Aguapeí State Park is still a little-known destination for those who live in the city of São Paulo. Located on the banks of the Aguapeí River, in the northwest of the state, it is part of the so-called “Pantanal Paulista” and preserves extremely rare flooded areas in the state, which are fundamental for the survival of hundreds of endangered species.
Although it is far from the capital — almost on the border with Mato Grosso do Sul — the park enchants those who are willing to face 670 kilometers of road. After all, in addition to large rivers and floodplains worthy of a postcard, the reserve is home to an illustrious resident: the marsh deer. It is the largest deer in South America, which found refuge there after losing most of its territory in the state of São Paulo.
Photo: Phillip Capper/Wikimedia Commons
Aguapeí State Park was created as a compensatory measure
In 1980, the former São Paulo Energy Company (CESP) began construction of the Porto Primavera Hydroelectric Plant on the Paraná River, near the municipalities of Rosana (SP) and Batayporã (MS). The project flooded 225,000 hectares— an area 84 times larger than the Guarapiranga Dam.
The impact was immense: thousands of riverside families were displaced and several species lost their natural habitat. The population then mobilized in favor of some environmental compensation. The response was the Aguapeí State Park, which was created in 1998 to repair, at least in part, the damage caused by the reservoir on the Paraná River.
Currently, the conservation unit covers more than 9,000 hectares spread across six municipalities in the interior of São Paulo. Visitors can hike trails, go boating, or enjoy freshwater beaches on the Aguapeí River. In addition, specialized guides offer tours that reveal interesting facts about the local biodiversity.
Photo: Reproduction/Guide to Protected Areas in the State of São Paulo
The marsh deer: symbol of the reserve
Aguapeí State Park stands out as one of the last places in São Paulo where the marsh deer still lives in the wild. The animal is impressive in size: it can reach 2 meters in height and weigh up to 150 kilograms! Historically hunted for its leather and antlers, the species is now at risk of extinction, making the park an essential sanctuary for its survival.
In other words, in addition to incredible landscapes, you also have the chance to see this imposing animal during your visit to the “Pantanal Paulista.” A unique opportunity in the state!
If you are curious to visit, make a note so you don’t forget: the Aguapeí State Park is located on the General Euclides de Oliveira Figueiredo Highway, km 161, in Nova Independência. Both the entrance to the reserve and the self-guided trails are free. Some guided tours, however, may have a cost. In any case, you must schedule your visit through the website.
Anteater on the Aguapeí River. Photo: Márcio Omar M. da Silva/Wikimedia Commons