If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing one of nature’s most magnificent wonders, Iguazu Falls should be at the top of your list. Located at the border of Brazil and Argentina, with a small portion in Paraguay, the falls are not just an iconic natural wonder, but also a UNESCO Natural World Heritage site. A visit to Iguazu promises an unforgettable adventure, where you can immerse yourself in the sheer power and beauty of nature.

Why Visit Iguazu Falls?

Iguazu Falls is not only one of the most awe-inspiring waterfalls in the world, but it’s also one of the New Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The falls consist of more than 270 individual waterfalls, spread out over a 2.7-kilometer-wide expanse. The name Iguazu comes from the Guaraní and Tupi languages, meaning “big water,” which perfectly captures the overwhelming scale and intensity of this incredible natural phenomenon. The falls are located on the Iguazu River, which flows into the Paraná River, creating a dramatic and beautiful border between Brazil and Argentina.

But what makes Iguazu Falls so special? Here are a few facts:

• Size: The falls stretch across nearly 2.7 kilometers, making it one of the largest waterfall systems in the world.
• Height: The falls vary in height from 60 meters to 82 meters, depending on the section.
• El Garganta del Diablo (Devil’s Throat): This is the most famous and dramatic section, where the water plunges into a deep abyss, creating a spectacular spray and thunderous sound.
• Flora and Fauna: The area is rich in biodiversity, from exotic birds like toucans to the playful coatis and vibrant butterflies that flutter around.

But beyond the statistics, the reason to visit Iguazu is simple: it is awe-inspiring. Whether you’re standing on a platform surrounded by mist or taking a boat ride beneath the falls, the power of the cascading water and the surrounding jungle creates a sensory experience that is second to none.

Making the Most of Your Visit

Iguazu Falls is split between two countries: Brazil and Argentina, and each side offers a unique perspective of the falls. To truly experience the magnitude of Iguazu, it’s essential to explore both sides of the border.

The Brazilian Side: Best for Panoramic Views

Most visitors start their adventure on the Brazilian side, and for good reason. This side of the falls provides the best panoramic views, allowing you to take in the entire expanse of the waterfalls. The highlight is the viewpoint at the Hotel das Cataratas, a luxurious property nestled within the park. From here, you can enjoy breathtaking vistas of the falls and take the walking path leading to the famous El Garganta del Diablo (Devil’s Throat).

To get the best view, it’s important to walk the entire trail to the end of the path, where you’ll find yourself right in the midst of the falls’ mist, feeling the thundering force of the water as it crashes down all around you. This viewpoint provides an unparalleled perspective that simply cannot be matched.

The Argentine Side: More Trails and Close-up Encounters

After soaking in the Brazilian side, head to the Argentine side, which offers a deeper, more intimate exploration of the falls. While the views are not as wide-ranging, the Argentine side boasts a network of trails that take you up close to the waterfalls. You can access the famous El Garganta del Diablo from the Argentine side, though the view is from above, looking down into the gorge below.

The park offers several walking circuits: the Circuito Inferior (Lower Circuit) and Circuito Superior (Upper Circuit), both of which allow visitors to get close to various sections of the falls. Expect to walk through lush jungle, encounter diverse wildlife, and be awestruck by the sheer volume of water. However, do note that the trails can get crowded, particularly during peak hours, and the heat can make long walks tiring.

Practical Tips for Visiting

• Accommodations: When visiting the Brazilian side, consider staying at the Hotel das Cataratas, which offers unrivaled access to the park, although it will be considerably more expensive than other accommodation options. I stayed at Hotel Colonial, an affordable option within walking distance of both, the Foz do Iguacu airport and the entrance to the national park. On the Argentine side, Puerto Iguazú offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget hostels to luxurious hotels. Staying near the bus terminal in Puerto Iguazú can be particularly convenient, as you’ll be able to easily access the falls and nearby restaurants.
• Transportation: While Uber is available on the Brazilian side, it’s not allowed to cross the border into Argentina. For border crossings, you’ll need to rely on official taxis or buses. I found the local Rio Uruguay bus line to be an affordable and efficient option for getting between Foz do Iguaçu and Puerto Iguazú.
• Currency: Be mindful of currency differences. Entrance fees are typically cheaper on the Brazilian side, and Argentina charges higher rates for foreign tourists. You’ll also find that the Argentine peso fluctuates a lot, which can affect your spending if you’re not prepared. Many businesses in Puerto Iguazú and Foz do Iguaçu will accept Brazilian reais or Argentine pesos, so it’s best to carry both currencies.
• Wildlife: Be sure to keep an eye out for wildlife! Iguazu Falls is home to a wide array of animals, including the curious coatis (small, lemur-like creatures) that can be both charming and mischievous. Keep a safe distance as they can be aggressive when seeking food. Birds, such as toucans and parrots, are also frequently spotted in the area.

Why Spend 10 Days?

While you could easily see the falls in two days, a longer stay allows you to experience the falls without the rush. I spent ten days between the Brazilian and Argentine sides, taking my time to soak in the beauty of the falls, explore the surrounding region, and enjoy the local culture. I spent several days in Puerto Iguazú, taking a break from the park to visit the Tres Hitos Fronteras (Three Borders Landmark), where the Iguazu and Paraná rivers meet, and learn about the unique history and culture of the tri-border region. There’s also the opportunity for day trips to nearby attractions, including the Jesuit missions in Argentina. Alternatively, continue to other parts of Argentina, cycling from the hubs of Salta or Mendoza.

Conclusion

Iguazu Falls is an unforgettable destination, offering something for every traveler. Whether you’re there for the panoramic views on the Brazilian side or the intimate encounters on the Argentine side, the falls will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. For those willing to spend a little extra time, the journey to Iguazu provides the chance to explore the biodiversity of the region, experience local culture, and fully immerse yourself in one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders.

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Once upon a time, there was an impenetrable jungle coast to coast, between the Atlantic and Pacific shores of Panama. Historically known as the Isthmus of Darien, it covered the narrow strip of land that lies between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean.

The idea of the Panama Canal, a water passage between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, dates back to 1513, when Vasco Núñez de Balboa, a Spanish explorer, governor, and conquistador, first crossed the isthmus, becoming the first European to lead an expedition to have reached the Pacific from the New World.

Cycling along the canal is the obvious and ideal route to begin the traverse of the isthmus between the two oceans. The traffic is not that heavy, but the road is narrow and has no shoulder. Still, I was glad to be out of the city and on the road again. Cycling light, no bike bags with only a daypack, I hoped for the best.

As the travel restrictions recently eased, after a year spent home, I thought it was time to get back on the road away from home and go cycling across Panama coast to coast.

In between the canal and the road, a railway line, known as the Panama Canal Railway, follows the canal. Its construction preceded the Panama Canal by half a century. The road does not always offer the view of the canal, but when it does, seeing giant container vessels quietly ply the narrow parts of the canal seems surreal.

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