Nascentes do Rio Parnaíba National Park

Nascentes do Rio Parnaíba National Park spreads across a vast expanse of cerrado savanna habitat with rich plant diversity and numerous water sources throughout the landscape. The territory is crossed by several river systems that divide the area into different natural zones.

The Brazilian government created this protected zone in 2002 to safeguard the source waters of the Parnaíba River and the ecosystem surrounding it. The establishment followed growing efforts to protect cerrado savanna from human exploitation.

The park represents environmental stewardship for local communities and demonstrates how traditional ways of living connect with nature protection. People from the region use the area to maintain and understand their relationship with the land.

Visitors need to obtain permission from park authorities and should explore the grounds only with certified local guides. The city of Gilbués serves as the main starting point for most park visits and expeditions.

Within the protected area, jaguars, giant armadillos, hyacinth macaws, and capuchin monkeys live in their natural habitat. These rare species find refuge here and can be observed in their native environment.