Curitiba, the capital of the Brazilian state of Paraná, is the biggest city in Southern Brazil. Despite its size, it is considered by some people to be an ‘unknown’ destination. Most travellers also do not even imagine the exuberant flora and fauna found in the city and its surrounding areas, especially the wonderful islands on Paraná’s coastline, a land of amazing landscapes, rich animal and vegetation biodiversity, spectacular bends, canyons, gorges, waterfalls and a lot more.

Modelled after the world-renowned elegance of some of France’s foremost gardens, the Botanical Garden of Curitiba (Jardim Botânico de Curitiba) is one of the top landmarks of the city. The greenhouse, pictured here, is a two-storey metal structure that resembles the famous Crystal Palace of London.