DEHUROEN

Plizio Visual Lab

Paraná River

Plizio editorial teamData Sources
River
—°
Paraná River (Brazil)

Weather…

The Paraná River is the second longest river in South America after the Amazon, stretching approximately 4,880 kilometers. It originates in southern Brazil at the confluence of the Rio Grande and Paranaíba rivers, flowing through Paraguay and Argentina before emptying into the Río de la Plata estuary. Its drainage basin covers about 2.6 million square kilometers and is of immense economic importance to the region. The upper course of the Paraná hosts the Itaipu Dam, one of the world's largest hydroelectric power plants, providing a significant portion of the electricity for Brazil and Paraguay. The river serves as a crucial waterway for transporting grain and industrial goods from the interior to the Atlantic Ocean. Ecologically, the system is highly diverse, home to numerous fish species including the prized dorado. The river's flow is subject to seasonal fluctuations, largely dictated by subtropical rainfall patterns in the Brazilian highlands.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Aug, Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C242423211716151719222224
Rain mm1661491181071541149077104191151171

📋 Practical info

🧭
Getting there
Generally accessible from major river port cities along its route or designated viewpoints. Boat tours or riverside roads usually provide the best approaches.
📅
Best season
Usually best visited during the dry season from May to September to avoid heavy flooding and enjoy clearer waters. The warmer months are typical for water activities.
⛰️
Terrain & paths
Riverbanks vary from industrial port areas to natural floodplains and dense surrounding vegetation. Visitors should expect muddy or sandy stretches near the water edge.
🎒
What to bring
Bring plenty of mosquito repellent, sun protection, and sturdy footwear for uneven riverbanks. A waterproof bag for electronics is highly recommended for most boat trips.
🅿️
Parking
Normally available at local marinas, public riverfront areas, or town centers along the banks. Unofficial riverside parking spots should always be used with extreme caution.
⚠️
Safety
River currents can be surprisingly strong, so generally only swim in officially designated areas. Be constantly aware of local boat traffic and potential sudden water level changes.
⏱️
Time needed
A typical sightseeing boat tour or riverside walk lasts around two to four hours for most visitors. Multi-day river cruises are also a common way to explore longer stretches.

Geography

Coordinates
-25.00000, -53.00000

Facts

  • Its length of 4,880 km makes it the second longest river in South America.
  • The drainage basin covers an area of 2,582,672 square kilometers.
  • The Itaipu hydroelectric dam on the river began operation in 1984.
  • It forms a long natural border between Brazil and Paraguay.
  • It joins the Uruguay River to form the massive Río de la Plata estuary.
  • The river carries millions of tons of sediment to its delta each year.

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Rio Paraná?
It is about 4,880 km long, making it the second longest river in South America.
Which famous dam is located on this river?
The Itaipú Dam, one of the largest hydroelectric power plants in the world.
Which countries border the Rio Paraná?
It flows through Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina.
Can you fish in the river?
Yes, it is famous for sport fishing, especially for the large Dorado.
Where does the Rio Paraná empty?
It joins the Uruguay River to form the Río de la Plata.
Paraná River: where is it located?
Paraná River is located in Brazil.
Paraná River: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Aug, Sep.
Paraná River: why is it worth visiting?
The Paraná River is the second longest river in South America after the Amazon, stretching approximately 4,880 kilometers.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
South America
Explore with Plizio Discover more places in South America
More places in Brazil →

Nearby cities

Curitiba — Paraná River (Brazil)
Curitiba
The capital of Paraná, globally recognized for its innovative urban and ecological solutions.
Londrina — Paraná River (Brazil)
Londrina
A thriving university city in northern Paraná, originally planned by British investors for coffee cultivation.
Bonito — Paraná River (Brazil)
Bonito
A premier ecotourism destination in Mato Grosso do Sul.
Maringá — Paraná River (Brazil)
Maringá
A very green, planned city in the interior of Paraná, known for its quality of life and its conical cathedral.

History & landmarks

Wire Opera House — Paraná River (Brazil)
Wire Opera House
A unique circular theater made of steel tubes and polycarbonate, built in the middle of a former quarry.
Greenhouse of the Botanical Garden — Paraná River (Brazil)
Greenhouse of the Botanical Garden
A beautiful Art Nouveau-style greenhouse that became the architectural symbol of Curitiba.

Nature

Iguazu River — Paraná River (Brazil)
Iguazu River
The Iguaçu River is best known for forming Iguazu Falls on the border between Brazil and Argentina.

More places

Bird Park Foz do Iguaçu — Paraná River (Brazil)
Bird Park Foz do Iguaçu
An ecological park focusing on the conservation of Atlantic Rainforest bird species.
Itaipu Dam — Paraná River (Brazil)
Itaipu Dam
A monumental hydroelectric dam on the Paraná River, supplying a massive amount of electricity to both Brazil and Paraguay.
Curitiba Zoo — Paraná River (Brazil)
Curitiba Zoo
An extensive zoo in southern Brazil that is part of a large regional park and houses many endangered species.
Morretes — Paraná River (Brazil)
Morretes
A charming historic town in Paraná, famous for its traditional Barreado dish and the train ride through the Atlantic Forest.
Antonina — Paraná River (Brazil)
Antonina
A historic port city in the state of Paraná, surrounded by the lush nature of the Serra do Mar.
Port of Paranaguá — Paraná River (Brazil)
Port of Paranaguá
Paranaguá is one of the most important ports in Brazil for agricultural exports.