The picturesque island in the middle of the lake is particularly photogenic. The heliconias and palm trees that lend colour to the shores are home to multitudes of parrots. Its spectacular giant water lilies are the largest in the world. Victoria regia can measure up to 40cm in diameter and flowers at night: its corolla opens at dusk, around 6pm, and closes around 8am, before it gets hot. The dreaded piranha swims in the lake's waters.