Argentina is a country of diversity and offers an absolutely stupendous amount of things to see and do, and one of the names that easily makes it to the top three on the list of the main attractions is indeed the awe-inspiring Iguazu Falls. The Iguazu Falls originate from the Iguazu River on the border of the Argentine province of Misiones and the Brazilian state of Paraná. Together, they make up the largest waterfall system in the world and divide the river into the upper and lower Iguazu. The river flows through Brazil for the greater part of its course, but the majority of the falls are on the Argentine side.
There is more than one way to experience the mighty Iguazu Falls, and you can do so from both Brazil and Argentina. Experience them at different times of the day and night, see them under the light of the full moon, take a helicopter ride for a bird’s-eye view, or, in the ultimate best way, take a wild boat ride right under the falls’ veil on the full-day Great Adventure Tour! This will give you the humbling perspective of viewing the massive falls from the lower river as tons of water cascade nearly 300 feet off the Parana Plateau.
The Great Adventure Tour
Visitors embarking on the Great Adventure Tour. Photo by falco on Pixabay.
Start your day of exhilarating adventure by delving into the jungle via the Yacaratiá trail. This tropical paradise is a unique micro-climate created by the thick mists and spray from the massive falls, creating an exclusive habitat for exotic wildlife. Specialized trucks will take you on an immersive 3-mile journey to Puerto Macuco at the banks of the Iguazu River. During your descent to the river, you will have the opportunity to spot brightly colored macaws, toucans, and parrots amidst the lush green tropical forest.
A Close-Up Shot of a Toucan. Photo by Tiago L BR on Pexels.
Upon reaching the docks of Puerto Macuco, you will step onto specialized motorized rafting boats to sail along the Lower Iguazu River for a thrilling 3.7 miles, journeying towards the heart of the Iguazu Falls. Along the way, you’ll encounter lively rapids that add to the thrill of your adventure!
As you approach the Tres Mosqueteros Falls (The Three Musketeers Falls), you’ll be treated to a stunning vista of the falls from both the Argentine and Brazilian sides. After winding through the majestic Devil’s Throat Canyon, the stunning vista culminates as you face the awe-inspiring San Martín waterfall, the second largest in size.
From this once-in-a-lifetime nature scene, a scenic 3.7-mile downstream river navigation takes you back to Puerto Macuco, where you’ll disembark and take a 150-meter uphill walk. Finally, the specialized trucks will transport you 3.7 miles back to the entrance of the park, where you will be met and taken back to your hotel, concluding this remarkable adventure.
The Three Musketeers Falls (Tres Mosqueteros Falls). Photo by Jaime Dantas on Unsplash.
NOTE: There are certain restrictions for the safety and well-being of visitors, and this tour is not suitable for children under 12 years of age, pregnant women, individuals with osteoporosis, neck, or back conditions, or those who have had surgery in these areas, individuals with heart conditions or a history of heart surgery, individuals with COPD, neurological conditions, or a history of surgery in these areas, or persons with any physical, cognitive, or sensory disabilities that would hinder their ability to respond to a nautical emergency during rapids on the Lower Iguazu River.
Legend has it that when former US first lady Eleanor Roosevelt first set sight on the majestic Iguazu Falls, she is said to have simply exclaimed, “Poor Niagara!” And, with the Niagara Falls being an impressive natural wonder themselves, it simply comes to show that the Iguazu Falls are simply a must when visiting Argentina or Brazil!
The Falls are waiting for you to discover their charm and allure. Contact us today to speak with an experienced travel advisor to add the Great Adventure Tour to your Latin America vacation!
Latin America for Less is a group of travel experts who live, work, eat, and breathe all things South America. Their inspiration stems from a deep appreciation for the beauty and diversity that make this continent so special.
