The Delta of Parnaiba is another unique geographical
region in Northeastern Brazil. The Parnaiba River empties
into the Atlantic Ocean like the fingers of an outstretched
palm. It divides into 5 channels forming more than 70
islands and an infinite number of lakes. It is a maze of
narrow channels and ecological sanctuaries.
There are
only two other deltas of this magnitude in the world being,
the Mekong Delta in Vietnam (Asia), and the Nile Delta in
Egypt (Africa).
Meandering along the Parnaiba River in a boat, you may
experience sightings of turtles, iguanas, fish and possibly
the endangered West Indian manatee. The surrounding
vegetation of mangroves and coastal bush land,
"caatinga" , also provide opportunities to see some wildlife
such as toucans, herons, migratory birds, and monkeys.
Historically, it was the second most important river in
the Northeast, and served as an entrance to the interior,
thus making it an excellent trading route.
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