Parque Estadual da Costa do Sol

Parque Estadual da Costa do Sol is a protected area in Brazil.

Parque Estadual da Costa do Sol at a Glance

Location
Southeast Atlantic Forest (Rio de Janeiro & Espírito Santo), Brazil, Central & South America
Coordinates
-22.863070, -42.124320
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate

Getting to Parque Estadual da Costa do Sol

Nearest airport: Resende Airport (REZ), 246 km away.

Nearest international airport: Aeroporto Internacional Governador André Franco Montoro (GRU), 448 km away.

Big Five in Parque Estadual da Costa do Sol

1 of the Big Five can be found here: Golden Lion Tamarin.

Weather & Climate in Parque Estadual da Costa do Sol

The warmest temperatures in Parque Estadual da Costa do Sol occur in February, averaging 26.3°C (up to 30.3°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 21.4°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in July with average rainfall of 20.6mm. Average humidity: 77.0%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 26.3°C (rainfall: 132.5mm)
  • February: 26.3°C (rainfall: 125.6mm)
  • March: 26.3°C (rainfall: 99.9mm)
  • April: 24.2°C (rainfall: 72.7mm)
  • May: 22.8°C (rainfall: 68.9mm)
  • June: 21.9°C (rainfall: 27.5mm)
  • July: 21.4°C (rainfall: 20.6mm)
  • August: 21.6°C (rainfall: 58.6mm)
  • September: 23.1°C (rainfall: 48.1mm)
  • October: 23.7°C (rainfall: 91.9mm)
  • November: 24.1°C (rainfall: 100.8mm)
  • December: 25.5°C (rainfall: 149.5mm)

Best Time to Visit Parque Estadual da Costa do Sol

The best months to visit Parque Estadual da Costa do Sol are January, March, April, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 26.31°C, rainfall 132.5mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 78.9%
  • February: Good, temperature 26.32°C, rainfall 125.6mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 80.5%
  • March: Great, temperature 26.25°C, rainfall 99.9mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 77.9%
  • April: Great, temperature 24.18°C, rainfall 72.7mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 78.4%
  • May: Good, temperature 22.79°C, rainfall 68.9mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 77.8%
  • June: Great, temperature 21.89°C, rainfall 27.5mm, sunshine 9.3 hrs, humidity 77.2%
  • July: Great, temperature 21.37°C, rainfall 20.6mm, sunshine 9.2 hrs, humidity 77%
  • August: Good, temperature 21.58°C, rainfall 58.6mm, sunshine 9.2 hrs, humidity 76.5%
  • September: Great, temperature 23.14°C, rainfall 48.1mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 76.5%
  • October: Good, temperature 23.72°C, rainfall 91.9mm, sunshine 8.9 hrs, humidity 78.9%
  • November: Great, temperature 24.1°C, rainfall 100.8mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 77.8%
  • December: Great, temperature 25.52°C, rainfall 149.5mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 79.3%

Wildlife in Parque Estadual da Costa do Sol

Home to 39 recorded species including 16 waterbirds, 9 birds of prey, 7 iconic birds, 4 tropical birds, 2 marine & freshwater, 1 primates.

Recommended Packing List for Parque Estadual da Costa do Sol

Based on average temperature of 23.9°C, typical conditions, humidity 78%.

  • Light layers - comfortable for 24°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

Safari Lodges in Parque Estadual da Costa do Sol

5 safari lodges available.

ultra-luxury

mid-range

Similar Parks in Southeast Atlantic Forest (Rio de Janeiro & Espírito Santo)

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Brazil

Travel advisory for Brazil

Parque Estadual da Costa do Sol FAQs

When is the optimal time of year to visit Parque Estadual da Costa do Sol for wildlife viewing and comfortable exploration?

The dry season, typically from May to September, offers the most favorable conditions with less rainfall and pleasant temperatures, making trails more accessible and wildlife spotting easier. This period ensures clearer skies for photography and comfortable outdoor activities across the park's diverse landscapes.

What specific wildlife can visitors expect to encounter within Parque Estadual da Costa do Sol, and what are the recommended viewing strategies?

Visitors can anticipate spotting various Atlantic Forest species, including capuchin monkeys, sloths, and a rich diversity of birds like toucans and hummingbirds. Early morning or late afternoon guided hikes are highly recommended to increase chances of observing these animals in their natural habitat.

Beyond typical wildlife observation, what unique activities or natural attractions does Parque Estadual da Costa do Sol offer visitors?

Parque Estadual da Costa do Sol provides extensive hiking trails through its unique restinga and Atlantic Forest ecosystems, leading to stunning viewpoints and secluded beaches along the 'Sun Coast.' Opportunities for birdwatching are exceptional, and some areas may offer kayaking or paddleboarding in calm waters.

What are the current entry fees and any other significant costs visitors should budget for when planning a trip to Parque Estadual da Costa do Sol?

Entry fees for Parque Estadual da Costa do Sol are generally nominal for foreign visitors, typically ranging from R$10-R$30 (Brazilian Reais). Additionally, budget for transportation to and within the park, and consider hiring a local guide for a more immersive and informative experience, which can cost around R$150-R$300 per day.

What are the key safety considerations and logistical tips for exploring Parque Estadual da Costa do Sol, especially given its protected status?

While the park is generally safe, always stay on marked trails to avoid getting lost and respect wildlife by maintaining a safe distance. Carry sufficient water, wear sun protection, and inform park authorities or your accommodation of your hiking plans, especially when exploring less-frequented areas.

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.