About Paraná
Paraná is a captivating Brazilian state where European heritage meets breathtaking natural wonders. The crown jewel is Iguaçu Falls, one of the world's most spectacular waterfalls, straddling the border with Argentina. Beyond the falls, Paraná offers the historic charm of Curitiba, renowned for its innovative urban planning, lush parks like the Botanical Garden, and the iconic Wire Opera House. The state's German, Italian, Polish, and Ukrainian roots are palpable in towns like Curitiba's Santa Felicidade district and the historic German colony of Vila Velha. Nature lovers can explore the pristine Atlantic Forest in the Serra do Mar, the vast sandstone formations of Vila Velha State Park, and the unique ecosystem of the Ilha do Mel. From the bustling capital to the tranquil colonial villages and the awe-inspiring power of Iguaçu, Paraná delivers a rich tapestry of culture, history, and unforgettable landscapes.
Things to do in Paraná
Rent car with speaking English driver in Yogyakarta
Yogyakarta, Central Java
From GHS 674
5.0 (17)
From Semarang Port: Borobudur Temple Private Shore Excursion
Semarang, Central Java
From GHS 1,651
5.0 (11)
Yogyakarta Transport - English speaking driver
Yogyakarta, Central Java
From GHS 652
5.0 (7)
Prambanan Private Tour From Semarang Cruise Port
Semarang, Central Java
From GHS 1,786
5.0 (7)
Borobudur Sunrise Tour-Special Package
Yogyakarta, Central Java
From GHS 2,117
5.0 (6)
Borobudur Sunrise Merapi Volcano Tour
Yogyakarta, Central Java
From GHS 3,211
5.0 (3)
Private tour semarang pier to borobudur temple
Semarang, Central Java
From GHS 2,246
5.0 (3)
Snorkeling and Island Hopping Tour in Karimunjawa (sharing tour)
Semarang, Central Java
Java Village and Temple Tour from Borobudur
Borobudur, Central Java
From GHS 730
5.0 (2)
Surakarta Village cycling tour
Semarang, Central Java
Best of Surakarta Country site tour
Semarang, Central Java
Jakarta Half Day Shared Guided Tour Visit Monument and Old Town
Jakarta, West Java
From GHS 528
5.0 (2)
Jogja Day Tour
Yogyakarta, Central Java
From GHS 2,016
5.0 (2)
From Semarang Port: Borobudur Full Climb Up Guided Excursion
Semarang, Central Java
Solo Palace Tour with Sukuh and Ceto Temple from Yogyakarta
Yogyakarta, Central Java
From GHS 831
5.0 (2)Travel Tips for Paraná
Getting Around
Curitiba has an excellent, integrated bus system with dedicated lanes. Intercity buses are reliable for travel between major towns. Taxis and ride-sharing apps (Uber, 99) are widely available in cities. Renting a car is a good option for exploring rural areas and the coast. Domestic flights connect Curitiba (CWB) to Foz do Iguaçu (IGU) and other Brazilian cities. For Iguaçu National Park, organized tours or taxis are common from Foz do Iguaçu city.
Best Time To Visit
March to May and August to November offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. The summer (December-February) is hot, humid, and rainy, but vibrant with festivals. Winter (June-August) can be cool, especially in Curitiba, with occasional frost. The falls are most powerful from December to February but can be visited year-round.
Local Customs
Brazilians are warm and friendly; greetings often involve handshakes or, among friends, kisses on the cheek. Dress is generally casual but modest when visiting churches. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated: 10% is standard in restaurants (often included as a 'serviço' charge on the bill). Rounding up taxi fares is common. Try the local cuisine, especially the traditional 'barreado' stew in coastal towns.
Safety Information
Exercise normal precautions in tourist areas. In major cities like Curitiba, be vigilant against petty theft, especially in crowded areas and on public transport. Avoid displaying valuables. At Iguaçu Falls, stay on marked paths. Scams are not prevalent but be cautious with unofficial tour operators. Rural areas are generally safe. It's advisable to use registered taxis or ride-sharing apps. At night, stick to well-lit, populated areas.
Health Information
Private hospitals in major cities like Curitiba are of good quality. Public hospitals can be overcrowded. Travelers should have comprehensive health insurance. Routine vaccinations should be up-to-date; Hepatitis A and Typhoid are recommended. Yellow Fever vaccination is recommended for travel to certain forested areas (consult a travel clinic). Dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya are present; use insect repellent. Tap water is not potable; drink bottled or filtered water. In the Iguaçu area, be cautious of sun exposure and dehydration.
Languages Spoken
Portuguese
Quick Facts
Currency
Brazilian Real (BRL)
R$
R$
Timezone
America/Sao_Paulo -03:00 (GMT)
Calling Code
+55
Electricity
Driving Side
Right
Population
11.6 million
Area
199,314.90 km²
Government
State government within the Federal Republic of Brazil, with an elected Governor and Legislative Assembly.
ISO Code
BR-PR