Background

Itaipu Dam: A Modern Engineering Marvel

Explore the immense Itaipu Dam, a marvel of engineering and a vital source of clean energy between Brazil and Paraguay.

4.8

The Itaipu Dam, a binational project between Brazil and Paraguay, stands as one of the world's largest hydroelectric power plants. Visitors can explore its immense structure and learn about its vital role in generating clean, renewable energy for both countries.

A brief summary to Turismo Itaipu Brasil

Local tips

  • Book your tour in advance, especially for the Special Tour, as spaces fill up quickly.
  • Check the official Turismo Itaipu website for the most up-to-date tour schedules and prices.
  • Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for walking, as some tours involve a fair amount of walking.
  • Bring your ID, as it is required for entry to the Itaipu Dam complex.
  • Consider visiting the Ecomuseum to learn more about the history, construction, and environmental aspects of the Itaipu Dam.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From the central terminal in Foz do Iguaçu, take bus lines 101 or 102 (Itaipu Dam, Vila C Norte, or Vila C Sul). The journey takes approximately 30 minutes. The bus will drop you off near the Visitor Reception Center. A bus ticket costs around R$3.25.

  • Taxi/Ride-sharing

    A taxi or ride-sharing service from the center of Foz do Iguaçu to Itaipu Dam takes approximately 15 minutes. An Uber ride may cost around R$25, but fares can vary.

  • Car

    Drive from the center of Foz do Iguaçu to Itaipu Dam, which is about 12 km away. Parking is available at the Itaipu Plant for R$26 per day. Residents of the region may be eligible for a 50% discount on parking fees.

Unlock the Best of Turismo Itaipu Brasil

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Turismo Itaipu Brasil

The Itaipu Dam, located on the Paraná River between Brazil and Paraguay, is a testament to modern engineering and international cooperation. The name "Itaipu" comes from an island that once existed near the construction site and means "the sounding stone" in the Guarani language. This massive hydroelectric power plant, inaugurated in 1984, is jointly administered by the two countries and is essential in supplying energy to their populations. Itaipu was the result of serious negotiations between Brazil and Paraguay during the 1960s. The "Ata do Iguaçu" (Iguaçu Act) was signed in 1966, representing a joint declaration of interest in studying the exploitation of the hydro resources shared by both countries. The Itaipu Treaty was signed in 1973, which provided the legal instrument for the hydroelectric exploitation of the Paraná River by the two countries. Itaipu Binacional was then created in 1974 to administer the plant’s construction. The dam's construction began in 1975 and was completed in 1991, with further expansion completed in 2003. The project included the construction of a 7,919m-long and 196m-high dam. Approximately 50 million tons of earth were removed during construction, and the dam used 12.3 million m³ of concrete. The dam has twenty generating units, ten generate at 50 Hz for Paraguay and ten generate at 60 Hz for Brazil. Itaipu offers several tours, including the Panoramic Tour, the Special Tour, the Itaipu Illuminated Tour, and the Biological Refuge Tour. The Panoramic Tour provides a comprehensive overview of the dam's exterior, while the Special Tour includes visits to the interior of the dam and the machine house. The Itaipu Illuminated Tour offers a nighttime spectacle of the dam illuminated with lights. The Biological Refuge Tour explores the region's biodiversity. Visiting Itaipu is an opportunity to witness a monumental engineering achievement and learn about sustainable energy production.

Popular Experiences near Turismo Itaipu Brasil

Popular Hotels near Turismo Itaipu Brasil

Select Currency