Ovos da Galinha Itatiaia National Park
Brazil's first national park, offering lush vistas, wildlife, and stunning waterfalls with trails for all levels.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
More activities and vibrant atmosphere
Ovos da Galinha Itatiaia National Park
Best Time
More activities and vibrant atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Brazil's first national park, offering lush vistas, wildlife, and stunning waterfalls with trails for all levels.
"Absolutely beautiful! Had a great time, at Base & Altar, all clean ann orderly, a LOT of families and kids. Great job!"
🚗 Car Entry Fee
Expect an extra fee (around R$24) if entering with a car on paved and unpaved roads. :car:
🗺️ Get a Park Map
Upon entry, grab a detailed map to navigate trails, viewpoints, and facilities. :map:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cascading Waterfalls
Various locations throughout the park
Discover magnificent waterfalls perfect for admiring and refreshing yourself amidst lush nature.
Panoramic Mountain Vistas
Upper part of the park
Experience breathtaking viewpoints of the Mantiqueira Mountain range and its abundant wildlife.
Diverse Hiking Trails
Upper and lower sections
Explore trails ranging from easy walks to demanding treks, catering to all fitness levels.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Itatiaia Adventure
Navigating Itatiaia's Terrain
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Car Entry Fee
Expect an extra fee (around R$24) if entering with a car on paved and unpaved roads. :car:
🗺️ Get a Park Map
Upon entry, grab a detailed map to navigate trails, viewpoints, and facilities. :map:
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Many trails require good footwear; prepare for varied terrain. :athletic_shoe:
⏰ Arrive Early
Last entry is around 2 PM, and the park closes at 5 PM. Plan accordingly! :clock:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Car Entry Fee
Expect an extra fee (around R$24) if entering with a car on paved and unpaved roads. :car:
🗺️ Get a Park Map
Upon entry, grab a detailed map to navigate trails, viewpoints, and facilities. :map:
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Many trails require good footwear; prepare for varied terrain. :athletic_shoe:
⏰ Arrive Early
Last entry is around 2 PM, and the park closes at 5 PM. Plan accordingly! :clock:
🏨 Book Lodging Ahead
If staying overnight, especially in the upper part, reservations are essential. :housewithgarden:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Itatiaia National Park for its stunning natural beauty, including magnificent waterfalls and breathtaking mountain views. The diverse trails cater to various fitness levels, and the abundant wildlife offers excellent viewing opportunities. Some visitors note the challenging road conditions on certain entrances and the importance of arriving early due to park closing times.
"Wonderful national park at Itataia. It's possible to visit the park on foot, bike or by car. Visitors entering the park by car must pay an extra fee (around R$ 24,00) to take it's paved and non paved roads on a motored vehicle. The activities available at the park for visitors range from a beautiful cultural centre with many historical highlights, track trails in a rich forest terrain, magnificent waterfalls to admire and freshen up, numerous bird watching spots, and exuberant viewpoints of the Mantiqueira Mountain and it's wildlife. The difficulty of tracks may vary a lot. Upon entry on the park, visitors are given a detailed map, which shows what's possible to do whilst visiting the site. The park is basically divided into a lower and an upper part. The most demanding tracks, which are also those that one needs to plan in advance, are located in the upper part of park. In those areas, it's possible to camp on designated areas or stay for the night at one of the park's lodging houses (reservation in advance needed). In the park's website, there are lots of information for visitors, and high definition pdf maps for downloading, as well as a list of well trained guides on the park whenever the need arises. It's not possible to park in any spot by the road, the permitted parking areas will be sign posted. All around the park, it's possible to see restaurants, hotels and other private properties, which means there's no time available to do everything you'll find at the park. It's a highly recommended visit, and a place not to forget."
Mariana Azevedo Moraes
"Absolutely beautiful! Had a great time, at Base & Altar, all clean ann orderly, a LOT of families and kids. Great job!"
JCH
"Always when I visit this place I get impressed. There are wonderful views from everywhere. During my last visit I took the trail called Rancho Caído, which was amazing!"
FERNANDO RIBEIRO
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Itatiaia National Park by car, with paved and unpaved roads available. Be aware that the 12km road on the northwest entrance can be in poor condition. Public transport options might be limited, so driving is often the most convenient.
Yes, there is an entrance fee. Visitors entering by car will incur an additional fee for vehicle use on park roads.
The park typically closes at 5 PM, with the last entry around 2 PM. It's advisable to check the official website for any seasonal changes.
While specific details can vary, driving is generally recommended for easier access. Research local bus routes to nearby towns and then consider local taxis or ride-sharing services if available.
Yes, the park has different entrances, including a northwest entrance which leads to a road that can be in very bad condition.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There's an entrance fee for visitors. If you plan to drive within the park, an additional fee applies for vehicle use on both paved and unpaved roads.
While not always mandatory, booking lodging in advance, especially for the upper part of the park, is highly recommended due to limited availability.
The last entry into the park is typically around 2 PM. It's crucial to plan your visit to ensure you have enough time to explore before the park closes at 5 PM.
Information on discounts is not readily available in general reviews. It's best to check the official Itatiaia National Park website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date pricing and potential discount information.
No, you cannot park anywhere by the road. Permitted parking areas will be clearly signposted within the park.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The park boasts magnificent waterfalls, exuberant viewpoints of the Mantiqueira Mountain, numerous bird watching spots, and rich forest terrain for hiking. There's also a cultural center with historical highlights.
Yes, the park offers a variety of trails with varying difficulty levels. While some are demanding, there are also easier walks suitable for beginners, particularly in the lower part of the park.
Many visitors find the waterfalls refreshing and suitable for a dip. Always exercise caution and be aware of water conditions and safety guidelines.
Absolutely! The park is known for its abundant wildlife and numerous bird watching spots, offering excellent opportunities for nature enthusiasts.
Bring comfortable walking shoes, water, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera. A detailed map is also highly recommended.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there are restaurants, hotels, and private properties located around the park, dining options directly within the park itself might be limited. It's wise to bring your own snacks and water.
Picnicking is a great way to enjoy the park's scenery. Be sure to pack out all your trash to help keep the park clean.
There are various restaurants and eateries located in the vicinity of the park, offering local cuisine.
Information on food availability inside the park is scarce. It's best to come prepared with your own provisions or plan to eat before or after your visit.
Local cuisine often features hearty dishes. Exploring restaurants in nearby towns like Itatiaia or Penedo can offer a taste of regional flavors.
📸 📸 Photography
The park offers numerous opportunities for stunning photography, from the cascading waterfalls and lush forests to the panoramic mountain vistas. The viewpoints in the upper part are particularly photogenic.
Yes, the natural beauty provides ample subjects. However, be mindful of the terrain and weather conditions when setting up shots.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is recommended to capture both wide landscapes and wildlife. A wide-angle lens is great for waterfalls and vistas.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage might require special permits. Always check park regulations.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for landscape photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a softer glow.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and water, and ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes. The park's cultural center and bird watching spots can also be engaging for younger visitors. Remember to arrive early to make the most of your day and avoid the rush.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Be prepared for physical exertion and ensure you have a good map and adequate supplies. The park also offers opportunities for wildlife spotting and bird watching, adding another layer of discovery to your hiking adventure.
📸 Photographers
Bring a versatile camera setup to capture both grand landscapes and potential wildlife encounters. Remember to check park regulations regarding drone usage if you plan to capture aerial shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Itatiaia's Upper and Lower Sections
The upper part of the park is where you'll find the more challenging and longer hiking trails, often leading to more remote and spectacular viewpoints. This section requires more planning and physical preparation. Visitors interested in more strenuous treks, like the Rancho Caído trail, often head to the upper reaches. It's also in the upper section where you might find lodging options within the park itself, though these require advance booking.
When planning your visit, consider which section aligns best with your fitness level and interests. A detailed map provided at the entrance is crucial for navigating both areas effectively.
Wildlife and Nature in Itatiaia
The park's rich flora contributes to its stunning natural beauty. You'll encounter diverse plant life, from towering trees to delicate orchids, creating a vibrant and immersive natural environment. The sound of waterfalls and the rustling of leaves are constant companions on the trails.
Responsible tourism is key to preserving this delicate ecosystem. Visitors are encouraged to stay on marked trails, avoid feeding wildlife, and pack out everything they bring in to minimize their impact.
Accommodation and Staying Overnight
Alternatively, you can find various restaurants, hotels, and private properties located in the areas surrounding the park. These offer a range of comfort levels and price points. For a truly unique stay, consider options like the Guapuruvu residence, a forest dwelling functioning as an Airbnb within the park's vicinity, offering a wild experience.
Camping is also an option in designated areas within the park, providing a more rustic and adventurous way to experience Itatiaia. Ensure you are aware of any regulations or permits required for camping.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit