Catimbau National Park

Catimbau National Park sits in the interior of Pernambuco and stretches across several municipalities with red sandstone walls, deep canyons and dry vegetation typical of the sertão. Hiking trails wind through valleys with rock formations and caves, while small streams flow during the rainy season.

Rock art and tools in the caves show that people have sought shelter here for thousands of years and used the area as a spiritual place. The designation as a national park in 2002 protects both the archaeological sites and the region's ecosystems.

The village of Vila do Catimbau at the park entrance preserves sertão ways of life and serves as a base for visitors, with guides and simple lodgings. Locals often speak about the sounds the wind makes through rock formations, which may have given the place its name.

Hikes usually start early in the morning to avoid the heat and take several hours depending on the route, with breaks in shaded spots. Sturdy footwear and plenty of water are necessary, as the paths are rocky and shade is rare.

Some caves have temperature differences of several degrees compared to the outside air and offer natural cooling during the hottest hours. The reddish color of the rock changes throughout the day depending on the light, creating shifting hues.