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Parks

Parque Natural Municipal de Nova Iguaçu

4.7 · 1,083 reviews
Wild, rugged, and naturally immersive
Parque Natural Municipal de Nova Iguaçu, Nova Iguaçu - RJ, Brazil
Interesting facts
1

The park is located within a dormant volcano crater, locally known as the 'Serra do Vulcão'.

2

It contains the ruins of the historic Fazenda São Bernardino, dating back to the 19th century.

3

The site acts as an important hydrographic basin for the surrounding region of Nova Iguaçu.

4

The geological composition is primarily volcanic rock, which is rare in this part of Rio de Janeiro state.

Overview

Parque Natural Municipal de Nova Iguaçu is an 11-square-kilometer Atlantic Forest protected area situated in the Serra do Vulcão region. The park features volcanic geological formations, notably the basaltic cliffs surrounding the former volcanic crater. Visitors access an extensive trail network leading to several waterfalls, including the popular Véu da Noiva and Cachoeira da Mineira. The park serves as an ecological corridor, preserving diverse endemic fauna and flora of the Mata Atlântica biome. It is managed by the local municipality to promote environmental education and outdoor recreation. The landscape includes historical ruins reflecting the region's past agricultural activities.

Photo spot

The elevated overlook points providing a panoramic view of the volcanic crater and the surrounding urban landscape of Nova Iguaçu.

Insider tips

Bring sufficient water and snacks, as there are no food services available inside the park boundaries.

Use high-quality insect repellent, as the humid forest environment is prone to mosquitoes.

Ensure your footwear has excellent grip, as trail paths often become slippery after rainfall.

What to avoid

Attempting the longer trails without proper hydration or during or immediately after heavy rainfall due to flash flood risks in riverbeds.

Good to know

Closed on Mondays for maintenance.

Etiquette

Carry out all trash, remain strictly on marked trails to protect endemic vegetation, and refrain from feeding local wildlife.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
4-6 hours
Best time to visit
Early morning during the dry season (May to September) to avoid peak humidity and high afternoon temperatures.
Address
Parque Natural Municipal de Nova Iguaçu, Nova Iguaçu - RJ, Brazil
-22.779, -43.457
Get directions
Details
TerrainMountainous volcanic geology
Trail DifficultyRanges from moderate to strenuous

Frequently asked

Plan for about 4-6 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Early morning during the dry season (May to September) to avoid peak humidity and high afternoon temperatures..

The elevated overlook points providing a panoramic view of the volcanic crater and the surrounding urban landscape of Nova Iguaçu.

Close by you'll find Monte Guararapes (Horebe), Mesquita, 1st Baptist Church of Nova Iguaçu.