Iguazu falls Travel Guide

Although commercialized and touristy, the Iguazu falls are definitely worth a visit. They are located on the border between Brazil and Argentina, and can be reached from both sides as well as from Paraguay.

Legend attributes their origin to the anger of a god who lost the girl he loved. When you look down the Garganta del Diablo (Devil's throat) you will believe that there is some truth in this story.

Iguazu falls are the second largest in the world after Victoria Falls in Africa and are deservedly one of the seventh wonders of the world. Their height isn't so inspiring as is their length - the falls seem to go on and on in the distance. When the water level of the river is high, the whole ridge is almost covered in the huge expanse of water pouring over. At other times, when the river level is lower, the amount of water is less and trees are rocks jump out from the fall wall providing a beautiful break in the water. Their are multiple approaches to the falls, both from above and below. At some points you can get so close that you will feel the spray from the falls on your face. The Iguazu falls is formed at the edge of a volcanic flow where the rock suddenly changed hardness and wore away. What's sad is there was a second, even larger, fall that was destroyed when the river was dammed.

Besides the falls, you can enjoy a walk through the bush where you will be delighted with sights of monkeys and tucans playing in the forest.

For those who would like to see the falls from both sides, it is only a short taxi ride across the border to Brazil.  It is suggested that the Brazil side should be seen first, as, although stunning, is not quite as awesome as the Argintinian side, and this way leaves the best until last.  You should give yourselves at least half a day on each side and preferably more.