The Itaipu Binacional’s Tekotopa Environmental Centre has officially opened, providing a space dedicated to sustainability, environmental preservation, education, and community engagement. Located in Hernandarias, Paraguay’s Alto Paraná Department, the new centre welcoms visitors since 20 September, 2025, and aims to become a landmark attraction.
The purpose is clear: to inspire people of all ages to connect with nature, learn about biodiversity, and value environmental conservation. Through interactive experiences, the centre highlights the importance of protecting ecosystems while fostering awareness about sustainable practices and responsible natural resource management.
A glimpse inside Tekotopa
The centre will offer an educational and cultural experience through exhibits focusing on culture, energy, flora, fauna, and water. These components aim to improve visitors’ understanding of the human-natural environment relationship, reinforcing the importance of conservation.
During a previous tour, Architect Maribel Cabrera highlighted the centre’s diverse components, designed to attract the general public as well as technical and scientific professionals. Cabrera emphasised that Tekotopa’s opening will support the conservation of the Upper Paraná Atlantic Forest (Bosque Atlántico del Alto Paraná or BAAPA) while promoting education and regional biodiversity.
Key attractions and educational focus
Key attractions include the Jaguar Trail (Sendero del Jaguareté), a Forest Nursery (Vivero Forestal), a Medicinal Plant Garden (Huerto de Plantas Medicinales), the Wildlife Research Centre (Centro de Investigación de Animales Silvestres or CIASI), and an Interpretive Centre. These promote environmental education, sustainable tourism, and animal welfare.
“With Tekotopa, we want visitors to enjoy an encounter with life,” Cabrera stated. She emphasised that this integrated space aims to promote knowledge of biodiversity and sustainability. The centre also supports applied research in environmental conservation and responsible natural resource management.
Commitment to animal welfare and research
The project, initiated in 2017, includes appropriate animal infrastructure and a philosophical component. Tekotopa focuses on biodiversity, water resources, and the natural and cultural heritage of the BAAPA.
Santiago Molinas, CIASI veterinarian, explained: “We want people to see that the animals are well cared for in an environment close to their natural habitat. Considering animal welfare, we incorporate rocks, trees, and vegetation. Some animals have smaller pools, others larger. These features are essential for understanding the connection between each animal and its environment.
Currently, CIASI houses 10 species, encompassing 26 specimens of mammals, birds, and reptiles. The aim is to expand this to 15-16 species, totaling 36 specimens. Molinas detailed the meticulous animal relocation process, ensuring their well-being.
“The animals at Tekotopa are ambassadors for their species, representing populations in other areas with different conditions, like the CIASI,” he stated.
Opening schedule and access
To visit the centre, prior booking is required either through Itaipu’s official link or by calling 061 5998040 / 8094. Upon arrival, travellers need to perform their registration at the Visitor Reception Centre (CRV) in Hernandarias. The attraction will operate every day except on Tuesdays, when maintenance activities take place. Visitation hours range from 08:30 to 15:30, and visitors will have free access during the inaugural period.
All visitors must present a valid ID, additionally bringing sunscreen, insect repellent, and an individual water bottle is recommended. Furthermore, the tour lasts approximately 90 minutes, and children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Moreover, visitors may not bring pets or fly drones on the premises to ensure safety and respect for the environment. Because the visit takes place in nature, staff may cancel tours during bad weather to ensure visitors safety.
Itaipu’s Tekotopa Environmental Centre is set to become a key attraction in Alto Paraná, focusing on environmental education and the preservation of flora and fauna. Tekotopa’s interdisciplinary approach and commitment to environmental preservation position it as a vital space for connecting with life, offering access to knowledge and resources for the public and conservation specialists alike. For more info, visit the Itaipu’s Tekotop website.
