Parque Estadual da Fonte Grande

Parque Estadual da Fonte Grande is a protected area in Brazil.

Parque Estadual da Fonte Grande at a Glance

Location
Southeast Atlantic Forest (Rio de Janeiro & Espírito Santo), Brazil, Central & South America
Coordinates
-20.307370, -40.335735
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate

Getting to Parque Estadual da Fonte Grande

Nearest airport: Aeroporto da Fazenda Vista Linda (SIKW), 253 km away.

Nearest international airport: Aeroporto de Porto Seguro (BPS), 450 km away.

Weather & Climate in Parque Estadual da Fonte Grande

The warmest temperatures in Parque Estadual da Fonte Grande occur in February, averaging 25.3°C (up to 29.1°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 21.0°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in June with average rainfall of 26.2mm. Average humidity: 79.9%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 25.2°C (rainfall: 157.1mm)
  • February: 25.3°C (rainfall: 152.4mm)
  • March: 25.3°C (rainfall: 78.5mm)
  • April: 23.9°C (rainfall: 91.6mm)
  • May: 22.4°C (rainfall: 47.2mm)
  • June: 21.4°C (rainfall: 26.2mm)
  • July: 21.0°C (rainfall: 36.7mm)
  • August: 21.1°C (rainfall: 64.3mm)
  • September: 22.5°C (rainfall: 63.2mm)
  • October: 23.4°C (rainfall: 155.9mm)
  • November: 23.5°C (rainfall: 187.4mm)
  • December: 24.7°C (rainfall: 177.1mm)

Best Time to Visit Parque Estadual da Fonte Grande

The best months to visit Parque Estadual da Fonte Grande are March, April, May, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 25.18°C, rainfall 157.1mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 81%
  • February: Good, temperature 25.34°C, rainfall 152.4mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 82%
  • March: Great, temperature 25.26°C, rainfall 78.5mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 80.7%
  • April: Great, temperature 23.89°C, rainfall 91.6mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 80.2%
  • May: Great, temperature 22.37°C, rainfall 47.2mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 79.8%
  • June: Great, temperature 21.41°C, rainfall 26.2mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 79.9%
  • July: Good, temperature 20.97°C, rainfall 36.7mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 79.1%
  • August: Great, temperature 21.09°C, rainfall 64.3mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 79.1%
  • September: Great, temperature 22.51°C, rainfall 63.2mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 78.3%
  • October: Good, temperature 23.37°C, rainfall 155.9mm, sunshine 8.9 hrs, humidity 81.2%
  • November: Good, temperature 23.46°C, rainfall 187.4mm, sunshine 9.8 hrs, humidity 80.2%
  • December: Good, temperature 24.68°C, rainfall 177.1mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 81.5%

Wildlife in Parque Estadual da Fonte Grande

Home to 36 recorded species including 9 birds of prey, 9 waterbirds, 8 iconic birds, 7 tropical birds, 2 marine & freshwater, 1 small mammals.

Recommended Packing List for Parque Estadual da Fonte Grande

Based on average temperature of 23.3°C, typical conditions, humidity 80%.

  • Light layers - comfortable for 23°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 Fonte Grande

4 safari lodges available.

mid-range

luxury

budget

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 Fonte Grande FAQs

What unique wildlife can I expect to encounter at Parque Estadual da Fonte Grande?

Parque Estadual da Fonte Grande, located in Brazil, is home to diverse Atlantic Forest fauna and flora. Visitors often spot various bird species like toucans and hummingbirds, along with small mammals such as capuchin monkeys and sloths. Keep an eye out for unique insects and amphibians that thrive in this protected ecosystem.

What is the ideal time of year to visit Parque Estadual da Fonte Grande for optimal wildlife viewing and weather?

The dry season, typically from May to September, is considered the best time to visit Parque Estadual da Fonte Grande. During these months, the weather is cooler and drier, making hiking more comfortable and increasing the chances of spotting wildlife near water sources. The wet season can bring heavy rains, potentially impacting trail accessibility.

Beyond general wildlife spotting, what specific activities or tours are available within Parque Estadual da Fonte Grande?

Visitors can explore several well-maintained hiking trails that lead to scenic viewpoints and waterfalls within the park. Guided ecological tours are often available, offering deeper insights into the local biodiversity and conservation efforts. Some areas may also offer specific birdwatching excursions for enthusiasts.

How should I prepare for the moderate malaria risk when planning a trip to Parque Estadual da Fonte Grande?

Given the moderate malaria risk, it is highly recommended to consult your doctor about antimalarial medication before your trip to Parque Estadual da Fonte Grande. Additionally, use insect repellent containing DEET, wear long sleeves and pants, especially at dawn and dusk, and sleep under mosquito nets if available. These precautions significantly reduce your risk of infection.

What kind of visitor experience can I expect regarding crowds at Parque Estadual da Fonte Grande?

Parque Estadual da Fonte Grande is known for its very low crowding level, offering a tranquil and intimate nature experience. You can expect peaceful trails and unhurried wildlife viewing opportunities, making it ideal for those seeking solitude. This low visitor density ensures a more personal and immersive connection with the natural environment.

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.