The Iguazú Falls are one of the most spectacular sites in the world. They represent a gigantic set of 270 waterfalls gathered on less than three kilometers.
This place is so magical, majestic, and impressive that it has been classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and has been elected one of the “New 7 Natural Wonders of the World“. The waterfalls are surrounded by national parks with lush vegetation (more than 2000 plant species are listed) and abundant wildlife (toucans, parrots, jaguars, pumas, monkeys, caimans ….).
The majority of the waterfalls of Iguazú Falls are located on the Argentine side. To get there, you need to go to the city of Puerto Iguazú, accessible by bus or plane.
You can then leave for an excursion that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
A splendid nature and rich in strong emotions
All around the Iguazú Falls, footbridges allow you to observe the waterfalls from every angle. To get there, you will walk along a small path in the middle of the jungle which will plunge you into a wild atmosphere, with its butterflies of all colors, its exotic birds, the cries of monkeys…
There are two circuits to go through :
- the upper circuit: about 700 meters long, it offers you a breathtaking panoramic view.
- the lower circuit: for the more athletic (there are many stairs!), it measures nearly two kilometers and takes you closer to the waterfalls. A small boat will then take you under the falls: be prepared to be soaked, but above all to live moments of exceptional intensity!
The ecological train that takes you to the start of the two tours also serves a sumptuous site not to be missed: the Garganta del Diablo (Devil’s Throat). This deafening waterfall is 80 meters high and 150 meters wide. You are in the middle of a natural spectacle, full of strength and beauty.
The Iguazú Falls on the Brazilian side
It is highly recommended to take the time to continue your visit to the Iguazú Falls by crossing the border to the Iguaçu National Park in Brazil. The walk will be faster, but you will benefit from a panoramic view of the 270 waterfalls from 50 to 80 meters high.
You can also take a footbridge that will bring you even closer to the Devil’s Throat.
Allow about half a day to walk around the waterfalls on the Brazilian side. To extend your discovery of the site, you can live a magical experience by flying over the Parque des Aves (the Bird Park) or by walking in these 5 hectares sheltering 800 species of birds.
To go further: 3 sites in Argentina to discover
- The restored ruins of the Jesuit missions of San Ignacio Miní (the most preserved), Santa Ana, and Loreto: they retrace the remains of the evangelization of the Amerindians by the Jesuits in the 17th century. The film “Mission” by Roland Joffé, starring Robert de Niro and Jeremy Irons, retraces this epic. The Jesuits were then expelled a century later by the Kingdom of Spain…
- The Wanda mines: still in operation and open to visitors, these mines exploit semi-precious stones such as agates, topazes, or amethysts.
- The hummingbird garden: in this small park located in Puerto Iguazu, you will find tropical plants, as well as aviaries that will allow you to get closer to the hummingbirds.
The opinion of ready four travel
Walking the Macuco trail around the Arrechea Falls, off the beaten track, is a unique experience. It is one of the few places in the Iguazú Falls National Park where you will enjoy the presence of unique wildlife. But be careful: walk slowly and be discreet, you will increase your chances to observe monkeys, toucans, and other extraordinary animals.
Please note: it takes about 3 hours of walking to get there.
