Iguasu Falls

On our first free “weekend, 12 of us and Andre went to Iguasu Falls.  The other 6 held down the fort in Rio.  On our first day we visited the Brazilian side of Area Cataratus.  We were so impressed with the first set of falls we observed, but that was only the beginning.  There are 23 falls in all and the walkway for observation goes on for about one mile, ending in Devil’s throat – our first taste of getting truly wet. 

On day 2 we went to the Argentinian side of the falls (another stamp in our passports!) and visited Parque Nacional Iguazu. We took a tour that included a jeep safari in the jungle; road a large rubber raft up to and under the falls (completely soaking everyone); and hiked on the lower circuit and the upper trail at the top of the falls. 

 

The coatimundi (raccoon relatives), in their quest for food, were great entertainment during our lunch break. It started to rain as we walked on a very slippery 1100m long metal bridge to the very top of Devil’s throat.  We were cold and wet, but it was worth it! We ended the day with dinner at an outdoor restaurant in Foz do Iguasu.

Day 3 began with a great visit to Parque das Aves--a park/aviary devoted to rescue and reproduction of endangered birds.  The toucans hopped along the railing and there were many enclosures where birds flew all around us.  We saw the world’s largest eagle (harpy eagle), stunning pink flamingos and hyacinth macaws to name of few of the fantastic birds.

- Sue and Deanna