Welcome to Parque das Aves, the Bird Sanctuary Rio de Janeiro, nestled near the stunning Iguazu National Park. Immerse yourself in this tropical paradise for birds as you journey through 16.5 hectares of lush Atlantic Rainforest, meticulously maintained to provide an ideal habitat for over 1320 birds from 143 different species.
Help fund the park's ongoing work to preserve these beautiful birds and many endangered species and experience this amazing bird sanctuary for yourself on several of our South American small group tours.
Overview
- About the Iguazu Falls Bird Park: A Bird Sanctuary in Rio de Janeiro
- The species to be found in the Bird Sanctuary Rio de Janeiro
- How your visit helps bird conservation continue
- Visit the Bird Sanctuary of Rio de Janeiro with Bunnik Tours
About the Iguazu Falls Bird Park: A Bird Sanctuary in Rio de Janeiro
The Parque das Aves simply meaning ‘bird park’ is a sanctuary and shelter for birds near Iguaçu Falls.
The Iguazu Falls Bird Park comprises mainly birds but is also home to animals and butterflies. It was opened in 1994 and set in over 16 hectares of forest.
As you traverse the extensive park, encounter the vibrant life of the Peach-fronted Parakeet, the majestic Red-legged Seriema, and the striking Scarlet Macaw. Experience the thrill of being up close and personal with these feathered friends in the massive immersion aviaries, where the beat of wings and the gaze of a toucan become unforgettable moments.
Peach-fronted Parakeet
Hummingbird
The species to be found in the Bird Sanctuary Rio de Janeiro
More than 800 species of birds from all over Brazil and South America, as well as some species native to Australia and Africa can be found in the park. It is not only home to birds but also caymans, fresh-water turtles and even snakes such as the deadly anaconda.
About half the birds in the park are born in the park to increase the number of certain species. If you like toucans you will find a variety that sit on the fence and fly from place to place enjoying your company. There are macaws, flamingos, rheas, ostriches, cassowaries, owls, conures, hummingbirds and more.
Possibly the most popular bird to see is the blue-and-gold Macaw which is a member of the large group of neotropical parrots known as macaws. They can live from 30 to 35 years in the wild.
Butterflies and hummingbirds can also be found at the Bird Park where the environmental work spans many different types of wings. The butterflies and hummingbirds have a sanctuary of their own in the park where if you stay still long enough the butterflies will come to rest on you, get ready for a photo opportunity!
Red-legged Seriema
Toco Toucan
How your visit helps bird conservation continue
The park provides an opportunity for important conservation of bird species and habitat to remain protected. The main purpose of Parque das Aves was to rescue and shelter injured birds, increase the numbers of native species, conduct reforestation, and provide environmental education. It is a center for nature conservation, and according to the park's brochure:
‘We give you, the visitor, a unique experience of direct contact with the natural world, and your entrance fee helps us to continue with our work.’
This work is necessary for multiple reasons including habitat destruction and animal capture/trade. Most birds (54%) in the bird park come from mistreatment and animal trafficking. Most parrots that come from animal trafficking or mistreatment cannot be returned to the wild, and thus, need a new home. The Iguazu Bird Park promotes the environmental education of people and creates a place where people can feel closer to nature again. A walk through this extensive park offers a unique and unforgettable experience in nature.
Get up close and personal in the huge immersion aviaries where you can feel the beat of wings from vibrant macaws and look into the eyes of a toucan!
Grey Crowned Crane
Flamingo
Visit the Bird Sanctuary of Rio de Janeiro with Bunnik Tours
South & Central America has so much to offer, ready to add it to your bucket list? There’s no better way to experience this region than to visit on a Bunnik Tour!
The South American Explorer is a 28-day tour where you can explore the incredible wonders of South America during a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Discover the delights of Peru, from the diverse Amazon Jungle to the Sacred Valley and mesmerising Machu Picchu. Venture into Argentina and Brazil and see the spectacular Iguazu Falls. Experience the incredible highlights of Rio and Buenos Aires, two cosmopolitan cities bursting with life and colour. Book a Bunnik small group tour online or get in touch with one of our friendly Travel Specialists to learn more about our South & Central America Tour today!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Blu Bird Sanctuary in Rio de Janeiro?
The Blu Bird Sanctuary is a fictional bird sanctuary in Rio de Janeiro from the movie “Rio”. The American animated musical adventure comedy film was produced by Blue Sky Studios and 20th Century Fox Animation and released in 2011.
However, the movie “Rio” is partly based on a true story and a real species of Macaw. The movie refers to Blu as a Blue Macaw, however, at a later point in the movie Cyanopsitta Spixii species is mentioned. The Spix Macaw is one of four Blue Macaw species and was endemic to Brazil.
What animals are in the Iguazu National Park?
The subtropical rainforest is home to the typical wildlife of the region: tapirs, giant anteaters, howler monkeys, ocelots, jaguars and caymans, along with around 400 bird species, including the elusive Harpy Eagle.
Why is Iguazu National Park important?
Iguazu National Park is a major international tourist site. A few years ago, UNESCO chose it as one of the New Seven Natural Wonders of the World. It is a unique natural environment comprising 275 waterfalls, of which 80% are located on the Argentine side.
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