engineering attraction · Foz do Iguaçu, PR
Usina Hidrelétrica de Itaipu
A binational Brazil-Paraguay project and one of the largest hydroelectric plants in the world, with panoramic tours and a tour inside the dam. At night, special lighting turns the dam wall into a show.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Usina Hidrelétrica de Itaipu
Itaipu is a binational plant, shared by Brazil and Paraguay, built on the Rio Paraná under the treaty signed on April 26, 1973. The first unit began generating power in 1984, and the last of the 20 units, each rated at 700 MW, went into operation in 2007. Total capacity is 14,000 MW. In 2016 the plant produced more than 103 million MWh, a world record for generation in one year.
You grasp the size up close. The main dam is 196 meters high, like a building of more than 60 stories, and the whole set of dams adds up to almost 8 km. For the construction, the Rio Paraná was diverted in 1978; the reservoir filled in October 1982 and formed a lake of 135,000 hectares. Itaipu supplies a significant share of Brazil's energy and most of Paraguay's.
Visits are made on guided tours that leave from the Visitor Reception Center. The Panorâmica, by bus, passes the viewpoint and runs across the top of the dam. The Circuito Especial goes inside the plant: the control room, the galleries and the turbine area, over the line that divides the two countries. On Friday and Saturday nights, Itaipu Iluminada shows off the dam with lights and sound.
If you are interested in nature, there is the Refúgio Biológico (biological refuge), a preservation area created along with the plant, with trails and rescued animals. The Ecomuseu tells the story of the construction and the region. All tours include an X-ray bag check and a metal detector, and drones are prohibited.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
Just over an hour for the Panorâmica; about two and a half hours for the Circuito Especial.
Best time
Any time of year. To see the spillway releasing water, the rainy months give you a better chance, but it depends on the reservoir level. Some tours do not run on Tuesdays: check the website before you go.
How to get there
The Visitor Reception Center is at Av. Tancredo Neves, 6702. By city bus, there are lines leaving from the Terminal de Transporte Urbano (TTU) downtown; or go by car, taxi or ride-hailing app.
Tip
Bring an official photo ID: it is required on all tours. The Circuito Especial requires closed-toe, low-heeled shoes and does not admit anyone under 14.
Official website
A look at the place
Usina Hidrelétrica de Itaipu in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
Click the picture to enlarge it.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Usina Hidrelétrica de Itaipu
Can children do the Circuito Especial?
No. The Circuito Especial, which goes inside the plant, is only for those over 14, even when accompanied. The Visita Panorâmica is open to all ages.
Do I need to bring ID?
Yes. An official photo ID is required on the tours.
Is there a dress code or required footwear?
On the Circuito Especial, yes: closed-toe, low-heeled shoes. Avoid long skirts and very loose pants, because the route has stairs and service walkways.
Is Itaipu open on Tuesdays?
Some tours do not run on Tuesdays. The Visita Panorâmica is listed as daily. Check the official website before you go.