Iguassu Falls Brazil

Gay elect between destination favorites Falls in Argentina

2010-11-10T04:56:00.000-08:00

A data released by the vice president of the Chamber of Commerce Gay and Lesbian Argentina, Gustavo Nogueira, showed that the Iguazu Falls are a hit among gay tourists who go to Argentina.

"In a survey in 18 countries, the falls were among the destinations preferred by this segment."

Cataracts, which are on the border of Argentina and Brazil, were included as a priority group of 20 pro-LGBT tourism activities that are underway.

Iguazu National Park receives 124,000 visitors in October

2010-11-04T06:04:00.000-07:00

The Iguazu National Park in October recorded the entry of 124,187 visitors. The great movement on Sunday (31), had a 11% increase compared to October last year. That day the park received 9,017 visitors.

The Brazilians are the largest park visitors with 63,300 tickets, with 3,360 of that total coming from the Community Pass, which gives the benefit of 90% discount on the purchase of tickets for residents in 14 municipalities around the federal Conservation Unit.

Since the visitors to the Mercosur countries: Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay, except Brazil, it had amounted to 32,977 entries. Other foreigners totaled 27,910 ingressos.No accumulated from January to October the park has received 1,014,360 visitors. The high in the period was 21%.

The projection indicates that the numbers could be determined until the end of the year a new record of visits, made in 2005, with 1.184 million visitors.

Webjet flies to two destinations Foz do Iguacu for only $ 29

2010-10-25T07:01:00.000-07:00

The Webjet offers rates starting at $ 29 each way for flights departing from or arriving in Foz do Iguaçu / PR. Prices are valid for travel Foz do Iguaçu-Curitiba (round trip) and Foz do Iguacu, Brasilia (round trip). The only condition is that the purchase is made at least 30 days in advance. The first flight is scheduled for Dec. 10.

On the site, the purchase of new parts can be made in cash via bank transfer or any credit card, divided into up to six months interest free and get direct funding to the Bank of Brazil, Bradesco and Banrisul up to 36x, besides debit card. Already at airport shops can do a financing of up to 12 times, by check, through Banco Fibra.

Reveillon in Foz do Iguacu

2010-10-25T06:59:00.000-07:00

The program to turn the year in the land of the falls includes air fare, transfers, accommodation with breakfast and supper and tour the Brazilian side of the falls and the Itaipu hydroelectric plant (no admission).

Reveillon in Iguassu Falls
Who leads: Intravel - www.intravel.com.br
Duration: 4 nights

Price: from R $ 2,199

Hotel Panorama & Acquamania has special programming for the holiday

2010-08-30T09:15:00.000-07:00

Celebrating the Independence Day in Brazil, the Hotel Panorama Resort & Acquamania have special prices valid throughout September. Iguaçu Falls is one of the most famous destinations in the south on the country. Who wants to see the waterfalls and other area’s beautys, this promotion is a big chance. Fun is guaranteed with the recreation team, which works daily. The days between 4th and 7th of September, will provide of themed dinners: "Green and Yellow" (09/04), "Yellowing" (09/05); "Brasileirinho" (09/06) and "Homeland "(09/07).

Besides that, the Hotel also provides a free daily for packages more than five days booked. Higher suites coast $ 155 (single room), $ 207 (double room) and $ 277 (triple room). Standard suites (only single beds) come out for $ 133 (single room), $ 179 (double room) and $ 252 (triple room). Breakfast and dinner are included. Children under 6 years free of charge, from 7 to 11 years the value depends on the category of accommodation. From 12 years the price is fully charged. Information and reservations at 0800 45 1221 or http://www.acquamaniafoz.com.br/.

The hotel

The resort is neighbor of the most beautiful postcards of Parana, Iguaçu Falls, has 130 thousand square meters of green area, where you can make ecological trails, beyond a structure of mini golf fields, courts tennis, volleyball, soccer and the Water Park Acquamania. Who does not like to be calm the recreation team performs different activities daily. The Resort offers 155 apartments, 118 in Superior and 37 apartments in Standard category, also has apartments for people with special needs. More information by www.hotelpanoramaresort.com.br site.

Service

What: September at the Hotel Panorama Resort & Acquamania.

When: 1st to 30th of September.

Where: Hotel Panorama Resort & Acquamania – Cataratas Avenue, Km6 - Foz do Iguaçu - Paraná.

Picture: André Seale

Source: H2Foz

Translation: Susan Buranelo

Brazil is triple Pan American Rafting held in Foz do Iguacu

2010-08-23T07:18:00.000-07:00

What happened is what everyone expected in the Pan American Championships in Rafting in 2010, fourth edition of the event held 20-22 August in Foz do Iguacu.

The Brazilian team Alaya Bozo The D'Agua won all evidence of competition (Sprint, Head to Head, Slalom and Downhill) and secured the third championship with authority. In the women's disputes were intense and the outcome of Sunday's Drop proof, in the Iguazu Falls, the Canadian team Filles De La Rouge secured the title of Pan American.

Iguazu National Park receives 129,000 visitors in July

2010-08-04T06:43:00.000-07:00

The Iguazu National Park in July recorded the entry of 129 387 visitors, achieving a growth of 68.31% over the same period last year. It is the best month of July since 1986 when 151 953 tickets have been noted.

Of this total of 62,666 visits were Brazilians, 2575 Pass Community benefit that gives 90% discount on admission to visitors from 14 cities surrounding the Iguazu National Park. Then come the Argentines with 45 052 visits. In both cases the increase in the number of tourists was almost 91%.

July is the month in the second year of increased tourist movement in the Iguaçu National Park and is second only to January. This is the winter school holidays in both Brazil and other countries in South America.

Vote the Amazon and Iguaçu Falls: New 7 Wonders

2010-07-27T07:21:00.000-07:00

Bernard Weber, founder of the New Seven Wonders Foundation arrived at the Brazil Pavilion to the sound of samba to promote the New 7 Wonders of Nature competition. Presentations were given on the competition and finalists, the Amazon and Iguaçu Falls, by Bernard Weber and Brazil Pavilion Director, Pedro Wendler.
Project Founder and President, Bernard Weber, stated, “The presentation on the Amazon and Iguaçu Falls was great in telling stories that evoke the emotions of people that visit these destinations.” Weber also said that he was “Here today to help and sustain the candidacy of Brazil and the 9 other countries that share the Amazons.”

A private tour of the Brazil Pavilion was also given to Bernard Weber and other VIP guests, which included Pavilion Directors from countries that contain the Iguaçu Falls and the Amazon rainforest such as Argentina, Colombia, and Venezuela, among others. The tour was followed by a lunch for journalists and guests at the Brazil Pavilion VIP Restaurant.

Iguaçu Falls and the Amazon have been voted as two of the 28 Finalists in the one-billion-vote “Official New 7 Wonders of Nature” global campaign. The Iguaçu Falls are waterfalls of the Iguaçu River, located on the border of Brazil and Argentina. These spectacular falls are one of the world’s largest waterfalls and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Amazon rainforest also accounts for 40% of Brazil’s land area and is home to the world’s most abundant biological diversity, with 2.5 million different kinds of insects, 10,000 different kinds of plants, more than 2,000 kinds of birds and other creatures, that make up more than one-third of the world’s species. As the world’s largest rainforest, it it is said to be the “Lungs of the World.” Every year over one million tourists visit Iguaçu Falls in Brazil.

Plans are presently underway with other Latin American Pavilions at Expo 2010 Shanghai to provide voting booths for expo park visitors to vote for their favorite New7Wonders finalists.

To learn more about the New7Wonders and vote, please visit: www.new7wonders.com. The website is also available in Chinese.

Legend: Founder of New7Wonders, Bernard Weber and Brazil Pavilion Director, Pedro Wendler smiling outside the Brazil Pavilion.
Source: Expo 2010 Brazil

Hotel Bella Italia celebrates 20 years in Foz do Iguacu

2010-07-22T07:30:00.000-07:00

Bella Italia Hotel in Foz do Iguacu is 20 years old and is promoting various activities alluding to date. The hotel is known for quality service and gastronomy, icons of Italian tradition.

And to celebrate with friends and community iguaçuense, the directors chose to show a bit of Italian culture with two concerts of the singer Ines Rizzardo. The presentations will be on 11 and August 14, followed by the traditional dinner of pasta "Italian Night" La Bella Tavola restaurant.

Information and reservations: www.hotelbellaitalia.com.br / blog or (45) 3521 5000 .

Iguassu Falls has promotion airfare to December

2010-07-20T08:10:00.001-07:00

Opt for air travel to visit Foz do Iguacu is increasingly common. Comfort, reduced travel time – hours that can be enjoyed with walks – and the attractive prices make the cost-benefit interesting to customers. Proof of this is the QuiDom, package air from Thursday to Sunday to Foz do Iguacu Loumar of Tourism. Leaving Curitiba, from R$ 115 6x, you can spend three days in Foz, with accommodation and tours included.

These trips are ideal for those who do not have many days off, but want to spend a weekend in Foz do Iguacu, enjoying the leisure and rest. City, which borders with Argentina and Paraguay, has several tourist attractions, among them the Iguassu Falls and Itaipu Hydroelectric Plant.

Winter in Foz do Iguacu

2010-07-20T08:08:00.000-07:00

The low temperature recorded in the South in recent days appealed to tourists at the Iguazu National Park. Climate change has made the trip an experience more special. This is because the Falls won the company a lot of fog, drizzle and wind. The phenomenon has changed the behavior of visitors.

Unlike the hot days, when tourists prefer walkways and trails to observe the falls, this time the place is crowded most of the observatory elevator. Him tourists observe and depict nature in many photos, without neglecting their burrows, sweaters, gloves and scarves.

Balloon flight is attracting holiday at Hotel Mabu Foz do Iguacu

2010-07-13T07:18:00.000-07:00

The late afternoon will be unforgettable for the guests of Mabu Thermal & Resort in Iguazu Falls during the month of July. They can enjoy the sunset, the sun about 20 feet off the ground, in a captive balloon flight conducted on days 16, 17, 23 and 24 this month.

Each flight will arrive closer to the sky in Foz do Iguacu two adult passengers or children between three and four at a time, all accompanied by the pilot. The flights will take place from 16:30 on Fridays and Saturdays, with possibility of programming changes according to weather conditions at the time, because for the safety of guests, the activity should occur at times with little wind.

All resort guests can enjoy this special moment, which has no additional cost in the rates. Besides the balloon flight, Mabu Thermal & Resort offers several special activities for winter. Are theme parties, tours, nature trails, recreational activities and many options for entertainment for the whole family.

Source: H2Foz

Iguacu National Park - quati

2010-06-30T07:13:00.000-07:00

The quati is regarded as the symbol animal of the Iguaçú National Park.

QUATI (Nasua nasua)*

General: small eyes and ears and a long snout. Very active, weighing from 3 to 9kg and 70 to 120cm long.

Coat: a wide variety of colors; from dark brown to light brown, light and dark rings on tail. Abundant and long fur, including on tail.
Found throughout South America.
Habitat: forests

Habits: diurnal, sleep on trees. Live in groups from 4 to 30 individuals and communicate through special sounds.

Diet: it varies in accordance with the season of the year; small vertebrates, insectsand fruit.

Reproduction: pregnancy period from 10 to 11 weeks; offspring from 2 to 7. Nest on trees and young males are expelled from group at the time new offspring is born.

Threats: destruction of their habitats.

Source: Cataratas do Iguaçu

Iguazu National Park - your history

2010-06-30T07:10:00.000-07:00

1542- Alvar Nuñez Cabeça de Vaca was one of the first Europeans to admire the majestic Iguaçú Falls.

1876- André Rebouças (an engineer) issues a proposal, which he sent to the Imperor, for the creation of the Guaira National Park.
1916 - The Father of Aviation, Santos Dumont, visits the area and is very impressed. He later influences the government of Paraná for the creation of a park and the area, which was then private property, is expropriated.

1930 - The expropriated area is expanded in 1916 in order to enable the creation of the Iguaçú National Park.
1939 - President Getulio Vargas officially creates the Iguaçú National Park.

1971 and 1972 - The survey activities for the expropriation of the areas to be indemnified are completed.

1978 - The last settler leaves the expropriated areas.

1980 - The rural areas inside the PNI are declared to be public assets by Decree nr. 84.653 and are expropriated in accordance with the legislation.

1981 - The Management Plan for the Iguaçú National Park is put in practice (main regulation instrument) .

1982 - The Public Use Plan is put in practice.

1986 - The Unesco (The United Nations Organization for Education, Science and Culture) lists the Iguaçú National Park as Natural Heritage of Humanity.

1994 - The Emergency Plan in put in practice.

1997 - Reviewing of the Management Plan is started in order to evaluate the procedures implemented in 1981.

1999 - The work for remodeling the INP is started and the reviewing of the Park's Management Plan is completed.

2001 - Beginning of operations of the Park's new visitation structure.

Source: Cataratas do Iguaçu

Rafting in Foz do Iguacu

2010-06-24T09:09:00.000-07:00

In August, Itaipu will be setting the Pan American Championships in Rafting. This will be the first time the Itaipu Canal - one of the best in the world for this type of dispute, given the competition.

Hundreds of athletes from over 10 countries will have the opportunity to certify the quality of canal water.

The evidence found on days 20, 21 and August 22, but the official practice start four days earlier, on August 16.

Postal Stamp promotes tourist attractions of Foz do Iguacu

2010-06-24T07:29:00.000-07:00

The Post Office launched the Iguassu Falls Tourism Festival, a stamp commemorating the "Vote Iguassu Falls' and a personalized stamp of the Falls.

The action will serve to promote the city and boost the appeal to be elected in November 2011 one of the seven wonders of nature.

Tourism Festival begins in Foz do Iguacu

2010-06-18T09:15:00.000-07:00

Officially began on June 16 the fifth edition of the Tourism Festival of the Iguazu Falls. The event was held on Rafain Palace Hotel & Convention Center was attended by leaders of trade local, state and national representatives of public and professionals. Until this Friday, speakers from five countries teach workshops and short courses on topics related to tourism management.

Disclosure of fate - In addition to generating business, the event seeks to promote institutional relationships of tourism, thus becoming an instrument of dissemination of tourist attractions of Mercosur. The festival will be held parallel events, such as the Hotel Show, the meeting Abrasel International Forum and Exhibition Tourism Iguassu Sustainable Tourism.
Source: H2Foz

World Cup is the theme for the month of June in Thermal & Resort Mabu

2010-06-08T08:39:00.000-07:00

The Mabu Thermal & Resort in Iguazu Falls, dressed in green and yellow to cheer for Brazil during the World Cup. The resort will feature a special program of the last world tournament, which also coincides with the traditional "Month of Friends" at Mabu, during which guests have advantages in hosting a group. To get into the mood of the country hosting the World Cup, a series of activities is planned for June. Spotlight on the Night in Africa, held on Saturdays, with dances, typical food and special decor.

The Mabu Hotels & Resorts is a hotel group of Parana with experience of over 35 years on the market, formed by three developments: Mabu Royal & Premium Hotel Mabu Park and Resort, both in Curitiba, and Mabu Thermal & Resort in Foz Iguaçu.

The Mabu Thermas in Rodovia das Cataratas, Foz do Iguacu, is an option for the whole family. It provides a leisure structure that enables regeneration by the nature, sports, the rest of the body and mind and various attractions for all ages. In addition, the resort is the largest source of thermal waters, and crystal clear streams of the planet because it is located on the Guarani Aquifer (the largest underground water reserves in the world). The water temperature is 36 º C throughout the year.

Iguazu Falls Legend Ballet Shown in Cuba

2010-05-31T08:22:00.000-07:00

Cubanos National Ballet (BNC) has taken to the stage in Havana this weekend a preview of the Legend of the Great Water, choreographed by Eduardo Blanco that recreates the Guarani legend on the origin of the Brazilian Iguazu Falls.
With music by Miguel Nuñez, the ballet tells a love story of Taroba warrior (played by Javier Torres) and the beauty Naipi (played by Yanela Piñera).

The two-acts ballet, by Jose Ramon Neyra, brings together different versions of the legend and includes characters and situations taken from other Guarani stories.

The BNC will officially premiere the Iguazu Falls Legend on July 17, in Iguazu city, in which the falls with its name are located, and then it will take it to Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Londrina, and Porto Alegre.

Foz do Iguaçu beats visitors record

2010-05-28T09:20:00.000-07:00

Foz do Iguaçu, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Brazil, celebrates the success of the first four months of 2010. The Iguassu National Park has recorded the best quarter in its history. 428,991 visitors have entered the Brazilian side of the park that houses the Iguassu Falls – an increase of 4.7% over the same period last year, according to data released by the Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation (ICMBio). The expectation, according to the head of the park, Jorge Pegoraro, is to close the year with over one million and two thousand visitors.

In the Falls International Airport, the traffic from January to April was also a record. The number of departures and arrivals added up to 362,584 in the first four months, which is 47.3% percent over the same period of 2009. Infraero’s superintendent, Joacir Araújo dos Santos, believes that the goal of reaching one million passengers by the end of the year will be easily overcome.

This success is a result of the joint effort to promote Destination Iguassu, developed by entities associated with the tourism in the city, with support from Itaipu. "Foz do Iguaçu is a hit in terms of tourist destination not only in Brazil, but also abroad. Our image has never been so positive," Gilmar Piolla, Media Superintendent of Itaipu Dam, said. Itaipu itself, second most visited attraction in the region, had a considerable increase of the number of tourists. The attractions of the largest generator of clean and renewable energy in the world were visited by 141,848 people in the first four months of 2010, number 4.3% higher than the same period of 2009.

The Secretary of Tourism in Foz do Iguacu, Felipe Gonzalez, said that the ongoing advertising and the strengthening of campaigns like Good Season in the Falls and Vote for the Falls will attract even more publicity to Foz do Iguacu.

Integration
Since 2007, both public and private institutions from the tourism sector of Foz do Iguacu work closely together in order to strengthen the position of the destination. According to Camilo Rorato, President of the Iguassu Convention & Visitors Bureau (ICVB), this partnership has been really effective.

The integration involves the representative participation of all entities in the Municipal Tourism Council (Comtur) and the Fund for Tourism Development and Promotion of Iguassu - Iguassu Fund. It also counts on event bidding, publicizing, training, travel agents training and participation in national and international fairs, among other specific actions to strengthen the position of the Destination Iguassu.

Source: Itaipu

Photo: André Seale

Glamour Tourism in Foz do Iguacu

2010-05-28T08:06:00.000-07:00

Falls and Itaipu are right destination for anyone planning to do the screenplay Iguassu, through which thousands of visitors every year. But beyond the conventional attractions, businesses are betting on a new market: explore the luxury tourism in the region and attract well-heeled and sophisticated visitors to enjoy all the glamour that Iguassu has to offer.

Are options for food, hotel chains, resorts, spas, shopping and leisure, not to mention the different options available in traditional tours. Those who visit the Falls, for example, may know them from various angles: from above (the helicopter ride) or inside (in the boats of Macuco Safari). As for those who like an adventure in the woods, there are options for climbing, cycling, hiking … Another highlight is the trade in precious stones, an option that glitters in the industry.

A little beyond the border we have the restaurants of Puerto Iguazú and the upscale shopping in Ciudad del Este, which offers news in a variety of brands worldwide.

Source: H2Foz

Shows Sustainable Tourism in Foz do Iguacu

2010-05-17T07:54:00.000-07:00

The Tourism Festival of the Iguazu Falls holds the first edition of the Exhibition on Sustainable Tourism Iguassu. The event is organized by the International Polo Iguassu, will be held at Rafain Palace Hotel & Convention Center in Foz do Iguacu, between 16th and June 18th.

Success stories in sustainable tourism are part of the schedule shows. Companies will have the opportunity to present differential products and services in the event that aims to promote exchange of experience and integration into the market of products and services for sustainable tourism.

Announcement of operation Macuco Safari is launched by ICMBio

2010-05-11T08:17:00.000-07:00

The ICMBio launched the bidding terms of the concession's operating sightseeing "Macuco Safari", Parque Nacional do Iguacu, Brazil.

The grant under contract for the provision of support services for public use, consisting of boat trip by boat to the limit of navigability near the Iguazu Falls, the possibility still walking on trails, rafting, canyoning in the waterfall Macuco , land passenger transport in the stretch between the BR 469, Km 25 (reception Macuco) and the Port of Macuco.

The date of opening of envelopes sent by companies lawfully authorized, containing proposals for "best technical and price" to administer the appeal, will be on June 21.

Spend Your Holidays In Brazil

2010-05-10T07:52:00.000-07:00

Brazil is such vast country and there are several awesome destinations which you should never miss while visiting this place. It is famous for the largest river and rainforest, the biggest waterfalls, large amounts of wildlife and the longest beautiful tropical beach.

There are so many wonderful places to go and see in Brazil. Since there are so many of them, a thorough research of the places should be done before head to make your visit a worthwhile one. It offers some of the most beautiful sights in the world that you can never forget and you will instantly fall in love with them.

Iguazu Falls

Upon viewing the glory of Iguazu Falls, Eleanor Roosevelt reportedly exclaimed "Poor Niagara!" Considered as the most beautiful waterfalls in the world, this wonderful waterfall system consists of 275 falls along 2.7 kilometers (1.67 miles) of the Iguazu River.

The Devil's Throat, a U-shaped fall, having water pouring into it from three sides, is the most outstanding of all, and marks the border between Argentina and Brazil. It provides great sight seeing and walkways and its shape allows for spectacular views.

Source: Kevin Peter

Photo: André Seale

Foz do Iguacu in film

2010-05-06T13:15:00.000-07:00

"Love Without Borders" is a romantic comedy, not yet confirmed any role, but Foz do Iguacu should be part of the leases and the screenplay.

Bruno Barreto - Responsible for launching the international career of Sonia Braga on one of the highest grossing film in Brazilian cinema, Dona Flor and Her Two Husbands, Bruno Barreto for the Academy Award for best foreign film with Last Stop 174 and What is it, mate?, and made five films in the United States.

Source: Click Foz

Hydropower World Congress 2011 in Foz do Iguacu

2010-05-06T13:07:00.000-07:00

The International Hydropower Association – IHA announced that its 2011 World Congress will be held in Foz do Iguaçu – Brazil, 14-17 June. The congress, held every two years, will follow the model adopted in the events of Antalya, Turkey, in 2007, and later, in Reykjavik, Iceland, last year.

The meeting brings together over 40 partner organizations and representatives from over 50 countries. The theme for the 2011 congress will be “Advancing Sustainable Hydropower.”

More information on page of the entity on the Internet at the address www.hydropower.org.

Iguassu Falls participates in event abroad

2010-04-30T08:05:00.000-07:00

The Destination Iguassu Falls participates in another action for tourism promotion, this time on the west coast of the United States on 27 and April 29 in the cities of San Francisco and Los Angeles, California. This action creates opportunity for promotion in these two important financial and industrial centers in North America.

Foz do Iguacu is present with other Brazilian destinations, tour operators, hotels and airlines in Brazil two Workshops Beyond the Beaten Path by Embratur. The events are aimed at tourism professionals in order to promote the destinations of Brazil, supporting the dissemination of flights and routes between major U.S. cities and Brazil, besides strengthening relations between the professionals of both countries.

Photo: André Seale

Iguassu Falls - the top ten tourism 2009

2010-04-29T09:07:00.000-07:00

The tourist destination of Foz do Iguacu is one of the winners of the 25th edition of the award "The Top 10 Tourism 2009", awarded by Brazil Travel News. The delivery ceremony of the awards took place last Monday, 26, at the Intercontinental Hotel in Sao Paulo.

Awards - Before the awards made by Brazil Travel News, Iguassu already included as "Attractive Best of Brazil" - an award granted by Guia Quatro Rodas April - "Best Overseas Destination for the United Kingdom, elected in a vote by the British Journal The Guardian.

In addition, he received the prize Minitério Tourism "Best Tourist Destination of the Interior of Brazil, one of the 14 most romantic destinations in the world, provided by CNN and as a finalist in the contest" Seven Wonders of Nature "by the New 7 Wonders Foundation.

Caravan Project Brazil - Foz do Iguaçu

2010-04-23T07:59:00.000-07:00

Foz do Iguaçu (PR) is the second destination in Brazil 2010 National Caravan, a project of Ministry of Tourism and Braztoa (Brazilian Association of Tour Operators). Between 24 and April 27, ten travel agents - the five regions of the country - and two tour operators will visit the main tourist attractions and make technical visits to hotels and inns in the region.

This year, the project will promote with 12 travel agents and operators. The goal is to encourage the marketing of new tourism products in Brazil.

Book Fair of Foz do Iguacu

2010-04-20T08:30:00.000-07:00

The International Book of Foz do Iguacu wants to turn street Belarmino de Mendonça for ten days at a venue of passionate reading. The event happens from 6 to 16 May in front of the Municipal Library Elfrida Engel Nunes Rios.

The novelty is that this year the program is being conducted by the Cultural Foundation itself, unlike previous years when the Institute of Culture, Education, Sports and Tourism organized the event.

Will be 306 square feet of booth, where shops and book stores will be mounted for the marketing of books, two auditoriums, one of the Cultural Foundation, 200 square feet of cafe and food court.

The Secretary of Education will be responsible for organizing the visit of the municipal to the event. In 2009 about 12 thousand students passed through the Hall.

Foz do Iguacu hosts meeting of Abrasel

2010-04-13T09:12:00.000-07:00

Iguassu Falls will host the meeting south and southeast of the Brazilian Association of Bars and Restaurants - Abrasel. The event happens from 15 to 17 June, parallel to the 5th Festival of Tourism of the Iguazu Falls.
The purpose of the meeting is to professionalize the business and contribute to a better business environment in the sector. The Meeting Abrasel opens opportunities for enhancing the integration of the business sector, and promote the upgrade, professionalize and generate new business. The meeting has the support of Iguassu Convention & Visitors Bureau, Department of Tourism and Itaipu Binational.

Tourism Festival of the Iguazu Falls offset carbon emissions

2010-03-31T11:45:00.000-07:00

The 5th Festival of Tourism of the Iguazu Falls, wich will be held in Foz do Iguazu 16 to 18 of June, will for the first time, their greenhouse gas emission (GHG) offset by "Reward". This service is provide by the company Palmares GIS and Environmental Analysis, incubated at PTI - Itaipu Technological Park.

Iguazu National Park expects 20 thousand people at Easter

2010-03-30T07:15:00.000-07:00

The Iguazu National Park organizes a large structure to serve 20 thousand people on the holiday of Easter. In addition to the Brazilians, Paraguayans and Argentines many choose to spend the day in Iguassu Falls. New this service will be the debut for trial, three new articulated buses for the transportation of tourists.

Time - On Friday, the Passion (2) and on Holy Saturday (3), the park will open one hour earlier, running from 8 to 17h. On Easter Sunday (4), the service will again be from 9 to 17h. The measure aims to improve access time and stay of tourists at the Iguazu National Park.

Iguassu Falls in low season

2010-03-22T08:49:00.000-07:00

Several hotels in Iguassu Falls are participating in the promotion “Good Season, Stay 4 Pay 3″. Designed to increase the sale of the Tourist Destination Falls during low season, the promotion is valid for the period March to June, except holidays.

To purchase a hosting package for 3 days in Foz do Iguacu in any of the hotels participating in the campaign, the guest wins free the 4th day in the hotel.

More than 40 hotel companies in the luxury to economy, are already participating in the promotion this year. To see the list of hotels registered simply login to the site: www.temporadaboaemfoz.com.br

Eco museum in Foz do Iguaçu be revitalized

2010-03-16T07:49:00.000-07:00

As of March 31, the tours will stop at the Eco-museum, in Foz do Iguacu, for a period of eight months.

During this time, the space for the show circuit long-term, which covers most of the museum, will undergo works of revitalization.

It is expected that the reform to be fully completed by the end of November. If time and help forecast is confirmed, the Eco - one of the attractions of Itaipu Tourist Complex (CTI) - is to reopen its doors to visitors in the first half of December.

Tourism Festival of the Falls should get 4,500 people

2010-03-11T05:44:00.000-08:00

Between 16 and June 18, Foz do Iguaçu will host the fifth edition of the Festival of Tourism Iguazu Falls.

The event will be held at Rafain Palace Hotel & Convention Center and should bring about 4,500 visitors, travel agents, tour operators, hoteliers, tour guides, students, researchers and government and private enterprise. Festival is intended to provide business development, focusing on the travel agent, through the promotion and marketing of tourism products. The goal is to foster integration between customers and suppliers and disseminate new management techniques in tourism.

Itaipu will be featured in Conama 10 in Spain

2010-03-03T08:22:00.000-08:00

The Itaipu Dam is one of the highlights of the 10th National Congress of the Environment (CONAMA), Spain, between 22 and 26 November this year.

For the first time this event will have a guest country – Brazil – and the environmental program of Itaipu – Cultivating Good Water – will be presented as a success.

Foz do Iguaçu hosts international event of Geophysics

2010-02-25T13:23:00.000-08:00

With the theme "Earth System Science - Global Change and Natural Hazards", the Summit of the Americas of the North-American Geophysical Union (AGU Meeting of the Americas) will be held between August 8 and August 13 in Foz do Iguaçu ( PR).

Considered one of the largest international meetings already held in South America, the AGU Meeting of the Americas will be attended by more than 2 thousand researchers from different countries, who will discuss in an integrated science of the Earth.

A highlight of the event will be a lecture on "Climate change impacts in South America" to be presented by climate scientist Carlos Nobre, a researcher at the National Institute for Space Research (INPE) and coordinator of FAPESP Research Program on Climate Change Global (PFPMCG).

Rapel in Iguassu Falls

2010-02-23T12:56:00.000-08:00

Rappel is a steep fall in places, in this case, the rappel 55 meters is practiced in Iguasu Falls. It is pure adventure in Iguassu Falls and can be performed by two people at once.

The start is on the trail of the falls, on a track of 300 meters down in the woods to the rappel platform on the bank of River Falls, where you descend overlooking the Iguassu Falls using safety equipment and ropes. It is high and adrenaline is super intense, impressive and moving to the more adventurous, but what makes this experience is unique is the fact that in order to Iguassu Falls and its beautiful landscapes.

Before starting the Rapel, you will receive instructions and safety equipment, so it is an adventure activity extremely safe, a guide attached at the top and the other waits at the bottom.
The descent takes about 10 minutes, but it depends on who is practicing.

The Rapel can be done by everyone over the age of seven, is a wonderful and unforgettable experience of frequent contact with nature.

Duration: 40 minutes on average.
Tips: Wear comfortable clothes, closed shoes and use sunscreen.
Includes: individual safety equipment consisting of chair, ropes, helmet, brake and rope. Opening hours: 9am-17h (in DST until 18h).

Foz do Iguacu participate in tourism fairs in Colombia and the U.S.

2010-02-19T07:53:00.001-08:00

From this second half of February the Destination Foz do Iguaçu will be released in two important tourism fairs abroad, in Colombia and the United States.

The shares of the market are made in an integrated manner within the campaign strategy Foz do Iguaçu - Destino do Mundo, promoted more than two years the partnership of the Municipal Tourism, Itaipu Binational and Iguassu Convention & Visitors Bureau - ICVB.

In the two fairs will be through the participation of the module in booth Embratur.

Source: H2foz

Iguazu National Park receives 25 thousand people at Carnival

2010-02-17T08:09:00.000-08:00

The holidays of Carnival was busy in the Iguaçu National Park. Despite the rain, 25,480 people visited the attraction on Saturday to Tuesday, or 1% above the long weekend of the carnival last year.

The highlight of this year visitation occurred Sunday, when 10,447 people passed through the box office. The attraction was the preferred place to escape the unrest and revelry.

Iguazu Falls

2010-02-12T06:29:00.000-08:00

Were formed almost 150,000,000 years. One of the most beautiful sculptures of nature, considered "the eighth wonder of the world."

The Iguazu River originates in the Serra do Mar and runs for 1320 km to Foz do Iguacu, the set of waterfalls, just before his meeting with the Rio Parana make 275 jumps with average height of 60 m. The falls produce a mist that crowned by huge and beautiful rainbow, give the visitor a true spectacle of sound and color.

The large jumps are 19, only three of the Brazilian side (Floriano, Diodorus and Benjamin Constant). Most of them are of the Argentine side, facing Brazil, providing a better view of the falls on the Brazilian side.

The observatories around the Falls trails allow visitors to contemplate the various angles the beautiful spectacle of nature.

The Iguazu Falls are located inside the Iguazu National Park, about 20 minutes from the city center.

Walk to the Itaipu Lake is a tourist attraction in Foz

2010-02-10T10:30:00.001-08:00

Itaipu Lake is home to the largest hydroelectric power production in the world, the Itaipu Dam. But he also is the setting for one of the most scenic walks in Foz do Iguazu, on board a boat style "catamaran (two hulls). And if the weather permitting, during the ride you can enjoy a beautiful setting sun on the waters of the lake.

Iguassu Falls is visited by butterflies

2010-02-04T12:28:00.000-08:00

Those arriving at this time of year, the Iguaçu National Park is a warm color. Butterflies are everywhere: on the tracks, or in large groups and close to places to visit.

Behind the friendly insects are the researchers. The naturalist Roberto Rezende is a psychologist, but this time of year is a long time in the park in search of rare butterflies. The idea is to make a photographic record of the species that live there. The result is an overview of incredible colors and shapes.

When the management plan for the park was made, were listed just over 200 butterflies, but the estimate is that they live in the woods 800 different species. Find and identify these butterflies are the major challenge for researchers.

Acquamania is one of the options for summer

2010-02-02T10:26:00.000-08:00

Who likes the mix water and fun, can not fail to visit the Acquamania Waterpark Resort, in the land of waterfalls. The summer season ends in March, but there's still time to meet. The park is located in Foz do Iguaçu annexed to the Hotel Panorama, and has eight slides from 6 to 22 feet, seven pools, including water volleyball, lazy-river, twin go and leisure space for children with dolphins, waterfalls and giant frog .

Neighbor of one of the most beautiful postcards of Parana, the Iguassu Falls, the resort has 130 square meters of green area, where you can make nature trails, plus a leisure structure composed of fields of mini golf, tennis tennis, volleyball, soccer and water park Acquamania. The Resort offers 155 rooms, including 118 in the Superior category and 37 apartments in a standard, it also has apartments with special needs. More information at toll free 0800 451221 or the website http://www.hotelpanoramaresort.com.br/

Transport leaves cheapest ticket in Iguazu National Park

2010-01-29T09:49:00.000-08:00

Admission to tourists in the Iguaçu National Park will be cheaper from Monday, 1st February. The reduction will be $ 0.15 cents. The reduction is a result of reduced shipping rate, which increased from $ 6.15 to $ 6.00.

The decline is related to the negative of the General Price Index (IGP-M), which was 1.72% in 2009 as Contract Clause with the Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation (ICMBio) and CTM Niagara Falls S / a.

Iguazu National Park is ready for Carnival 2010

2010-01-27T10:00:00.001-08:00

The Iguazu National Park will mount special operations to cater for tourists on holiday carnival from 13 to 16 February.

The appeal must receive 25 thousand tourists in the four-day holiday weekend. The expectation is based on the tradition of attractive, given that at this time thousands of people enjoying the days of revelry for a walk in Iguassu Falls.

Service: Hours of visitation and service in the Iguazu National Park on the 13th of February (Saturday), February 15 (Monday) and February 16 (Tuesday).

• Tickets: 9h to 17h
• Transport: 9am to 18:30
• Parking: 7.30 to 19h

Visiting hours and attendance in the Iguaçu National Park on February 14 (Sunday):
• Tickets: 8h to 18h
• Transport: 8 am to 19:30
• Parking: 7.30 to 20h

By Carla Layane

Luau of the Falls will be on January 30

2010-01-22T09:14:00.000-08:00

The force of nature at the Iguazu National Park promises greet with the charm of Luau of the falls on Saturday, January 30.

Check closely the painting of nature and feel the thousands of tourists from different parts of the world has ever felt. The brightness of the tour will be in the light of the moon in the great falls of Iguassu Falls.

Schedules - How enjoy this wonder? Just heading to the Visitor Center National Park Falls. The reception and transfer of visitors will be held from 20:15 to 21:30. The return trip is scheduled to start at 22.30 and close at midnight. The park will be open from 20h to 1 hour.

Buddhist Temple in Foz do Iguaçu

2010-01-20T10:08:00.001-08:00

The Buddhist Temple is a place of prayers and meditations of the community east of Foz do Iguacu. With stunning architecture, has a building where the temple itself. At your door, is the word ORBI, which means Buddhist Order. At the top of the temple, there are five statues of Buddha that represent, among other things, the joy, luck and health.

The temple has a balcony, from where they can be sighted the Parana River, the island Acaray, the Friendship Bridge, the center of Ciudad del Este and some of Foz do Iguacu.

In front of the temple, on the outside, there is a wide sidewalk, and next, 112 statues of about 2 feet tall each, and 108 statues yellow and 4 more statues. Mean welcome to people arriving at the temple and represent women whose hands are extended forward. The position of one hand means welcome and represents another positive energy. The amount of statues not affect the meaning. The statues outside were made on the spot and the interior of the temple were brought from China. The giant Buddha, about 7 feet tall, is the Buddhist doctrine and is positioned with his back to the temple and in front of the border region.

Iguaçu Falls - the park

2010-01-15T10:00:00.000-08:00

The work Iguaçú means "big water" in the tupi-guarani etymology. The Iguaçú river, which forms the Falls eighteen km before the river meets the Paraná river, overcomes a ground unevenness and plunges 65m with a width of 2,780m. Its geological formation dates back to approximately 150 million years.

The Iguaçú River is 1,200 wide upstream from the Falls and downstream it narrows down to a 65m channel. The total width of the Fall in the Brazilian territory is around 800m and 1,900m on the Argentinean side. Depending on the river flow, the number of waterfalls ranges from 150 to 300 and the height of said waterfalls ranges from 40 to 82m, accounting for a 2,700m semicircular shape. The average water flow of the river is around 1,500m3, ranging from 500m3/s during the draught season to 6,500m3/s during the flood season. The individual waterfalls may range from 20 to 300 depending on the water volume. The large waterfalls are 19, three of them on the Brazilian side (Floriano, Deodoro and Benjamin Constant) while the remaining ones are on the Argentinean side. The position of the waterfalls, most of them on the Argentinean side and facing Brazil, provide a better view to those admiring the scenery from the Brazilian side.

After taking a wide turn and the rapids, the bulk of the falls plunges laterally into the deep erosion gorge, the Devil's Gorge. This 85m high waterfall is the one most appreciated by tourists; its shape resembles a horseshoe.

Source: Cataratas S/A

Crafts Center in Iguassu

2010-01-12T09:14:00.001-08:00

The Crafts Center is a space dedicated to the craftsmen's work, which gathers typical products of the west of Paraná. It also gathers pieces that refer to the ethnographic history of Paraguay, Brazil and Argentina through objects elaborated by different techniques and materials such as wood, leather, fabric and ceramics, among other raw materials.

But it is even possible to find objects created from other inspirations. From the diversity of our fauna were born the toucan, and the wood macaw, besides other animals. The coati was yet nicer in its cuddly version.

And the purchasing options don't end thereabout. For those people "in the loop" of the latest trends of the fashion world, it is worthwhile seeing the bags, wallets and a wide range of clothing to suit any style. And there will be some accessory just like collars, earrings and wrings with natural stones to match the look chosen.

A modern and 100% iguaçuense look with stones produced by professionals of the of the Association of the Craftsmen, of the Craftsmen COART (Cooperative of Craftsmen of the West and Southwest Regions of Paraná), ouse and of Ñandeva. The latter is a program by the Itaipu Technological Park that, besides the Distribution Center, enlarged its scope of action through a store of its own in the Handcraft Center. The newest option of leisure in the city has yet stores selling food products. Amid the variety of products offered, the visitor will find pepper, honey, brown sugar and homemade liquors.

Intended for being a permanent showcase of handicraft work, the Crafts Center offers more shopping options for those who wish to purchase any object that will remind a bit of the beauties from the Waterfalls Land.

SERVICE:

Crafts Center
Admission Free
Operations Hours:
- Monday from 4 p.m. thru 9 p.m.
- Tuesday thru Sunday from 10 a.m. thru 9 p.m.
Information: (45) 3527-9233 .

Source: Portal H2FOZ

Luau of the Falls in 2010

2009-12-28T09:52:00.001-08:00

The Luau of the Falls is the most vibrant for hundreds of tourists from different parts of the world and Brazil on 2 January 2010. The tour of the full moon begins with the contemplation of the massive falls d `water and the atmosphere of nature trails and walkways.

Service

Luau of the Falls
Date: January 2 (Saturday)
Time: 20:15 midnight
Reservations: (45) 3521-4100 or luau@catarataspni.com.br

Rafain honors Iguassu Falls Destination

2009-12-22T08:33:00.000-08:00

The Rafain Palace Hotel & Convention Center congratulates the city of Foz do Iguaçu in the last December 8, in Brasilia, was awarded by the Ministry of Tourism and the Brazilian city, not between the capital, better structured to receive tourists in the country.

To celebrate, 02 to 31 January, the Rafain give a special discount of 5% in rates for tourists, while making the Chek-in, say, "Rafain the best hotel in the best destination. The promotion is valid not only for companies.

Service

Rafain Palace Hotel & Convention Center
Av Olimpio Rafagnin, 2357, Foz do Iguaçu (PR)
Bookings 0800 645 3400
E-mail: reservas@rafainpalace.com.br

Source: H2foz

Bonito and Jardim won Award MPE Brazil MS

2009-12-16T09:26:00.001-08:00

The Mimosa Ecotourism Resort, located in Bonito and Recanto Ecológico Rio da Prata(Japacanim Ecotourism Ltd.) in Jardim, both in Mato Grosso do Sul, were covered on the evening of Friday (11) Prize MPE Brazil MS 2009.

In the category Tourism, both trips were awarded, and the Recanto Ecológico Rio da Prata also won the category Highlight Corporate Social Responsibility.

The award recognizes companies that have excelled in quality, productivity and competitiveness, committed to the pursuit of excellence in management.

To find the tours go to: http://www.bonitoweb.com.br/

Photo: Haroldo Palo Jr.

Iguassu Falls is elected as the best tourist destination in Brazil

2009-12-10T05:13:00.000-08:00

Iguassu Falls has just been elected by the Ministry of Tourism as the best tourist destination in Brazil between localities within the country. The city, home to the Iguazu Falls and the Itaipu dam, took first place in the category "not capital" Study on the Competitiveness of the 65 destinations inducers of Tourism Region - Brazil Report 2009. The award ceremony was on Tuesday (8), in Brasília.

The city of Sao Paulo appears as the nation's capital better prepared to receive tourists in the country. Participated in the evaluation of the Ministry of Tourism 65 destinations, which were evaluated in 13 dimensions. Among the "no capital", Foz do Iguaçu obtained the best score in five dimensions: access, services and tourist facilities, marketing and promotion of the destination, entrepreneurship, and environmental aspects.

The award ceremony was attended by the Municipal Secretary of Tourism, Felipe Gonzalez, who attributed the achievement to the tourist trade union of Foz do Iguacu. "It's a prize for effort and participation of all those involved in improving services and attractions. In addition, the award is an incentive to continue that work," said Gonzalez, adding that Foz was ahead of attractions consecrated the Serra Gaucha and the northeastern coast.

The union of the tourist trade Foz began in 2007. Since then, the number of tourists visiting the city to grow and grow. In 2008, the Iguaçu National Park - the main attraction of the destination - reached the milestone of 1.1 million visitors. "We became a destination more gabaritado, offering the best services, and it only enables the continued service to our visitors," says Felipe Gonzalez.

Source: Farol Site

Cataratas Christmas is launched at Iguassu Falls

2009-12-02T05:00:00.000-08:00

Cataratas Christmas was launched to encourage people to decorate homes and buildings throughout the city. The top three entries in each category will be awarded travel, lodging and money. Registration began on November 15 and close on December 8.

The competition aims to preserve the Christmas tradition, upholding the spirit of brotherhood, respect and love for others, stimulate the manifestations of popular culture in the city, Iguassu Falls become more beautiful for the holidays and encourage the creativity of the community, architects, interior designers, artists plastics.

The criteria to be considered by the judging panel, composed of representatives of six organizations, including enhancement of the Christmas spirit, beauty and creativity. Other two important rules: the facade should be at least 30% decorated and the lighting is a basic requirement for decoration.

The contest rules, with data on registration, evaluation and award of work, is available at www.nataldascataratas.com.br. To register, the person must contact the organizing committee of the contest by e-mail natal@nataldascataratas.com.br. Or you can go to the headquarters of the Municipal Tourism, Praça Getúlio Vargas, center, and fill out the registration form.

Source: Brasil Turis

Festival New Year's in Foz do Iguaçu

2009-11-30T10:14:00.000-08:00

Amidst the holiday season, the Panorama Hotel & Acquamania Resort in Foz do Iguaçu (PR), prepared a diversified program for Christmas and New Year, ideal for families seeking fun and good taste.

The promotion of Christmas, the dinner special will feature Santa Claus and a Natalino Coral that will touch on the night of December 24.

Since the package for the 2010 New Year brings an amazing theme, the four wonders of the world. Five days and four nights of great fun following these themes, Monday, December 28 Brazilian night, Tuesday, March 29, Peruvian inspired night in Machu Picchu; Wednesday, April 30, will be the turn of the night the Wall China and the turn of the 31st, the night is the Taj Mahal.

The promotion also includes breakfast, free entrance to Aquatic Park Acquamania, New Year's Eve dinner with drinks and Brazil Passport, which entitles the ticket to meet Macuco Safari, the Bird Park and have lunch at Porto Canoas Restaurant, located in Iguazu National Park.

SERVICE

Panorama Hotel & Acquamania Resort
Avenida das Cataratas, km 6.5, Foz do Iguaçu, PR
Phone: 45 3529 8200
Reservations 0800 45 1221
www.hotelpanoramaresort.com.br

Photo: Divulgation

Parque Nacional Iguazú, Argentina, increases price of the tickets

2009-11-25T09:40:00.000-08:00

The Ministry of Industry and Tourism, through the Department of Tourism and National Parks Administration (APN), announced the new price of the tickets to the Iguazu National Park, which will apply from January 6, 2010.

The increase, defined by Resolution No. 011/09, modified the categories, values and right to access the Argentine park, located on the border between Brazil and Argentina, and he shares with his brother, the Iguaçu National Park, the famous Niagara . The Brazilian has already announced an increase of their incomes to be concluded on December 8.

Currently the largest value of entry to the park (foreigners, excluding Mercosur) costs 60 pesos, or $ 27. With the increase in the value rises to 85 pesos, about $ 39.

As for the residents of the Mercosur countries: Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay, except Argentina, the ticket will cost 45 pesos (U.S. $ 20). Children 6 to 12 years living in these countries, U.S. $ 11.4, and foreign non-residents $ 20.

The ordinance also provides a number of discount and free access to residents surrounding the park Argentine, retirees, people with disabilities and pensioners.

Source: H2foz

Golf aficionados have top quality options in Iguassu Falls

2009-11-20T10:32:00.000-08:00

Golf is definitely one of the main tourist attractions on the Three Nation Border. The sport, whether in official competitions or just as a pastime, enhances the offerings of hotels and resorts in Foz do Iguaçu and the Paraguayan cities of Hernandárias and Minga Guazú.

In the heavenly setting of the Land of the Waterfalls, three beautiful golf courses are integrated to the landscape: Bourbon Iguassu Golf Club & Resort, in Foz do Iguaçu; Cascada Golf Resort & Spa, in Minga Guazú; and the Golf Club of the Paraná Country Club, in Hernandárias.

The golf courses on the Three Nation Border, both with an 18-hole circuit, have the advantage of being set on expansive green areas. Each has its own exclusive features. They differ in terms of the terrain difficulties, wind action, type of grass, and location of trees and lakes. In all of them, golfers are allowed to play without being required to join the club or be introduced by a club member.

In Brazil, the sport has been attracting an increasing number of players. According to the Brazilian Golf Federation (CBG), despite the small number of people practicing the sport, such number has grown considerably over the past few years, going from 3,000 to more than 25,000 in the country.

Known as an elite sport, golf generates about US$ 20 billion a year in the US, a figure that encouraged hotel groups and the CBG to create the National Bureau of Tourism Golf. One of the initiatives is the circuit Visit Brazil Playing Golf, which selects one course in the country every month. Recently, the program stopped by Bourbon Iguassu Golf Club & Resort.

Source: Portal H2FOZ

Promotion "Sweet November" in Foz

2009-11-13T12:14:00.000-08:00

The month of November brings another holiday, the 15th (Sunday) is the anniversary of the Proclamation of the Republic of Brazil, and San Martin Hotel & Resort in Foz do Iguaçu, PR, promotion offers Sweet November.

Valid until the 30th of this month, the promotion features special rates and discounted rates including breakfast, $ 90 single room, $ 150 double room, $ 180 triple, R $ 215 four times, and $ 250 conjugate in the standard category (only single beds).

The higher category, the daily cost $ 114 single room, $ 180 double, U.S. $ 215 triple, $ 250 four times and $ 285 conjugate.

Children under six years with parents, earn free hosting. And the hotel also has special programming for recreation every day for adults and children, all who want to enjoy the best holiday Proclamation.

Information by phone toll free 0800 45 1221 or 45 3529 8200.

Source: H2foz

Bonito is one of the city members of the Experience Tour

2009-11-09T12:22:00.000-08:00

Known for its natural beauty, the city of Bonito (MS) is among the destinations covered by the project Experience Economy Ministry of Tourism (Ministry of Tourism).

The goal is to train local entrepreneurs to add value to their businesses by offering different activities that arouse emotion, pleasure, inspiration and satisfaction of tourists in a real Tour Experience - the brand of the proposed project.

In Bonito (MS), the project developed two scripts in partnership with local entrepreneurs. The script Persons and Flavors of Nice offers a full encounter with nature and its magic through activities such as diving, floating, rappelling, cave, waterfalls and boat rides.

Furthermore, the Mimosa Resort Ecotourism, tourists will be welcomed in an atmosphere tempered by the taste of cookies and cakes made of typical wood stove. Visitors will also delight in the clear waters of the Rio Mimoso and waterfall Sinhozinho.

And, how about learning to embroider? This is one of the proposed activities. Here the tourist while learning to embroider, interacts with the girls group Crafts Beautiful Handmade and hear their stories of life.

In the Roadmap Inspiration and Expiration, also formatted by the project, tourists can relax in a theme suite and be lulled by the songs and charms of nature. Or, be based on local legends and the influence of Indian culture kadiwéu bonitense. The tour of the rum Taboa, local produce, and crafts made of recyclable products are also an attraction of the script.

The Experience Economy is developed by the Ministry of Tourism in partnership with the Sebrae and managed by the Institute Brand Brazil (IMB).

Photo: Daniel de Granville

Source: Mtur

The discovery of the Iguazu Falls

2009-11-04T11:57:00.000-08:00

The first white man to see the Iguazu Falls was the Spanish navigator Alvar Nuñez Cabeza de Vaca in 1542. Also responsible for the operation of Florida in the United States of America, Cabeza de Vaca discovered the falls by accident when looking for a way to take him to the Assumption.

The discoverer narrated the discovery in his diary: "The river gives heels for a huge cliffs and the water hits the ground with such force that very far away you hear the noise," reported. Unfortunately, he had little time to watch the spectacle. His navigation was stopped and he had to cross the falls quickly, the bush for fear of being attacked by hostile Indians.

In the early 20th century, the Falls had one owner, the farmer Uruguayan Jesus Val, who boasted of having the falls in the backyard of his home. That quirk cost him dearly. The aviator Santos Dumont made a visit to the then Town Falls in 1916, and would be disgusted with the fact that natural beauty has owners. He left there promising steps and three months after the government expropriated the area.

In recognition, Dumont won a bronze statue in pride of place in the Iguaçu National Park, which would be created only in 1939.

Photo: Rico

Source: Portal H2foz

Trip launches two new flights to Foz do Iguacu

2009-10-26T10:23:00.000-07:00

A Trip Airlines will increase its frequency of flights in Foz do Iguacu. From today (26), the company is launching two new flights, round trip, between Foz and the cities of Porto Alegre (RS) and Cuiaba (MT).

From Monday to Saturday, one of the new flights will depart from Cuiabá bound to Foz do Iguacu and Porto Alegre (RS). The other, conversely, from Porto Alegre and Foz through with a final destination in Cuiaba, will operate from Sunday to Monday.

"This new route is meant to stimulate the local air transport connections that strengthen, as well as tourism, intensive business traffic between the regions," said Evaristo de Paula Mascarenhas, director of marketing and sales Trip.

International flight

Starting next month, the Uruguayan airline Pluna will operate a new airline, between Montevideo and Foz, facilitating the access of tourists to the region. The direct international flight to Foz reduce the cost and travel time of important centers for outbound tourists to the city.

Visitors from other continents will also benefit from new. According Piolla as Montevideo has a hub (center of commercial operations) with flights of four international airlines, the new line will make passengers coming from countries with large tourist market, as the United States, Spain, Japan and China, for example, no longer need to go through other Brazilian cities before arriving in Foz do Iguacu, losing much time with connections in Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo.

For the municipal secretary of Tourism in Foz do Iguacu, Felipe Gonzalez, the importance of the new flights is the strategic role they play. "For Montevideo we are opening an international gateway, and Cuiabá, creating enabling a bridge to the Pantanal".

Source: Jornal o Farol

Iguazu Falls are chosen as the best destination by readers of The Guardian

2009-10-22T12:18:00.000-07:00

The Iguazu Falls received the title of best remembered destination for nearly 20 thousand readers of the Guardian newspaper, which has more than 450 thousand copies in its circulation daily average, respondents in competition for readers' preferences when selecting sites and services for your vacation.

The survey is available on site daily http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2009/oct/20/travel-awards-2009-winners.

The destination in the Triple Frontier won the Travel category in an international attraction. "The choice of English, demonstrates how Foz is being a destination outside Singapore. The Falls always illustrate the campaigns of Embratur and is already the second most visited by foreign tourists who come to Brazil in search of leisure ", said Jeanine Pires, president of Embratur.

The region of Foz do Iguacu is presented as 'Destination of the World' . In last year's winner of the category was Machu Picchu in Peru, placed third in 2009.

Source: Embratur

Photo: André Seale

Increases the flow of Iguassu Falls

2009-10-16T13:14:00.000-07:00

In Foz do Iguaçu (PR - Brazil), the falls are even more beautiful. The flow of water is usually from 1.5 million liters per second. But because of the rains in recent days in the state, is now at 11.7 million liters per second.

The park is usually open from 9h to 17h, Monday to Sunday. As of Sunday, will run until the 18h.

Source: G1

Rio's 2016 Olimipic Games will benefit brazilian tourism

2009-10-06T12:32:00.000-07:00

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) selected Rio de Janeiro as the 31st Olympic and Paralympic Games host city. The increase in foreign tourists to Brazil in 2016 is already projected to be ten to 15 percent greater than the previous year (2015).

Rio de Janeiro was one of four finalist cities including Madrid, Chicago and Tokyo, and went into the final rounds confidently as the final assessment report from the IOC qualified Rio’s submission as one of “very high quality”.

To understand how this might affect future revenue for tourism resources in Rio, the Brazil Tourism Board EMBRATUR references the current data from Central Bank noting a record influx of tourism revenue in Brazil in 2008. Foreign tourists spent US $5.785 billion in Brazil, an increase of 133 percent as compared to 2003.

In previous years, investments and works generated in Olympic host cities have boosted tourism, especially in regards to business travelers. The Minister of Tourism, Mr. Luiz Barretto, who was one of the Brazilian delegates in Copenhagen, emphasized the potentials gains for Brazilian tourism sectors.

“I congratulate every person and entity involved in this winning project. This is a day to celebrate for all Brazilians, who for the first time will organize one of the most important events on the planet,” Baretto said. “The Olympic Games will promote Rio as a city abroad, but will also represent our entire country. This will provide immense increases in Brazilian tourism and for our economy in the long run.”

As the first South American city to host the Olympic Games and famous for its natural and beautiful landscapes, the Marvelous City, as Brazilians call it, is sure to make the 2016 Games sensational. Rio de Janeiro will provide all the required needs for hosting a large-scale and important event such as this in addition to the opportunity for athletes to perform surrounded by spectacular scenery. Tourists will be afforded the inaugural chance to enjoy the Games with the beauty of Rio serving as the background and offering innumerable tourist opportunities.

“Having the Olympic Games following the World Cup in 2014 means a huge infrastructure legacy with direct impact to tourism, but it also creates a tremendous advertisement campaign that will change the image of Brazil for at least four years,” said Jeanine Pires president of EMBRATUR, the Brazilian Tourist Board. “This is a great promotional opportunity and we will show the world that, aside from beautiful beaches, cultural and natural diversity, we also boast infrastructure in what some may consider one of the greatest destinations for international events in the world.”

The IOC’s decision took into consideration multiple factors, including Rio’s economic development, infrastructure, safety and lodging. Rio de Janeiro’s beauty and the joy of the Carioca people, a term referencing locals, who supported the city’s candidacy with an overwhelming 85 percent also contributed to the final decision.

Source: Mtur

Niagara expect 20 thousand tourists in the holiday weekend

2009-09-29T11:58:00.000-07:00

The Iguazu National Park is one of the best travel options, walking, leisure and contact with nature on the weekend before the national holiday of October 12, Monday. Given the expectation of visitation of 20 thousand tourists from Saturday to Monday, the appeal will mount a special logistics service for visitors.

The concessionaire Niagara Falls S/A, together with the Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation (ICMBio) prepares for the holiday a differentiated service infrastructure. The operation provides for strengthening of staff, 10 extra buses to transport tourists, putting tents in a welcome center for visitors and booths extra boxes to sell tickets.

On Sunday (October 11), the expectation is that the park receives the highest number of visitors to the holiday weekend. Every effort is intended to better serve the public, offering a quiet ride and quality. The offices of the box office remains unchanged, from 9 to 17 hours.

In early spring, the vegetation of the Iguaçu National Park is even more lively and vibrant, which makes it attractive in an even more pleasant and interesting. Not to mention the flow watermark of the Falls that is above normal, providing a show piece.

Visiting hours of the Iguaçu National Park

The Niagara Falls S / A takes to inform that during the period of daylight saving time, the Iguaçu National Park visitors will meet daily at the following times.

* Tickets - opening at 9am and close at 17h
* Transport - the first bus out of the Visitor Center at 9am and return to Puerto Canoas, last departure at 18.30
* Parking 7:30 am to 19h
* Porto Canoas Restaurant, open from 12h to 16h

Source: H2Foz

The 10 Commandments to receive and guide tourists in Foz

2009-09-22T14:06:00.000-07:00

The ABIH - western region of Paraná yesterday officially launched the campaign "The 10 Commandments: how to treat tourists well and take care of our city."

MEET THE 10th COMMANDMENTS

1 Welcoming tourists
2 Taking care of our city
3 Treat all without prejudice
4 Keep the city clean
5 Respect the tourist traffic
6 To act fairly in trade
7 Preserve the environment
8 Auxiliary always the tourist
9 Always thank our tourist
10 Skip ahead of the 10 commandments. In schools, at home, or anywhere else.

Source: H2Foz

Iguazu Falls on reality show

2009-09-15T12:22:00.000-07:00

The Discovery Channel debut on the 20th, at 22h, the first season of the reality show "Amazing Race" dedicated to Latin America.

Eleven pairs (two Brazilian teams) competed in the first race on the Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls.

The Amazing Race the contestants have to be the fastest in tests involving physical strength, agility, concentration and reasoning.

At each step, the last team to finish the race is likely to leave the race. The double winning the prize of U.S. $ 250 mil.

In addition to Brazil - was also recorded in Porto Alegre and Gramado, Rio Grande do Sul - the evidence were held in eight Latin American countries. Fernando Medina, general director of Discovery Networks in Brazil, says that Foz do Iguaçu was chosen both for its natural beauty and because it is well known abroad.

The filming was done between May and June 2009. During the 23 days of competition, the participants put 11 pairs to test their physical abilities, emotional and intellectual to perform the tasks undertaken by each production step.

Considered by industry analysts as one of television's most popular series of its kind, "The Amazing Race," released in the United States in 2001 and whose American version is in its 15th season, was created by Elise Doganieri and Bertram van Munster.

Source: H2foz

Hotel das Cataratas to join Orient-Express

2009-09-04T12:13:00.000-07:00

The Hotel das Cataratas, a retreat next to Iguaçu Falls on the border of Brazil and Argentina, will join Orient-Express on 1 October 2009.

First opened as a hotel in 1958, Hotel das Cataratas is an elegant two storey Portuguese colonial style building. It has one of the most impressive and enviable locations in South America, with the world famous Iguaçu Falls just a two minute stroll from the property, and is surrounded by almost 1,850km² of national park land.

As the only hotel within the national park, Hotel das Cataratas has an unbeatable location, allowing guests to enjoy exclusive access to the falls each morning, before the park opens at 9am.

The 193 guest rooms, including 15 suites, have been decorated in line with the Portuguese style and feature paintings of the local flora and fauna by well known Brazilian artist, Ludmilla de Montes.

Traditional Azulejos painted tiles, specially designed for Hotel das Cataratas, have also been used throughout the property, further enhancing the Portuguese history of the hotel.

Many of the 16 Cataratas Deluxe Rooms boast views of the falls, as do the Tower and Cataratas Suites. A new spa opening at the end of October will offer an array of treatments from the Brazilian brand, Natura, which uses tropical fruits from the area, as well as ingredients sourced from the Amazon. There will be five treatment rooms with ipod docks, so guests can choose to listen to their own music if they wish, as well as a relaxation room and a sauna.

Hotel das Cataratas has two restaurants; the Restaurante Itaipu, serving a blend of Brazilian and international cuisine at breakfast, lunch and dinner, located on the ground floor of the main building, with a veranda for al fresco dining. The Ipê Bar & Grill by the main pool, is named after a local wood and serves light snacks throughout the day and a churrascaria (South American style meat barbecue) with live music for dinner. The terraces surrounding the hotel have been extended, allowing guests to dine al fresco.

On the hotel’s grounds is the Belvedere Look-out Point, which offers unparalleled views of the falls and a perfect photo opportunity.

In 1986, UNESCO listed Iguaçu National Park as a 'Natural Heritage of Humanity' area. The park, home to the Iguaçu waterfalls (or cataratas), comprises 1,850km² of forest reserve and preserved to maintain the area for future generations.

The Iguaçu Falls are a spectacular collection of 275 waterfalls extending over a length of almost five kilometres in an enormous canyon on the Iguaçu River. There are 19 big waterfalls, the largest of which is the 'Devil's Throat', the drop of which is over 90 metres. Only three of the falls, Floriano, Deodoro and Benjamin Constant are located on the Brazilian side with the majority located on the Argentinean side facing Brazil.

Local activities which can be organised through the hotel include helicopter tours over the falls, boat rides through the rapids, four-wheel drive jungle adventures and nature walks within the national park.

A double room at Hotel das Cataratas starts from US$375 per room per night including breakfast.

Orient-Express acquired Hotel das Cataratas in September 2007 and is the company’s second business in Brazil, where it has also owned and managed the Copacabana Palace Hotel in Rio de Janeiro since 1989.

Divulgation

Iguazu Falls reaches first place ranking in the New7Wonders contest

2009-08-25T09:57:00.000-07:00

The Iguazu Falls reached on the morning of last Tuesday, 18, the top rank of competition to be one of the seven new wonders of nature. The election - which entered its third phase in late July - has 28 competitors from around the world and should be completed in late 2010.

The vote at this stage can only be done via the Internet (www.votecataratas.com) and the surfer who wants to help elect the Falls must vote first on our attraction and only then choose the other six competitors. The position of voting directly interferes with attractive notes that each receives.

In addition to other Niagara attractions who pontificate in the first seven positions are in order of vote: Great Barrier Reef, Australia; Komodo National Park in Indonesia, Halong Bay, Vietnam; Amazon, which competes in nine countries, the Maldives located in the Indian Ocean and in seventh position, the Angels Falls, attraction of Venezuela.

Source: Hnews

Foz do Iguaçu (PR) can integrate Adventure by Disney

2009-08-18T09:21:00.000-07:00

The vice president of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, Greg Hale, accompanied by the President of the National Association of Tourist Attractions and Theme Parks (Sindepat), Alain Baldacci, visited Foz do Iguaçu this weekend. Hale met the Itaipu Tourist Complex, Technology Park and Parque Nacional do Iguaçu.

"Before coming had researched on the fate and knew that this was a very beautiful place. I knew you would see the waterfalls, but never imagined that it would 'dive' in the Falls, "he explained referring to the walk Macuco Safari. Besides the natural beauty of the American target was also impressed with the structure of the city. "It was one of cosias what caught my attention. The quality of service is exceptional and the structure to receive the visitors as well. "

This impression of the executive will be transmitted via a personal report to a division of Walt Disney that works with sophisticated destinations around the world - the Adventure by Disney. After careful inspection, the company may include the Destination Iguassu in the catalog. "We can also undertake institutional partnerships with the city," said Hale.

Source: Panrotas

Amazon River ranks 2nd in natural wonders contest

2009-08-14T09:08:00.000-07:00

After slipping to second from bottom place a week ago, the Amazon River/Rainforest moved up to second place in the selection of 28 Official Finalist Candidates competing to be one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature.

According to the latest ranking of contest organizer, the New 7 Wonders Foundation, the Amazon River ranks second after the Iguazú Falls in Argentina and Brazil.

The third place is occupied by Great Barrier Reef (Australia and Papua New Guinea), followed by Angel Falls (Venezuela) and Galapagos Islands in Ecuador. Indonesia’s Komodo Island, which ranked last a week ago, has climbed to sixth place.

“The contest ends in mid-2011 and we need the support of all Peruvian citizens to have the Amazon River among the seven natural wonders of the world,” said the regional government of Loreto.

Source: Living in Peru

Foz gets daily flight to Belém do Pará

2009-08-10T11:13:00.000-07:00

The TAM Airlines to start operating from August 14 a new one daily frequency linking Foz do Iguaçu and Belém do Pará, with scale in Curitiba and Guarulhos.

With the new flight JJ 3554 (trip to 7:30 a.m.), the TAM will offer two options for times between the airports of São Paulo and Belém, the outward and return, given the numerous requests from customers for more convenient connections with the company's international routes to Europe and the United States.

In the opposite direction (JJ 355) of the TAM flight out of the airport Val of CAS at 15.30, arriving at Foz do Iguaçu to 22h50.

With the passage between Curitiba and Foz do Iguaçu, the company also offers a second option to schedule their passengers, and the scale in capital paranaense allow connections with flights to other domestic destinations operated by TAM.

Currently, TAM already operates a daily flight JJ 3538, which take off from Guarulhos to 21:00 and follow directly to Bethlehem, landing at 00h30. In the opposite direction, flight JJ 3539 leaving the capital of Pará at 2:25 a.m. and 5:55 a.m. to put in Guarulhos.

Already in the stretch between Curitiba and Foz do Iguaçu, the airline operating the flight JJ 3886, also daily, which part of Iguaçu to Curitiba at 15h40 and arrives at 16:40. In the opposite direction, the JJ 3887 leaving the capital paranaense to 13h40 and lands in the Iguaçu 14.40.

Source: H2foz

Natural Patrimony of Humanity

2009-08-06T11:22:00.000-07:00

Tumbled by UNESCO as Natural Patrimony of Humanity in 1986, Parque Nacional do Iguaçu is the second oldest national park in Brazil. Extends over an area of 185 hectares of the Brazilian side and 67 hectares of the Argentine side.

The environmental value and beauty of landscapes for conservation of this unit make it an asset without borders. The park is considered one of the last forest reserves of the Atlantic Forest of Brazil and the largest reserve of subtropical rain forest in the world.

In the state of Paraná, according official statistics, the remaining less than 5% of the original vegetation cover. The area of the park alone is more than half of what remains of the so-called seasonal forest, and therefore a forested island in a sea of large cultivated fields. In addition, the park is based on the Guarani Aquifer, one of the largest world reserves of groundwater.

The biodiversity of the Park impressed by the numbers: there are 257 species of butterflies, 18 of fish, 12 amphibians, 41 species of snakes, lizards of 8, 340 of birds and 45 mammals, attracting the attention of many researchers that there are source to relevant scientific papers.

The Parque Nacional do Iguaçu houses in its territory rare species of fauna and flora. There are thousands of animals, many threatened with extinction, such as the jaguar-painted and alligator-de-chat-yellow, and some very rare species of birds such as jacutinga the Gaviao harpy and parrot-of-breast-purple.

The flora is very diverse. There are species that reach up to 30 meters high, as timbaúva, the cedar, the peroba and IPES, and orchids and bromeliads. apanema, city near the border.

Source: H2FOZ

New Seven Natural Wonders: Iguazu Falls among finalists

2009-07-24T08:20:00.000-07:00

In the new seven natural wonders contest, Iguazu Falls were selected among 28 finalists, including four other sites in Latin America which are Salto del Angel in Venezuela, El Yunque in Puerto Rico and Galapagos Islands, Ecuador.

Former UNESCO general director, Federico Mayor Zaragoza was in charge of a group of six professionals who chose the 28 finalists from a list of 77 candidates which were preselected by millions of Internet users.

The choice was made taking into account the ecological, historical legacy, its diversity, beauty, and geographic location for a distribution by continent.

Seven Natural Wonders is a not for profit endeavor committed to protecting and promoting The Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Additionally, SNW seeks to affirm and honor other notable and deserving wonders of the world by working with you to declare the seven wonders for each continent.

As of today public voting continues through the Internet, to define it in 2011. Those selected, in addition to Latin America are: the Bay of Fundy in Canada, the Black Forest in Germany, Bu Tinah Shoals in the United Arab Emirates, the Cliffs of Moher in Ireland and the Dead Sea in Palestine, Jordan and Israel; Vesuvius in Italy, the Ha Long Bay in Vietnam; Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania and the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, Papua New Guinea, the Grand Canyon in the United States; Kheitan Grotto in Lebanon, Jeju Island in South Korea; Komodo in Indonesia, the Maldives Islands, Lake Masuria in Poland and the Matterhorn in Switzerland and Italy, Milford Sound in New Zealand, the mud volcanoes in Azerbaijan, the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River in Philippines, South Africa Table Mountain, the Uluru in Australia and Taiwan in Yusho.

Photo: Rico

Source: Momento 24.com

An Insider’s Travel Guide to Iguassu Falls

2009-07-02T09:13:00.001-07:00

In the minds of travel agents designing travel packages the Iguassu Falls are usually considered a brief 2-3 day stop on a multi-destination marathon trip to South America. It’s true one can get to know the essentials of this place on a brief stay of a couple of days as to mark it in your personal “visited places checklist” but a 2-3 day stay is far behind of what is needed to get all the juice out of this extraordinary travel destination full of charms and interesting things to do.

What one is trying to explain here is comparable to what may happen when planning a European tour. One can plan a trip visiting 10 European cities in 20 days or decide to focus the voyage to only two or three cities and gain the experience of knowing them in a more enlightening manner.

So there is another way to plan a trip to Iguassu Falls and this is to think of it as a single destination trip that taps into all its possibilities. Which are these possibilities? Let’s see first the Iguassu Falls essentials that no visitor should miss.

The Iguassu Falls are located on the Iguassu River which marks the frontier between Argentina and Brazil. So there are two sides of the Iguassu Falls to visit in two different countries.

The walking tour on the Brazilian side can be done in one morning. During the afternoon there are several additional activities to enjoy there like river rafting the rapids or flying over this magnificent landscape in helicopter.

At least one whole day needs to be destined on the Brazilian side and if one wants to enjoy other interesting activities like going to a jungle safari or visiting the beautiful Bird Park I would recommend two days.

If the Brazilian side requires 1-2 days what comes needs more. Most of the 270 waterfalls that make the giant Iguassu Falls system are located on the Argentinean side, consequently there is considerably more to walk and see there. Walking the upper, lower and Devil’s Gorge circuits that put visitors literally inside the giant falls needs one full day if wanting to enjoy these attractions in a relaxed manner.

The second day in Argentina needs to be destined to yet other pure hiking activities: walking the Macuco trail inside the jungle towards the hidden Arrechea waterfall can be easily done during the morning. The afternoon should be reserved for a very special attraction, exploring the San Martin Island that requires crossing the lower Iguassu River on a ferry boat.

There are three additional activities on the Argentinean side that no visitor should miss. River rafting the rapids on the lower Iguassu River for your baptism under the San Martin waterfall (the second largest), the boat ride on the tranquil waters of the upper Iguassu River that shows a completely different view of the Iguassu Falls ecosystem and the photographic safari into the Iguassu National Park’s jungle. These activities will take one third whole day in the Argentinean side.

So compressing the Iguassu Falls essentials requires an absolute minimum of 4-5 days, not the 2-3 days most travel agents suggest.

Additionally I have learned on my own experience that one enjoys the most the mentioned essential activities if intercalates them with one break-day in between destined to other more relaxing physically less stressing ones like sun bathing on the beautiful swimming pool of your hotel, going shopping, playing golf or visiting interesting attractions in the three nearby cities of Ciudad del Este, Foz do Iguassu and Puerto Iguazu which will give the visitor a touch of the three different national cultures (Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay) that converge in the Iguassu Falls area.

A good tour plan example could be the following:

Day 1: Brazilian side of the falls during the morning plus helicopter flight and visit to the Bird Park in the afternoon.
Day 2: Visiting Foz do Iguassu (Brazil) attractions. Visiting the Mosque, the Itaipu Museum and Itaipu hydroelectric dam.
Day 3: Argentinean side of the falls. Walking the upper, lower and Devil’s Gorge circuits.
Day 4: Boat ride to Moises Bertoni’s home and musueum in the Paraguayan jungle and visiting the wine and cheese fair of Puerto Iguazu (Argentina).
Day 5: Argentinean side of the falls. Walking the Macuco trail to the Arrechea waterfall and exploring the San Martin Island (you will be exhausted at the end of this day!).
Day 6: Going shopping to Ciudad del Este plus visting the Museum of the Guarani Land and Itaipu Zoo.
Day 7: Argentinean side of the falls. River rafting the Iguassu River rapids, plus experiencing the photographic jungle safari and boat ride on the upper Iguassu River.

Add one arriving and departing day to this plan and it’s a nine day trip. There are many other possible combinations depending on personal interests. If the visitor is interested in bird watching or is a Nature lover this trip could extend many more days. The same case would be if there is interest in visiting the Jesuit reductions in Argentina and Paraguay.

Source: www.travel2blog.com

Photo: André Seale

Itaipu Tourist Complex

2009-06-29T14:04:00.000-07:00

Visiting the various sights maintained by Itaipu provides additional insight about the region, and is a good option for all ages and for rainy days.

The Itaipu Tourist Complex offers a number of tours to visitors, a few of which are listed below:

The Dam: Several different tour options take you in and around the world’s largest hydro-electric dam.

The Lighting of the Dam: A set of 519 floodlights and 112 light fixtures provides the dam's nighttime lighting, in synch with a soundtrack created specially for the show.

The Eco Museum: The Eco-museum preserves the history of the power plant and the Brazilian area in which it was built.

Biological Sanctuary: An environmental conservation unit created in the 70s to house thousand of animals “dislodged” by the power plant, and where Itaipu researches the production of tree seedlings, wild animal captive reproduction, and the rehabilitation of degraded areas.

Source: Mackenzie

An incredible trip to the Devil´s throat in Iguazu Falls Park

2009-06-16T08:25:00.000-07:00

The Throat of the Devil. At first thought, it may not sound like any sort of dream destination. Sounds a little dangerous, and probably very hot…Well I can’t argue with that, but if I went on to tell you that it was the name of one of the world’s largest waterfalls, would that change your perspective?

La Garganta del Diablo is the biggest single falls within the biggest waterfalls reserve in the world Iguazu Falls – and it’s absolutely worth the risk.

The heat of Puerto Iguazu is inevitable. This immaculate world wonder is located on the border of northern Argentina and southern Brazil. A tropical forest this beautiful could not be maintained without a hot and humid climate, so prepare yourself before hand.

The Park

Bottles of water go like gold in the various stops within the park and are anything but cheap. Bring your own, maybe some food as well, and you’ll save some big bucks.

The park is huge and consists of 275 – 350 separate falls depending on the season you arrive. Usually it requires a couple of days to see it all and more than likely, by the end of this time, you will have lost any previous inhibitions or shyness, and will be walking around the park in nothing but a bathing suit along with everyone else.

Some good steps to follow

Get an early start to avoid some of the crowds. People flock to Iguazu from all ends of the world and elbow room is always a little sparse when trying to snap that perfect photo.

But when you finally come into view of a huge fall cascading down into an unknown depth lost in the mist you will forget about the others surrounding you.

Your park map and your own two feet will lead you to every falls in Iguazu, but the best and biggest should be saved for last. From the Argentine side, the paths to La Garganta del Diablo will take you through a long stretch of calm waters.

The feeling when you get near

As you get closer, you begin to hear the rush of the water. At first sight its presence is deceiving and it appears somewhat small. Then as you get closer, the excitement rises and the conversations dissipate while everyone awaits the giant that lies ahead.

The roar of the water gets louder and the cloud of mist gets larger with each step. What seemed small a few yards back is now right before you and indescribable in words.

The massive size, dynamic waters, and incredible views can only be understood through experience. Hundreds of birds add to the spectacle as they dive into the waters below and are engulfed in the huge falls.

Source: Argentina´s Travel Guide

The variety wildlife and rainforest vegetation of Iguacu Falls

2009-06-10T06:34:00.000-07:00

The beautiful semi-tropical forest is made possible by the high-rising mist that Iguacu Falls creates. During your trail walks you will see a rich variety of rainforest vegetation, including orchids, bromeliads, begonias, ferns, bamboo and palms.

Iguacu Falls consists of some 275 separate falls during the river's seasonal low. That number is halved during the rainy season when small rocky islets on the rim of the falls become submerged.

Wildlife

The forests around Iguacu Falls host hundreds of wildlife species including jaguars and pumas. However, wildlife sightings are limited for most because many of the creatures are nocturnal - and those that are not nocturnal are easily hidden by the dense rainforest growth.

Trail walks

You will spot some wildlife species during trail walks. These include colorful birds (such as toucans and parrots) and striking butterflies.

Iguacu Falls is popular

More than one million people visit Iguacu each year. Most are Argentine and Brazilian citizens.

Sightseeing transportation

Besides the foot, these are your primary sightseeing options:

Boat: Sightseeing boats at the base of the falls take you next to (and sometimes under) the falling water. Boats above the falls take you to almost the very rim of the falls, close enough to make your heart skip a beat.

Helicopter: The rides are short and expensive, but give you unforgettable memories and an unmatched perspective of Iguacu Falls.

Airplane: Although there are no sanctioned sightseeing plane services for tourists, sometimes the pilot of a major airline flying to or from Buenos Aires or Rio de Janeiro will circle the falls as a favor to the passengers.

Hollywood movie

The opening scene of the major 1986 movie The Mission starring Robert DeNiro and Jeremy Irons captures Iguacu Falls on film in its spectacular and thunderous glory. Worth seeing, at least for that vigorous and relatively long cinema photographic sequence.

With information of Howard Hillman

Iguazu Falls in Argentina is a World Heritage Site in South America - UNESCO

2009-06-08T05:56:00.000-07:00

Iguazu Falls

The Iguazu Falls mark the border between Argentina and Brazil. Extending for 2 miles and with a drop of over 200 feet, the sights and sounds of these falls on the Iguazu River should not be missed by anyone cruising to South America.

The flight from Buenos Aires to the airport in Puerto Iguazu is only about an hour, and there are hotels of all price ranges near (or in) the Iguazu National Park. I bought an Iguazu Falls package trip that included airfare, overnight in a hotel, and a private guide for 2 days.

This worked out well since the 2 days provided the opportunity to view the falls from both Brazil and Argentina. Having a knowledgeable guide to drive and facilitate the border crossing made the visit even more enjoyable. The best panoramic views of Iguazu Falls are from Brazil, but an overnight trip to only the Iguazu National Park in Argentina is worthwhile.

From: Linda Garrison

Picture: André Seale

Argentina's Iguassu Falls: Niagara's Big Brother

2009-05-19T14:45:00.000-07:00

One hundred million years ago the product of a gigantic volcanic cataclysm created one of the world's most beautiful sights in South America: Iguassu Falls. Straddled on the southern border between Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay, Iguassu is a traveler's favorite eco-destination.

This place makes Niagara Falls looks like a puddle and Six Flags like a merry-go-round. That's because the dazzling scenic beauty of 300 torrents and hundreds of acres of pristine habitat aren't just for snapping photos. There are thrilling activities and much to be learned from the rushing waters that tumble over this ancient basalt plateau….

Trekking It

We began our adventures with an easy trek along the Upper and Lower Circuit trails… Two thousand tons of water per second crash down in an apotheosis of rainbows and froth at Garganta del Diablo or Devils Throat. It's even more breathtaking since it's impossible to see into the abyss below….

Boating It
…The dinghy holds up to 50 passengers and the captain has a notorious reputation for soaking passengers. Sure enough, once the propellers are in motion, he aims for every wave, rapid and roil he can find. In some areas we're tipped more than 45 degrees and then catapulted several feet into the air…

Rappelling It

Hooked to a skinny rope with an equally trim Brazilian at my side, we ease our way down the side of the cliff to the shoreline. I'm hooked in with safety ties, locks and a tight harness around my bottom. In front of me is Iguassu Falls with a helicopter circling above. Like a bird caught in a thermal we hang suspended in midair as Mother Nature's 'pride and joy' continues her show. A truly metaphysical feeling…

Rafting It

A couple minutes later we're getting a crash course in white water rafting. Terms like fast current, large waves and hypothermia are translated by my Spanish speaking counterparts…

Sleeping It

…Churning white noise echos in my head as I lay myself down to sleep at the Iguazú Grand Hotel Resort and Casino. It's set in Puerto Iguazu, Misiones, Argentina only 10 minutes from the Falls; fancier and more luxurious than my low-maintenance lifestyle demands - fit for kings, queens, presidents and dignitaries…

Read the whole article here:

http://www.gonomad.com/features/0607/iguassu-falls-argentina.html

Photo: André Seale

The Park's Mascot

2009-04-28T12:49:00.000-07:00

The Park's Mascot

PROCYONIDAE FAMILYArboreal; 5 fingers on each paw; plenty of dexterity in paws that are able to manipulate things or dig.

QUATI (Nasua nasua)*
General: small eyes and ears and a long snout. Very active, weighing from 3 to 9kg and 70 to 120cm long.
Coat: a wide variety of colors; from dark brown to light brown, light and dark rings on tail. Abundant and long fur, including on tail.
Found throughout South America.
Habitat: forests
Habits: diurnal, sleep on trees. Live in groups from 4 to 30 individuals and communicate through special sounds.
Diet: it varies in accordance with the season of the year; small vertebrates, insectsand fruit.
Reproduction: pregnancy period from 10 to 11 weeks; offspring from 2 to 7. Nest on trees and young males are expelled from group at the time new offspring is born.
Threats: destruction of their habitats.
The quati is regarded as the symbol animal of the Iguaçú National Park.

Site http://www.cataratasdoiguacu.com.br/

Investors and tourists are attracted to travel in which it preserves the nature

2009-01-13T04:36:00.000-08:00

Following a trend of the market of hotels environmentally correct, the pension fund of Caixa Economica Federal (Funcef) announced, less than a month ago, the creation of a particular forest reserve in Ecoresort in Angra dos Reis, Rio de Janeiro. This experience will be the first "green" of the Funcef, which already owns three resorts and four hotels.

The resort farm occupies 180 hectares. Around 83% of this area - 150 hectares - are pieces of Atlantic who resisted that the human intervention. The fund has already noted that the cost-benefit is worthwhile, because, banned from toppling trees in the region, attracts more and more "friends of nature."

"The cost is small for the value that we have," says Jorge Luiz de Souza Arraes, director of corporate and real estate holdings of Funcef. And complete: "Who has that kind of attitude will be back."

The EcoResort now has the called RPPN - Private Reserve for Heritage Nautral - a legal instrument for the preservation of forest in private properties. Once created, approved and endorsed by environmental authorities in office, is prohibited exploit it forever. Only if we allow contemplative activities, leisure and search, as trails and birdwatching. "It is a guarantee of preservation. The property can change ownership, but the RPPN always exist," says Carlos Alberto Mesquita, of Institute BioAtlantica, in Rio.

Other big names are on the list of hotels that have created a RPPN - and they are Sesc Pantanal, Caiman Ecological Refuge (of Roberto Klabin), in Pantanal, Costão of Santinho in Santa Catarina, and Cristalino Lodge in the Amazon. For all these, the RPPN is a form of exploitation of the image of the hotel, in addition to denote vocation for forest preservation by their owners. "Ecotourism is not the only purpose. Our main goal is to preserve the forest and help with conservation efforts in the southern part of the Amazon that is undergoing rapid changes," says Victoria De Riva, director of the Cristalino Lodge.

Vitoria has close links to the Amazon, because the council of Alta Floresta in Mato Grosso, where is the Cristalino, was created by her father. She bought an area of 700 hectares to preservation through tourism when he saw the damage of the gold mining. Today, the reserve has 7 thousand hectares and is reference: received the World Savers prize, of Condé Nast Traveler magazine, and is the only RPPN linked to the hotel across the Amazon.

The WTO (World Tourism Organization) estimated that in 2006, 42 million people took to their countries of origin to travel motivated by interest in nature. "Being sustainable is no longer something that may or may not do. For the international market, that is a prerequisite," says Patricia Servilha, director in Brazil of Chias Marketing, business strategic planning of tourism based in Barcelona and offices in Mexico, Argentina and Chile. The consultancy estimates, based in information of WTO, that travelers spend on average U.S. $ 103.59 per day and stay 15 days in the destination.

In Costão of Santinho, in Florianopolis, was created in 1999 a RPPN of 44 hectares, where they were cataloged 180 species of birds. So today Costão is in the national circuit of "bird watching" - the observation of birds that attracts tourists from every corner of the world. In RPPN, guests also practice by walking trails and trees. In 2008, 30% of 90 thousand tourists who had visited the Costão have as a highest goal the ecotourism.

To keep the forest of RPPNs you must surround the area, keep it guarded against intruders and take preventive measures against fire. To cope with the extra expenses, the hotels tend to embed the cost in diaries. Therefore, since the beginning of this year, the Caiman Ecological Refuge, in the Pantanal, charges a fee for visitors of R$ 30 per package, money for the maintenance of its RPPN of 5.6 hectares. If re-entry of 3 thousand tourists recorded last year, will be an increase of R$ 90 thousand in cash. The acceptance of the guests, according to the company, has been good.

A survey conducted last year by French consultancy TNS Sofres showed that 69% of the 800 european respondents are willing to pay up to 30% more for packages with the actions of environmental preservation. In Ecuador, the jungles hotel guests receive a certificate of rainforest preservation of a number of trees, which varies depending on the length of stay.

For the growing number of private reserves, experts advocate more tax incentives to those who keep the forest. "The RPPN is a voluntary action. If you did not benefit, does not have scale," says Marcia Hirota, director of Knowledge Management of SOS Atlantic Forest. The only advantage today is the exemption of Rural Territorial Tax (ITR) of property.
With information of Valor Econômico

Foz do Iguacu is one of the 500 delights of brazilian tourism and gastronomy to the Veja Magazine

2008-12-11T03:58:00.000-08:00

Cataracts appear in the five categories below:

440 - From near

To get closer to the main tourist attraction of Iguacu Falls, is required to board the ride of Macuco Safari (45/3574-4244) by the Rio Iguacu. The bus park that leads visitors to the inflatable boats and motorcycles that are the route of 3 miles. The strategic stops for photographs and exciting rapids, is joined a real lesson about the flora and fauna of the region.

441 - Flight over waters

The show of water becomes more stunning when seen from above. The helicopter tour of the Iguacu Falls (45/3529-7474) lasts from ten to thirty minutes.

442 - There and here

The most beautiful waterfalls appear in the Iguacu National Park, which is the Brazilian side, or at the Park Iguazú, Argentine territory? They are 275 water falls, with average height of 60 meters, two thirds of them in the neighboring country. The best view of the whole, however, takes place here on the side of the border, where 1 200-meter runway ensure panoramic view.

443 - Symphony of chirp

In addition to the animals that give you title, like toucans and parrots, the Birds Park (45/3529-8282) has alligators, turtles and butterflies. But the main lure is the corner the 900 types of bird spread on 17 acres of native forest. A paved trail, from 1 000 meters, joining the nursery.

444 - Much energy

With an installed capacity of 14 000 megawatts, the largest hydroelectric power plant in the world in production of energy may be determined by visits every day. With panoramic tour to Itaipu (45/3520-5252), a bus traveling the barrier and leads the tourists to a belvedere. It also gives to know the plant inside.

From: Veja Magazine - The Best of Brazil Special Edition

Photo: André Seale

Brazil Express claims luxury 'first'

2008-12-05T03:53:00.000-08:00

A luxury train operator looking to work more closely with the UK trade is promising a unique Orient Express-style experience with a Brazilian flavour.

The Great Brazil Express will officially start operations next June, although is currently running on a trial basis.

It offers a range of itineraries of up to nine nights starting from Rio and visiting Iguassu Falls on the Argentina/Paraguay border. It claims to be South America’s only luxury tourist train.

Jasing Chu, sales and marketing director, was promoting the tours at World Travel Market.

"We want to show them Brazil in complete luxury, and have a lot of interest from operators, particularly luxury and South American specialists, and even small travel agencies", he said.

The two-carriage train can take up to 50 passengers. Guests do not sleep onboard but in four or five-star hotels in the towns on the tours.

Prices for the full nine-day tour start at €3,510 including internal flights, hotels and excursions.

From: TTG Live

Minister receives millionth visitor to the Park of Iguaçu

2008-11-25T06:08:00.000-08:00

The Minister of Environment, Carlos Mincer, prestige this Monday (24) the millionth visitor of the year to the National Park of Iguaçu (PR). In passing the roulette of the park, the social worker Patricia House, 32, was surprised to be received by the minister and other authorities involved in the area - among them the coordinator-general of the Visitation Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation, Julio Gonchoronsky , The head of the Iguacu National Park, Jorge Pegoraro, the mayor of Foz do Iguacu, Paulo Mac Donald Ghisi. The party took place at the Center of Visitors of the unit.

This is the fifth time the park exceeds the number of a million visitors: 1986, 1987, 2005 and 2007 also recorded the mark. It is expected that the record of visitation - that is, 2005, with 1,084,239 of visits - is exceeded in 2008.

"The proper use better protect the parks as well as generate jobs and income," said Carlos Mincer, for whom the brand consolidates the Parque Nacional do Iguacu as a model to be followed. "We want to encourage ecotourism in several other national parks: in September we launched the program in Tourism Parks, so that more people will visit them," noted the minister. "In the U.S., national parks receive 192 million visitors per year, while the Brazilians receive 3.8 million," he said.

According to the minister, one of the successful initiatives Iguazu to be applied in other national parks is the type of award delegates to the private sector the operation of services in protected areas. According Mincer, the formula is already deployed in Abrolhos (BA) and Fernando de Noronha (PE) in the coming year. "The management of the parks will remain with us, with emphasis on preservation of natural resources," he explained.

The social worker Patricia - who, like prize, won three tickets to all walks of the park, in addition to a plaque referring to the mark of one million visitors - incorporates a group of tourists from Sao Paulo who came to Foz do Iguacu on Sunday ( 23) for a stay of four days.

From: Ministry of the Environment Brazil

Photo: André Seale

Agencies partner increase 19 percent in sales of packages of the roadmap Iguassu-Misiones

2008-11-18T04:55:00.000-08:00

The roadmap integrated Iguassu-Misiones moving tourism in 32 Brazilian, Argentine and Paraguayan cities. Unprecedented in the world for formatting and attractions that brings together the roadmap was structured just over a year in the first phase of the project Technical Cooperation Network for roadmap theTourism Ministry.

For Giovani Gisler, president of the Institute Iguassu-Misiones, the body responsible for managing the roadmap, all regions participate effectively the actions of promotion and dissemination. The work has expanded articulated the generation of employment and income in the municipalities involved and has already resulted in increased sales of packages.

From 2007 to 2008, only the group of 13 agencies participating in the three countries had a growth of 19% on sales of packages of Iguassu-Misiones. "One indicator is the growth of 25% in the occupancy rate of St. Angelo during the weekend for the past four years. In this roadmap, the city has benefited largely thanks to the actions in missions and the roadmap Iguassu-Misiones, "Gisler said. The information was disclosed during the show business of 20th Tourism Festival of Gramado (RS), which last happened between 13 and 16 days in Gramado.

Another important result of the Strategic Plan for developing the roadmap is the signature of a term of cooperation between the Institute Iguassu-Misiones Regional Development Bank and the Far South (BRDE). The contracts are funded in the Brazilian side, special lines for investors. According to Gisler, the goal for 2012 is an 18% increase in occupancy rate of the means of lodging, 12% more meals sold and 6% increment in handicrafts.

From: Brazil's Ministry of Tourism

Flow of Iguazu Falls is six times above normal

2008-11-05T05:42:00.000-08:00

Because of rain in recent days, the flow of the Iguazu Falls is six times above normal. More than eight million liters of water per second.

Under the direction of National Park, the bridge came to be partially closed on the morning of Tuesday (4), but was reopened soon after. The flow of the river reached 8.6 thousand cubic meters per second, but the estimates of the Brazilian Institute of Environment and Renewable Natural Resources (IBAMA) is to decrease.

The bars have been replaced and the bridge is normal visitation.

From: Globo.com

Brazil Guide - Iguazu Falls

2008-10-08T07:16:00.000-07:00

Cataratas do Iguaçu IPA; Spanish: Cataratas del Iguazú IPA, are waterfalls of the Iguazu River located on the border of the Brazilian state of Paraná and the Argentine province of Misiones, around the coordinates 25°41'S, 54°26'W.

The waterfall system consists of about 270 falls along 2.7 kilometres (1.67 miles) of the Iguazu River. Some of the individual falls are up to 82 metres (269 feet) in height, though the majority are about 64 metres (210 feet). The Garganta del Diablo or Devil's Throat (Garganta do Diabo in Portuguese), a U-shaped 150-metre-wide and 700-metre-long (490 by 2300 feet) cliff, is the most impressive of all, and marks the border between Argentina and Brazil. Most of the falls are within Argentine territory, but from the Brazilian side a more panoramic view of the Garganta do Diabo is obtained. Many islands split up the falls, including several large ones. About 900 metres of the 2.7-kilometre length does not have water flowing over it. The first European to find the falls was the Spanish Conquistador Álvar Núñez Cabeza de Vaca, after whom one of the falls in the Argentine side is named.

The falls are shared by the Iguazú National Park (Argentina) and Iguaçu National Park (Brazil). These parks were designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1984 and 1986, respectively.

The name Iguazu comes from the Guarani words y (water) and guasu (big). The legend says that a god planned to marry a beautiful aborigine named Naipí, who fled with her mortal lover Tarobá in a canoe. In rage, the god sliced the river creating the waterfalls, condemning the lovers to an eternal fall.

There are two main towns on either side of the falls: Foz do Iguaçu in the Brazilian state of Paraná, and Puerto Iguazú in the Argentine province of Misiones. Other important tourist attractions near the falls include the Itaipu hydroelectric power plant, and the Jesuit Missions of the Guaranis in Argentina, Paraguay and Brazil.

From: Just Brazil

New 7 Wonder: Iguazu Falls

2008-10-02T08:16:00.000-07:00

ARGENTINA/ BRAZIL

Iguazu Falls, in Iguazu River, are one of the world's largest waterfalls. They extend over 2,700 m (nearly 2 miles) in a semi-circular shape. Of the 275 falls that collectively make up Iguassu Falls, "Devil's Throat" is the tallest at 80 m in height. Iguazu Falls are on the border between the Brazilian state of Paraná and the Argentine province of Misiones, and are surrounded by two National Parks (BR/ARG). Both are subtropical rainforests that are host to hundreds of rare and endangered species of flora and fauna.

From: New 7 Wonders

Hidreletric Itaipú

2008-09-25T08:19:00.000-07:00

It is the largest in operation in the world and has become one of the great attractions of the region. It offers tourist infrastructure with the visitors center, auditorium for projecting movies interpretative, and Ecomuseum of Itaipu, which displays collections of environmental and archaeological interest. The Itaipu Lake has gained importance with the deployment of tourist beaches artificial.

From: Ecoviagem

Take a bath in the Iguazu falls: Hit the feet of huge waterfalls in small boats

2008-09-22T08:18:00.000-07:00

The name of the adventure is Macuco Safari, one of the main attractions of Foz do Iguazu, in Parana.

Between screams and much adrenaline you can feel the strength of the Canyon. The adventure happens in a small boat, which takes its occupants just five meters from the area of impact of the falling water in the river. The impact of the water is so strong that generates a vibration felt in the chest.

It all starts in the modern entrance of the Iguassu National Park. There you leaves a trail that cuts the beautiful forest, where small animals like squirrels and quatis are keen to monitor the participants of the roadmap. And when least expected, the jump appears to Macuco: a drop of water crystal with 20 meters high, which form a natural pool of rocks.

Guides bilingual travel this trail explaining local history, rich in battles between Jesuits, indigenous tribes, Portuguese and Spanish. The first three kilometers of the route are losers in electric jeeps, which does not emit pollutants. And the 600 meter final until the fall of water, are travelled on foot in the middle of the jungle.

In the leap of Macuco, the adventurers embark on life-saving jackets on boats that cross bimotores canyons and cross the river toward the Iguacu falls. The only five meters from the base of waterfalls, the yelling is general. Not even the most experienced guides no longer feel the strong power of the place. The noise is deafening.

But the adventure does not end there. You can return to the place of embarkation, beside the leap of Macuco, practicing one of the most radical of adventure sports, the rafting. Each participant takes a position in an inflatable boat and the remaining rapids of the Iguacu River. There are 4.5 km of adrenaline in 30 minutes of intense contact with the force of nature.

From: www.grupoviagem.uol.com.br

In launching the programme, Minister asks that people enjoy the national parks

2008-09-18T05:40:00.000-07:00

The federal government launched last Saturday (15), a ceremony in the city of Petropolis (RJ), the programme Tourism in Parks. They were at the event the president Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, the Minister of Environment, Carlos Minc and interim Minister of Tourism, Luiz Barreto.

The objective of the programme is to increase visitation to national parks, conservation units managed by Chico Mendes Institute of Conservation of Biodiversity.

Currently, 3.5 million people visit the units of environmental conservation every year. The most visited are the Iguassu and Tijuca National Parks, which are, respectively, in Parana and Rio de Janeiro.

The Minister of Environment deplored the fact that visitation be restricted to only two national parks, where there are 64 such units in the country. "Around 192 million people visit the parks Americans a year. Our parks, 3.5 million, of which 90% of these people concentrated in two parks, and Tijuca Iguassu. "

Minc asked that all seek information on national parks in the country and try to visit them. "Our parks and reserves, in general, are less protected, and give less usufruidos injury. They have to be more usufruidos, for more scientists, more tourists and more mountaineers, and generate resources, "he said.

The President Lula stressed that in the past, the culture in relation to national parks was to the ban, where people had no authorization to participate in most activities in the unit.

"It is better to tell people how to best use and utility to give things. Only makes sense to allow people to Brazilian society to enter these places. People do not know or that the parks are, "regretted.

The President Lula stressed that in the past, the culture in relation to national parks was to the ban, where people had no authorization to participate in most activities in the unit.

"It is better to tell people how to best use and utility to give things. Only makes sense to allow people to Brazilian society to enter these places. People do not know or that the parks are, "regretted.

In the first phase of the programme will be for $ 28 million to six units of conservation: Aparados da Serra National Park (SC / RS), the Chapada dos Veadeiros (GO), the Lençóis Maranhenses (MA), the bodies of Sierra ( RJ) of Jaú (AM) and Serra da Capivara (IP).

"It's an opportunity to know the company, better understand why they keep, better understand the work of protection of the conservation units and have access to the stunning beauty that can be seen in these units," said the chairman of the Institute Chico Mendes, Rômulo Mello.

According to him, the Ministry of Tourism vai invest in the infrastructure of the surrounding parks to allow hosting and improvements in the conditions of accessibility.

Mello explained that tourism in the parks is an organized activity, which does not affect the preservation that is in search units. "The tourism that is practised within the units of conservation is a tourism oriented, where people visit the unit, understands the process of conservation."

From: Agency Brazil

Moon of Honey in wonderful Cataratas!

2008-09-09T07:13:00.000-07:00

The Iguassu is a unique and special place to live an equally unique and unforgettable moment. Wonderful, wonderful, exciting ... It is the nature with its wild aromas and aphrodisiacs. In the magic of cataracts fighting stronger the hearts of lovers, who come to lose its breath before such beauty.

From: Iguassu Falls Tour

Foz do Iguacu: She is the attraction most visited by foreigners - the famous Iguazu falls and a national park that is refreshing

2008-08-22T07:04:00.000-07:00

No Brazilian tourist attraction as the most international of the cataracts Foz. Neither the Corcovado, or the Amazon. The beauty of these rapids that despencam a semicircular crater of 2.7 km, 60 meters high the largest decrease of water volume in the world is so rare that a gringo is coming to the country without a leap there. Foz is in the west Paraná and is part of an urban area with more than 650 thousand inhabitants, formed by still Ciudad del Este, Paraguay, and Puerto Iguazú in Argentina. The city has equipped hotels, great restaurants, shopping center, and vocation for tourism business. It has to games across the bridge in Argentina.

The national park also deserves attention. It is the largest reserve of native subtropical forest on the planet. It provides shelter to 340 species of birds and 40 of mammals, including the ounce-painted, the ocelot, the white-lipped peccary, the tapir and ariranha. And yet for 60 species of reptiles from snakes, lizards, turtles and alligators, 12 species of amphibians and 18 fish. In the forest, bromeliads, orchids, cedars and araucarias form a huge garden, which have already been counted 700 kinds of butterflies. To complete the park received injection of new products, including the visitors center (with outpatient, mail, stores and snack bars), internal transport system, space of coexistence next to Porto Canoas and two panoramic elevators. But many still waters will roll with new projects that are in development, as a track on the trees.

Source: Viaje Aqui

Rafting

2008-07-15T05:44:00.000-07:00

With a duration of 30 minutes, the descent through the rapids is made in inflatable boats propelled by oars and captained by licensed professionals associated with the Brazilian Confederation of Canoeing. The Ilha do Sol Travel Agency has initiated the activity with two small boats, one with a capacity for eight people and the guide/captain, and another with a capacity for 12 people and the guide/captain. The rafting portion is optional. Visitors who take the Macuco Safari Excursion are not required to make the descent through the rapids.

Operation

The visitor who opts for the rafting descent, is instructed by the coordinators of the operation while still on the docks. There they receive all the necessary equipment (special life-jackets which differ from the model utilized on the regular Macuco Safari boats, and a helmet). Following this, the passenger embarks on the conventional boats and takes the normal route, including the baptism in the Three Musketeers Falls. On the return trip, in a calmer area near San Martin Island, the Macuco boat approaches the rafting boat and the passenger is transferred to begin the descent through the rapids.

Training

The new activity has been coordinated by Massimo Desiati, a professional with a lot of experience in the field and a 4-time Brazilian rafting champion. It was Desiati who coordinated the canoe trails in the 1994 World Nature Games. Desiati works with professionals hired for the activity for three months. Besides training in operations the guides/pilots also receive security training.

Information:

Rafting Duration: 30 minutes Boat Capacity: 8-12 peopleMinimum Age: 14Hours of Operation: 7 days a week, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (During day-light savings time from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.) Information and reservations: (0xx45) 574.42.44 - 529.6262

From: www.macucosafari.com.br

IGUAÇU EXPLORER - By land and by river

2008-07-15T05:31:00.000-07:00

The adventure begins with embarkation from Porto Meira (Iguassu River, Iguassu Falls, Brazil) in a 40-passenger capacity yacht endowed with a cabin, a covered deck, a sun deck and an American bar. From Porto Meira the boat navigates a section of the Iguassu River passing under the Tancredo Neves Bridge (Brazil - Argentina) and in front of the Landmark of the Tree Frontiers, where an excellent view of The Americas Space can be had.

The Americas Space is a project of the government of the State of Parana and was planned as a center for large- and medium-sized events. The structure, built in the contemporary style at the exact spot where the Iguassu and Parana Rivers meet, provides another post-card view of the region.

Going down the branch of the Parana River that is predominated by the famous "Dourado" fish, also know as the "Tiger of the Parana", the passenger can enjoy the beautiful riverside scenery of rocks and vegetation typical of the region while the crew serves Brazilian cocktails made from local fruits - a success among foreigners, generally lovers of a good "caipirinha".

As in Foz do Iguacu, in the city of Bonito, state of Mato Grosso do Sul you can enjoy tours of ecotourism.

Iguassu National Park

2008-07-14T13:39:00.000-07:00

ADVENTURE

Ecological trails, canyons, wild animals and a stupendous view of the Iguassu Falls are some to the attractions of this unforgettable excursion through the Iguassu National Park.

The big adventure begins at the Macuco Safari entrance gates, located at kilometer 25 of the Cataratas Highway inside the Iguassu National Park, with embarkation in open jeep-towed wagons that permit an unobstructed view of the scenery along the trail. During the stretch of three kilometers through the jungle, multi-lingual guides point out examples of the flora and fauna of the Park. Orchids, palm trees, bromeliads, centenaria trees, as well as wild animals that occasionally cross the trail are pointed out by the guides.

The hike - The second stage, a stretch of 600 meters (optional), is a hike on a trail that leads to a waterfall baptized "Macuco Falls". The waterfall - perfect for a refreshing dip on days of intense heat - spills down from a height of approximately 20 meters. Access is via a stairway carved into the ancient rock. The last stop is the Macuco Safari docks on the Brazilian side of the Iguassu River.

In the water, inflatable bi-motor boats, constructed to withstand the rigors of the excursion, are secure and efficient vessels. Before embarkation, passengers receive life-vests and plastic containers in which to protect photographic and filming equipment. The boat travels up-river passing the canyon facing the rapids at a speed that permits the appreciation of the scenery. Rocks, animals and a lot of greenery completes the scenery until the base of the Falls is reached, next to the "great horseshoe" know as the "Devil's Throat".

Waterfall shower - Rainbows, blue sky, mist and water in profusion, punctuate the spectacle that has as its high-point the area of the Falls baptized "The Three Musketeers". There the captain manuvers the boat in order to get close enough to provide the passengers with a quick and refreshing shower. Since at the end of the fun everyone normally ends-up wet, the passengers more sensitive to cold should not dispense with extra clothes to use after the boat excursion.

Another important detail: use comfortable shoes and clothes

From: www.macucosafari.com.br

The Legend of the Falls

2008-07-11T13:30:00.000-07:00

Legend has it that the Caigangue Indians, who inhabited the banks of the Iguaçú river, believed that the world was ruled by M'Boy, a god in the shape of a serpent and who was the son of Tupa. Igobi, the tribe chieftain, had a daughter named Naipi, who was so beautiful that the water of the river remained still every time she looked at herself in them. Because of her beauty, Naipi had been promised to M'Boy and lived solely to worship the god. However, there was among the Caiguange a young warrior named Tarobá, who fell in love with Naipi.

On the day the beautiful Indian maiden was to be consecrated, while the chieftain and the witch doctor drank cauim (a drink made of fermented corn) and the warriors were busy dancing, Tarobá took the opportunity and eloped down river on a canoe with beautiful Naipi. When M'Boy realized that Tarobá and Naipi had run away together, became furious and dove deep into the ground, twisting his body and producing a large gorge that gave birth to a huge waterfall.

Engulfed by the water, the canoe and the escapees fell from a great height and disappeared forever. The legend says that Naipi was turned into one of the rocks in the center of the falls, which is permanently flogged by the raging waters.

Tarobá was turned into a palm tree standing at the edge of a cliff, leaning on the river gorge. Under this palm tree, there is the entrance of a cave under the Devil's Gorge where the vengeful monster lies eternally watching its two victims.

Photo: André Seale