Ubajara National Park

Ubajara Overview

Ubajara National Park, known locally as Parque Nacional de Ubajara, is a protected area in the state of Ceará, Brazil. Covering approximately 23 square miles (59 square kilometers), the park is situated within the Serra de Ibiapaba, a mountain range that extends along the border of Ceará and Piauí.

This relatively small but ecologically rich park is known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, lush forests, and an extensive cave system, the most famous being Gruta de Ubajara. The park’s terrain varies from rugged rock formations and deep valleys to dense Atlantic Forest remnants, making it a unique ecological and geological site in northeastern Brazil. Waterfalls such as Cachoeira do Cafundó add to the scenic beauty, providing an enchanting contrast to the rocky terrain.

The biodiversity within Ubajara National Park is impressive despite its size. The mix of Atlantic Forest and Caatinga biomes results in a diverse range of flora and fauna. Tall trees, bromeliads, and orchids thrive in the humid forest areas, while drier regions support more drought-resistant vegetation.

The park is home to various mammals, including ocelots, tamanduas, and armadillos, while primates such as the black-tufted marmoset can also be spotted. Birdwatchers are drawn to the park for its vibrant avian population, which includes species like the king vulture, the channel-billed toucan, and the striking blue-winged macaw. Reptiles and amphibians, such as tree frogs and iguanas, also contribute to the region’s rich ecosystem.

One of the most popular attractions in Ubajara National Park is the Ubajara Cave, a spectacular limestone cavern featuring stalactites, stalagmites, and subterranean rock formations. Visitors traditionally reached the cave via a cable car descending from the park’s higher elevations, though the system has undergone periodic maintenance and closures.

The cave can also be accessed by a scenic hiking trail that winds through the forest and descends into the valley. In addition to cave exploration, the park offers a network of trails catering to various skill levels, including paths that lead to breathtaking viewpoints such as Mirante do Pendurado, which overlooks the vast expanse of green valleys and rugged cliffs. Swimming in natural pools and visiting waterfalls, such as Cachoeira do Frade, are other activities that attract visitors seeking relaxation in nature.

Conservation efforts in Ubajara National Park focus on preserving the fragile ecosystems that exist within this relatively small but diverse area. Challenges include illegal deforestation, poaching, and the impact of climate change, which threatens both the flora and fauna.

However, the Brazilian environmental agencies and local conservation groups have made significant strides in habitat restoration and wildlife monitoring. Sustainable tourism initiatives have been promoted to balance ecological protection with visitor engagement, ensuring that the park’s natural beauty and biodiversity are maintained for future generations.

Park Map

Ubajara National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Ubajara National Park, located in the state of Ceará, Brazil, is a unique protected area that combines Atlantic Forest, Caatinga, and highland ecosystems. Known for its spectacular limestone caves, waterfalls, and deep valleys, the park provides a sanctuary for a diverse range of wildlife, including species adapted to both humid and arid environments.

Maned Wolf (Chrysocyon brachyurus)
A distinctive canid with long legs and reddish fur, the maned wolf thrives in the park’s grasslands and transitional forests. Unlike traditional wolves, it is a solitary hunter that feeds on small mammals, birds, and fruits like the lobeira.

Puma (Puma concolor)
The puma is a stealthy and powerful predator that inhabits the forests and rocky cliffs of Ubajara. It preys on deer, rodents, and other mammals, using its agility and strength to stalk prey in both dense vegetation and open landscapes.

South American Coati (Nasua nasua)
A social and curious mammal, the South American coati is frequently seen in the park’s forests. It uses its long snout to dig for insects, fruits, and small vertebrates while moving in noisy groups.

Crab-eating Fox (Cerdocyon thous)
This adaptable and nocturnal canid is well-suited to the mix of forests and open areas in Ubajara. It has a varied diet that includes fruits, insects, small mammals, and crabs when near water sources.

Lowland Tapir (Tapirus terrestris)
The largest land mammal in the park, the lowland tapir is an essential seed disperser. Preferring dense vegetation near water sources, it feeds on leaves, fruits, and aquatic plants while playing a crucial role in maintaining plant diversity.

Collared Peccary (Pecari tajacu)
A tough and social mammal, the collared peccary moves in small herds through Ubajara’s dry forests and scrublands. It is an opportunistic feeder, consuming fruits, roots, and small animals.

Ocelot (Leopardus pardalis)
A beautifully patterned wild cat, the ocelot is a stealthy nocturnal predator that hunts rodents, birds, and small reptiles. It moves silently through the park’s dense vegetation and rocky areas, using its excellent night vision to track prey.

Azara’s Agouti (Dasyprocta azarae)
A large, rodent-like mammal, the agouti plays a vital role in the ecosystem by dispersing seeds. It feeds on fruits and nuts, often burying them for later, inadvertently helping plants grow.

Boa Constrictor (Boa constrictor)
A large, non-venomous snake, the boa constrictor is a powerful constrictor that ambushes prey such as rodents, birds, and small mammals, using its muscular body to subdue them before swallowing them whole.

Jararaca Pit Viper (Bothrops jararaca)
A venomous snake native to the Atlantic Forest and Caatinga, the jararaca is an ambush predator that preys on small mammals, frogs, and birds. While its venom is potent, it plays an important role in controlling rodent populations.

Birds

Ubajara National Park is also a haven for birdwatchers, with its mix of Atlantic Forest remnants, dry forests, and highland landscapes providing habitat for an incredible variety of bird species. Some of these birds are endemic to the region, making the park a must-visit for avian enthusiasts.

Blue-winged Macaw (Primolius maracana)
A medium-sized macaw with striking green and blue plumage, the blue-winged macaw is often seen flying over the park’s forests. It feeds on fruits and seeds, playing a crucial role in seed dispersal.

Red-legged Seriema (Cariama cristata)
A unique ground-dwelling bird, the red-legged seriema is known for its loud, high-pitched calls that can be heard across Ubajara’s open landscapes. It hunts small reptiles and insects, using its powerful legs to stomp on prey.

King Vulture (Sarcoramphus papa)
A large and striking scavenger, the king vulture is distinguished by its black-and-white plumage and brightly colored head. It soars high above the park, using its keen eyesight to locate carrion.

Ferruginous Pygmy Owl (Glaucidium brasilianum)
A small but fierce nocturnal predator, the ferruginous pygmy owl hunts insects, small birds, and rodents. It is often active during the day, making it easier to spot than other owls.

Toco Toucan (Ramphastos toco)
One of the most recognizable birds in Ubajara, the toco toucan is easily identified by its massive orange beak. It primarily feeds on fruits but also eats insects and small vertebrates.

Swallow-tailed Hummingbird (Eupetomena macroura)
A stunning hummingbird with shimmering blue and green plumage, the swallow-tailed hummingbird is commonly seen hovering around flowers, feeding on nectar.

White-naped Jay (Cyanocorax cyanopogon)
This intelligent and social bird is often seen in small groups, foraging for insects, fruits, and small vertebrates. Its striking blue and black plumage makes it easy to identify.

Pale-bellied Tyrant-Manakin (Neopelma pallescens)
A small and energetic bird, the pale-bellied tyrant-manakin is known for its quick movements and insect-catching skills. It thrives in the dry forests of Ubajara.

Tropical Screech Owl (Megascops choliba)
A well-camouflaged nocturnal predator, the tropical screech owl is commonly found in the park’s forested areas. It feeds on insects and small vertebrates and is recognized by its haunting calls.

Cactus Parakeet (Eupsittula cactorum)
An endemic bird of the Caatinga and Cerrado, the cactus parakeet is perfectly adapted to the arid environment. It nests in tree hollows and feeds on cactus fruits and seeds.

Ubajara National Park is a unique blend of Atlantic Forest, Caatinga, and Cerrado landscapes, making it an ecologically significant and visually stunning destination. Whether exploring its limestone caves, hiking through its dramatic cliffs, or spotting rare wildlife, visitors to the park experience one of Brazil’s most remarkable natural treasures.