On the border between Brazil and Argentina there are the wonderful Iguazu Falls, which name, previously written as Yguazú, comes from the Guaraní language and means “big water”. Located on the Iguazu River between the Argentine province Misiones and the Brazilian state of Parana, they are one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and they leave astonished the travelers with their impressive beauty, who really enjoy this wonderful landscape formed by 275 waterfalls. 80% of the territory occupied by the falls is located in the Argentine and 20% in its neighboring country. And to know them well, you should not miss any part. I assure you that they will leave you speechless.
CURIOSITIES ABOUT THE WATERFALLS
The lands around the falls since ancient times were occupied by the Guarani, and it was the Spanish conqueror Álvar Nuñez Cabeza de Vaca, the first European, who in 1542 had the opportunity to witness this wonder of nature. At that time he called them Saltos de Santa María (“Saint Mary’s Waterfalls”). A legend about the origin of the falls tells that the Iguazu River was inhabited by a snake, Mbói, and to appease its fury the Guarani sacrificed a virgin every year by throwing her into the river’s waters. However, on one occasion the chosen maiden was the love of a young and brave Guaraní, who saved his lady and escaped with her in a canoe. The enraged snake chased them and with its large body created the waterfalls, separating the lovers on each side of them.
Also noteworthy is the impressive fauna that inhabits these lands, up to 450 species of birds and 80 species of mammals. The animals that I really liked were the coatis, omnivorous mammals that roam everywhere in search of food, so be careful with them, they will surely steal it from you. And although their appearance is truly cute, remember that they are wild animals that have good claws, better to leave them alone to avoid a claw. Also if you are lucky you can find a monkey or the beautiful bird, like the toucan. And if you are less lucky, this area is also inhabited by jaguars, ocelots and tiricas (tiger cat), although these kittens do not usually approach humans, so stay calm.
THE ARGENTINE PART
As I mentioned at the beginning, the falls are located between the two countries, and each area offers a different type of visit to travelers. In this way, I consider that it is essential to see both parts, do not worry they are very well connected with public transport. If you arrive from the Argentine side, which was my case, you have the possibility of taking a bus from the main station of the city Puerto Iguazu that will take you to the Brazilian side. You can also hire a private tour in a travel agency in the city or just a driver, who will take you to the waterfalls in the neighboring country.
The Argentine part that occupies 80% of the falls offers numerous hiking possibilities that run through the park. At the entrance of the falls they give you an easy-to-follow map, plus there are many signs throughout the site, making it impossible to get lost. If you like to walk you should come early and do the routes, or even see the Argentine part in two days and do the hiking without much rush. The landscape is unique and it is sure that you will not mind going through it again and again. There are two main circuits: the Lower Walk and the Upper Walk, which can be done in a single day. On the Upper Walk is the famous Devil’s Gorge, an 80 meter high jump, the highest in the park. You can access the Gorge using the Train to the Waterfalls, but there is also a nice path next to the tracks that you can walk on foot, the option that I liked the most since I love walking. Then when you get to the stop, the walkways are located through which you will reach the balconies, built right on the edge of the falls. Wow!!! The views are impressive. By the way, you can get a little wet with the drops of water that reach the balconies. In addition, in the park it is possible to do the Macuco Trail, a beautiful passage through the jungle where you have the opportunity to see the fascinating species of fauna and flora. Below I leave you the photo of the monkey that I saw. While the Island of San Martin, which previously could be reached by boat, remains closed to visitors.
THE BRAZILIAN PART
The Iguazu Falls in Brazil are only 20% of territory of the the park, although do not stop visiting them basing your opinion on the size. Honestly, the views are still really incredible, however, somewhat different from the Argentine part. There is a single walkway and the walk that you are going to do is much shorter, although the views that you have the opportunity to contemplate are wonderful too. You can enjoy from the only panoramic view being completely in front of the waterfalls. The walk is very pleasant and the coatis are also here watching your food, so be careful not to run out of your snack. Since the Brazilian route is somewhat shorter, you can visit Parque das Aves. It is highly recommended, since the tour takes place along the path between different trees inhabited by the beautiful birds of the area.
OTHER THINGS TO DO NEAR IGUAZU FALLS
Although the waterfalls are located between Argentina and Brazil in Puerto Iguazu, in Argentina, the triple border is located and from the same point of view, the Three Borders Landmark, you have the possibility of contemplating the three different countries at the same time, also Paraguay. This also happened to me in Jordan, where from the city of Aqaba I could see the lands of Israel and Egypt, but I will tell you this story in another article. In the city of Puerto Iguazu, I recommend that you also visit Aripuca, an ecological park-establishment where you have the possibility to learn more about the nature of the area, the native peoples and their construction techniques. Also in its souvenir shop you can find precious artisan items. I recommend you take a look. If you have one more holidays, also visit Ciudad del Este in Paraguay to do more shopping.
TIPS:
- Visit the Argentine area for at least two days, since it offers many truly incredible trails to enjoy nature.
- Be sure to go to the Brazilian side, the panoramic views are incredible.
- Visit the Ciudad del Este in Paraguay, shopping is cheaper.
- If you stay more days there is a lot to do, 4×4, river cruises, horseback riding, bike tours, and monuments around the area.
all about eve`s journeys 
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