Visiting Foz do Iguaçu
It was a dream seeing the falls. And the visit was a must. We went in winter, when the waters show all their power, and the show was awesome. The jungle around the falls help to enrich the whole, and the sights from Brazilian side are absolutely fabulous. Moving to the Argentine side allowed to see in detail, and feel the vertiginous escape of the waters right under our feet. If Niagara is cinema-scope, Iguaçu is pure nature, still stronger.
The Power of the Falls
We visited the falls in winter, and that was the secret for the powerful demonstration of the river.
What a show! We really felt small by the water. Walking in the jetty over the strong current was a sensation that only a few of us risked to feel.
The Harmony of the falls
The tropical forest attracts you, and, with natural life distracting you, you go down the path until…
The impact of the size and strength of the falls is something impossible to describe. We were there in winter, when the level of the water goes up, and the cold weather dissolves light and colour, giving things a more dramatic look. I knew it was beautiful, before going, but not that much.
And I know we were lucky. Later on I saw a picture in a magazine (see Schock) and found that we must choose well when to go.
Safari Macuco
On land
This a very interesting small safari, dealt locally.
The way to the boat was a tropical adventure, part by jeep part on foot.
With several stops to show us the rare species of that jungle, it was a great preparation for the emotions of the river.
On boat
In Niagara Falls the Maid of the Mist takes you close to the falls, to feel their real power, but nothing like the emotions of Safari Macuco. After some kilometers by jeep in the marvelous jungle, stopping here and there to identify some exotic plants, and an exciting descend on foot, we enter aboard a rafting ship, and…God… we really felt the falls over our heads.
Some people died a few days after our ride, forcing to suspend the program. It was temporary, and it is back, so, don’t hesitate – for sure, it’s worth the risks.
Just browse Safari Macuco and you’ll get all the needed information.
Itaipu Dam
Brazilians are very proud of this construction, and they have reasons for it.
It is so big and wide, that we loose the sense of dimensions, and only when the guide starts to deliver the formal speech about the measures and weights in the book, we realize the real proportions of things.
Rafain – Food and Show
Rafain – Food and Show
Don’t miss.
Rodizio means (I think in the entire world) good grill.
In Iguaçu the delights of Brazilian meat got the company of south American music and dances, providing a remarkable night, with the sympathy and warmth of the Brazilians.
Don’t miss.
Site: Rafain
Sleep in Iguaçu
Belmond hotel cataratas
Belmond hotel cataratas
We didn’t stay there, preferring to stay in town, so, the only thing I must say is that this is the only hotel at walking distance from the falls of Foz do Iguaçu.
One thing you have to decide: If you want to stay in the middle of nowhere, just to “live” the falls and its jungle, this is your place (if you can afford it).
If you want a more lively place (not much…) you better stay in town and come by car, having in mind that this town follows American standards, which means that everything is spread and distant.
Price Comparison: more expensive than average
Iguaçu info
“Walking on water”
The strongest sensation from the Brazilian side of the falls is caught by crossing the tiny wooden bridge over the river.
Be warned: nor even your poncho will free you from getting really wet, and the sensation of the water flowing rapidly under your feet may get you sick.
Of course, you have the chance to go back at any time.
Kingdom of the Mist
The mist and haze are present everywhere in the falls. So, be prepared to wear your raincoat all the time, or to get wet.
Of course, you have the solution of buying locally a light poncho, not expensive, and that may become part of the fun.
Memories of Iguaçu
SHOCK
I saw in a Portuguese magazine (Visão) a recent photo of the falls.
The contrast with what we saw in location was… SHOCKING!
Browsing internet I confirmed that it was not a joke, and saw a even more dramatic image in La Clave.
WHAT ARE WE DOING TO THIS PLANET?
