Parana is a region located in the southern part of Brazil, a country in South America, and is known for its diverse geography and climate.

Quick Facts

Land Area199,298 km², about the size of the state of Kansas
Highest PointPico Paraná, 1,877 meters
Lowest PointAtlantic Ocean, 0 meters
Coastline742 km
BordersSão Paulo, Santa Catarina, Mato Grosso do Sul, Argentina, and the Atlantic Ocean
Climate Typesubtropical

Location & Borders

Parana is situated in the southern part of Brazil, bordering the countries of Argentina to the southwest and the Brazilian states of São Paulo to the northeast, Santa Catarina to the south, and Mato Grosso do Sul to the northwest. The region is bounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the east, providing a coastline of approximately 742 kilometers. The Paraná River, which forms the border with Argentina and Paraguay, is an important geographical feature of the region.

The location of Parana makes it a significant region in Brazil, with its capital city, Curitiba, being an important economic and cultural center. The region's borders with other Brazilian states and countries also make it a key location for trade and commerce. The Paraná River, which flows through the region, is an important transportation route and provides hydroelectric power to the region.

Terrain & Landscape

The terrain of Parana is diverse, with a range of landscapes including mountains, valleys, and coastal plains. The Serra do Mar mountain range runs along the eastern coast of the region, with peaks reaching elevations of over 1,800 meters. The Iguaçu Falls, one of the world's largest waterfalls, is located on the border with Argentina and is a major tourist attraction. The region's landscape is also characterized by the Paraná River and its tributaries, which flow through the region and provide water and transportation routes.

The region's terrain is also home to a range of forests, including the Atlantic Forest, which covers much of the coastal region, and the Araucaria Forest, which is found in the mountainous regions. The forests of Parana are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including many endemic species that are found nowhere else in the world. The region's terrain and landscape make it a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and rafting.

The coastal region of Parana is characterized by a range of beaches and coastal towns, including the popular tourist destination of Guarapari. The coastal region is also home to a range of islands and estuaries, which provide habitat for a diverse range of marine life. The region's coastline is also an important location for fishing and aquaculture, with many fishing villages and ports located along the coast.

Climate By Season

SeasonMonthsTemperature RangeRainfallConditions
SummerDecember to February22-30°CHighHot and humid
AutumnMarch to May18-25°CMediumMild and pleasant
WinterJune to August10-18°CLowCool and dry
SpringSeptember to November15-22°CMediumMild and sunny

Best Time To Visit

Best months: September to November and March to May. Why: These periods offer mild and pleasant weather, with temperatures ranging from 15-25°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Avoid: December to February, as the summer months can be hot and humid, and June to August, as the winter months can be cool and dry.

Natural Highlights

  • Iguaçu Falls: one of the world's largest waterfalls, located on the border with Argentina
  • Serra do Mar: a mountain range that runs along the eastern coast of the region, with peaks reaching elevations of over 1,800 meters
  • Atlantic Forest: a diverse and threatened ecosystem that covers much of the coastal region
  • Araucaria Forest: a unique and endangered ecosystem found in the mountainous regions
  • Paraná River: a major river that flows through the region and provides water and transportation routes
  • Vila Velha State Park: a park that features unique sandstone formations and a diverse range of flora and fauna