Parque Estadual da Serra do Tabuleiro

Parque Estadual da Serra do Tabuleiro is a protected area in Brazil.

Parque Estadual da Serra do Tabuleiro at a Glance

Location
Southern Brazil & Pampa, Brazil, Central & South America
Coordinates
-27.950020, -48.708893
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate

Getting to Parque Estadual da Serra do Tabuleiro

Nearest airport: Aeroporto de Joinville Lauro Carneiro de Loyola (JOI), 192 km away.

Nearest international airport: Aeroporto Internacional Afonso Pena (CWB), 273 km away.

Weather & Climate in Parque Estadual da Serra do Tabuleiro

The warmest temperatures in Parque Estadual da Serra do Tabuleiro occur in January, averaging 24.1°C (up to 27.7°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 16.7°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in August with average rainfall of 109.7mm. Average humidity: 80.6%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 24.1°C (rainfall: 319.4mm)
  • February: 24.0°C (rainfall: 224.6mm)
  • March: 23.8°C (rainfall: 168.2mm)
  • April: 21.1°C (rainfall: 193.4mm)
  • May: 18.6°C (rainfall: 148.4mm)
  • June: 17.5°C (rainfall: 146.8mm)
  • July: 16.7°C (rainfall: 111.2mm)
  • August: 17.5°C (rainfall: 109.7mm)
  • September: 19.3°C (rainfall: 132.7mm)
  • October: 19.8°C (rainfall: 245.0mm)
  • November: 21.2°C (rainfall: 273.9mm)
  • December: 22.9°C (rainfall: 253.1mm)

Best Time to Visit Parque Estadual da Serra do Tabuleiro

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

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 24.14°C, rainfall 319.4mm, sunshine 9.9 hrs, humidity 84.2%
  • February: Good, temperature 24°C, rainfall 224.6mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 82.8%
  • March: Good, temperature 23.76°C, rainfall 168.2mm, sunshine 9.6 hrs, humidity 83.7%
  • April: Good, temperature 21.13°C, rainfall 193.4mm, sunshine 8.8 hrs, humidity 81.7%
  • May: Good, temperature 18.56°C, rainfall 148.4mm, sunshine 8.2 hrs, humidity 79.9%
  • June: Poor, temperature 17.52°C, rainfall 146.8mm, sunshine 7.5 hrs, humidity 81%
  • July: Poor, temperature 16.72°C, rainfall 111.2mm, sunshine 8 hrs, humidity 80.1%
  • August: Good, temperature 17.49°C, rainfall 109.7mm, sunshine 8.3 hrs, humidity 80.6%
  • September: Good, temperature 19.27°C, rainfall 132.7mm, sunshine 8 hrs, humidity 82.5%
  • October: Poor, temperature 19.84°C, rainfall 245mm, sunshine 7.5 hrs, humidity 84.3%
  • November: Good, temperature 21.19°C, rainfall 273.9mm, sunshine 9.3 hrs, humidity 83.3%
  • December: Good, temperature 22.87°C, rainfall 253.1mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 83.8%

Wildlife in Parque Estadual da Serra do Tabuleiro

Home to 49 recorded species including 18 waterbirds, 11 birds of prey, 9 iconic birds, 9 tropical birds, 1 marine & freshwater, 1 small mammals.

Recommended Packing List for Parque Estadual da Serra do Tabuleiro

Based on average temperature of 20.5°C, typical conditions, humidity 82%.

  • 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

Safari Lodges in Parque Estadual da Serra do Tabuleiro

6 safari lodges available.

budget

mid-range

Similar Parks in Southern Brazil & Pampa

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Brazil

Travel advisory for Brazil

Parque Estadual da Serra do Tabuleiro FAQs

When is the best time to visit Parque Estadual da Serra do Tabuleiro for wildlife viewing and enjoying its natural beauty?

The dry season, typically from April to September, offers clearer skies and easier trail access, making it ideal for hiking and birdwatching. During the wetter months (October to March), the waterfalls are more impressive, and the lush vegetation is at its peak, though some trails might be muddy.

What unique wildlife can I expect to see in Parque Estadual da Serra do Tabuleiro, and what are the primary viewing opportunities?

Parque Estadual da Serra do Tabuleiro is a crucial habitat for various Atlantic Forest species, including howler monkeys, sloths, and a rich diversity of birdlife like toucans and hummingbirds. While large mammal sightings can be elusive, the park is renowned for its incredible birdwatching opportunities and unique flora, best explored on its well-maintained trails.

Given the moderate malaria risk, what specific precautions should I take when visiting Parque Estadual da Serra do Tabuleiro?

With a moderate malaria risk, it's highly recommended to consult your doctor about antimalarial prophylaxis before your trip. Additionally, use insect repellent containing DEET, wear long sleeves and pants, especially at dawn and dusk, and sleep under mosquito nets if available in your accommodation to minimize exposure.

How does the low crowding level (1/5) at Parque Estadual da Serra do Tabuleiro impact the visitor experience?

The exceptionally low crowding level at Parque Estadual da Serra do Tabuleiro means you can expect a truly immersive and tranquil nature experience. You'll often find yourself enjoying the trails and viewpoints in solitude, offering unparalleled opportunities for quiet wildlife observation and a deep connection with the pristine Atlantic Forest environment.

Besides wildlife viewing, what other activities are available, and what are the typical costs or entry requirements for Parque Estadual da Serra do Tabuleiro?

Beyond wildlife observation, visitors can enjoy extensive hiking trails leading to stunning waterfalls and panoramic viewpoints across the Serra do Tabuleiro mountain range. There is typically a modest entry fee to access the park, and while self-guided exploration is possible, hiring a local guide can enhance your experience by providing insights into the local flora, fauna, and history.

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.