Iguazu Falls
Destination
Latin America
Duration
3 days
Taller than Niagara Falls and twice as wide, with 275 cascades spread in a horsehoe shape over nearly two miles of the Iguazu River, Iguazu Falls are the result of a volcanic eruption which left yet another large crack in the earth. These matter-of-fact details do nothing to describe the grandeur of the falls, the tremendous amount of water thundering down 270 feet, the tropical location, and the sheer beauty that led Eleanor Roosevelt to say Poor Niagara. Four times the width of Niagara Falls, Iguazu Falls are divided by various islands into separate waterfalls. Iguazu Falls, called Foz do Iguaçu in Portuguese, and Cataratas del Iguazú in Spanish, lie on the Argentina – Brazil border and are a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site. Getting there is an easy matter, so why not add this short extension to your travels in Brazil or Argentina?
Itinerary
Day 1 Iguazu Falls
Arrive in Iguazu and transfer to your hotel located near the falls, a comfortable hotel adjacent to the park. Where you stay will depend on whether you arrive in Iguazu from Argentina or from Brazil. You will have opportunities to view the falls from both countries if you wish, though you’ll need a visa for Brazil.
Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
Hotel located near the falls
Day 2 Iguazu Falls / Brazilian side
After breakfast, depart for the Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls. Arrive at the Visitors Center at the entrance of Iguazu National Park, about seven miles from the main falls, which contains exhibits, supplies, ATM, and other facilities. After passing through the Visitors Center, the tour continues on the road that crosses the park and takes us to the wonderful Iguazu Falls. Along the way, our guide explains what we’ll see on arrival. Once there, we walk on an easy 3/4-mile path, looking for coati as we approach the falls. At the end of the tour, enjoy a panoramic view of the Falls, from a misty platform where we can see the Floriano, Deodoro and Garganta do Diabo Falls. The tour ends on the upper part of the Falls, reached by a panoramic elevator. From here, we go to the Porto Canoas area and a nice view of the Upper Iguazu River.
In the afternoon, head out on the Macuco Safari Boat Tour, heading upriver in specially-equipped boats piloted by experience captains to get to the base of the falls to admire and feel their thunderous power up close. Whirlpools, waves, and currents created by the falls add adrenaline and lots of excitement to this unforgettable tour. Afterward, return to the hotel, where the remainder of the day and evening are at your leisure.
Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
Hotel located near the falls
Day 3 Iguazu Falls / Argentinean side
After breakfast, depart for a half day tour of the Argentinean side of Iguazu Falls for another perspective of this natural gem. From the Visitors Center, visitors will board a low environmental impact train to travel to several points of interest, the first of which is Cataratas Station from which the visit to the upper and lower part of Iguazu Falls begins. Afterward, board the train again for the Devils Throat Station, one of the most important observation points of the Falls.
Afterward, transfer to the airport for your onward flight.
Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
None
What to Expect
Duration 3 days
Activity Level
Match the trip’s intensity to your ability and motivation.
Gentle
Easy walking, with opportunities for low-key physical activity.
Active
Energetic exploration with optional day hikes, leisurely cycling, or light canoeing.
Vigorous
Day-long active excursions and options for demanding activity in varied environments.
Challenging
Strenuous hiking or other intense activity that may be at high altitude or over rough terrain.
Demanding
Multi-day trekking and other activities requiring endurance or strength. Steep trails. No technical expertise necessary.