[4] The highest peak is the 2,002 metres (6,568 ft) Pico do Itambé, a major landmark of the state.

The highest parts of the Serra do Espinhaço have mild temperatures year round, with an annual average of about 18 °C (64 °F).

[2] The vegetation includes high rocky fields and cerrado, with luxuriant rainforest in the valley floors.

Flora include Anadenanthera colubrina, Copaifera langsdorffii , Dalbergia nigra, Handroanthus albus, Eremanthus erythropappus, Trattinnickia burseraefolia, Calophyllum brasiliense, Byrsonima crassifolia, Vellozia squamata and various species endemic to the region.

A new bromeliad was discovered in the rocky cliffs of the Fumaça waterfall in 2007, named Orthophytum itambense.

[3] The best time to visit is in the dry season from April to October as between November and March the trails may be closed on rainy days.

[2] The Tropeiros trail is part of a historical route used by merchants travelling between Santo Antônio do Itambé e Capivari.