Paranagua
Tucked along the rim of a serene, well-protected lagoon, prosperous Paranagua has been modernized to accommodate its growing status as one of Brazil’s most important ports for exporting coffee. Still, the city hasn’t forgotten its proud colonial past, which dates back more than 400 years. The historic center reveals treasures such as the Church of Sao Benedito, where slaves once worshipped, and the Museum of Archaeology and Popular Art, a former Jesuit college that now houses a fine collection of local artifacts, including intricate baskets, fine lace and fishing implements of the early Tupi-Guarani Indians. From Paranaqua, visitors can reach Iguaçu Falls, an amazing natural phenomenon comprised of 275 individual waterfalls that span the broad Iguaçu River, which separates Brazil from Argentina. Niagara Falls is but a trickle in comparison to this thundering, must-see attraction in the heart of the jungle.