Moconá Falls
Misiones
Moconá Falls, also known as Saltos del Moconá, are remarkable waterfalls located on the Uruguay River, forming part of the natural border between Argentina and Brazil. Unlike typical waterfalls that run perpendicular to a river's flow, these falls run parallel for approximately 3 kilometers, with heights ranging from 10 to 12 meters. This unique geological formation is the result of a large longitudinal fault cutting through the riverbed, creating a submerged canyon visible only at the falls. The falls lie almost entirely within Argentina's Misiones province, inside the Moconá Provincial Park, part of the Yabotí Biosphere Reserve. The surrounding area is rich in biodiversity, featuring lush forests and diverse flora and fauna, providing visitors with numerous opportunities for nature observation. The falls' visibility depends on the river's water level; during high water, the falls resemble rapids and are less visible. The park offers boat tours that allow visitors to experience the falls up close. Moconá Falls are protected under a national natural monument status, emphasizing conservation and sustainable tourism. The site is accessible via well-maintained roads and is a highlight of Argentina's natural attractions, offering a rare and captivating experience for nature lovers and travelers alike.
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Astuce: The best time to visit Moconá Falls is during the dry season when the river level is low, making the falls more visible and spectacular. It is advisable to check local conditions before visiting, as the falls can be obscured during high water periods. Visitors should consider booking boat tours in advance during peak seasons to ensure availability. The park offers entrance discounts for certain groups, so inquire locally about eligibility. Access roads are paved from El Soberbio, facilitating travel by car. Guided tours can enrich the experience by providing detailed information about the area's ecology and geology.
Faits intéressants
- •Moconá Falls are one of the few waterfalls in the world that run parallel to the river flow rather than perpendicular.
- •The falls are part of a submerged canyon formed during the Ice Age, with depths reaching up to 170 meters in some areas.
- •Visibility of the falls varies seasonally; they are not visible for about 150 days a year when the river is high.
- •The name 'Moconá' comes from the Guaraní language meaning 'that which swallows everything'.
- •The falls stretch between 1,800 and 3,000 meters wide, making them exceptionally wide compared to their height.
Histoire
The Moconá Falls region was recognized for its natural importance with the creation of the Moconá Reserve in 1967, following land donation by Juan Alberto Harriet.
Later, in 1988, the Provincial Park was established to protect the falls and surrounding environment.
The area was declared a National Natural Monument in 1993, prohibiting activities that could alter its natural state.
Historically, the falls formed due to a geological fault that created a longitudinal canyon in the Uruguay River, a feature dating back millions of years.
Plans in the 1970s for hydroelectric development threatened the falls, but conservation efforts preserved this unique natural site.
Guide du lieu
Moconá Falls Viewing Area
Designated spots along the riverbank provide panoramic views of the longitudinal waterfalls, allowing visitors to appreciate their unique parallel flow and the surrounding lush forest.
Boat Tours at the Falls
Guided boat trips take visitors along the base of the falls, offering close-up views of the cascading water and the geological fault that forms the falls.
Yabotí Biosphere Reserve1990
The park is part of the Yabotí Biosphere Reserve, a protected area recognized for its rich biodiversity and conservation efforts.
Contact
Téléphone: 03755 49-5206
