Iguazu Falls

Iguazu Falls, Argentinian side

 There is something incredibly mesmerising about waterfalls and Iguazu Falls certainly doesn't disappoint. Perhaps it's the beauty of something that can be so utterly destructive and that we have so little control over. 

Straddling Brazil and Argentina, Iguazu Falls was named one of the seven New Wonders of the World in 2011 and is a truly awe-inspiring place to visit. I visited both the Brazilian side and Argentine sides, which are run as completely separate entities and offer different perspectives of the hundreds of waterfalls, interspersed with islands and greenery, which make up Iguazu Falls. 

Iguazu Falls, Brazilian side

Whilst the Brazilian side gives wide panoramic views and a better overall image of the falls, I visited on Good Friday and the park was packed. Having queued for over an hour to get my ticket, I had to queue for my bus up to the falls and even for the bus back down at the end of the visit, showing the increasing touristic interest in this beautiful spot!

Iguazu Falls, Brazilian side

I visited the Argentinian side of a somewhat quieter day, two weeks later and accompanied by my uncle, making for a better overall experience. On this side, you get the opportunity to get up close and personal with the falls at the 'Garganta del Diablo' (Devil's Throat),  where a 1km long walkway across the top of the falls takes you almost into the tallest chute of water, so you are surrounded by it on three sides. From there there's no escaping the sheer noise and power of the waterfalls and it's impossible not to come back at least a little damp! 

Garganta del Diablo, Iguazu Falls (Argentina)

For those wanting that extra thrill (you won't be surprised that I opted for this option...), you can take a 20 minute boat trip right up to the falls where the driver ensures you are well and truly soaked through, an experience I would argue was totally worth it, especially given how quickly you can dry out in the sun there. 

Soaked after boat ride

Garganta del Diablo