The Bird Park (Parque de Aves) in Foz do Iguaçu is a must-see for bird enthusiasts and anyone interested in learning about Brazilian and Latin American fauna. Explore the 40 acres (16 hectares) of native woodland and forest to discover over 800 birds in addition to butterflies, reptiles, insects and monkeys.
Follow the self-guided and wheelchair-accessible wooden trail that leads through the park to aviaries and greenhouses. Along the trail you’ll spot birds flying freely overhead or perched in the treetops, fish swimming in ponds and reptiles playing in man-made lakes.
Listen to singing thrushes and watch curassows searching for food in the Forest Nursery, an Atlantic Forest re-creation that covers much of Parque Nacional do Iguaçu. Meet aquatic birds such as flamingos and toucans at the Patanal Nursery. This simulates the biodiversity of Brazil’s Patanal, one of the world’s most important tropical wetland regions. Look for lizards and snakes in the Reptile Lair.
Find aviaries dedicated to ararajubas and macaws, two of Brazil’s symbolic birds. Come face-to-face with the flightless cassowary, considered to be one of the world’s most dangerous birds. Step inside the Kingdom of Butterflies to experience the kaleidoscope of colours created by numerous butterfly species and hummingbirds.
At the end of the trail you’ll get the chance to meet a tame macaw parrot and have your picture taken with it perched on your arm. Brave visitors might also want to take a photo while holding a python. Round out your visit at the park’s café, which overlooks a flamingo pond.
Located close to the entrance to Parque Nacional do Iguaçu, the aviary is a 20-minute drive from the centre of Foz do Iguaçu. A public bus service runs between the park and city centre. Those arriving by car can use free on-site parking.
Bird Park is open daily. Allow up to 3 hours to see all of the attractions. Visit the park’s official website for complete opening hours and admission fees.
