The role of Protected Areas during the COVID-19 pandemic: an analysis of visitors’ perception

Abstract The COVID-19 pandemic culminated in a global health crisis, generating a series of impacts. This study evaluated its impact on visits to Protected Areas (PAs) in Brazil. A questionnaire was applied to 219 visitors of 136 PAs through an electronic form using the snowball method. The results revealed the main motivations and perceived benefits during the visitation. The main reasons for visiting were: “contemplation of nature” (32%), “physical and mental well-being” (28%), “recreation” (15%), and “isolation/tranquility” (12%). Regarding the perception of benefits, “well-being and mental health” (42%), “contact with nature” (19%), and “environment with lower risk of contamination” (15%) were the most mentioned. Our results reinforce the importance of PAs in improving human well-being and promoting contact with nature during the COVID-19 pandemic.