the channel is partially surrounded by the reserva biológica and arqueológica de guaratiba, which is a huge area of environmental protection, spanning an impressive 3,600 hectors, and encompassing marshlands, swamps, and mangroves, all amongst an exotic array of plants and wildlife.

the reserve is separated from the main hub of the city, by the canal do bacalhau, and is one of the best-preserved areas of the region. due to the area's relative isolation, and due to its importance to ecological conservation, the lands around the canal do bacalhau are much more sparsely populated than other areas of the state, with the main local attractions of a more natural theme.