Sete Cidades National Park

Sete Cidades National Park

The Sete Cidades National Park, located in the North of Piauí State, covers the municipalities of Piracuruca (73.77%) and Brasileira (26.21%).

Created on 8 June 1961 by Federal Decree No. 50.744, the park covers an area of 6,221 hectares and is managed by the Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation (ICMBio).

Located about 200 kilometres from the capital city of Teresina, the park is known for its impressive sandstone formations, which have been shaped over 190 million years by natural forces such as rain, wind and temperature. These formations are grouped into seven clusters, giving the park its name: the Seven Cities.

1. Tourist Attractions

Among the most famous formations are the Pedra da Tartaruga, the Portal dos Desejos, the Map of Brazil and the Map of Piauí.

The park is also rich in archaeological sites, with cave paintings attributed to the Agreste tradition, dating from between 6,000 and 2,000 years ago.

Of particular note is the Sítio dos Pontinhos, whose inscriptions in intricate geometric patterns have been the subject of various studies and interpretations.

2. Biodiversity

The biodiversity of the park is characterised by both caatinga and cerrado species. Plants include buritis, ipês, angicos, aroeiras, cacti and macambiras. The fauna consists of various species of birds, reptiles and mammals, some of which are threatened with extinction.

3. Trails and ecotourism

The Sete Cidades National Park offers ecological trails such as the Pedra do Elefante Trail, the Rock Trail, the Inscription Trail and the Sete Cidades Trail. The area open to visitors covers about 490 hectares, with about 12 kilometres of marked trails. Other attractions include viewpoints, natural pools and small waterfalls.

5. Structure and visit

The park is open every day from 7 am to 5 pm. There is a visitor centre with information, toilets and a picnic area.

Hiring a guide is highly recommended to get the most out of your visit and to increase your safety.

6. Cultural and Environmental Importance

The Sete Cidades National Park is a natural and historical heritage site in Brazil, combining scenic beauty, biological richness and an expressive cultural heritage.