with the southern brown howler (alouatta guariba clamitans) as a symbol, this park is in fact one of the most beautiful parks in brazil.   

more than just the natural environment, the park protects sites of historical heritage, and has been a boost for the economy of the region, allowing leisure activities in the area, and creating sustainable employment.

originally covering an area of 15,000 hectares, parque estadual da ilha grande was created in 1971 by state decree no. 15,273, making it one of the oldest state parks in rio de janeiro.

however, the national park experienced a number of resizes over the years, at one point reduced to 4,330 hectares, until its current borders were officially established, in 2007, giving it a total area of just over 12,000 hectares.