The park protects the Santa Maria reservoir, which supplies approximately 25% of the water used by the city of Brasília.
The park's swimming pools are fed by natural springs that maintain a constant temperature year-round.
It is a primary habitat for the maned wolf (Chrysocyon brachyurus), the largest canid of South America.
The vegetation consists primarily of 'Cerrado sensu stricto,' a biome featuring twisted trees and deep-root systems adapted to nutrient-poor soil.
The park's creation in 1961 was essential to protecting the watershed during the construction of the new capital.
The Piscina Pedreira was formed following the extraction of materials used during the early construction phase of Brasília.
Parque Nacional de Brasília, locally known as Água Mineral, is a 42,000-hectare conservation unit protecting the headwaters of the Santa Maria River. The park is characterized by its distinct Cerrado savanna landscape and two primary spring-fed swimming pools. The main attractions are the Piscina Pedreira and the Piscina Areal, which provide constant-temperature water sourced from natural springs. Hiking trails such as the Cristal Água and Capivara paths allow visitors to view endemic fauna including maned wolves, giant anteaters, and various raptors. The park serves as a critical water catchment area for the Federal District. It is managed by the Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation (ICMBio). Development is limited to preserve the native ecosystem, ensuring minimal impact on the local water table.
The edge of the Piscina Areal where the crystal-clear, blue water contrasts with the surrounding tropical greenery.
Arrive early in the morning to secure parking and avoid the highest intensity of the midday sun.
Bring a reusable water bottle and sufficient snacks, as food options inside are limited.
Carry insect repellent and high-SPF sunscreen, as shade is scarce on the trails.
Avoid visiting on weekends and public holidays if you prefer solitude, as the swimming pools become very crowded.
Open daily, including weekends and holidays; occasionally closed for management or environmental research activities.
Do not feed wild animals; adhere to designated swimming zones; carry out all trash; maintain silence in wildlife observation areas.
