Parque Estadual da Serra Furada

Parque Estadual da Serra Furada is a protected area in Brazil.

Parque Estadual da Serra Furada at a Glance

Location
Southern Brazil & Pampa, Brazil, Central & South America
Coordinates
-28.165504, -49.408783
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate

Getting to Parque Estadual da Serra Furada

Nearest airport: Aeroporto de Joinville Lauro Carneiro de Loyola (JOI), 224 km away.

Nearest international airport: Aeroporto Internacional Afonso Pena (CWB), 294 km away.

Weather & Climate in Parque Estadual da Serra Furada

The warmest temperatures in Parque Estadual da Serra Furada occur in January, averaging 21.4°C (up to 25.5°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 14.0°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in July with average rainfall of 115.7mm. Average humidity: 77.1%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 21.4°C (rainfall: 427.2mm)
  • February: 21.1°C (rainfall: 253.7mm)
  • March: 20.9°C (rainfall: 248.2mm)
  • April: 18.1°C (rainfall: 169.7mm)
  • May: 15.5°C (rainfall: 162.8mm)
  • June: 14.6°C (rainfall: 156.4mm)
  • July: 14.0°C (rainfall: 115.7mm)
  • August: 14.9°C (rainfall: 130.9mm)
  • September: 16.9°C (rainfall: 144.9mm)
  • October: 17.2°C (rainfall: 276.2mm)
  • November: 18.6°C (rainfall: 305.6mm)
  • December: 20.2°C (rainfall: 320.2mm)

Best Time to Visit Parque Estadual da Serra Furada

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

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 21.38°C, rainfall 427.2mm, sunshine 9.1 hrs, humidity 82.9%
  • February: Good, temperature 21.14°C, rainfall 253.7mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 81.8%
  • March: Good, temperature 20.95°C, rainfall 248.2mm, sunshine 9.4 hrs, humidity 82.8%
  • April: Good, temperature 18.08°C, rainfall 169.7mm, sunshine 8.6 hrs, humidity 81.8%
  • May: Poor, temperature 15.52°C, rainfall 162.8mm, sunshine 8 hrs, humidity 78.3%
  • June: Poor, temperature 14.59°C, rainfall 156.4mm, sunshine 7.2 hrs, humidity 80%
  • July: Poor, temperature 13.98°C, rainfall 115.7mm, sunshine 7.7 hrs, humidity 77.1%
  • August: Poor, temperature 14.92°C, rainfall 130.9mm, sunshine 8.4 hrs, humidity 77.6%
  • September: Poor, temperature 16.88°C, rainfall 144.9mm, sunshine 7.9 hrs, humidity 81.4%
  • October: Poor, temperature 17.24°C, rainfall 276.2mm, sunshine 7.5 hrs, humidity 84.3%
  • November: Good, temperature 18.62°C, rainfall 305.6mm, sunshine 9 hrs, humidity 82.3%
  • December: Good, temperature 20.23°C, rainfall 320.2mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 84.1%

Wildlife in Parque Estadual da Serra Furada

Home to 40 recorded species including 12 birds of prey, 11 iconic birds, 10 waterbirds, 7 tropical birds.

Recommended Packing List for Parque Estadual da Serra Furada

Based on average temperature of 17.8°C, typical conditions, humidity 81%.

  • Layered clothing - recommended for 18°C temperatures
  • Fleece or warm jacket - essential for cool mornings and evenings
  • 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 Furada

5 safari lodges available.

mid-range

Similar Parks in Southern Brazil & Pampa

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Brazil

Travel advisory for Brazil

Parque Estadual da Serra Furada FAQs

What makes Parque Estadual da Serra Furada unique, and what activities can I expect?

The park is renowned for its iconic 'Serra Furada' (Pierced Mountain Range), a dramatic rock formation with a natural arch, offering breathtaking views. Visitors primarily engage in hiking and trekking to reach viewpoints and explore the diverse Atlantic Forest ecosystem.

What kind of wildlife can I hope to see in Parque Estadual da Serra Furada, and is it a traditional 'safari' experience?

While not a traditional vehicle-based safari, the park offers excellent opportunities for observing Atlantic Forest fauna, including various bird species like the critically endangered Red-spectacled Amazon parrot, howler monkeys, and elusive pumas. Wildlife viewing typically involves patient observation during hikes through the dense forest.

When is the best time to visit Parque Estadual da Serra Furada for optimal conditions, and what should I pack?

The dry season, typically from April to September, offers the most pleasant weather for hiking and clearer views of the landscape. It's advisable to pack sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, insect repellent, and plenty of water, as trails can be challenging and weather can change quickly.

What specific health and safety precautions should I take when visiting Parque Estadual da Serra Furada?

Given the moderate malaria risk, consult your doctor about antimalarial medication and use strong insect repellent, especially at dawn and dusk. Always stay on marked trails, consider hiring a local guide for longer treks, and be prepared for variable weather conditions in this protected area.

How accessible is Parque Estadual da Serra Furada, and what are the typical costs involved for visitors?

Access to the park usually involves reaching nearby towns in Santa Catarina, then driving to the park entrance, which may require a 4x4 depending on road conditions. Entry fees are generally modest, and while guides are recommended for deeper exploration, the park's low crowding ensures a tranquil and immersive experience.

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.