Worth a Journey

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The World’s 100 Best Archaeological Sites & Ruins

Serra da Capivara

São Raimundo Nonato, Brazil

  1. THE WORLD’S BEST RUINS & SITES WORTH A JOURNEY · 2026 ✦ ✦ N° 21 2026
Serra da Capivara

A conservation area of sandstone hills and caatinga scrubland in Piauí, Brazil, holding prehistoric rock paintings and excavated shelter sites. Visitors walk marked trails through the canyons and see rock art, the pierced rock and panoramic viewpoints.

Highlights

  • Prehistoric rock paintings
  • Pedra Furada pierced rock
  • Panoramic viewpoint staircase

Good to know

  • Mandatory local guide required to enter
  • Very hot and dry, bring water
  • Museums at the park entrance

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