Choose from 16 Fun Things to Do in South Brazil
ShowingFilter 1-16 of 16 listings.
Morretes
This historic city on the Cost of Brazil’s Parana state is home to fewer than 20,000 people. Still, its charming old world streets, hillside views and traditional restaurants make it a destination for travelers in search of a true taste of Brazil.
Intrepid travelers can make the epic climb to the top of Marumbi Peak, where picturesque landscapes stretch as far as the eye can see. Historic monuments like the Matriz de Nossa Senhora do Porto Church, Casa Rocha Pombo and the Estrada do Central offer visitors the opportunity to venture back into the past. And after exploring the town, travelers can tuck into a plate of traditional barreado—a slow-cooked meat stew made famous by this town.
Practical Info
Morretes is easily accessible by road, but many travelers prefer to take the Serra Verde Express or the Paranagua-Curitiba Railway from Curitiba.
Address: Morretes, Parana, Brazil, Brazil
From $ 120
Palace of Liberty Cultural Center (Paco da Liberdade Cultural Centre)
Once Curitiba’s City Hall, the Palace of Liberty is today a multi-functional cultural center hosting conferences, lectures and exhibitions with its movie theater, sound studio and electronic art lab. Built in the beginning of the 20th century to house the local government, it has an eclectic construction style. After the city’s government was transferred in 1969, the building was used as a museum, and later, restored as the cultural center it is today.
Visitors can wander through the site, passing between the two statues of Hercules holding up the archway to explore the building’s four stories. Wooden art nouveau carvings can be seen throughout the building, and large windows open up out onto the square. On the third floor, elaborate painted ceilings have many visitors looking up. The building is said to have been the first in Curitiba to hold an elevator, brought directly from Europe. The elevator is no longer in operation but has been preserved for people to see.
Practical Info
The cultural center is located on in the center of town. Admission is free. It is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visitors can take one of the many city bus lines that stop at the square, including the tourist bus, Linha Turismo.
Address: Praça Generoso Marques, Curitiba, Brazil
Hours: Mon-Fri 10am-9pm, Sat 10am-6pm, Sunday 11am-5pm
From $ 64
Curitiba Botanical Garden (Jardim Botanico)
The Botanical Garden of Curitiba (Jardim Botânico de Curitiba), in the middle of the city, provides a tranquil respite for locals and visitors alike. Designed in the style of French royal gardens, the park’s crown jewel is the 4,844-square-foot (450-square-meter) art nouveau, metal and glass greenhouse that sits against the Curitiba skyline.
The Basics
Curitiba’s botanical garden is home to thousands of Brazilian tropical plant species, including rare flowers, as well as beautiful statues and fountains that you can explore for hours on end. Busy locals flock here as well to take a break from life on the lush green lawns.
The garden is a highlight of broader sightseeing tours of Curitiba that also take in key landmarks such as the Oscar Niemeyer Museum (Museu Oscar Niemeyer), the Wire Opera House (Ópera de Arame), and Tangua Park (Parque Tanguá).
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Botanical Gardens of Curitiba are a great place to sit and rejuvenate after a long day of sightseeing in the city.
- Wear layers to the park, as the weather can change quickly.
- The park is wheelchair accessible via the paved walkways throughout most of the premises.
How to Get There
The Jardim Botânico is easily accessible by foot from Curitiba’s city center. You can also take a number of city buses—including the tourist bus, Linha Turismo—to the garden. It is advised not to drive, as parking is very limited.
When to Get There
The best time to visit the Botanical Gardens is during the spring months of September, October, and November, when the plants and flowers are just starting to bloom. The summer months, while busier, are also beautiful for relaxing and picnicking on the plush lawns.
The Garden of Sensations
Since 2008, the Jardim Botânico de Curitiba has hosted an exhibit dubbed “The Garden of Sensations” in which visitors can experience vegetation with their senses. You can learn about 60 species of flora without your vision, by using smell and touch instead. It is one of the most popular exhibits of the gardens and intrigues guests of all ages.
Address: Curitiba, PR 80210-390, Brazil
From $ 64
Tiradentes Square (Praca Tiradentes)
Arguably the most important square in Curitiba, Praca Tiradentes is home to many of the city’s well-known sites, including the Metropolitan Cathedral and Basilica Minor of Our Lady of Light. Among the trees and statues in the square, visitors can walk over a glass-protected piece of the square’s original pavement, constructed in the first half of the 19th century. Thanks to the special lighting within the glass flooring, the spot is especially beautiful come nightfall.
The Cross of Christ and a historic monolith can also be found in the center of Praca Tiradentes. The former was a symbol of the Military Order of the Christ, instituted by King Denis of Portugal in the 14th century, and represented the legal power of Portugal over the land and the settlement of Curitiba in 1693. According to legend the spot also marks the place where Indigenous Chief Tindiquera of the Tingui Tribe once chose to settle his people.
Practical Info
The square is located in the center of Curitiba and is within walking distance of several other tourist attractions, including the historic center and Palace of Liberty Cultural Center. The square is free and open to visitors 24 hours a day, although there are no public restrooms or drinking fountains. The area serves as the starting point for the tourist bus Linha Turismo and is easily accessible by several main bus lines that criss-cross the city.
Address: Praca Tiradentes, 220, Curitiba, Brazil
Hours: Daily
From $ 84
Three Borders Landmark
Iguassu Falls are famously shared between three nations: Brazil, Argentina and tiny Paraguay (which doesn't actually claim any part of the primary falls, only the rivers). Though the actual Tripitarte, or triple border, lies unmarked at the deepest part of the confluence of the Iguazu and Parana rivers, all three nations have erected monuments—built around obelisks painted patriotically with the colors of their respective flags—overlooking the spot.
Originally erected in 1903, the memorials are built around three simple cement obelisks, painted in the patriotic colors of the three respective flags. The view is nice, and all three monuments are surrounded with vendors selling snacks and souvenirs. The Argentine landmark has the distinction of being the easiest to visit, a pleasant walk from the city center along the riverfront.
Brazil's Hito Tres Fronteras (Three Borders Landmark) was originally erected on July 20, 1903, overlooking the pretty scene and international bridges. Though it sits on the outskirts of Foz de Iguacu city, it does bring in tourists, as well as vendors selling souvenirs and snacks. Next door, the Space of the Americas tourist complex offers meals and views in more relaxed environs.
Brazil's Hito Tres Fronteras (Three Borders Landmark) was originally erected on July 20, 1903, overlooking the pretty scene and international bridges. Though it sits on the outskirts of Foz de Iguacu city, it does bring in tourists, as well as vendors selling souvenirs and snacks. Next door, the Space of the Americas tourist complex offers meals and views in more relaxed environs.
Practical Info
The Brazilian monument is located 6km (4mi) from the city center; you can catch colectivos, but it's safer and easier to take a taxi or tour. While most operators recommend visiting landmark around sunset, be aware that this neighborhood can be a bit sketchy after dark. The obelisk on the Argentine side is much more accessible.
Address: Av General Meira, Porto Meira, Foz do Iguacu, Brazil
Hours: Open daily 8am - 6pm
From $ 8
Vila Velha Park
Established in 1953, the diverse landscapes of Vila Velha State Park have attracted travelers in search of a quiet, picturesque respite from urban Rio since its inception. Towering sandstone formations that have been carved away by volcanic eruptions, wind and glaciers over the course of some 6,000 years, are just part of what gives this State Heritage site its unique appeal.
Travelers can wander scenic trails through some of the park’s most iconic sandstones like the camel, sphinx and the well-known goblet. Popular Furnas—deep turquoise water holes formed by collapsed sandstone, are another popular feature of Vila Velha. Hell’s Cauldrons, home to two of these Furnas—is one of the park’s main attractions. Nearby Golden Pond, known for casting a yellow hue when hit by the sun, is another popular stop for visitors to the park.
Practical Info
The park is located about 55 miles from Curitiba and is an easy day trip from the city. It is open every day but Tuesday from 8:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m.
Address: Parana, Brazil
Hours: Wed-Mon 8:30am-3:30pm
From $ 189
Oscar Niemeyer Museum
One of Curitiba’s most recognizable landmarks is the Oscar Niemeyer Museum (Museu Oscar Niemeyer), built by and for the famous architect. It highlights his modern designs that are prominent in many of his buildings around Brazil. The museum’s rotating exhibits showcase both national and international artists from the 20th and 21st centuries.
The Basics
The museum is built in the shape of an eye and is perched on a large yellow pillar with playful dancing figures in black, positioning itself as the main attraction of the museum. Inside, myriad artists are represented as is Niemeyer himself in an exhibit that’s a museum highlight.
You can visit the museum independently or with a city tour, most of which stop here and discuss the life of the famous Brazilian architect. To round out your cultural experience in Curitiba, book a sightseeing tour with dinner to see the city’s top attractions—such as the Wire Opera House (Ópera de Arame), Botanical Garden of Curitiba (Jardim Botânico de Curitiba), and Tangua Park (Parque Tanguá)—and sample some of Brazil’s delicious cuisine.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Oscar Niemeyer Museum is a must for modern art and architecture lovers.
- Free Wi-Fi is available for visitors throughout the museum and the cafe.
- Food and liquids are not allowed inside the museum.
- The museum and its restrooms are fully accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The Oscar Niemeyer Museum is located in the Civic Center of Curitiba. If you’re driving, there is paid parking on the premises. Alternatively many city buses—including the tourist bus, Linha Turismo, and the 505 from Passeio Público— stop right at the museum.
When to Get There
The museum is open from 10am to 6pm Tuesday to Sunday. It’s one of the city’s most popular attractions so it is best to get there early to avoid large crowds. Admission is free every Wednesday, and on the first Wednesday of each month the museum is open until 8pm. The best time to visit Curitiba is during the spring (September to December) and fall (March to June), when the weather is pleasant and there is less rain.
The Legacy of a Great Architect
Oscar Niemeyer is one of Brazil’s most renowned and beloved architects. He designed many buildings throughout the country, most notably in Brasilia and Rio de Janeiro. The 183,000-square-foot (17,000-square-meter) space, also known as the Museum of the Eye, was designed by him and was completed when he was 95 years old.
Address: Rua Marechal Hermes, 999, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
Admission: Varies
From $ 64
Unipraias Park (Parque Unipraias)
With its thrilling zip-lines, cable cars and amusement rides soaring over the coast of Camboriú, Unipraias Park is one of Brazil’s most celebrated amusement parks and a prime destination for visitors to the southeast. Part adventure park, part wildlife reserve, the 6-hectare park is best known for its spectacular hilltop location looking out over the beaches of the Atlantic coast and surrounded by thick forest.
Along with 500m of walking trails, the park is split into four adventure areas: Bondinho, Fantastic Forest, Zip-rider and Yoohooo! Head to the Bondinho for a 3.2km, 30-minute cable
car ride over the Atlantic rainforest; meet with fairies, goblins and elves in the Fantastic Forest; ride the 240m high zip-line or zoom down the Yoohooo! mountain sled at speeds of up to 60 km/h.
Practical Info
Unipraias Park is located on the coast in southeast Camboriú and is open daily from 9.30am until 6pm. Admission is R$39 for adults and R$19 for children, but extras costs apply for certain activities.
Address: Avenida Atlantica, Balneário Camboriú, Brazil
Hours: Daily: 9.30am- 6pm
Admission: Adult: R$ 39.00, Child: R$ 19.00
From $ 12
Iguacu Falls
Iguacu (Iguaçu) Falls, the largest waterfalls system in the world, are truly awe-inspiring to behold. Though Argentina boasts better trails around the falls, Brazil is blessed with the best views of this natural marvel’s 275 separate cascades, which span the border between the two countries. Take in full-frontal views of Devil’s Throat (Garganta del Diablo), San Martin Island, and more from the short-but-sweet catwalks that wind their way around the Brazilian side of Iguacu Falls.
The Basics
The best way to experience the Brazilian side of Iguacu Falls is by hiking the catwalks. Though less forested and natural than the Argentinean trails, you’ll find significantly better panoramic views of Iguacu Falls in all its unforgettable glory—and they even offer an elevator to a postcard-perfect viewpoint over Devil’s Throat, considered the most spectacular scene in the park. Ensure sight of the best vistas by joining a guided tour of Iguacu National Park; opt for a small-group tour that fills you in on the fall’s folklore and geologic history, or take a cruise right beneath the cascades. And only on the Brazilian side can you take a helicopter ride for aerial views over the falls or an above-the-falls rafting trip on the Parana River.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Plan to spend a half day walking the catwalks on this side of the falls.
- Although the Brazilian side is generally drier than the Argentinean side, it is still wise to pack rain gear and to put your valuables and electronics in waterproof bags.
- Many tours begin on one side of the falls and then cross the border, making it easy to see both sides on a single trip (if not in a single day).
- If crossing the border without joining a guided tour, be sure to check visa requirements for your country.
How to Get There
The closest Brazilian town to Iguacu National Park is Foz do Iguaçu. Catch a bus from town to the park for only a few dollars; buses and taxis also run directly from the airport. Foz do Iguaçu is a two-hour flight from Rio de Janeiro. Note that Foz do Iguaçu has more lodging, restaurants, and other traveler amenities than Argentina’s gateway-to-the-falls town, Puerto Iguazu. This side of the falls also offers guided tours to nearby sights such as Bird Park, Itaipu Dam, and the Brazil-Paraguay border.
When to Get There
Iguacu Falls is accessible year-round. For the best weather and the smallest crowds, plan to go between July and October or February and April. Morning visits reward with rainbows in the ever-present mist of Devil’s Throat.
Big Water
Iguacu translates to “big water” in the Tupi or Guarani language—a fitting name considering that water tumbles over the cascades at a rate of 5,300 cubic feet (1,500 cubic meters) per second. That’s enough water to fill an Olympic-sized swimming pool in under two seconds!
Address: Brazil
From $ 18
Tanguá Park (Parque Tanguá)
In the middle of bustling Curitiba sits the expansive, green Tangua Park (Parque Tanguá). It is built around two rock quarries joined by a 150-foot (46-meter) tunnel as well as lakes and an artificial waterfall. Stroll around the park on foot, pedal around the quarries by bike, or simply relax and catch a beautiful sunset over the city.
The Basics
Tangua Park is situated just 5 miles (8 kilometers) from the city center, providing a great respite from the hustle and bustle. The park is also great for observing some of the local flora and fauna such as Brazilian pine trees, armadillos, and mallards.
Tangua is typically included in a broader sightseeing tour of Curitiba on which you can also see key landmarks such as the Oscar Niemeyer Museum (Museu Oscar Niemeyer), the Wire Opera House (Ópera de Arame), and the Botanical Garden of Curitiba (Jardim Botânico de Curitiba).
Things to Know Before You Go
- Tangua Park is a must-see for nature lovers and those who would like a break from city life.
- A visit around the entire park takes about three hours, so wear comfortable shoes and sun protection for a pleasant experience.
- The paths and the public restrooms within the park are accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The park is situated on the outskirts of Curitiba. You can rent a car and drive to the park, where there is free parking. Alternatively, several city bus lines—including the tourism bus, Linha Turismo—stop at Tangua Park.
When to Get There
The best time to visit Tangua Park is just before sunset, when the sky transforms into a palette of colors. Visit the park after your city tour or busy day of sightseeing to relax and enjoy the tranquility. Curitiba is most pleasant during spring (September to December) and autumn (March to June), when the weather is pleasant and there is less rain.
The Construction of Tangua Park
Before its inauguration, Tangua Park was intended to be an industrial waste recycling plant on the outskirts of the city. The idea was scrapped (no pun intended) and the city hired civil engineers to transform it into a public space. The park now boasts a large French-style garden with flower beds, water mirrors, and a gazebo as well as a 213-foot (65-meter) waterfall that drops right into the lakes.
Address: Rua Oswaldo Maciel, Pilarzinho neighborhood, Curitiba, Brazil
From $ 64
Gramado Zoo
Worthy of its reputation as one of South America’s best zoos, Gramado Zoo is an animal reserve with a difference. Specializing in species native to Brazil and with an emphasis on animal welfare, Gramado Zoo makes a welcome change for animal lovers, with spacious open living areas and most of the animals brought in as rescues.
More than 1,500 animals currently inhabit the zoo, including capuchin and howler monkeys, tapir, emus and crocodiles, and a 1.2km walkways links each section. Most impressive is the huge aviary, where birds like arraras, parrots and toucans fly freely, while more dangerous creatures like jaguars, leopards and snakes can be seen from behind armored glass screens. Finally, for an even more thrilling encounter, visitors can also choose a night tour and take a peek at the zoo’s nocturnal residents.
Practical Info
Gramado Zoo is located in Gramado, around 8km south of the city center and is open daily from 9am to 6.30pm. Admission fees are R$54 for adults and R$27 for children.
Address: 35 Sentido Taquara, Varzea Grande, Gramado, Brazil
Hours: Daily 9am - 6.30pm
Admission: Adult R$54, Child R$27
From $ 20
Itaipu Dam
Set near the convergence of Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay, Itaipu Dam is considered one of the World’s Seven Modern Wonders, clocking in at 4.5 miles (7.2 kilometers) long and 65 stories high. With a maximum flow up to 40 times more powerful than nearby Iguassu (Iguaçu) Falls, the dam’s hydroelectric power plant produces roughly 20 percent of Brazil’s electricity.
The Basics
Most tours of Itaipu Dam include a catamaran ride on Itaipu Lake and allow you to take in views from the observation deck and spillway, while some options also include a technical tour of the hydroelectric power plant. Don’t miss the Bela Vista Biological Sanctuary, which features a 2-mile (3.2-kilometer) walk around the Piracema Canal and harbors animal species such as jaguars, quati, alligators, king vultures, and snakes. Nearby, the Casimiro Montenegro Filho Astronomical Pole features a planetarium, observatory, and an observation platform that allow travelers to view the night sky. Itaipu Dam tours typically leave from Puerto Iguazú or Foz do Iguaçu, and are frequently combined with excursions to the Brazilian side of Iguassu Falls.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Itaipu Dam is a must-see for first-time visitors to the Iguassu Falls area.
- Be sure to dress appropriately; sandals, high heels, miniskirts, and shorts are not allowed.
- The visitor complex at the dam is fully wheelchair accessible and has a tactile floor to aid travelers with decreased vision.
How to Get There
Most visitors arrive at Itaipu Dam via prearranged tour. Cabs are available from downtown Foz do Iguaçu, and car parking is available for independent travelers. To get there via public transportation, take the Conjunto C Norte or Conjunto C Sul bus lines, which depart from the central Foz do Iguaçu terminal.
When to Get There
You can visit Itaipu Dam year-round. Twice a week, there is a nighttime light show from the Central Lookout, which features music and views of the dam illuminated by nearly 1,000 spotlights and light fixtures.
Itaipu Dam History
The Itaipu hydroelectric plant marks the spot where an epic cascade was once the centerpiece of Guaira Falls National Park. The Seven Falls of Guaira (actually 18 cascades on the Parana River, gushing twice as much water as Niagara Falls) were drowned in 1982 when the dam was under construction. The national park was dissolved and the cliffs were destroyed with dynamite to ensure safer navigation on the new Itaipu Lake.
Address: Avenida Tancredo Neves 6702, Foz de Iguacu, Brazil
Admission: Varies
From $ 32
Conceicao Lagoon (Lagoa da Conceicao)
One of Florianopolis’ coolest towns is located just over the hill from the downtown area. Conceicao Lagoon (Lagoa da Conceição) is the Island of Magic’s hip district, and boasts a collection of trendy bars and restaurants nestled around the large lagoon. The area is also known for its jungle trekking, sand dunes, and many nearby beaches.
The Basics
Lagoa da Conceição is centered right in the middle of the island of Florianopolis, making it a strategic area for locals and travelers to gather. There are also a number of outdoor activities in the lagoon and nearby beaches. Drive along Avenida das Rendeiras, on the edge of the lagoon, to find stand-up paddleboard and kayak rentals as well as windsurfing and kitesurfing schools. Head toward Praia da Joaquina and Praia Mole for some of the best surfing on the island as well as surfing schools and rental shops.
Many tours to explore the island’s beaches—Mozambique, Canasvieiras, Jurerê, and Ingleses in the north, or Campeche, Pântano do Sul, Armação, and Matadeiro in the south—leave from the lagoon. Day tours of the island typically pass through Conceicao Lagoon to highlight one of the city’s most popular areas.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Lagoa da Conceição is a great area to visit for those who like outdoor activities such as hiking, stand-up paddleboarding, sandboarding, windsurfing, and surfing.
- Check the weather and wind conditions in advance to see which beaches in the area are best to visit on that given day.
- Be aware of your surroundings during the evening hours, especially during the summer months when the area is quite crowded.
How to Get There
Public transportation is quite limited on the island, but you can take the Trans-Sol bus from the downtown area of Florianopolis to the TILAG bus terminal in Lagoa da Conceição. If you have a rental car, drive over Lagoon Hill to reach the neighborhood’s center. For a convenient, hassle-free way to reach the lagoon, taxis are also readily available on the island.
When to Get There
Lagoa da Conceição is one of the island’s best places to catch a sunset, either on the lagoon or one of the nearby beaches, such as Joaquina. Try to arrive at the lagoon outside of rush hour (8am to 10am and 5pm to 8pm) to avoid getting stuck in traffic. The island triples in population during the summer, so skip December, January, and February, if possible.
A Night on the Town
For those looking for a relaxing night out, Lagoa da Conceição is the place to be. Grab a bite to eat at one of the numerous restaurants in the area dishing up everything from sushi to Brazilian barbecue to food-truck meals. Quench your thirst at any number of bars or botecos while listening to music ranging from sarantejo (Brazilian country music) to international hits.
Address: Florianopolis, Brazil
From $ 29
Wire Opera House (Opera de Arame)
The Wire Opera House (Ópera de Arame) is one of Curitiba’s most recognizable buildings and an excellent example of modern architecture. Built entirely of glass and steel pipes, the theater is nestled in a lush green space surrounded by a lake. It can seat up to 2,400 spectators and hosts performances ranging from classical to popular.
The Basics
The 29,000-square-foot (2,694-square-meter) Ópera de Arame is easily concealed by the lush greenery that surrounds it. Unless there is a performance on, visitors are welcome to enter the building for free and explore at their leisure.
Most city tours of Curitiba stop at the Wire Opera House as well as other key landmarks such as the Oscar Niemeyer Museum (Museu Oscar Niemeyer), Botanical Garden of Curitiba (Jardim Botânico de Curitiba), Tangua Park (Parque Tanguá), and much more. If you want to dive deeper into Brazilian history and culture, hop on a sightseeing and dinner tour to get a taste of the local cuisine and visit top attractions, including the opera house.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Ópera de Arama is a must-see for classical music and architecture lovers.
- Popular performances at the opera house sell out, so book tickets in advance.
- The opera house and its surrounding walkway are accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The Wire Opera House is located in the tranquil Pedreira Park, just outside Curitiba’s city center in the Pilarzinho neighborhood. You can rent a car and drive to the theater, where there is free parking on the premises. Alternatively, several city busses—including the tourism bus, Linha Turismo—stop near Pedreira.
When to Get There
Ópera de Arama is open until 8pm daily except Monday. It’s popular, so aim to visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds. The best time to visit Curitiba is during spring (September to December) and fall (March to June), when the weather is pleasant and there is less rain.
Construction of the Opera House
The Ópera de Arame was completed in March 1992, after only 75 days of construction. The design was a collaboration between Curitiba’s mayor at the time, Jamie Lerner, and architect Domingos Bongestabs. The location is a deactivated quarry just north of Curitiba’s city center and was built to work with—rather than against—the surrounding nature.
Address: Rua João Gava, 970, Curitiba, Brazil
Admission: Varies
From $ 64
Parque das Aves (Birds Park)
The most famous residents of Iguacu's humid subtropical forests—the parrots, toucans, lorikeets, flamingos and other brightly colored tropical birds—can be difficult for the casual traveler to spot in the rain forest. Since 1994, however, those of us without a birder's patience or cunning have been able to enjoy the airy aviaries of Birds Park, Latin America's largest.
Around 150 species enjoy spacious 26-foot (8-meter) enclosures in this heavily wooded, 12-acre (5-hectare) park, all thoughtfully designed by naturalists and the owners. It's a lovely stroll, and photographers will find ample opportunity for the perfect shot. Other denizens from around Brazil include caimans, anacondas, boa constrictors, marmosets and scores of gorgeous butterflies. Other biomes, such as the African savannah and Australian outback, are also displayed, housing ostriches, curassows and other exotics.
Around 150 species enjoy spacious 26-foot (8-meter) enclosures in this heavily wooded, 12-acre (5-hectare) park, all thoughtfully designed by naturalists and the owners. It's a lovely stroll, and photographers will find ample opportunity for the perfect shot. Other denizens from around Brazil include caimans, anacondas, boa constrictors, marmosets and scores of gorgeous butterflies. Other biomes, such as the African savannah and Australian outback, are also displayed, housing ostriches, curassows and other exotics.
Practical Info
The Birds Park is conveniently located next to the national park entrance; visit the falls in the morning and Birds Park in the afternoon. Allow two hours to properly explore the park, longer if you plan to take photos. The site features wheelchair-accessible paths. Some guides speak English. Bring sunscreen, insect repellent and an umbrella if the forecast calls for rain.
Photo courtesy of Jorge Andrade via Wikimedia Commons
Address: Foz Tropicana, Parque das Aves–Av Das Cataratas, km 17.1, Foz do Iguacu, Brazil
Hours: Open daily 8am - 5:30pm
Admission: US$15
From $ 12
Catedral Sao Joao Batista
This elegant example of neo-Gothic architecture, easily Brazil's finest, might seem more at home in Medieval France than the rainforests of the New World. But the graceful symphony of peaked arches and delicately rendered 82m (169ft) towers, built between 1928 and 1932, is right here in Santa Cruz do Sul.
Sao Joao Batista, which overlooks the pretty parks and fountains of popular Getúlio Vargas Square, offers a pale pastel interpretation of classic Gothic aesthetics; the interior murals and lovely stained glass seem to invite light and cheer into the imposing structure. It is considered one of the most beautiful cathedrals in South America.
The cathedral is only one of this mid-sized city's attractions. The Autodromo Internacional de Santa Cruz do Sul hosts popular racing events year-round. The crowds multiply in late September, when Santa Cruz, founded in the 1840s by German settlers, begins its outrageous and world-famous Octoberfest celebration.
Photo courtesy of Klaus with a K via Wikimedia Commons
Sao Joao Batista, which overlooks the pretty parks and fountains of popular Getúlio Vargas Square, offers a pale pastel interpretation of classic Gothic aesthetics; the interior murals and lovely stained glass seem to invite light and cheer into the imposing structure. It is considered one of the most beautiful cathedrals in South America.
The cathedral is only one of this mid-sized city's attractions. The Autodromo Internacional de Santa Cruz do Sul hosts popular racing events year-round. The crowds multiply in late September, when Santa Cruz, founded in the 1840s by German settlers, begins its outrageous and world-famous Octoberfest celebration.
Photo courtesy of Klaus with a K via Wikimedia Commons
Practical Info
While it's possible to visit Catedral Sao Joao Batista on a daytrip from Foz do Iguacu on a tour with speedy private transport, it's a solid five-hour haul on public buses. Consider spending the night, or continuing on to the city of Porto Alegre, a festive hub for some of southern Brazil's best beaches.
Address: Getulio Vargas Square, Santa Cruz do Sul, Brazil
Hours: Open daily; Mass Saturday 5pm, Sunday 7am, 9am, 10:15am, and 7pm
From $ 32