The Litoral do Paraná Sector is the true core of the Atlantic Forest Great Reserve, both for its central position and its remarkable environmental diversity, which ranges from the Serra do Mar mountain range to stunning bays, beaches, and islands.
Within the Litoral do Paraná Sector lie well-preserved colonial towns such as Morretes, Antonina, Guaraqueçaba, and the historic port city of Paranaguá, alongside traditional caiçara communities like Ilha Rasa and Superagui. Paranaguá Bay, the second largest bay in Brazil, is characterized by calm waters dotted with islands and mangroves, offering an exceptional sense of immersion in wildlife across many of its stretches. Guaratuba Bay, well preserved thanks to the presence of Conservation Units, is renowned for producing the finest oysters in southern Brazil and provides ideal conditions for sailing and stand-up paddling. Scarlet ibises, cormorants, red-browed amazons, and boobies are commonly seen flying across the region.
In the Serra do Mar, a rich mosaic of environments unfolds from coastal plains to mountaintops, where crystal-clear rivers, streams, and waterfalls stand out. The region includes two National Parks: Saint-Hilaire/Lange National Park, which offers ecotourism experiences through spectacular landscapes while serving as a vital water source for surrounding communities; and Guaricana National Park, one of the most important refuges for large mammals within the entire Atlantic Forest Great Reserve.
Along the coast, Superagui National Park and Ilha do Mel State Park provide access to restinga ecosystems, lowland forests, and pristine, postcard-worthy beaches, supported by a wide range of accommodation options. Superagui is also recognized as a key gateway for observing the endemic and endangered black-faced lion tamarin. Meanwhile, the well-known coastal towns of Guaratuba, Matinhos, and Pontal do Paraná attract large numbers of visitors seeking sun and surf, while still preserving extensive protected areas of coastal plains and restingas, such as those found in Boguaçu State Park and Rio da Onça State Park.
Access to the Litoral do Paraná Sector is itself an unforgettable experience. From Curitiba, visitors can descend the historic and scenic Estrada da Graciosa, or reach the coast via the BR-277 highway or through connections from Santa Catarina.