Jurubatiba Sandbank National Park

Jurubatiba Sandbank Overview

Jurubatiba Sandbank National Park, known locally as Parque Nacional da Restinga de Jurubatiba, is located in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It spans approximately 61.7 square miles (159.3 square kilometers) along the northern coast of the state, stretching across the municipalities of Macaé, Carapebus, and Quissamã.

The park holds the distinction of being the only protected area in Brazil composed entirely of restinga, a unique type of coastal ecosystem found in tropical regions, which features sandy soils and diverse vegetation. This ecosystem thrives between the Atlantic Ocean and inland lagoons, forming an environment of extraordinary ecological importance.

The terrain of Jurubatiba is characterized by coastal sandbanks, shallow lagoons, dense thickets of shrubs, and patches of tropical forest. Its landscape shifts from open sandy plains to marshes and freshwater lagoons such as Lagoa de Carapebus and Lagoa Comprida, two of the largest and most scenic water bodies within the park.

These lagoons are surrounded by lush vegetation including bromeliads, orchids, and various endemic plant species that thrive in the nutrient-poor, sandy soils. The restinga vegetation also includes creeping plants, low-growing shrubs, and isolated trees that adapt to the dry, sunny conditions typical of this biome.

The park supports a wide variety of wildlife, including several species of mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and birds. Notably, visitors may encounter mammals such as the capybara, crab-eating fox, and armadillo.

Birdwatchers are drawn to the park for its rich avian diversity, which includes species like the Brazilian tanager, the scarlet ibis, and the threatened restinga antwren, which is native to this type of habitat. The lagoons and wetlands within the park also provide essential breeding and feeding grounds for migratory birds and fish species, some of which are endangered or endemic to the region.

Popular features of Jurubatiba Sandbank National Park include its serene lagoons, winding trails through dense restinga vegetation, and wide, often deserted beaches along the Atlantic coastline.

Lagoa de Jurubatiba, in particular, is a highlight due to its size and beauty, making it a favored spot for nature observation and photography. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and kayaking, which allow them to immerse themselves in the unique biodiversity of this coastal environment. The park’s relative seclusion also makes it a tranquil destination compared to Brazil’s more crowded national parks.

The main ways to experience Jurubatiba are through guided ecological tours and interpretive trails that offer insight into the fragile restinga ecosystem. Boat tours on the lagoons, especially during sunrise or sunset, are popular for both wildlife observation and scenic appreciation. Educational programs and partnerships with local universities also promote conservation research and visitor engagement.

Jurubatiba faces conservation challenges due to its sensitivity to human activity, including illegal fishing, unregulated tourism, and encroaching urban development. However, the park’s establishment in 1998 marked a significant victory for conservation in Brazil, as it provided federal protection to a rare ecosystem that was rapidly disappearing.

Continued efforts by environmental agencies and local communities have contributed to preserving its unique flora and fauna, though ongoing vigilance and sustainable tourism management remain essential for its future.

Park Map

Jurubatiba Sandbank National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Birds

Jurubatiba Sandbank National Park is a haven for birdwatchers, with its mix of lagoons, dunes, and coastal forests attracting a fascinating blend of endemic, migratory, and resident bird species.

Brazilian Tanager
With the male’s vivid red plumage and black wings, this tanager is a striking presence in the park’s shrublands. It feeds on fruit and insects and is often seen in pairs or small groups.

Restinga Antwren
Endemic to the coastal restinga habitat, this small bird is specialized for life in the dense, shrubby vegetation. It is a key species for conservation and rarely seen outside this environment.

Rufous-sided Crake
This secretive bird is often heard before it’s seen, hiding in wetlands and feeding on insects and small aquatic creatures near lagoon edges.

Plain Parakeet
Bright green and frequently vocal, this parakeet moves in small flocks through restinga trees and is often spotted feeding on fruit and flowers.

White-collared Swift
Often seen soaring high in groups, these swifts are aerial insectivores and spend most of their time in flight, darting through the skies over coastal forests and lagoons.

Masked Water-Tyrant
With its sharp contrast of black mask and white plumage, this small bird is active near water bodies and open areas, catching insects with quick flights from perches.

Guira Cuckoo
Recognizable by its scruffy crest and social behavior, the guira cuckoo moves in small flocks through open scrubland. It hunts insects and small reptiles and often nests communally.

White-headed Marsh Tyrant
This striking black-and-white bird is usually seen perched near marshes and lagoons. It feeds on insects and is often seen fluttering low over the water.

Yellow-chinned Spinetail
A small, secretive bird that lives in marshy and shrubby vegetation. Its fine, restless movements and soft calls make it a challenge to spot.Aggressive and vocal, this flycatcher perches on high branches in open areas and launches into quick aerial chases to catch flying insects. It adapts well to disturbed areas near forest edges.

Jurubatiba Sandbank National Park, located along the northern coast of Rio de Janeiro state, protects one of Brazil’s last remaining continuous stretches of restinga — a unique coastal ecosystem made up of sandy plains, lagoons, and shrub forests. Despite its harsh, sandy soils and salty conditions, the park is home to a rich variety of well-adapted animal species.

Crab-eating Fox
Common in restinga areas, this adaptable canid roams the sandy trails and coastal vegetation in search of insects, fruit, and small animals. It is mostly nocturnal and easily adapts to a variety of environments.

Capybara
These large, semi-aquatic rodents are commonly seen near the lagoons and wetlands of the park. Social and gentle, capybaras graze on aquatic vegetation and grasses and are often found in groups.

Nine-banded Armadillo
A hardy and solitary mammal, the armadillo uses its strong claws to dig for insects and to burrow in the loose sandy soils of the restinga. It has an armor-like shell that offers protection from predators.

South American Coati
This curious and agile animal has a long ringed tail and a pointed snout. It is often seen foraging along the ground or in trees for insects, fruits, and small animals.

Azara’s Agouti
Well adapted to the sandy terrain, this rodent plays a vital role in seed dispersal. It hides nuts and seeds in the soil and is key to regenerating the forest structure of the restinga.

Ocelot
This small wild cat is a secretive predator in Jurubatiba, hunting mostly at night. It stalks small mammals and birds and is important for maintaining the balance of prey species.

Paca
A shy and nocturnal rodent, the paca prefers dense undergrowth near water. It is an important seed disperser and can remain motionless for long periods to avoid detection.

Southern Tamandua
Also known as the lesser anteater, this tree-climbing mammal has a prehensile tail and a long tongue used to feed on ants and termites. It inhabits the forested areas of the park.

Marmoset (Common Marmoset)
These small primates are active and social, with white tufts around their ears. They communicate with chirps and calls and feed on sap, insects, and fruit in the restinga vegetation.

Common Gray Four-eyed Opossum
Named for the white patches above its eyes that resemble an extra pair, this nocturnal marsupial forages for fruit, insects, and small vertebrates and is often found nesting in tree cavities.

Birds

Jurubatiba Sandbank National Park is a haven for birdwatchers, with its mix of lagoons, dunes, and coastal forests attracting a fascinating blend of endemic, migratory, and resident bird species.

Rufous-sided Crake
This secretive bird is often heard before it’s seen, hiding in wetlands and feeding on insects and small aquatic creatures near lagoon edges.

Plain Parakeet
Bright green and frequently vocal, this parakeet moves in small flocks through restinga trees and is often spotted feeding on fruit and flowers.

White-collared Swift
Often seen soaring high in groups, these swifts are aerial insectivores and spend most of their time in flight, darting through the skies over coastal forests and lagoons.

Masked Water-Tyrant
With its sharp contrast of black mask and white plumage, this small bird is active near water bodies and open areas, catching insects with quick flights from perches.

Guira Cuckoo
Recognizable by its scruffy crest and social behavior, the guira cuckoo moves in small flocks through open scrubland. It hunts insects and small reptiles and often nests communally.

White-headed Marsh Tyrant
This striking black-and-white bird is usually seen perched near marshes and lagoons. It feeds on insects and is often seen fluttering low over the water.

Birds

Jurubatiba Sandbank National Park is a haven for birdwatchers, with its mix of lagoons, dunes, and coastal forests attracting a fascinating blend of endemic, migratory, and resident bird species.

Rufous-sided Crake
This secretive bird is often heard before it’s seen, hiding in wetlands and feeding on insects and small aquatic creatures near lagoon edges.

Plain Parakeet
Bright green and frequently vocal, this parakeet moves in small flocks through restinga trees and is often spotted feeding on fruit and flowers.

White-collared Swift
Often seen soaring high in groups, these swifts are aerial insectivores and spend most of their time in flight, darting through the skies over coastal forests and lagoons.

Masked Water-Tyrant
With its sharp contrast of black mask and white plumage, this small bird is active near water bodies and open areas, catching insects with quick flights from perches.

Guira Cuckoo
Recognizable by its scruffy crest and social behavior, the guira cuckoo moves in small flocks through open scrubland. It hunts insects and small reptiles and often nests communally.

White-headed Marsh Tyrant
This striking black-and-white bird is usually seen perched near marshes and lagoons. It feeds on insects and is often seen fluttering low over the water.