national park is a term often used interchangeably with the term ecological reserve.

these areas are created to protect the ecological integrity of an ecosystem for present and future generations, while preventing development and occupation of these regions, and with the additional aim of aiding education and research compatibly with the local conservation of nature.

in brazil, national parks are the oldest and most popular type of natural conservation unit - defined as areas of great beauty and ecological importance, that permit scientific research as well as educational activities, leisure, and ecotourism in close contact with nature.