Parque Estadual do Pico Alto

Parque Estadual do Pico Alto is a protected area in Brazil.

Parque Estadual do Pico Alto at a Glance

Location
Northeast Coast & Caatinga, Brazil, Central & South America
Coordinates
-4.210867, -38.968163
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate

Getting to Parque Estadual do Pico Alto

Nearest airport: Aeródromo José Ellery Marinho de Góes, 6 km away.

Nearest international airport: Aeroporto Internacional de Fortaleza - Pinto Martins (FOR), 68 km away.

Weather & Climate in Parque Estadual do Pico Alto

The warmest temperatures in Parque Estadual do Pico Alto occur in October, averaging 21.7°C (up to 28.3°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 19.9°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in September with average rainfall of 7.5mm. Average humidity: 72.1%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 21.2°C (rainfall: 119.2mm)
  • February: 21.1°C (rainfall: 181.3mm)
  • March: 20.7°C (rainfall: 267.3mm)
  • April: 20.7°C (rainfall: 173.3mm)
  • May: 20.6°C (rainfall: 86.3mm)
  • June: 20.1°C (rainfall: 61.9mm)
  • July: 19.9°C (rainfall: 40.9mm)
  • August: 20.6°C (rainfall: 12.3mm)
  • September: 21.2°C (rainfall: 7.5mm)
  • October: 21.7°C (rainfall: 13.9mm)
  • November: 21.7°C (rainfall: 33.8mm)
  • December: 21.5°C (rainfall: 54.7mm)

Best Time to Visit Parque Estadual do Pico Alto

The best months to visit Parque Estadual do Pico Alto are July, August, September, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 21.16°C, rainfall 119.2mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 83.6%
  • February: Good, temperature 21.12°C, rainfall 181.3mm, sunshine 9.8 hrs, humidity 85.7%
  • March: Poor, temperature 20.69°C, rainfall 267.3mm, sunshine 9.3 hrs, humidity 89%
  • April: Poor, temperature 20.69°C, rainfall 173.3mm, sunshine 9.3 hrs, humidity 88.3%
  • May: Good, temperature 20.63°C, rainfall 86.3mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 85.8%
  • June: Good, temperature 20.05°C, rainfall 61.9mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 83.2%
  • July: Great, temperature 19.95°C, rainfall 40.9mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 78.9%
  • August: Great, temperature 20.59°C, rainfall 12.3mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 73.1%
  • September: Great, temperature 21.21°C, rainfall 7.5mm, sunshine 11.3 hrs, humidity 72.1%
  • October: Great, temperature 21.7°C, rainfall 13.9mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 74.1%
  • November: Great, temperature 21.68°C, rainfall 33.8mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 76.9%
  • December: Great, temperature 21.51°C, rainfall 54.7mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 79.9%

Wildlife in Parque Estadual do Pico Alto

Home to 48 recorded species including 18 birds of prey, 14 iconic birds, 13 waterbirds, 3 tropical birds.

Recommended Packing List for Parque Estadual do Pico Alto

Based on average temperature of 20.9°C, typical conditions, humidity 81%.

  • Light layers - comfortable for 21°C weather
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Similar Parks in Northeast Coast & Caatinga

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Brazil

Travel advisory for Brazil

Parque Estadual do Pico Alto FAQs

What is the best time of year to visit Parque Estadual do Pico Alto for hiking and wildlife viewing?

The ideal time to visit Parque Estadual do Pico Alto for hiking and clear views from its high peaks is during the drier months, typically from May to September. This period offers more stable weather conditions, making trails more accessible and improving visibility for spotting unique high-altitude flora and fauna.

What unique wildlife and natural features can I expect to encounter at Parque Estadual do Pico Alto?

Parque Estadual do Pico Alto, true to its name, offers encounters with species adapted to high-altitude Brazilian ecosystems, such as various endemic bird species and small mammals. Visitors can also marvel at breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes from the park's elevated points, showcasing its distinct mountainous terrain.

Given the moderate malaria risk, what specific precautions should I take when visiting Parque Estadual do Pico Alto?

Due to the moderate malaria risk in the region, it is highly recommended to consult your doctor about antimalarial prophylaxis before your trip to Parque Estadual do Pico Alto. Additionally, use insect repellent containing DEET, wear long sleeves and pants, especially during dawn and dusk, and sleep under mosquito nets if available in your accommodation.

What kind of visitor experience can I expect at Parque Estadual do Pico Alto, especially regarding its low crowding level?

With a crowding level of 1/5, visitors to Parque Estadual do Pico Alto can anticipate a remarkably tranquil and immersive nature experience, far from typical tourist crowds. This low visitation allows for peaceful hiking, undisturbed wildlife observation, and a profound connection with Brazil's pristine high-altitude environment.

What are the typical entry costs and logistical considerations for accessing Parque Estadual do Pico Alto?

While specific entry fees for Parque Estadual do Pico Alto can vary, visitors should budget for a modest conservation fee upon arrival. Access typically involves reaching a nearby town by bus or car, from where local transport or a pre-arranged transfer can take you to the park's entrance, as public transport directly to the park is limited.

Recommended Books

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.