When we talk about Iguassu Falls, it is not possible to know it all in one weekend: one half is in Brazil and the other half is in Argentina, each one run by different companies and with different attractions. Both deserve a visit for being completely different. One day on each side is enough to know the basic, four days is perfect for a complete experience in the two countries.
Strong Waters in Puerto Iguazú
[highlight]Leia em Português[/highlight]
Iguassu National Park (Parque Nacional Del Iguazú), in Puerto Iguazú, was created in 1934 and offers the unique experience of feeling the falls really close on footbridges. Two circuits pass by several falls and the famous Devil´s Throat (Garganta del Diablo), I had never seen so much water in my life.
Besides walking on the footbridges, the park offers other attractions, like the ecological train, food courts, a one-hour trekking in Isla San Martin, Macuco Trail (3 km) and Verde Trail (15 minutes), 4×4 safari, ecological tour on Iguassu River and Gran Aventura. These last two are incredible adventures, a scary sailing on an inflatable boat, diving into the falls.
I will tell you, in the order of events, what it was like to spend the day at the park. First, on the Green Trail to Falls Station, where we got the train to Upper Circular (35 minutes) and Devil´s Throat in the middle of the jungle. Footbridges crowded with tourists and the sound of water getting louder until you see what looks like a hole, the mist increasing and wetting everything. Then you see the Throat, and you should be here to really understand the strength of the water. I am sorry, but I cannot explain. On our way back, a beautiful blue butterfly landed on me and stayed with me all the time. Some say it means good luck!
Most people catch the train, but if you like adventure you should go back on an inflatable boat on the Ecological Tour. A guide rows and it seems that the current will increase and we will be tossed on the falls. It is really close; you can see a big cloud of mist that changes shape and size over the Throat. The boat was safe, sailing by the riverside and into the jungle; the sound of the waterfall followed us all the way, and we felt much protected by the trees. On shallow and clear waters we could see the river-bed and animals such as turtles, coatis and the butterflies, always with us.
We had lunch and the lazyness did not stop us from keeping on exploring Upper Circular with spectacular views, get your camera ready! The sun and a rainbow were permanent travel mates even at Gran Aventura, the master adventure.
I have been to the Argentinian side of the waterfalls on a cloudy day; the sun shining made me love it even more.
Take Note
I have been to the Argentinian side of the waterfalls on a cloudy day; the sun shining made me love it even more.
The entrance at Iguassu National Park can only be paid in Argentinian currency (pesos) and costs $ 100. Open daily from 8 to 4.
Iguazú Jungle has the Ecological Tour and Gran Aventura. The first one is on the upper part of Iguassu River for 2,5 km – leaves every 15 minutes from Garganta Station and lasts 20 minutes. Gran Aventura leaves every hour, starting at 8:45 and lasts one hour. A combo ticket for both tours costs $ 290.
Have lunch at La Selva, they offer a varied buffet, parrilla and free wifi.
On the way out there are shops with Argentinian delights, and the ice frappé with fudge at Havana was great to renew the energy.
Sponsored trip. Pictures on the post and video are from Roberta Martins, Luiz Jr, Daniella Mendes, Maurício Oliveira and Gleiber Oiveira.
© All rights reserved. Pictures and report 100% originals.
Translated by Lúcia Maciel
English teacher
