Iguazu Falls

Overview

Iguazu Falls is the largest waterfall system in the world, 2,700 metres wide and made up of 275 individual falls with a maximum drop of about 82 metres. The most spectacular is the Devil's Throat, where the water plunges into a 60-metre gorge amid clouds of spray and a thunderous roar. The rushing water also sustains one of the most biodiverse rainforests on earth.

History

Iguazu means great water in the local Guaraní language. The area was inhabited by Guaraní peoples and was recorded in 1541 by the Spanish explorer Álvar Núñez Cabeza de Vaca. National parks were created on both the Argentine and Brazilian sides in 1934, and the falls became a natural World Heritage Site in 1984.

Highlights

• •The Devil's Throat, the most spectacular single fall in the park
• •Water volume in the rainy season more than five times that of the dry season
• •Rainforest trails where toucans and other wildlife are common
• •The full panorama of the falls from the Brazilian side

Practical tips

• •The Argentine and Brazilian sides offer different views; see both if you can
• •The rainy season from November to March brings the most water but slippery paths
• •Wear waterproof shoes, as you will get soaked near the falls
• •Do not feed the wildlife, especially the green iguanas

Practical information

Best time

March to May, September to November

Tickets

About ARS 3,500 on the Argentine side; about BRL 100 on the Brazilian side

Opening hours

8:00 to 18:00

Local food

Argentine asado, yerba mate and cassava cakes

Getting around

The national park entrance is about 20 minutes from Puerto Iguazú by bus or taxi; arrive on an early bus to avoid crowds

Visa

A tourist visa must be arranged in advance; holders of a valid US or Schengen visa may apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (AVE). Check the latest Argentine immigration announcements before travelling.

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