As the eighth largest city in the country, Curitiba is not only an ecological pioneer, but also a cultural melting pot, bringing together residents from diverse backgrounds such as Poland, Italy, Jews and Japan to weave the unique tapestry of the city.

Although not as famous as Rio de Janeiro or Sao Paulo, Curitiba is attracting more and more travelers with its vast parks, iconic architecture and relentless pursuit of sustainable development.

In the city, lush green areas like a necklace, one of the most eye-catching is the elegant botanical garden, like a peaceful oasis in the urban jungle. Dotted with Art Nouveau and neoclassical buildings, they stand in stark contrast to the surrounding skyscrapers and tell the story of Curitiba.

Curitiba is also a gateway to the surrounding natural wonders. To the west, spectacular sandstone formations stand; To the east, lush coastal rainforests and long surf beaches await explorers.

Best time to go: Spring in Curitiba

Curitiba's climate is like eternal spring, without the intense heat or mountain cold common in other parts of the South American continent. Mild temperatures and moderate rainfall make February and March a prime time to visit, coinciding with the city's relatively low-key Carnival, which usually kicks off in late February.

Curitiba: An experience not to be missed

An escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, Curitiba's Botanical Garden is an oasis of peace, centered on a lake and surrounded by an exquisite glass and metal greenhouse that houses the exuberance of tropical plants. Stroll through the carefully arranged French gardens or meander through the lush woodlands. Grab a picnic or relax in the small cafe in the garden and soak up the greenery.

The Rio Botanical Garden and Monte Cristo in the clouds

The Botanical Gardens of Rio de Janeiro were founded by King Joao VI of Portugal in 1808, shortly after the Portuguese royal family moved to Brazil. There is the famous Palm Avenue in the garden, and in many places you can overlook Monte Cristo. There are orchids, ferns and other plants planted in the greenhouses in the garden, and rose gardens and water lily pools are also arranged outside, which is a paradise for plant lovers.

The Botanical garden charges from 18 to 73 reals (about 27 to 110 yuan) for residents of Rio Grande, Brazilian residents, Mercosur members and foreigners. Opening hours are listed on the website as 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., closing on Wednesdays.

Curitiba's landmark complex, the Oscar Niemeyer Museum, is a tribute to modernist architecture. The work of the legendary architect who shaped Brasilia in the 1950s is on vivid display here.

Since 2002, the museum has attracted attention with its iconic "eye" shaped tower, which rises from a man-made pond and projects playful silhouettes of dancers. The museum not only exhibits masterpieces by Brazilian and international artists since the beginning of the 20th century, but also has a special area dedicated to the life and work of Niemeyer himself.

Lakis Malachses National Park

Covering an area of 155,000 hectares, the sand dunes in Lakhis Malakhses National Park could be mistaken for desert. But this park on the northeast coast of Brazil shows the charm that nature can bring to us, and the park is mainly composed of coastal sand dunes that look like a desert. But during the rainy season from January to June, the desert transforms into a magical place with beautiful lagoons dotted with white sand beaches. The contrast between the crystal clear lagoon and the sandy beach is a marvel of nature.

Covering an area of 155,000 hectares, the sand dunes in Lakhis Malakhses National Park could be mistaken for desert. But this park on the northeast coast of Brazil shows the charm that nature can bring to us, and the park is mainly composed of coastal sand dunes that look like a desert. But during the rainy season from January to June, the desert transforms into a magical place with beautiful lagoons dotted with white sand beaches. The contrast between the crystal clear lagoon and the sandy beach is a marvel of nature.