Foz do Iguacu

This rainforest walk or bike, in the heart of the national park, is the best option for wildlife watchers. It’s well away from the crowds, in pristine rainforest and if you do it as a tour, will include kayaking on the Iguacu River.

One of the best small aviaries in the world, with spectacular rare species from the Atlantic coastal rainforests, metre-long blue macaws and the world’s largest eagles. The aviary runs an important conservation programme.

A traditional Buddhist temple in Brazil? The country has the largest ethnic Japanese population in the world outside Japan. This traditional temple belongs to the Amitabha Pure Land school of Japanese Mahayana Buddhism. It’s easy to visit on the edge of Foz do Iguacu town, and is a lovely, peaceful place and a curiosity for those unaware of Brazil’s Japanese heritage.

There are falconry centres everywhere, but they don’t have the huge tropical eagles and owls you’ll find here. And you get to handle them as well as see them fly. A good place to see the extraordinary Harpys Eagle.

The Rafain Steakhouse in Foz de Iguacu is the host of this showcase of traditional Brazilian music and dance, accompanied by Brazilian BBQ. We’ve included it for completeness, but be warned the venue is quite crowded, and the food and show are mediocre, but if you go with sensible expectations, it can be an enjoyable evening’s entertainment.