By Sandra Lobo
Hidden in Brazil’s northeast, Serra da Capivara National Park is one of the most remarkable archaeological treasures in the Americas. Created in 1979 and declared a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site in 1991, the park offers an unforgettable blend of prehistoric art, stunning geology, and unique wildlife.
Located in Piauí, Brazil’s semi-arid region (Sertão), this site is home to the oldest known prehistoric cave paintings in the Americas, some dating back more than 30,000 years. The park is a must-visit destination for history lovers, nature explorers, and cultural travelers alike.
Archeological Marvels & Natural Beauty
Over 400 documented archaeological sites have been discovered in Serra da Capivara, but only three have been fully excavated. This leaves much to the imagination – and anticipation – as future discoveries could rewrite human history in the Americas. Visitors can observe intricate rock paintings, handprints, and animal figures that offer clues about the continent’s earliest civilizations.
The park’s dramatic landscapes feature:
- Colorful rock formations shaped over millions of years
- Patches of humid forest growing through the rocks
- Caldeirões – natural rock basins that collect rainwater
- Seasonal rivers and waterfalls
Unique Fauna
Photos/Courtesy: Museu do Homem Americano and Agência Brasill
Among the park’s animal residents are:
- Red macaws
- Lizards and native snakes
- Howler and capuchin monkeys
- Remains of now-extinct species like giant sloths and the saber-toothed tiger
- The capybara (“capivara”), which gave the park its name
Local Cuisine
Don’t miss the bode assado (roast goat), a regional specialty rich in flavor and tradition, served in local restaurants and guesthouses.
How to Get There
- Fly to: Teresina (PI) or Petrolina (PE), Brazil
- Then travel to São Raimundo Nonato, the nearest town (there’s a small regional airport for private and charter flights)
- Local guides are mandatory for entering the park and can be hired through official agencies in São Raimundo Nonato
Admission (Info and Exchange Rate Based in 2025)
- R$45 per person (~US$8.90 as of mid-2025)
- 10% group discount for parties of 10 or more
- Children under 12 and seniors over 60 may receive reduced or free entry (confirm locally)
Best Time to Visit
Plan your trip between April and October, during the dry season. Temperatures are more moderate, and the hiking trails are more accessible.
* For airfare from the United States to Brazil or Latin America, customized travel packages, alternative accommodations, as well as travel planning consultation please visit our travel agent page or contact Magali da Silva directly by phone or whatsapp: 1(323)428-1963.
