Iguazu Falls
Straddled between the borders of Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay, the Rio Iguazu tumbles spectacularly over an enormous crescent shaped plateau into some 275 separate waterfalls thundering below.
Taller than Niagara Falls, twice as wide with 275 cascades spread in a horsehoe shape over nearly two miles of the Iguazu River, Iguazu Falls are the result of a volcanic eruption which left yet another large crack in the earth. During the rainy season of November - March, the rate of flow of water going over the falls may reach 450,000 cubic feet (12,750 cubic m) per second. These matter of fact details do nothing to describe the grandeur of the falls, the tremendous amount of water (an average of 553 cubic feet per second) thundering down 269 feet, the tropical location and the sheer beauty that led Eleanor Roosevelt to say Poor Niagara.
The sub-tropical forest of Parque Nacional Foz do Iguaçu which surrounds the falls, is replete with exotic birds and wildlife, among them giant otter, toucans, and jaguar. Visitors can follow numerous nature trails that weave along the rim and base of the falls, almost guaranteeing encounters with coatis early morning. Make your experience of Iguaçu Falls unforgettable with a Macuco safari and raft along the raging rapids of Rio Iguaçu. Alternatively, for a truly spectacular view, board a helicopter and encircle the falls from above.
Iguaçu Falls are an exhilarating sight to behold and not one to be missed during a Brazil holiday.