park · Castelo, ES
Parque Estadual Mata das Flores
A protected area created in 1992, with about 800 hectares of Atlantic Forest 4 km from town. It protects endangered species such as the jequitibá-rosa tree and has an 800-meter loop trail, walked by appointment.
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 Mata das Flores
The Parque Estadual Mata das Flores (state park) is a state protected area in Castelo, in southern Espírito Santo, managed by IEMA. It protects about 800 hectares of Atlantic Forest very close to town, in the rural community of Pouso Alto.
The area was declared a permanent preservation area in 1987 and became a state park in 1992, under State Law No. 4,617. The name comes from the variety of plants, and flowers, found in its forest patches. Botanical surveys have recorded more than 230 species of flowering plants and dozens of ferns, some of them endangered.
The highlight is the jequitibá-rosa, a giant tree that became rare after heavy logging and is now the symbol tree of Espírito Santo. The forest is also home to hawks, toucans, owls and pacas.
Visits follow the Trilha do Santuário, a short loop near the Santuário de Aracuí, among native trees and a large anthill. Visits are guided, on weekdays, and only by advance booking. Since it is short, the trail works well for families and school groups.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
Set aside about two hours, counting the guided trail and a chat with the park staff.
Best time
In the morning, on dry days, when the forest is cooler and the trail less slippery; visits only take place Monday to Friday.
How to get there
It is in the rural community of Pouso Alto, a few kilometers from downtown Castelo, between the ES-166 and ES-475 highways. Since visits are by appointment, confirm the route with the park staff when you book.
Tip
Book ahead by the phone or email listed on the park's page on the IEMA website, and wear closed-toe shoes and insect repellent.
Official website
A look at the place
Parque Estadual Mata das Flores 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 Mata das Flores
Do I need to book to visit the Parque Estadual Mata das Flores?
Yes. The park only receives visitors with advance booking, and visits are guided. Contact details are on the park's page on the IEMA website.
Is the park open on weekends?
According to IEMA, visits take place Monday to Friday. Check the hours on the official website when you book.
How long is the trail?
The Trilha do Santuário is a short loop, under 1 km. With the stops on the guided tour, set aside about two hours.
Where is the Mata das Flores park?
In the rural community of Pouso Alto, near downtown Castelo, in southern Espírito Santo.
Can you see the jequitibá-rosa tree in the park?
Yes. The park protects jequitibá-rosa trees, a rare giant tree and the symbol tree of Espírito Santo.