Jequitibás Forest is one of the largest and certainly most beloved green spaces in Campinas. Every year, about 1 million people come to enjoy its greenery, beauty and numerous cultural attractions. Walk or run along the shaded streets of this charming wooded grove or seek out entertainment at the zoo, natural history museum or children’s theater.
Take a maze-like walk through the 25 acres (10 hectares) of native forest reserve. The land was acquired in full by municipal power in 1915. This site of natural bounty houses 400 species of plants and forms an important example of Atlantic forest in the region.
You will not be alone in enjoying this rare green space, however, as a range of animals live in the wild here. Sloths, lizards and toucans are among the native wildlife you may see in the forest, while over 50 species of native birds have also been identified. Migratory birds are also known to stop by to breed and nest. Look for rare native hawks during the springtime.
Head to the Jequitibás zoo to encounter an even broader variety of native and exotic wildlife. Here you can see Brazilian animals including the blue macaw, the tapir and the jaguar, along with such usual favorites as lions, hippos and panthers. Meanwhile, at the nearby city aquarium, more than 20 tanks display specimens relating to the marine life of Brazil in both salty and fresh water.
Stop in at the small natural history museum to understand more of the ecosystems that support Brazilian plants and animals. The park also has a restaurant and snack bars. For the young ones, the park offers play equipment and a small train as well as the Carlos Maia children’s theater.
Jequitibás Forest is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday, from early morning to evening. It is free to enter, although entrance to the associated museums may require a fee. Walk here in about 20 minutes from the city center. Parking is not available, although the area is accessible by bus.
