The park protects one of the most important water recharge areas for the Belo Horizonte metropolitan region.
The area is geologically characterized by the Iron Quadrangle, containing significant deposits of hematite and itabirite.
It features a unique high-altitude grassland ecosystem known as 'campos rupestres' that hosts many endemic plant species.
The park acts as a biological corridor connecting the Espinhaço Mountains to other southern forest patches.
Historically, the region was heavily explored for gold and iron ore, leaving remnants of colonial-era mining structures.
Serra do Gandarela National Park is a 31,000-hectare protected area located in the Iron Quadrangle of Minas Gerais, primarily established to protect the region's complex aquifer system and Atlantic Forest remnants. The landscape features deep canyons, quartzitic plateaus, and numerous waterfalls, notably the Cachoeira do Tabuleiro and various cascades formed by the Rio das Velhas tributaries. It serves as a vital water source for the Belo Horizonte metropolitan area. The park's rugged terrain encompasses diverse geological formations including iron-rich mountains and canga vegetation. Visitors can observe rare flora and fauna species endemic to the transition zone between the Atlantic Forest and Cerrado biomes. Access is largely concentrated around the municipalities of Rio Acima and Caeté.
The elevated plateau vistas overlooking the deep canyons near the Rio Acima access points.
Carry a high-resolution offline map, as cell service is non-existent in the valley bottoms and deep trails.
Plan for rapid weather changes, as the high-altitude plateaus are prone to sudden mist and temperature drops.
Ensure your vehicle is capable of handling steep, unpaved terrain before attempting to access remote trailheads.
Do not attempt unguided treks into the deeper wilderness areas without prior knowledge of the trail network.
Access to specific interior trails may be restricted during the peak of the rainy season due to flood risks.
Practice 'Leave No Trace' principles; removing stones, mineral specimens, or endemic plants is strictly prohibited.
