Photo by Christhian Gruhn on Unsplash (@gruhh)
Iguazú Falls
Misiones
Iguazú Falls, located on the Iguazu River at the border between Argentina and Brazil, is the largest waterfall system in the world, comprising approximately 275 individual falls. The falls stretch over 2.7 kilometers and are primarily situated on the Argentine side, which contains about 80% of the waterfalls. The unique stepped formation of the falls is due to volcanic basalt layers, creating dramatic drops of 60 to 82 meters. The most famous section, the Devil's Throat, is a narrow, deep chasm where about half of the river's flow plunges, forming a spectacular 80-90 meter wide and 70-80 meter deep gorge. The surrounding area is covered in rich, tropical vegetation, home to a diverse ecosystem. Iguazú Falls is shared by two national parks-Argentina's Iguazú National Park and Brazil's Iguaçu National Park-both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Visitors can explore extensive walkways and viewing platforms, including a trail leading close to the Devil's Throat. The falls' grandeur and natural beauty have earned them a place among the New Seven Wonders of Nature, attracting millions of tourists annually.
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Tip: The best time to visit Iguazú Falls is during the spring and fall months when water levels are high but crowds are smaller. Purchasing entrance tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons. Visitors should wear comfortable, waterproof shoes and bring insect repellent due to the subtropical climate. While helicopter tours are available on the Brazilian side offering aerial views, they are prohibited on the Argentine side to protect the environment. Early morning visits provide better lighting and fewer crowds for photography. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups at the park entrances.
Interesting facts
- •Iguazú Falls consists of about 275 individual waterfalls, varying with water levels between 150 and 300.
- •The Devil's Throat is the largest and most powerful part of the falls, measuring approximately 80-90 meters wide and 70-80 meters deep.
- •The falls are formed by three layers of basalt rock, creating a distinctive stepped terrain.
- •The name 'Iguazú' comes from the Guaraní words 'y' meaning water and 'guazú' meaning big.
- •Iguazú Falls is recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature.
- •The falls lie on the border of three countries: Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay, with nearby cities offering access points.
History
The first European to document Iguazú Falls was Álvar Núñez Cabeza de Vaca in 1541, although indigenous Guaraní people had long known the site.
The name 'Iguazú' derives from Guaraní words meaning 'big water.' The falls' formation is linked to volcanic activity and erosion of basalt rock layers over millions of years.
Conservation efforts began in the late 19th century, with the creation of national parks in Brazil (1939) and Argentina (1934), aimed at preserving the area's unique flora and fauna.
Both parks were designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the 1980s.
The falls have since become a major natural attraction recognized globally for their ecological and geological significance.
Place Guide
Devil's Throat (Garganta del Diablo)
The most famous and dramatic section of Iguazú Falls, a narrow chasm where about half of the river's flow plunges down a 80-90 meter wide and 70-80 meter deep gorge, creating a thunderous roar and mist.
San Martín, Adam and Eva, Penoni, and Bergano Falls
Several of the largest individual waterfalls within the Iguazú system, located to the left of the Devil's Throat, known for their impressive height and volume, merging into a single front during flood stage.
Iguazú National Park (Argentina)1934
A protected area covering over 67,000 hectares of subtropical rainforest, home to diverse wildlife and plant species, with extensive trails and viewing platforms to experience the falls up close.
Iguaçu National Park (Brazil)1939
Brazilian counterpart to the Argentine park, featuring walkways along the canyon and access to the lower base of Devil's Throat, offering panoramic views of the falls.
Contact
Phone: 011 5258-7318
