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Hawks Park and Itabaiana Mountains are two unmissable ecotourism destinations in Sergipe, offering a rich experience of contact with nature and environmental learning. Here are details about each of these destinations and practical tips for visiting them.
1. Hawks Park
Parque dos Falcões
Hawks Park is a conservation and rehabilitation centre for birds of prey located in the municipality of Itabaiana, Sergipe. It is known for its conservation and environmental education work with falcons, owls, hawks and other birds of prey.
1. Main Attractions and Activities
1.1. Birds of Prey Exhibition
The park is home to several species of birds of prey, allowing visitors to observe them up close and learn about their characteristics and behaviour.
1.2. Flight Demonstrations
Flight demonstrations are one of the highlights of the park, where trainers show the birds’ skills in free flight, offering an impressive spectacle.
1.3. Environmental Education
Lectures and educational programmes are offered, focusing on the importance of conserving birds of prey and the environment.
1.4. Bird rehabilitation
The park works to rehabilitate injured birds, with the aim of returning them to the wild. Visitors can learn about some of the rescue and rehabilitation stories.
2. Visiting Tips
2.1. Opening hours
The park is generally open daily, but it’s a good idea to check the opening hours and book your visit in advance.
2.2. How to get there
Parque dos Falcões is about 45 kilometres from Aracaju, in the town of Itabaiana. Access is easy by car and there are adequate signs along the way.
History of Hawks Park
Approximately 45 km from Aracaju, located at the foot of the Serra de Itabaina-SE, Parque dos Falcões was built through the work and effort of two dreamers, José Percílio and Alexandre Correia.
Alexandre became Percílio’s “accomplice” in 1999, but the history of the Institute began in the founder’s childhood. At the age of 7, Percílio was given a Carcará (Caracara plancus) egg and after 28 days being hatched by a hen, Tito, his first great friend, was born. Today, Tito is 27 years old and the Institute looks after more than 300 birds, including hawks, falcons, owls, bullfinches, pigeons, etc.
Already known to many tourists, students, biologists and Brazilian and foreign researchers, the Institute is one of the few places in the country authorised by IBAMA to breed these birds in captivity.
With the aim of protecting the species of birds of prey that inhabit the Brazilian skies, Parque dos Falcões has become a world reference in the management, reproduction and rehabilitation of these animals, accumulating a wealth of knowledge about their behaviour.
2. Itabaiana Mountains
The Itabaiana Mountains are an environmental protection area located in the municipality of Itabaiana, Sergipe. It is one of the state’s main natural tourist attractions, offering various outdoor activities and a rich biodiversity.
Another attraction in the city is the Itabaiana Mountains National Park, which brings together Atlantic forest and caatinga ecosystems, as well as being a rich water reserve with waterfalls that favour ecotourism.
The Itabaiana Mountains park covers an area of 7,966 hectares and is administered by the Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation (ICMBio).
The mountain range offers more than 12 different trails passing by rivers, waterfalls, natural pools and cliffs. Its region includes: poço das moças, via sacra, grotto da serra, caldeirão and the famous falcon park.
1. Main Attractions and Activities
1.1 Trails and Walks
The mountain has several trails, from the easiest to the most challenging. The Caldeirão Trail and the Gruta da Serra Trail are some of the most popular.
1.2 Waterfalls and Wells
The Serra de Itabaiana is rich in waterfalls and crystal-clear pools, such as Cachoeira do Caldeirão and Poço das Moças, ideal for a refreshing dip.
1.3 Natural viewpoints
There are several observation points in the mountains that offer spectacular panoramic views. The Mirante do Cruzeiro is especially popular.
1.4. Birdwatching and Wildlife
The region is excellent for bird and wildlife watching, with several endemic and migratory species, as well as small mammals and reptiles.
2. Tips for Visiting
2.1 Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit is during the dry season, from April to October, when the trails are less slippery and the climate is milder.
2.2 Local Guides
Hiring a local guide is highly recommended, especially if you are unfamiliar with the trails. Experienced guides can provide a safer and more enriching experience.
2.3 Equipment required
Wear suitable hiking shoes, light clothing, a hat, sunscreen and insect repellent. Bring water, snacks and bags to bring back your rubbish.
2.4 How to get there
Itabaiana Mountains are about 60 kilometres from Aracaju and can be reached by road. It is possible to get there by private car or organised excursions.
How to Combine Visits
Combine a visit to Hawks Park with a day of hiking in the Itabaiana Mountains for a complete experience. Start the day at the park, taking advantage of the flight demonstrations and educational talks, and then head into the mountains to explore the trails and waterfalls.
Visiting Hawks Park and Itabaiana Mountains offers a perfect combination of learning, adventure and contact with nature, providing an enriching and unforgettable experience.
