park · Matinhos, PR
Parque Estadual Rio da Onça
A protected area that preserves one of the last refuges of Atlantic Forest on the coast, rich in bromeliads and orchids. Five flat, interconnected trails form a 1.5-kilometer loop, with suspension bridges over wetlands and the Mirante das Bromélias.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Parque Estadual Rio da Onça
The Parque Estadual Rio da Onça is a state protected area in Matinhos, on the Paraná coast. It protects 119 hectares of Atlantic Forest, one of the last refuges of this kind of forest in the strip between the beaches and the mountains.
You explore it on five interconnected trails that form a 1.5-kilometer loop. The path is flat and well marked. Suspension bridges and raised walkways cross the wetlands, and midway along is the Mirante das Bromélias, where you look out over the treetops.
The forest is rich in bromeliads and orchids. Research in the park has recorded more than 25 species of reptiles and 19 of amphibians, as well as mammals such as coatis and armadillos. With patience and silence, you can hear and see birds and small animals along the trails.
It is a relaxed outing with no physical effort, good for families with children and for anyone who wants a shady break between beach days. At the visitor center, at the entrance, each visitor fills in a registration form before heading to the trails.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
45 minutes to an hour to walk the loop at a relaxed pace and stop at the viewpoint.
Best time
Year-round; in summer, go early in the day, when the forest is cooler and the animals more active, and avoid going right after heavy rain, when the low-lying areas are soggier.
How to get there
It is in Balneário Riviera II, in Matinhos, reached from the PR-412 highway, a few minutes from the beach. From Curitiba it is about 110 kilometers by car, via the BR-277 and the PR-508.
Tip
Bring insect repellent and water, wear closed-toe shoes and arrive well before closing time. Groups of more than 10 people must book in advance by calling the park.
A look at the place
Parque Estadual Rio da Onça in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
Click the picture to enlarge it.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Parque Estadual Rio da Onça
Is there an entrance fee at the Parque Estadual Rio da Onça?
No. Admission is free; on arrival, each visitor fills in a registration form at the visitor center.
Is the park open every day?
No. It is open Tuesday to Sunday and closed on Mondays. Check the hours on the Paraná government's official channel before you go.
How long is the trail?
The loop is 1.5 kilometers and takes 45 minutes to an hour, with a stop at the Mirante das Bromélias.
Is the trail hard?
No. The five trails are flat and well marked, with bridges and walkways over the wetlands. They suit children and people who aren't in shape.
Do I need to book the visit?
Not for regular visits. Groups of more than 10 people must book in advance by calling the park.