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Paraná

Since its 1853 secession from São Paulo state, Paraná has been endlessly compared with its larger neighbor to the north. Indeed, the two share a slew of superlatives, rating among Brazil’s highest standards of living and best-educated populations.

With its efficient public transportation, innovative architecture and outstanding urban parks, the capital, Curitiba, exemplifies the state’s successes. Sunbathers and surfers sigh for Ilha do Mel and Parque Nacional do Superagüi, where large swaths of unspoiled rainforest and pristine coastline make for some of the least developed and most idyllic beaches in southern Brazil.

But it's Iguaçu Falls that has always earned the wonder and admiration of travelers, from indigenous tribes to Jesuit missionaries to modern-day tourists. The awe it inspires cannot be overstated.

Top attractions

These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Paraná.

  • See

    Parque Nacional do Iguaçu

    Brazil's second-oldest national park, created in 1939, protects one of South America's most magical and majestic sights, Iguaçu Falls, part of the largest waterfall system in the world. The 1200m-long Trilha das Cataratas ('Waterfall Trail') is one of Brazil's best moments – a series of islands cut the river into numerous waterfalls along the path, each sparking one 'wow' moment after another until it all culminates in a magnificent display of Mother Nature's raw power at Garganta do Diabo ('Devil's Throat').

  • See

    Cataratas do Iguaçu

    Once you're in the park and ready to visit the falls, take the Parque Nacional do Iguaçu bus to the third stop at Belmond Hotel das Cataratas. Here you can pick up the main waterfall observation trail, Trilha das Cataratas ('Waterfall Trail'), a 1200m trail following the shore of the Iguaçu River, terminating at the Garganta do Diabo.

  • See

    Itaipu Binacional

    With a capacity of 14 million kilowatts, this binational dam is the world's second-largest hydroelectric power station, and the one that produces the most electricity per year. The impressive structure, at some 8km long and 200m high, is a memorable sight, especially when the river is high and a vast torrent of overflow water cascades down the spillway.

  • See

    Museu Oscar Niemeyer

    Designed by and named for the architect responsible for much of Brasília, this striking museum features an iconic eye-shaped tower painted with whimsical dancing figures in shadowy black. Rotating exhibits highlight Brazilian and international artists of the 20th and 21st centuries. Permanent exhibitions include a photographic time capsule of the museum's construction (housed in the tower) and an excellent presentation on Niemeyer himself, the highlight of the space.

  • See

    Parque das Aves

    This 5-hectare bird park, located 300m from the entrance to Parque Nacional do Iguaçu, is home to 800-plus species of birds, including red ibis, bare-throated bellbird, and flamingos galore. They live in 8m-high aviaries that are constructed right in the forest, some of which you can walk through. Kids and adults freak out alike. Well worth it.

  • See

    Feira do Largo

    On Sundays, Largo do Ordem and Praça Garibaldi host a lively art and artisan market with more than 1000 stalls.

  • See

    Parque Estadual de Vila Velha

    Located in Campos Gerais, 93km west of Curitiba, Parque Estadual de Vila Velha is known as the ‘stone city.' The park’s centerpieces are the 23 aretinhas (sandstone pillars), created over millions of years. The mysterious red-toned sandstone – some taking recognizable shapes such as boots and bottles – create striking silhouettes against the blue sky and green foliage. A guide is compulsory and must be booked in advance on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays (or park security can call one for you).

  • See

    Largo da Ordem

    Curitiba's colonial heart. Here, the pedestrian-only cobblestone streets are lined with beautifully restored buildings, many of which now house trendy art galleries, pubs and cafes. On Sunday, it fills up along with adjacent Praça Garibaldi for a lively art and artisan market with more than 1000 stalls.

  • See

    Farol das Conchas

    Built in 1872 on orders from Dom Pedro II, this lighthouse stands picturesquely atop a hill at the island’s most easterly point. From here you have panoramic views of the island, the bay and the Serra do Mar. It’s a popular spot to watch the sun drop below the horizon – don't miss it.