Foz do Iguacu
With spectacular natural and man-made attractions, Foz do Iguaçu offers plenty to see. Located in southern Brazil on the banks of the Paraná and Iguazu rivers, the city borders both Argentina and Paraguay. The Three Borders Mark offers panoramic views of three countries at one time.
The city’s downtown has notable restaurants and bars, hotels and hostels; however, many of the major tourist attractions are away from the city center. Reach these stunning attractions by public bus or taxi or join organized tours arranged by hotels and travel agencies.
The must-see attraction is magnificent Iguaçu Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Lining a horseshoe-shaped gorge are 275 individual cataracts, including the thundering 262-foot-tall (80-meter) Devil’s Throat. The falls are part of Parque Nacional do Iguaçu, a protected rainforest with myriad flora and fauna; playful raccoon-like coatis implore visitors for food. Explore nature trails, boat beneath waterfalls or take a helicopter flight for incredible bird’s-eye views.
Visit Parque de Aves (Bird Park), a zoo located just outside the entrance to the waterfalls. Spot free-flying tropical birds, butterflies and more exotic species, including monkeys, reptiles and fish, as you follow trails and enter walkthrough aviaries.
North of the city center, visit the Buddhist Temple, one of primarily Catholic Latin America’s largest Buddhist temples and home to a fascinating collection of 100 Buddha statues.
Learn how water is used to generate electricity on a behind-the-scenes tour of the Itaipu Dam, the world’s second-largest hydroelectric power plant. The Ecomuseum offers archaeological artifacts and information about the dam’s history.
Walk across the Friendship Bridge for great views of the Paraná River and tax-free shopping in Ciudad del Este, Paraguay. Plan for a brief customs stop.
As one of Brazil’s most-frequented tourist destinations, Foz do Iguaçu receives long-distance buses and flights from across South America. The city experiences a subtropical climate and therefore presents warm, humid weather year-round, although expect heavy rainfall from December through February.