Bananal Island

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The Ilha do Bananal ( German: Banana Island), is a river island between the Araguaia River and its eastern side stream Rio Javaés in the Brazilian state of Tocantins on the border with the state of Mato Grosso. It is about 350 kilometers long, up to 55 kilometers wide and has an area of ​​19,162 km ².

Geography

Depending on whether the partially located on the Atlantic larger Ilha de Marajó sees as pure river island or not, the Ilha do Bananal is either the largest or the second largest inland island in the world.

On the island of spring numerous watercourses. With its wide range of flora and fauna, it is part of the national park Parque Nacional do Araguaia. The Ilha do Bananal is a popular destination for eco-tourists. It can be reached only by boat, since no bridge leading to the island.

Population and history

The Javaés, Karajá, Ava - Canoeiro and Tuxa are living on the island of indigenous populations. The southern two- thirds of the island, is reported as Terra Indígena, ie as a reservation for them.

The island was discovered on July 26, 1773 by José Pinto Fonseca for Europe and named Santana. Later, the island was renamed due to its numerous wild banana trees. There are sixteen aldeias (villages ) on the island.

Climate

The climate is tropical and the temperatures vary from a maximum of 38 ° C in August and September up to 22 ° C in July. The summer from November to April is characterized by heavy rainfall, while winter prevails from May to October drought. The relative humidity varies from 60 % in July to 80 % in the rainy season.

From January to March, when about 50 % of the annual precipitation falls, and the Rio Araguaia peaked and flooded parts of the island.