989 and safeguards caves with ancient rock paintings documenting human settlement from over 10,000 years ago. These early artworks represent some of the oldest human presence in the region.
The Olhos d'Agua and Janelso caves contain archaeological remains showing how early inhabitants used natural formations. These traces tell of a long connection between people and this landscape.
Visitors require guided tours to explore specific areas, with the dry season offering the best conditions for safe exploration. During this time conditions for cave tours and river crossings are most favorable.
The area serves as a refuge for endangered species like maned wolves, jaguars, and ocelots living in the Cerrado forests. Within the caves stands an impressive stalactite that rises over 28 meters high.
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