Welcome to São Miguel do Iguaçu, a beautiful municipality located in the state of Paraná in the Southern Region of Brazil. This hidden gem is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor, Foz do Iguaçu, but it has plenty to offer visitors who are looking for a more off-the-beaten-path experience.
One of the main attractions in São Miguel do Iguaçu is the Santa Maria Ecological Corridor, which was created in 2001 to protect the region’s unique flora and fauna. The corridor covers a vast area of over 200,000 hectares and is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including jaguars, ocelots, and howler monkeys. Visitors can explore the corridor on foot or by bike, taking in the stunning scenery and spotting wildlife along the way.
Another must-see attraction in São Miguel do Iguaçu is the Itaipu Dam, one of the largest hydroelectric power plants in the world. The dam is located on the Paraná River and provides electricity to both Brazil and Paraguay. Visitors can take a guided tour of the dam and learn about its history and construction, as well as its impact on the local environment.
For those who are interested in history and culture, São Miguel do Iguaçu has plenty to offer as well. The municipality is home to several museums and cultural centers, including the Municipal Museum of São Miguel do Iguaçu and the Cultural Center of São Miguel do Iguaçu. These institutions showcase the region’s rich history and cultural heritage, with exhibits on everything from indigenous peoples to the arrival of European settlers.
Finally, no visit to São Miguel do Iguaçu would be complete without sampling some of the local cuisine. The region is known for its delicious beef dishes, as well as its traditional Brazilian barbecue. Visitors can also try local specialties like arroz carreteiro (a rice dish with beef and vegetables) and barreado (a slow-cooked beef stew).
In conclusion, São Miguel do Iguaçu is a hidden gem that is well worth a visit for anyone who is looking for a more off-the-beaten-path experience in Brazil. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history and culture, and delicious cuisine, this municipality has something to offer everyone. So why not add São Miguel do Iguaçu to your travel bucket list today?