The Serra de Santo Antônio State Park in Piauí emerges as a significant ecotourism destination in Brazil, featuring extensive eco-trails and a challenging staircase to its cultural and religious symbol.
The Serra de Santo Antônio State Park, located in the municipality of Campo Maior in northern Piauí, is becoming one of Brazil's key ecotourism destinations. Following structural renovations funded by the state government, this integral conservation unit now serves as a space that combines faith, nature, and environmental preservation. It not only attracts visitors seeking to experience its diverse ecological offerings but also enriches their spiritual journey through its cultural significance.
A distinctive feature of this park is the challenging staircase comprising 1,840 steps, recognized as the largest in the Northeast and among the largest in Brazil. This stairway leads to the traditional Cruzeiro de Santo Antônio, which stands as a religious and cultural symbol of the city. The climb, taking approximately three and a half hours, demands physical stamina from visitors but rewards them with breathtaking panoramic views of sandstone cliffs and the rich natural landscape that characterizes the region.
In addition to religious tourism, the park offers various eco-trails, waterfalls, and well-preserved forest areas, making it an ideal location for hiking and cycling. These features not only enhance the local tourism industry but also provide a platform for promoting environmental awareness and sustainable practices among visitors. The park's combination of recreational and spiritual opportunities underscores its dual role in fostering both tourism and conservation efforts in Brazil.
