In one of our previous posts we described some of the world’s most spectacular waterfalls, including Angel Falls (Venezuela), Niagara Falls (Canada), Akaka Falls(Hawaii) and Yosemite Falls (California). Today, we’ll give a detailed description of Iguazú Falls – another imposing natural attraction blessed with the greatest spectacle of water and forest ever existing on Earth.
Part of Iguazú National Park in Argentina, the Iguazú Falls are among the most amazing waterfalls on the planet and are a dreamscape touristic destination, promising a memorable experience to remember forever! Whether you want to relax between a party tour of Rio or Buenos Aires or else do some eco-tourism, Iguazú is an ideal add-on to any package to Brazil or Argentina. The fall is a candidate of the New 7 Wonders of the World and is enlisted as UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The name Iguazú simply means ‘great waters’ in the local Guaraní language. The legend goes that the great fall was formed in an outburst of rage by the god of the Iguazú River, who lived in a violent area called Devil’s Throat (Garganta del Diablo) — a single plunge deep into a gorge. Devil’s Throat is a u-shaped fall that is 82 meters high, 700 meters long and 150 meters wide, offering perhaps the most spectacular view of the fall that will take your breath away.
Nestled between the Argentinian and Brazilian borders, Iguazú Falls is twice as wide and much higher than Niagara Falls and stretches almost 3 km along the river of the same name with a total of 275 individual cascades with some of the falls featuring a common height of 269 feet. Around the falls, you’ll see subtropical jungles filled with plush vegetation, where you can find such endangered species of animals as toucans and ocelots.
In order to experience this breathtaking natural spectacle at its most make sure to follow the boardwalks, walkways and nature trails, or else take a boat or Jeep trip accompanied by Iguazú Jungle Explorer.
Best time to visit the falls is in spring and fall, because summer is tropically hot and humid and in winter the level of the water is considerably lower. There are plenty of opportunities for photography, so do not forget your cameras. Those who are more than adventurous will find suspension bridges to enjoy an inside view of the waterfall.
Visitors will also find a number of hotels on both sides of the river best suited for every taste, from simple hostels to modern resorts with luxury guestrooms and spas to exquisite jungle lodges with on-sight access to lush tropical forests. There are two hotels within the park, Sheraton Iguazu in Argentina and Tropical das Cataratas in Brazil boasting luxury and quality service at every turn, not mentioning the views you can have from your guestroom window.
Extremely beautiful, Iguazú is a unique environment that inspired the writer Horacio Quiroga in his ‘Tales of the Jungle.’ This is a place where nature, in its entire beauty expression entices the tourist.
