[2] Balsa Nova borders the municipalities of Araucária, Campo Largo, Contenda, Lapa, Palmeira and Porto Amazonas, all in the east of the state of Paraná.

The area served as a crossing ground for cattle drovers moving livestock and goods to the south of Brazil.

The small settlement was isolated and lacked road or rail connections to other areas of Paraná.

"[3][2] The new ferry and the opening of the railroad in Paraná spurred the export of timber and yerba mate from Balsa Nova.

[4] The Capela de Nossa Senhora da Conceição (Chapel of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception) is the oldest structure in Balsa Nova.