Rio São Francisco Natural Monument

The Rio São Francisco Natural Monument spreads across multiple states and features deep canyons where the river cuts through ancient sandstone layers. The area provides diverse habitats supporting a range of plant and animal life.

Federal authorities created this protected area in 2009 to safeguard natural ecosystems and support the region's future. The designation recognized the need to balance conservation with local development.

The river region holds deep meaning for local people who fish and farm as their ancestors did, shaping how they live within this landscape. This way of life remains visible in daily practices and connections to the water.

Guided boat tours through the river canyons offer the best way to explore this area, with departure points available from several locations. Plan your visit around river conditions and local weather patterns.

The area holds rock formations over a billion years old that shelter rare blue-winged macaws and other animal species found nowhere else. These ancient geological layers make the site especially valuable for understanding Earth's deep past.

Location: Alagoas

Location: Bahia

Location: Sergipe

Inception: 2009

GPS coordinates: -9.51470,-38.00340

Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:43