Iguazu Falls

Iguazu Falls

Argentina’s northeast extends into a subtropical forest region–a vast river basin spilling over into Paraguay and Brazil. In 1934, Argentina protected 190 square miles of this precious ecosystem by creating Iguazu National Park.

Neighboring sanctuaries and reserves extend the protected territory, creating wildlife corridors in the Atlantic Rainforest. A twin park, Iguacu National Park, protects the Brazilian side of the Iguazu River. Each park offers a contrasting view of the main attraction: the breathtaking Iguazu Falls. The name Iguazu (alternately rendered Iguacu or Iguassu) is a Guaraní word, translating to “Big Water.” Indeed, these are the largest falls in the world in terms of volume.

This area is not connected to any other rainforest and is home to thousands of endemic plants and animals, as well as local Guarani communities.

Photos and videos cannot adequately capture the magic. Even while witnessing it in person, it’s hard to process. The mist created by the plummeting deluge creates huge rainbows. Swifts soar through these clouds to their cliffside nests.

Iguazu National Park is home to over 430 birds and 70 mammalian species, some of which can be seen from the forest trails and walkways surrounding the falls.

South of Iguazu Falls lies the sandstone remnants of Jesuit missions, responsible for shaping northern Argentina for more than a century. The Jesuit’s conversion efforts among indigenous populations drew the ire of slave traders and government officials.

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What to do in Iguazu

A system of elevated walkways and trails allows visitors to view the falls from above and below.

The falls can also be experienced from the water; both the Argentine and Brazilian sides offer zodiac boat trips on the lower section of the Iguazu River. These speedboats cruise upriver, jumping rapids and maneuvering under the spray of some of the smaller falls. Helicopter flights over the falls can also be arranged from the Brazilian side.

Other activities around the area include:

• Visits to Aviary Parks
• Visit Local Guarani Tribes
• Visit the Archeological Jesuit Missions’ Ruins
• Kayak & Stand-up Paddleboard in nearby Rivers and Lakes
• Bike and Hike in Jungle Trails
• Explore Hidden Waterfalls and Creeks
• Discover Local Flora & Fauna
• Learn About Local Gastronomy

What is the Weather Like?

Iguacu Falls is a year-round destination. The climate in Argentina’s Northeast tends to be hot and humid. The hottest months in the Iguazú Falls are October through April. During the rest of the year – the climate slightly changes based on the hot breezes from the Amazon and cold winds from Patagonia. Winter months are a bit cooler, especially at night. January to March is Iguazu’s rainy season and the water flow of the waterfalls is significantly increased, visitors are rewarded with greater water volume—up to 450,000 cubic feet per second. Temperatures range from 65°F to 90°F in the Summer months and from 50°F to 75°F in the Winter months.

These averages are changing, please check extended weather forecasts using your favorite weather app prior to departure.

Getting There

Airports serve the Brazilian and Argentine sides of the border. Visits to this area can be combined easily with time in Rio de Janeiro or Buenos Aires.

By air, Puerto Iguazu (IGR) is one hour and 50 minutes from Buenos Aires and Cordoba. Foz de Iguacu is one hour and 50 minutes from Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo.

Start your journey today