Visiting Itaipu Binacional: Tickets, Tours, and What to Expect

Visiting Itaipu Binacional is an unmissable experience in Foz do Iguaçu. While the city is world-famous for the Iguaçu Falls, touring the Itaipu Hydroelectric Plant offers a unique and educational experience for all types of travelers.

Brazil and Paraguay share the energy produced by the plant’s twenty turbines and also the workforce that keeps Itaipu running. The hydroelectric project played a key role in the development of Foz do Iguaçu, as at the peak of its construction, the site employed up to forty thousand workers simultaneously. .

Photo by: Explore With Mary

Itaipu Binacional Offers Five Different Tours:

Photo by: Explore With Mary

🔹 1. Itaipu Special – Behind-the-scenes technical tour

Perfect for those who want an in-depth look at the plant’s operations. This tour takes visitors inside restricted areas, with detailed explanations of Itaipu’s control mechanisms and power generation process.

🔹 2. Itaipu Panoramic – A general overview

If you’re looking for a shorter experience, the panoramic tour offers breathtaking views of the plant and dam from various strategic viewpoints.

🔹 3. Itaipu Illuminated – A nighttime spectacle

One of the most spectacular attractions! At night, the dam is beautifully illuminated, creating a stunning visual experience.

🔹 4. Biological Refuge – A nature-focused tour

Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, this 2-kilometer guided walk takes visitors through a preserved natural area within the Itaipu complex, where you can spot a variety of native species.

🔹 5. Itaipu by Bike – A cycling adventure

A one-of-a-kind experience for cyclists! This 17-kilometer bike tour allows visitors to explore Itaipu’s surroundings through dedicated bike paths and scenic trails.

Tickets are available online, or you can buy them on-site. However, I recommend purchasing online because some tours may sell out if you wait until the last minute.

Which Itaipu Tour is the Best?

The best tour depends on your interests. The panoramic visit is great for those who just want to admire the plant's impressive structure, while the special circuit offers a deeper dive into its inner workings, perfect for those fascinated by engineering and energy production. The Itaipu Illuminated tour is a shorter, family-friendly option that guarantees stunning nighttime views of the dam.

I took the panoramic tour and had an amazing time—it was a great experience, and I got to capture some awesome photos! No matter which tour you choose, visiting Itaipu is one of the best things to do in Foz do Iguaçu!