I’ve had the incredible privilege of visiting Iguazu Falls from both the Brazilian and Argentine sides, experiencing it via helicopter and boat. And now? I’m ready to share my verdict on Iguazu!
To put it simply, Iguazu Falls is nothing short of breathtaking. Both the Brazilian and Argentine perspectives offer their own distinct wonders. If you can, I highly recommend exploring both sides and indulging in the helicopter and boat tours. If you must choose an order, start with the Brazilian side before moving on to the Argentine side. And if you’re limited to just one? Go for Argentina over Brazil, and prioritize the boat ride above hiking or the helicopter tour.
Here’s why: The Devil’s Throat on the Argentine side (A side) is an awe-inspiring marvel that truly demands your presence to fully appreciate. Its sheer majesty defies description. Meanwhile, the Brazilian side (B side) offers a stunning panoramic view, allowing you to see the falls from top to bottom—a layered experience that’s as rich as it is mesmerizing.
Even without the Devil’s Throat, the Brazilian side still leaves a lasting impression. Let me paint a clearer picture: after seeing countless photos and videos of Iguazu, when I finally stood on the Brazilian side, my sense of wonder grew by 40%. I thought, “Wow, this is amazing!” But then, stepping onto the Argentine side?
Despite already being familiar with the images and even the Brazilian perspective, my amazement skyrocketed by 100%, leaving me speechless with a resounding “Wooooooooow, how INCREDIBLE!” So, if time permits, visit the Brazilian side first to set the stage, followed by the Argentine side for the grand finale.
If you can only pick one, let Argentina take the crown.
The boat ride? It’s an absolute must—it’s exhilarating! Be prepared to get drenched, so dress in lightweight, sun-protective clothing and bring a change of clothes. Those who claim the boat ride isn’t fun likely experienced it during a cooler season. In early March, there’s no way you won’t love it. One quick tip: avoid wearing non-waterproof contact lenses unless you fancy swimming with your eyes closed!
As for the helicopter ride, it’s undoubtedly impressive, offering a bird’s-eye panoramic view of the falls. However, our trip around 4 PM was slightly rushed due to the lingering crowds, and the lack of headphones left my ears feeling a bit sore. Still, it’s an unforgettable way to take in the full scope of Iguazu’s splendor.
So, whether you’re soaking up the mist on a boat, soaring high above in a helicopter, or marveling at the Devil’s Throat up close, Iguazu Falls promises an adventure like no other.
