The Iguazu Falls, straddling the border between Brazil 🇧🇷 and Argentina 🇦🇷, ranks among the world’s three largest waterfalls—and many argue it’s the widest. Picture this: it’s as though N Huangguoshu Waterfalls were magically connected side by side in a breathtaking display of nature’s grandeur. Once you’ve witnessed the sheer majesty of Iguazu, your standards for waterfall appreciation will soar to new heights, leaving other cascades feeling rather underwhelming.
I arrived in Iguazu under the cover of night after a flight from Rio. At the hotel, I reached out to a local travel agency to book a tour package. A charming local guide, fluent in English, warmly introduced each option with patience and grace, her enthusiasm making the decision all the more exciting.
[One R] My choice? A thrilling helicopter ride 🚁 paired with park hiking trails and an exhilarating full-day kayaking adventure beneath the falls—all bundled into a package costing over 1200 Brazilian reais, inclusive of hotel transfers. The value was undeniable, offering an unforgettable experience at a fair price.
[Two R] On the Brazilian side, the falls are best admired from a lower vantage point. This perspective allows you to encircle and marvel at the most awe-inspiring section of Iguazu—the “Devil’s Throat.” Meanwhile, the Argentine side offers a bird’s-eye view, placing you tantalizingly close to the roaring cascade where water plunges dramatically, creating an earth-shattering symphony of sound that leaves visitors awestruck.
[Three R] After lunch, we embarked on a kayaking excursion beneath the falls—a playful yet drenching adventure that left us utterly soaked. For this reason, it’s wise to dress minimally, opting for bare feet or flip-flops while bringing essentials like spare clothes and a towel. Before boarding, you can rent a locker to secure your belongings, ensuring peace of mind during the watery escapade.
[Four R] Finally, a word about the Iguazu region: This unique area is naturally divided into three distinct parts by the confluence of the Iguazu River and the Paraná River. The Brazilian side is known as Foz do Iguaçu; its Argentine counterpart is Puerto Iguazú; and the Paraguayan portion is Ciudad del Este.
Thanks to the magnetic allure of the falls, Foz do Iguaçu has transformed from a quaint town of just 20,000 residents into a bustling mid-sized city with a population nearing 200,000. Here, Asian faces are a common sight, and the commercial trade thrives with vibrant energy, creating a lively atmosphere that complements the natural wonders nearby.
