something that rio de janeiro has in abundance are individual sites of unique natural beauty, and/or great scientific interest, however, many of these fall within the boundaries of other conservation units, whilst those that do not are classified under the natural monument conservation unit.

in addition to sites that fall strictly within state owned areas, natural monuments can also be within privately owned land, provided that there are certain guidelines set out between the land owner, and conservation body.

the goal of the natural monument conversation unit is to preserve rare natural sites, of great scenic beauty, and of scientific interest.