Iguazú National Park
Misiones
Iguazú National Park, located in the Iguazú Department of Misiones Province, Argentina, encompasses 677 square kilometers of lush subtropical rainforest. Established in 1934, the park was created to protect the spectacular Iguazú Falls, one of the world's most impressive natural wonders. The park's landscape is dominated by the Iguazú River, which widens dramatically before plunging over the falls, creating a breathtaking display of water and mist. The surrounding forest is home to diverse flora such as the ceibo tree, Argentina's national flower, lapacho species, palmito palms, and towering palo rosa trees. Its fauna includes rare and endangered species like jaguars, ocelots, South American tapirs, harpy eagles, and the black-fronted piping guan, alongside abundant birdlife including toucans and the vinaceous amazon. The park's ecological importance is enhanced by its connection to the Alto Paraná Atlantic forests ecoregion and its role in the proposed Trinational Biodiversity Corridor linking Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay. Visitors can explore the park's natural beauty via trails and an ecological train, experiencing the grandeur of the falls and the richness of the rainforest ecosystem. The park's Brazilian counterpart lies just across the Iguazú River, together forming one of the largest protected rainforest areas in South America.
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Tip: The best time to visit Iguazú National Park is during the spring and fall months when the weather is milder and the falls are less crowded. It is advisable to purchase entrance tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to avoid long lines. Visitors should wear comfortable walking shoes and bring insect repellent due to the subtropical climate. Guided tours are available and recommended for a richer understanding of the park's biodiversity and cultural history. Discounts are often available for students, seniors, and groups. The park's infrastructure includes an ecological train that facilitates access to key viewpoints of the falls.
Interesting facts
- •Iguazú National Park and its Brazilian counterpart together form one of the largest protected rainforest areas in South America.
- •The name 'Iguazú' comes from the Guaraní language, meaning 'large water'.
- •The park is home to several rare and endangered species, including the jaguar and harpy eagle.
- •The ceibo tree, found in the park, is Argentina's national flower.
- •The park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984 due to its unique biodiversity and natural beauty.
History
The Iguazú region has been inhabited for over 10,000 years, initially by hunter-gatherers of the Eldoradense culture, followed by the Guaraní people around 1000 CE who introduced agriculture.
European contact began in 1542 with Álvar Núñez Cabeza de Vaca, and Jesuit missions were established in the early 17th century.
The national park was officially created in 1934 to preserve the Iguazú Falls and surrounding jungle.
In 1970, the Iguazú National Reserve was established adjacent to the park to allow controlled human activity and tourism infrastructure development.
In 1984, the park and its Brazilian counterpart were designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites, recognizing their global ecological and cultural significance.
Place Guide
Iguazú Falls
The centerpiece of the park, Iguazú Falls is a vast system of waterfalls spanning nearly 2.7 kilometers with over 275 individual drops, including the iconic Devil's Throat, a U-shaped, 82-meter-high cascade known for its thunderous roar and mist.
Ecological Train
An environmentally friendly train that transports visitors through the park's rainforest to key access points near the falls, minimizing human impact on the environment.
Subtropical Rainforest Trails
A network of well-maintained walking trails allowing visitors to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the Atlantic forest ecoregion, including observation points for wildlife and panoramic views of the falls.
Contact
Phone: 03757 15-67-4714
