South America is rich in stunningly beautiful places. Visiting the continent and not seeing the Iguazu Falls is an unforgivable mistake. After all, they are famous not only on the mainland. Their fame has long spread throughout the world. The waterfalls are considered to be the real pearl of the continent. Tourists note that visiting an amazing place gives an incomparable feeling. The grandiose beauty of nature is striking in its strength and power. You can talk a lot about the Iguazu Falls, but words cannot convey their beauty. Of course, it's better to see it all with your own eyes.
Natural waterfall complex
Iguazu Falls is a beautiful region on the border of Brazil and Argentina. It is for them that many travelers decide to go to South America. The scale of the natural complex is evidenced by the fact that the waterfalls are on the list of natural wonders. And that says a lot. The waterfalls are part of the National Park, where the rarest plants and animals grow. By the way, the park itself has long become one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
It's hard to even imagine how many waterfalls the Iguazu complex consists of. And there are 275 of them. The number is reallyimpressive. But no less impressive is their height. If we talk about how many meters the Iguazu Falls are in height, then the maximum value is 82 meters. Most of the cascades do not exceed 60 meters in height. But it wasn't always like this.
From the Brazilian side, water flows appear in all their original glory. The fabulous picture is complemented by a cloud of splashes, which is always there. The Iguazu Complex is twice as wide and much taller than the famous Niagara Falls.
Water complex location
The Iguazu Falls are located on the river of the same name. Approximately 24 kilometers from the point where the Iguazu flows into the Parana. The water complex is located just on the border of Argentina and Brazil. The Iguazu Falls divide the river into lower and upper parts. They are located in the national parks of both countries.
The Iguazu River itself originates near the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, south of Sao Paulo. It flows deep into the mainland to the west. Its length is 1320 kilometers. In the area of the water complex, the width of the river is about four kilometers. And now, across the entire width, the water falls from a high cliff, which resembles a crescent in shape.
History
The place where the Iguazu Falls is located, once changed the relief due to a volcanic eruption. A huge depression formed in the earth's surface. This is such an amazing story. As a result of the disaster, a real miracle of the world scale appeared.
No less interesting is the history of the origin of the nameIguazu Falls. What does the name of the complex mean in the language of the Indians who lived in these places? Translated from the Guarani dialect, it sounds like “big water”, which describes the water complex as accurately as possible. The first to discover the falls was a Spaniard named Alvar Cabese de Vaca in 1541. He went to the jungle in search of adventure and gold. His detachment landed on the coast of modern Brazil and began to move west. Travelers crossed the Brazilian Highlands and heard a rumble from afar. It was strange sounds that brought people to the waterfalls. The Spanish conqueror was extremely surprised and amazed by what he saw. He named the water complex S alto de Santa Maria, which in Spanish means "the jump of St. Mary." But this name did not stick. The traveler reported his discovery to Madrid. But the royal court was not too interested in natural resources. After all, the colonialists were sent to America for the sake of gold. Therefore, the waterfalls have sunk into oblivion for several centuries. They were safely forgotten and not remembered for a long time.
And only in the nineteenth century, Iguazu Falls in South America was once again discovered by the explorer Boselli. Until 1864, the water complex belonged to Paraguay. However, the territory was actively claimed by Argentina and Brazil. And so a military conflict broke out. Thus began the bloodiest war in South America, known as the Triple Alliance conflict. Paraguay lost the fight, so the country was forced to make significant territorial changes, as a result of which the northern bank of the river went to Brazil, and the southern toArgentina.
The first map of the region was drawn up at the end of the nineteenth century.
Since 1991, the power and strength of water flows has served man. Paraguay and Brazil have opened the largest hydroelectric power plant Itaipu. The amount of electricity received is 40% of the energy consumption of the two countries. This power plant can safely be called one of the outstanding modern achievements of mankind.
Legend
An old legend says that once God wanted to marry a very beautiful native named Naipu. But the girl ran away with her loved one in a canoe. An angry God created waterfalls on the river, dooming the lovers to an inevitable fall. So the young man turned into a rock, and the girl into a lonely palm tree. Periodically, a rainbow appears in this place. They say that these are lovers tenderly hugging each other.
The origin of the natural wonder
Legend is a legend, but scientists believe that the Iguazu Falls were formed a long time ago, more than 150 million years ago. The reason for their appearance was a powerful volcanic eruption. As a result, a huge fissure appeared in the ground. In southern Brazil, the river flows over a bas alt platform that ends abruptly where the lava flow has solidified. Initially (about 20,000 years ago), the waterfalls were located at the junction of the Parana and Iguazu rivers, but later, due to erosion, they retreated as much as 28 kilometers - to their present location. Scientists say that the flows recede by three millimeters every year.
Description of the water complex
The height of the Iguazu Falls(in meters) reaches 80. But this is the maximum value. Across the entire width of the complex, water flows fall from different heights. The deepest point of the waterfall is called the "Devil's Throat". In a second, the Iguazu River overthrows from a height of 1700 cubic meters. water. Numerous waterfalls are arranged both in streams and in cascades.
During the dry season, tourists can see two separate streams in the shape of two crescents. The width of each is 732 meters. And in the rainy season, both crescents form a single whole.
Most of the water flows reach a height of 60-70 meters. And only a few - 80. The most famous waterfall has the formidable name "Devil's Throat". So, it has the shape of a horseshoe. It is 82 meters high and 150 meters wide. The waterfall is located at the very border of Brazil and Argentina. If all its flows were a single whole, then the water complex would be called the widest in the world. But it's not. The widest solid waterfall is Victoria in Africa.
Large water flows of the Iguazu rush down, after which they break into a series of smaller ones. And those, in turn, breaking the rapids, form clouds of spray and fog. Sunlight completes the picture, creating a magnificent rainbow, and not just one, but many more.
Name of waterfalls
An interesting fact is that in different countries the Iguazu Falls are called differently. In Argentina, he is called Rivadavia, Belgrano, Arayagaray, Two and Three Musketeers, etc. But in Brazil - S alto Floriano, Benjamin Constant.
National Park
The surrounding areas of Iguazu are part of the national park. On its territory, guests can see the natural beauty and unique animals. Boat excursions are organized especially for tourists (we will talk about them later in the article).
The national park is located on the border of Paraguay, Brazil and Argentina. It is called Iguazu. The protected area on the Brazilian side is 180 thousand hectares. This is the largest nature reserve in the country. And at the same time one of the largest in the world. From Argentina, the Iguazu Falls border on the country's national park, which occupies 55,000 hectares.
The nature of the region and climatic conditions are close to the Amazonian forests. The park is dominated by multi-level forests. Here, orchids grow on tree trunks. The lush nature of the tropics, combined with the beauty of the waterfalls, makes a lasting impression on tourists. The national park is filled with exotic plants. More than 2 thousand species of plants grow on its territory and about 400 species of birds live.
When is the best time to visit the waterfalls?
Waterfalls are beautiful in any season. But it still makes sense to take into account some features of the local climate. The best time to travel is from January to February. The rainy season lasts from November to March. It is during this period that the river is most full-flowing, and therefore more spectacular. But walking during such a period is not very pleasant due to dampness.
During the winter months, from June to August, in the areachilly. It is better to visit the waterfalls in sunny time to fully enjoy the local beauties and admire the rainbows. Wandering under the spray in hot weather is a pleasure. And the photos are incredibly colorful.
How to get to the Iguazu Falls?
How and how you will get to the right place depends on which country you want to visit the waterfalls. In Brazil, you need to get to the city of Foz de Iguaçu, which is located 1480 kilometers from Rio de Janeiro. Airplanes fly to the town and buses run. The fare from Rio is about one hundred dollars (5700 rubles). Tourists recommend using air transport. Its cost is lower - ≈4000 rubles ($70), and the road takes much less time. Travelers arrive at Foz de Iguaçu Airport. Buses run from here to the central station. You can also use taxi services. In addition, you can immediately take a bus that goes to the national park.
In Foz de Iguaçu you can stay for the night. The small town is beautiful and green. It has a well-developed tourist infrastructure. You can find hostels and hotels everywhere here. The cost of living per day in a double room will cost an average of $ 150 (8.5 thousand rubles). In a hostel, rooms are much cheaper, and you can rent an apartment for two.
From the central station, regular buses run every thirty minutes to the Iguazu Park area. The journey takes about 30 minutes. In the park itself, you need to buy a bus ticket, whichwill deliver directly to your destination.
How to get to Argentina?
According to reviews, in Argentina, the Iguazu Falls can also be reached by plane or bus. Of course, air travel is more acceptable in terms of price and time. An air ticket will cost you about $200 (11.5 thousand rubles). This is much cheaper than the cost of a bus ticket. Tourists arrive in the city of Puerto Igasu. It is 1340 km from Buenos Aires. In the city you can stay in one of the hostels. The minimum cost of an overnight stay is $20 (≈1100 RUB).
The road from Puerto Igasu to the national park is about 18 kilometers. Buses run every thirty minutes.
Which country is the best to watch waterfalls?
We have already mentioned several times that the water complex is located just on the border of three states: Paraguay, Argentina and Brazil. A single national park is located on the territory of Argentina and Brazil. As such, there is no clear boundary between them, as it runs along the waterfalls and the river. The two countries are connected by a suspension bridge. In principle, the reserve can be visited in both countries, if you wish.
In every country you need to take a day or two to view the wonderful creation of nature. If you want to cross the border, then the control is not tight, the Argentine side is especially loyal.
Benefits of visiting the Brazilian side:
- The Brazilian side is said to have the best view.
- Here you can see the best park in South America.
- There is a central platform in front of the waterfalls, which offers amazing views.
- There is an opportunity to visit the central bridge.
- Boat tours available.
Advantages of the Argentine side:
- A chance to walk in the jungle.
- You can walk along the bridges on the islands. Most of the water streams and the park are located on Argentinean territory.
- Itaipu Power Plant Tour.
- The town of Puerto Guasu offers more affordable prices.
- From Argentina you can easily get to Brazilian territory. At the same time, they won’t even give you a stamp in your passport.
- You can go to the Three Frontiers Park. Here you will visit a gaurani village lost in the jungle.
How to see Iguazu?
The water complex is so huge that it can be viewed from above, from the ground, from a helicopter … And every time you will be amazed by the amazing views. In Argentina and Brazil, boat trips and walks along the park's trails are offered. You can only admire Iguazu from a bird's eye view in Brazil.
Air Tours
The Brazilian side offers the best view of the falls. And yet, the scale of natural creation can only be assessed from the air. Therefore, it is worth going on a helicopter tour. The flight deck is located right next to the entrance to the National Park. The duration of the flight is approximately 12 minutes. The cost of the air excursion is 11 thousand rubles. According to tourists, a breathtaking sight and indescribablethe feeling is incomparable. Raging waters framed by the jungle really resemble the throat of the devil.
Boat trip
No less interesting is the boat tour. The journey lasts about three hours. Upon landing, tourists are given special equipment. The cost of the walk is 4 thousand rubles. On the boat, travelers are brought closer to the waterfalls, so splashes of water are felt. From below you can appreciate all the splendor of the falling streams of water.
Boat trip
A boat ride is possible on the Argentinean side. A ticket can be purchased in Puerto Iguazu, its cost is a thousand rubles. Before the trip, you can take a walk through the jungle. By car, guests are taken through the park along the canyon. The sight is amazing.
National Park in Brazil
Entrance to the park in Brazil costs 800 rubles. Tourists are taken by bus through the jungle to the waterfalls. On the way, you can see the park, which is divided into zones for different animals. There is a forest of jaguars and monkeys here. Brightly colored raccoons walk near the footpaths.
Of course, the park itself deserves close attention from tourists. However, it is necessary to correctly calculate your strength, leaving them to the waterfalls. But you also need to walk along the paths of the park. Local nature and animals will give you a lot of impressions.
The reserve has a bird park. It is so beautiful that you should definitely visit it. According to tourists, Iguazu is a modern park that allows you to plunge into the world of nature.
Bird Park
Bbird park collected representatives of the feathered world from Africa, Australia, Asian countries and Brazil. The park is considered the best in all of Latin America. Its uniqueness lies in the fact that here you can watch birds in their natural environment. The birds are at arm's length from you, and they are not in a cage. The variety of species is amazing. There are no birds here. Especially a lot of parrots. Also, a relic species lives here - the cassowary bird, which vaguely resembles an ostrich.
No less interesting is the room with butterflies. Insects land on all visitors. Also in the park you can see amphibians, snakes, crocodiles and other unpleasant individuals. The park is very green, clean and beautiful. There are signs on all paths, so it is simply impossible to get lost. The territory is decorated with artificial reservoirs and ponds with wooden bridges. And flowers are fragrant all around. If you want to have a snack, you can do it in the cafe. Tourists recommend seeing the bird park to the waterfalls, because then there is no strength left, and the perception is not so bright.
Waterfalls
Tourists in the park are taken to the observation decks near the waterfalls on special buses. But the most interesting is yet to come. No wonder such beauties as the Iguazu Falls and the Great Barrier Reef are called natural wonders of the world. Being here, you understand that these natural attractions are really worthy of such a title. The amazing and bright combination of seething white streams of water with the greenery of the jungle is striking. Huge width of the water complexand its height remain in memory forever.
There are stone paths to the center of the attraction, fenced with railings for safety. They also sell raincoats. But it is much more pleasant to feel the drops of water on yourself than to hide in the heat in a plastic cape. Raccoons run along all the paths, not being afraid of crowds of tourists.
Waterfalls open differently from different sides. It seems that as you get closer to them, they become even more beautiful and larger. Numerous bright butterflies fly right near the water. On the central observation deck you find yourself in a mist of water droplets. And a bright rainbow opens up. Such beauty is breathtaking. This is what the falls look like from the Brazilian side.
