Brazilian Highlands
The Brazilian Highlands, known in Portuguese as the Planalto Brasileiro, constitute a massive geographical region that defines much of the landscape of eastern, southern, and central Brazil. Spanning approximately 4,500,000 km² (1,930,511 sq mi), this plateau covers nearly half of Brazil's total land area. Because of its favorable geography, the vast majority of Brazil's population—recorded at 203,062,512 in the 2022 census—resides either within these highlands or along the narrow coastal strip adjacent to them.
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Key Facts
- Total Area: Approximately 4,500,000 to 5,000,000 km².
- Highest Point: Pico da Bandeira, reaching 2,891 meters (9,485 ft).
- Dimensions: Extends 3,500 km (2,200 mi) from the Southwest to the Northeast.
- Geology: Formed primarily by ancient basaltic lava flows and sedimentary deposits.
- Current Activity: No current seismic or volcanic activity.
Geological Formation and Landscape
The foundation of the Brazilian Highlands was laid by ancient basaltic lava flows (molten rock that erupted from volcanoes and cooled on the surface). While the region was once a site of intense geophysical activity, it is now geologically stable, with no active volcanoes or seismic events.
Over millions of years, erosion has been the primary architect of the current landscape. This process has worn down ancient mountains and created extensive sedimentary deposits, resulting in the diverse topography seen today, ranging from flat plateaus to rugged mountain ranges.
Major Divisions of the Plateau
Due to its immense scale and ecological variety, the Brazilian Highlands are categorized into three primary regions:
The Atlantic Plateau
Running along the eastern coast, the Atlantic Plateau includes several mountain ranges. This region was historically dominated by the Atlantic Rainforest, one of the most biodiverse environments on Earth. However, due to human activity and development, only 7.3% of this original rainforest remains.
The Southern Plateau
Extending into the southern and south-central interior, this region is characterized by sedimentary rocks partially covered by basaltic lava. This combination has created highly fertile soil known as purple land. The landscape is a mix of the Atlantic Rainforest, araucaria highland forests, and cerrado grasslands.
The Central Plateau
Occupying the heart of Brazil, the Central Plateau consists of crystalline and sedimentary formations. Historically, about 85% of this area was covered by cerrado (tropical savanna) vegetation, though only a small portion remains intact today.
Prominent Mountain Ranges
Integrated within or adjoining the plateau are several significant mountain ranges (serras). Listed from north to south, these include:
- Serra da Borborema
- Chapada Diamantina
- Serra do Espinhaço
- Serra do Caparaó (home to the highest peak)
- Serra da Mantiqueira
- Serra do Mar
- Serra Geral
The highest elevation in the entire region is found at Pico da Bandeira in the Serra do Caparaó, which rises to 2,891 meters (9,485 ft).
Regional Summary
| Division | Primary Characteristics | Key Vegetation/Soil |
|---|---|---|
| Atlantic Plateau | Eastern coastal ranges | Atlantic Rainforest (7.3% remaining) |
| Southern Plateau | South/South-central interior | Purple land, Araucaria forest, Cerrado |
| Central Plateau | Central Brazil | Cerrado (originally 85% coverage) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the highest point of the Brazilian Highlands?
The highest point is Pico da Bandeira, located in the Serra do Caparaó, with an elevation of 2,891 meters (9,485 ft).
Are there active volcanoes in the Brazilian Highlands?
No. While the region was formed by ancient basaltic lava flows, there is currently no volcanic or seismic activity in the area.
What is "purple land"?
Purple land is the fertile soil found in the Southern Plateau, created by sedimentary rocks that were partially covered by basaltic lava spills.
How much of the Atlantic Rainforest still exists on the Atlantic Plateau?
Only 7.3% of the original Atlantic Rainforest remains in this region.
Which biomes are found in the Brazilian Highlands?
The region is highly diverse, featuring the Atlantic Rainforest, the Cerrado (tropical savanna), and araucaria highland forests.