Information
Landmark: Parque San JoséCity: Encarnacion
Country: Paraguay
Continent: South America
Parque San José, Encarnacion, Paraguay, South America
The Orchid Garden is a botanical collection located in the city of Santos, Brazil. It houses a diverse range of orchid species.
Visual Characteristics
The garden features numerous greenhouses and open-air displays. Structures are primarily constructed from metal and glass, allowing for controlled environments. Pathways are paved with concrete. Vegetation density varies, with specific areas dedicated to different orchid genera, showcasing a spectrum of colors from white and green to deep purples and reds. Mature trees provide canopy cover in certain sections.
Location & Access Logistics
The Orchid Garden is situated at Rua Washington Luiz, s/n, within the Ponta da Praia neighborhood of Santos. It is approximately 7 kilometers southeast of the city center. Access is via Avenida General San Martin, turning onto Rua Washington Luiz. Parking is available on-site, with a designated lot for visitors. Bus lines 5, 139, and 152 stop within a 500-meter radius of the entrance.
Historical & Ecological Origin
The garden was established in 1995 as part of the municipal botanical initiatives. Its purpose is conservation and public exhibition of orchid biodiversity, particularly species native to the Atlantic Forest biome. The site's ecological origin is coastal lowland forest, adapted for horticultural display.
Key Highlights & Activities
Visitors can observe a wide array of orchid species, including Phalaenopsis, Cattleya, and Oncidium. Guided tours are available on weekends at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM. Photography is permitted. Educational displays detail orchid cultivation and conservation efforts.
Infrastructure & Amenities
Restrooms are available on-site. Shaded areas are provided by natural tree cover and some covered walkways. Cell phone signal (4G) is generally consistent within the garden. No on-site food vendors are present, but commercial establishments are located along nearby Avenida General San Martin.
Best Time to Visit
The best time of day for photography is between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM for diffused natural light. The months of September through November typically offer the most diverse blooming periods. No specific tide requirements apply.
Facts & Legends
A notable fact is the garden's role in propagating endangered native orchid species. A local anecdote suggests that spotting a rare blue orchid within the garden is a sign of good fortune, though no documented species of this color exists in the collection.
Nearby Landmarks
- Praia do Embaré (0.8km Northwest)
- Museu do Café (3.5km West)
- Aquário Municipal de Santos (1.2km West)
- Forte da Barra Grande (2.1km Southwest)
- Estação da Cidadania (4.0km West)