IGUAZU FALLS...
One of The Most Spectacular
Sights In The World
Adventure Iguazu - © Christian Knepper/Embratur
Iguazu falls are located in the National Park that bears its name, which covers the north of the province of Misiones (Argentina) and the southwest of the state of Parana (Brazil), close to the point where Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay converge.
The name means "great waters" in local Indian language. According to the legend, the waterfall was created in an outburst of rage by the god of the Iguazu river, who lived in the most violent and impressive cascade, Garganta del Diablo (Devil's throat).
There are 275 cascades that spread over nearly two miles of the Iguazu river.
This incredible sight gets enhanced by luxuriant forests filled with palms, bamboo, tree ferns, wild orchids and begonias. Around 450 species of birds complement this ideal setting, being macaws, parrots and toucans the most brilliantly feathered.
Its beauty can only be rivaled by Victoria falls in Africa and the astonishing Angel fall in Venezuela. They rank 8 among the world's wonders. This led Eleanor Roosevelt to say...poor Niagara.
You have several ways to explore Iguazu falls...
- Upper Circuit:An easy half an hour walk that goes deep into the jungle and plenty observation points along the way.
- Lower Circuit: A bit more demanding due to the stairs but very pleasant if you take nice and easy.
- Great Adventure: This is THE sight, a boat takes you right to the bottom of Garganta del Diablo.
Totally amazing, up to the point of being intimidating.
Try to explore the falls from both sides: the Argentine side (Iguazu National Park) has the best close-ups views, while the Brazilian side (Foz do Iguazu) has the most spectacular panoramic view.
Best time to visit: The rainy season (December to February), when the rate of flow of water going over the falls may reach 450.000 cubic feet (12.750 cubic meters) per second.
However, you might encounter cold, dreary days and floodwaters on the catwalks.If you prefer dry and blue-sky weather, choose the dry season (April to July).
Please include Iguazu falls in your next journey to Argentina.
You will never cease to be amazed by this fantastic sight...
Iguazu National Park - © Christian Knepper/Embratur
How to Get There:
There are several national and international flights that touch down in Puerto Iguazu (Argentina), Ciudad del Este (Paraguay) and Foz do Iguazu (Brazil). From Buenos Aires, you can take Aerolineas Argentinas or Southern Winds Airlines.
Where to Stay:
Try Sheraton International Iguazu Resort, a bit expensive but offers view of the falls and forest from some rooms and within easy walking distance. There are many others in town (Puerto Iguazu), you'll need a taxi to move back and forth.
Here are some of them...
Hostels:- Hostel - Inn Iguazú Falls
Ruta 12 - Km. 5 - Phone: 42-1823 / 42-0160 Phone/Fax: 42-0156 - Sumaj Youth Hostel
Andresito 145 - Phone: 42 0995 - Hostel Iguazú Falls
Guarani 70 - Phone: 42-1295
Guest Houses:
- Uno
Fray Luis Beltrán 116 - Phone: 42-0529 - San Fernando
Córdoba y Guaraní - Phone: 42-1429 - San Diego
Guaraní 75 - Phone: 42-2528 - Rioselva
San Lorenzo 140 - Phone: 42-1555
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