Iguazu national park brazil. Brazil: Iguazu National Park (video)

Despite the fact that Puerto Iguazu is a fairly young city, which is just over a hundred years old, it is rightfully considered one of the most popular and prosperous places in Argentina.

This is explained by the fact that millions of tourists come here every year, who are attracted by the indescribable beauty of the nature surrounding the city, namely the famous Iguazu National Park, a huge number of beautiful waterfalls, as well as unique flora and fauna.

In addition, Puerto Iguazu is a unique place, which is located on the border of the possessions of three states at once (Argentina, Paraguay and Brazil), which also attracts many curious travelers here.

Region	province of Misiones
Population	82,227 (2010)
Population density	41.8 people / km²
	ARS (Argentine Peso)
Timezone
Postal code
International dialing code

Climate and weather

Puerto Iguazu has an equatorial tropical climate characterized by hot, dry summers and warm, comfortable winters. The hottest period of the year here is summer (from September to December), when the air temperature reaches + 31 ° С. Well, in winter (July) the air usually warms up to + 17 ... + 22 ° С. From January to May, slight rainfall is observed, and from August to October there is practically no precipitation.

Nature

The border town of Puerto Iguazu is located in the northeastern part of Argentina, at the confluence Rivers of Parana and Iguazu... It lies in a rather remarkable place, namely at the junction of the borders of three countries: Argentina, Paraguay and Brazil. The place is famous Iguazu National Park and famous waterfalls, which are located 18 km from the city.

sights

Puerto Iguazu is a cozy small town with many comfortable hotels, gift shops and entertainment centers... Historical monuments are practically absent here, and most interesting places within the city are:

• the main street of the city of Avenida Victoria Aguirre,
• art gallery Timbo Arte,
• Mborore museums,
• City Bird Park.

The main attractions of Puerto Iguazu are located directly outside the city. One of them is the unique place of the border of three countries at once (Argentina, Paraguay and Brazil), which is located in the area where the Iguazu River flows into Parana and is marked with commemorative steles. However, the most attractive and interesting place in the region is the famous Iguazu National Park, where the tourist train runs daily. In this beautiful place, there are a huge number of footpaths and iron bridges, walking along which you can enjoy the incredible beauty of the Iguazua River, get acquainted with the local representatives of the animal world, admire parrots and hummingbirds, and also see the most beautiful orchids that grow right on the trunks of centuries-old trees.

And, of course, having visited Iguazu Park, one cannot fail to see the famous waterfalls that rush down from a great height. The largest of them is located literally on the border of Argentina and Brazil and is called " By the devil's throat". In order to better enjoy the beauty of these natural attractions, the park is equipped with observation decks and bridges, as well as organizing motor boat cruises.

Nutrition

An integral part of a holiday in Puerto Iguazu is tasting the national Argentinean cuisine, as local chefs here create such dishes that can satisfy the most sophisticated gourmets. It is worth noting that numerous foreign recipes are closely intertwined in the Argentinean menu, resulting in a unique mix that almost no one can resist. The basis of this cuisine is meat, and the most popular dish is “ parilla»(A mixture of steak, sausages and offal, grilled). No less popular are such meat treats as a huge steak " beef de chorizo", Fried beef de lomo ribs and pork sausage" simple chorizo"As well as stew" buchero"And pancakes with meat" cases horno". In addition, all kinds of seafood dishes, chicken in beer, stewed vegetables and cold gazpacho soup are widespread here.

Local desserts are no less varied. Fruit pies, sweets with cream, caramel, ice cream, sugar-coated nuts, puddings and jellies - all these delicacies can be tasted in almost any national restaurant.

Well, the most important drink in the country is green tea-mate, which is drunk through a straw from dried pumpkin. Also, you should definitely taste the famous Argentine wines: Malbec, Cabernet and Shiraz.

Residence

In Puerto Iguazu, there are a fairly large number of hotels of any class, so here any tourist can easily find a suitable accommodation option. Firstly, inexpensive family hotels have been opened in the city, which are designed for the bulk of tourists: Hotel Carmen, Iguassu Holiday Hotel, Luz Hotel etc. Secondly, for the wealthiest tourists, luxury expensive hotels are provided, for example, Loi Suites Iguazu Hotel(from 240 $), Hotel Cataratas(from $ 150), La Aldea De La Selva Lodge(from $ 114). And, of course, there are cheap hostels in the city, where the most picky travelers can always accommodate ( Residencial Uno Hostel, El Guembe Hostel House, Che Lagarto Hostel Iguazu).

Entertainment and recreation

Puerto Iguazu is the most popular resort town so it comes as no surprise that there is a great variety of nightclubs, bars, restaurants, cinemas and entertainment venues, as well as several casinos. Thus, in addition to a variety of excursions in the most beautiful places, in the city itself you can also have a very good rest and have fun. For example, for family vacation the zoo is most suitable Bosque Guarani Zoo, where funny entertainment programs are held almost every day. There are also several beautiful parks in the city, for example, Luis Honorio Rolon, on the territory of which there are many walking paths, cozy gazebos and small street restaurants. A very interesting place, which is especially popular with tourists, is the Bird Rehabilitation Center. Guira oga... In addition, Puerto Iguazu has many gyms and fields, as well as a huge golf course, several tennis courts and an indoor stadium. Antonio Oddone Sarubbi Stadium.

Purchases

A stay in Puerto Iguazu is simply unthinkable without walking around the local shops, of which there are a great many in this city. They are located literally on all central streets, and specialize in a wide variety of goods. First of all, you should pay attention to the establishments offering all kinds of souvenirs: original rugs, ponchos, gaucho trousers, handmade jewelry, all kinds of gizmos with the symbols of the city and accessories for mate tea. It is also recommended to visit the small jewelry shops, where there is a huge selection of fine jewelry made from Argentinean gold and silver, as well as natural stones. In addition, there is a national handicraft market in the city every weekend, in the trading rows of which you can find interesting gizmos, for example, original dishes, leather goods, sheepskin, textiles, ceramics, musical instruments and much more. Also on this market there are so-called " Indian layouts»With original totems, figurines, masks and handicrafts.

In addition, it is recommended to look into the shopping center. Cataratas JL Mall, where many shops of clothing, cosmetics, accessories and household appliances are concentrated. On the territory of large hotels there are also small souvenir shops and boutiques, however, the prices there are quite overpriced.

Transport

In Puerto Iguazu, the most convenient way to get around is buses, which can be delivered quickly enough to almost anywhere in the city. Tickets for the journey are sold by drivers, and their cost is about $ 0.4. It should be borne in mind that buses do not always strictly adhere to the schedule, and at some stopping points they stop only with a wave of the hand.

In addition to buses, Puerto Iguazu has many Taxi that can be easily recognized by their yellow and black colors. The cost of the trip is determined by the counter and averages $ 3-4.

Connection

To make calls on the streets of the city, as well as in some restaurants and shops, telephone booths are installed that have access to international lines. Such machines operate from telephone cards sold in supermarkets and tobacco kiosks. Also, any call can be made from the post office. In addition, most hotel rooms telephones have been installed from which you can also call almost any city in the world. True, it should be borne in mind that in this case you will have to significantly overpay.

Cellular communication in the city has good coverage and works without interruptions. It is carried out in the standards CDMA 800 and GSM 1900, and the main mobile operators of the country are Telecom Personal and Unifon... Roaming is available to almost all guests of the city and country.

Internet access is provided in all major hotels. There are also several Internet cafes (Locutoria) in the central part of the city.

Safety

Puerto Iguazu is considered to be a fairly calm and safe city, so there is no need to fear any extreme situations here. Although, nevertheless, one should not forget about pickpockets and all kinds of swindlers who operate in almost any fairly large city. In order not to become a victim of this kind of criminals, it is recommended not to carry large sums of money with you, to keep an eye on your personal belongings and not to trust people who offer the services of a guide or assistant. We also do not recommend using the services of drivers who do not have official taxi signs on the car.

Business climate

The entire economic and business life of Puerto Iguazu is based on tourism and hotel business as well as trade. It should be noted that it is the service of tourists here that is the main source of income for most of the local population... A fairly large number of large foreign investors are involved in the development of local infrastructure. In addition, not far from the city are located Wanda mine, where agate, amethysts, topaz and quartz are mined, which are mainly exported.

The property

Basically, real estate in Puerto Iguazu is in demand among wealthy residents of the country and foreigners. Therefore, it is mainly elite villas, new private houses and luxury cottages that are offered for sale here. It is worth noting that the prices here are quite high, so not everyone can buy a home here.

During excursions in the vicinity of the city, tickets for Iguazu National Park tourists have to pay themselves (about $ 8), so be sure to take money with you. Moreover, if you plan to go there again, the tickets must be kept, since next time they are presented with a 50% discount.

Iguazu National Park is an Argentine-Brazilian nature reserve in which unique and beautiful waterfalls stretch for thousands of kilometers.

General information on Iguazu

• Full name: "Iguazu" National Park (Spanish. Parque Nacional IguazU, Portuguese. Parque Nacional do Iguagu).
• Region: province of Mignones (Argentina), state of Parana (Brazil).
• Date of foundation: 1909 (Argentina), 1939 (Brazil).
• IUCN category: II (national park).
• Area: 676.2 km2 (Argentina), 1852.62 km2 (Brazil).
• Relief: basalt plateau with steep banks of the river valley.
• Climate: hot, humid, subtropical.
• Official sites: iguazuargentina and cataratasdoiguacu
• Visit - paid
• Age - any, and too
• Purpose of creation: preservation of a unique complex of waterfalls on the Iguazu River on the border of Brazil with Argentina.

Information for visitors to Iguazu Park

Iguazu National Park is a protected area and natural border between Brazil and was created to preserve a unique complex of waterfalls in the Iguazu Valley, where it makes a huge loop before flowing into the Parana River.
There are many hotels, hotels and campgrounds in the park, they can accommodate several thousand visitors at the same time. There are also children's camps, information kiosks and souvenir shops, restaurants and cafes with traditional and European cuisine. The park is permeated with a whole network of paths; on special sites you can have a picnic or observe the surroundings. The administrative center of the Argentine national park is located 17 km from the waterfalls in the city of Puerto Iguazu, there is a small museum in the center, and the exposition brightly illuminates the protection, development and history of the fantastic water complex. Approximately 2 million people visit the territory annually.
Argentines are ready to offer several options for exploring the waterfalls. The first is the so-called jungle train, it passes through the best and most interesting places in the park, stopping where more picturesque views open up. This route option is not tiring and allows you to get acquainted with a fairly large territory in a short period of time. The second option is walking tour... It is designed for one day, and for several, suitable for amateurs active rest and those who want to watch the wild inhabitants of the park in their natural environment. For this, two ecological routes have been developed: Maruku and Green Trail. Once every 10 days, visitors are offered an unforgettable night tour to the Iguazu Falls.
From the outside, the national park management center is located in the city of Fosdú Iguacu. Visitors to this protected area can enjoy the enchanting view of the waterfalls from a bird's-eye view by taking sightseeing tour on board the helicopter. Although the area of ​​the Brazilian park is 2.5 times smaller than the Argentine park, it is from its side that the most breathtaking panoramas open up.
Iguazu Falls and its pearl - the main waterfall of the Devil's Throat. For their better view you need to take a special panoramic glass elevator to a height of 72 m. Two sectors (upper and lower) allow you to see the rushing streams from different observation points.
You can see the waterfalls not only from above and from the side, but even from below or from the inside. To do this, you need to choose one of two options: either go along the wooden walkways along a special route deep into the cascade, or try to get close to the falling multi-ton mass of water on rubber boats. This extreme ride is called Makuko Safari.
The parks can be accessed through several entrances. You can pay for the entrance ticket in several types of foreign currency (US dollar, Brazilian real, Argentine peso). From Brazilian territory to the waterfalls there is a road from international airport Foz do Iguacu, with Argentinean - from Cataratas del Iguazu near Puerto Iguazu.
Iguazu Park is not only the border between the two countries, but also a kind of friendship bridge, which means Tancredo Neves, from which an unforgettable view of the Iguazu Canyon opens.

National Park and Iguazu Falls on the map.

National park history

For a long time, the territory near the waterfall complex was inhabited by the South American Indian tribes of the Kaingang and Guarani. Iguazu means big water in the Guarani language.
The first European to discover this majestic waterfall was the conquistador Alvar Nunies Cabeza de Vaca. He ended up in these places in 1541. in search of the mythical land of El Dorado and called them Considerable in Spanish. Until 1860 the Iguazu region was a territory, but later it was transferred under the control of Brazil from the north, and under the control of Argentina from the south. Since the end of the 19th century, the Iguazu Falls have become known to the world community, and tourists from the Old and New World flooded to the South American to enjoy their beauty.
Officially on the territory of Argentina, the national park was created in 1934, although this area received a conservation status back in 1909. Brazil announces education national reserve in 1939. UNESCO included both parks on the World Heritage List in 1984. (Argentina) and 1986. (Brazil).
In 2011, Iguazu Falls were among the winners of the New Seven Wonders of the World competition in the New Seven Wonders of Nature nomination.

Walk on Iguazu

The Iguazu River Valley is part of a huge plateau formed by basalt lava during the Mesozoic era, that is, more than 135 million years ago. The lava passed through tectonic faults and cracks without forming volcanic cones and covered about 1,000,000 km2 in Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina and Uruguay spread over most of the Botusatu Trassic desert, forming intermittent layers of sandstone and basalt.
The Iguazu River begins in the Serra do Mar mountains of Brazil at an altitude of 1300 m near the Atlantic coast and is formed as a result of the confluence of the Atuba and Irai rivers, flows to the west for more than 1320 km, flowing into the Parana River. Above the waterfall complex, the Iguazu River spreads in breadth for 1200 m, below the falls it narrows to 65 m.
The falls were located directly at the confluence of the Parana and Iguazu about 20,000 years ago, but erosion has forced the rivers to retreat 28 kilometers upstream. The shape of the cascade complex resembles an inverted J, the waterfalls formed at the site of a geological fault during a violent volcanic eruption. Their number constantly depends on the season, water volume and flow rate. The largest volume of water is observed during the rainy season between October and March and can range from 300 m3 / s during dry season to 8500 m3 / s during floods. And on average, it is 1500m3 / s.
The waterfalls form a semicircle 2700 m long, 2/3 of them are under Argentine jurisdiction. There are 19 major waterfalls on the territory of the cascade complex, but only 5 of them are in the Brazilian part. During the dry season, visitors to the park can see two separate crescent-shaped waterfalls of 732 m each. Some waterfalls have their own names, for example, on the Argentine side, these are the falls of the Three Musketeers, San Martin, Chico, Ramirez, Bosseti, Escondido; from the Brazilian side - Floriano, Union, Benjamin Constant, Santa Maria. The number of visitors annually is 2,000,000.
The rest of the area is slightly undulating with a number of small rivers flowing into the Iguazu.

Natural wonders and interesting things about Iguazu

The largest waterfall from the Iguazu cascade system is called the Devil's Throat. Here 14 powerful streams of water fall from a height of 82m. The force of the fall is such that the waterfall is constantly surrounded by a 30-meter cloud of spray. The waterfall is U-shaped and is the natural border between Brazil and Argentina.

According to an ancient Indian legend, once the god of the forest decided to marry a beautiful woman from a local tribe, and she ran away from her unloved along the river in a small canoe with her beloved. In anger, the deity cut the river and created hundreds of waterfalls, condemning the pair of lovers to eternal fall. The girl drowned and turned into a large rock at the base of the waterfall, and the young man escaped and became a lonely tree to forever look at his deceased beloved. They can tenderly hug each other only when the sun shines from the right and a rainbow appears, connecting a tree and a rock in a kiss.

• 82 meters - Height of the Devil's Throat waterfall
• 150 meters - Width of the Devil's Throat waterfall
• 700 meters - Length of the Devil's Throat waterfall
• 60 meters - Average height of the Iguazu Falls complex
• 2700 meters - The total width of the Iguazu Falls complex
• 150-275 - Number of waterfalls

More about the inhabitants:

Vegetable world

The conservation areas surrounding the Iguazu Falls are similar in vegetation and climate to the tropics of the Amazonian forests. Forest flora is a real treasure of the ecoregion. Here is the forest, or Paranaens forest. In Brazil and Paraguay, only 5-10% of the pristine areas of this ecosystem remain.
In a forested area, research is very difficult because the plants form an almost impenetrable fence. Because of this, the flora national parks managed to study only partially, despite the activity of scientists. On the this moment in the parks, they identified about 2,000 plant species.
The forests are multi-level here, the highest is called "canopy". It is occupied by nectandra megapotamica (Nectandra megapotamica), guatambu (Balfourodendron riedelianum) and about 100 other tree species, among them the most common are diatenopteryx sorbifolia, cabreuva (Myrocarpus frondosus feltoidosus), ). This list would be incomplete without the Aspidosperma polyneuron, which has been declared a natural monument in the province of Misiones, and the acai, or cabbage palm (Euterpe edulis). Many of them are over 35 m in height and 1.3 m in diameter.
Below there are large and medium-sized trees, the height of which is about 10-20 m, for example, yellow oleander (Nurium oleander), Brazilian rosewood (Cordia trichotoma). Trees with a height of 3-10m grow under the forest canopy.
At this level, tree ferns flourish, for example Trichipteris atrovirens, their height does not exceed 5 m.
At the lowest level of grasses and shrubs, various types of mate yerba (Ilex Paraguariensis) grow, from which tea, which is so popular among the Argentines, is brewed.
The stars of the forest are no doubt the orchids (Orchidaceae) with aerial roots. They grow directly on trees, attaching to the trunks. There are 84 species in the national park, the most common are Brassavola uberculata, Catasetum fimbriatu and Miltonia flavescens.

Iguazu park animals

The fauna of the protected areas surrounding the Iguazu Falls includes about 70 species of mammals, 450 species of birds, about 40 species of reptiles and 18 - amphibians, many of which are valuable or are in real danger of extinction.
From the class of mammals living on, one can distinguish the Brazilian giant otter (Pteronura brasiliensis), jaguar (Panthera onca), ocelot (Felis pardalis), jaguarundi (Felis yaguarundi), bush dog (Speothos venaticus), brown black-headed capuchin large anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla), four-toed anteater (Tamandua tetradactyla), crustacean raccoon (Procyon cancrivorus), South American nosoha (Nasua nasua), plain tapir (Tapirus terrestris), Mazamu Hydro hydrochaeris).
The Iguazu is home to about 50% of all bird species in Argentina and Brazil, of which 180 are nesting. Particularly noteworthy are the black-fronted guan (Aburria jacutinga), the Brazilian merganser (Mergus octosetaceus), the earthen dove (Claravis godefrida), the tirica (Brotogeris tirica), the bronze penelope (Penelope obscura), the dusky American swift (Cyampseicolides) ), wine-breasted Amazon (Amazona vinacea).
Among the reptiles in the park, you can find the crescent botrops (Bothrops Illlernalus), the terrible rattlesnake, or the cascavela (Crotalus durissus), the Brazilian hood snake (Cyclagras gigas). The islands are home to populations of the wide-faced caiman (Caiman latirostris) and Paraguayan (Caiman yacare).
Among the amphibians, the reed toad (Bufo marinus) is found in these places, and among the fish, the spotted pimelodus (Pimelodus maculatus) and the clarius (Pimelodus clarias).
On the territory of "Iguazu" the most favorable conditions for life and reproduction of various insects, primarily butterflies. Almost 80% of the representatives of the order Lepidoptera of Argentina and Brazil feel great among tall tropical forests with garlands of vines and a scattering of orchids.

As a result of the combined efforts of the two countries, this land of waterfalls was created - the beautiful Iguazu Park.

Where is Iguazu Park in Argentina

Iguazu National Park is located in northeastern Argentina and southeastern Brazil. There is an exit to the waterfalls from both countries. The base cities for visiting the park are Puerto Iguazu (Argentina), located 1000 km from Buenos Aires, and Foz do Iguazu (Brazil), located 800 km from Sao Paulo.

When is the best time to visit Iguazu National Park

You can visit Iguazu Park in Argentina and Brazil all year round. In winter (June-August) there are significantly fewer tourists, a comfortable temperature and not much rainfall. It is quite hot in summer, the air temperature can rise above +30. The wettest month is November. However, the climate here is tropical, and it can rain whenever you want, as well as sunny days are very frequent.

How to get to Iguazu Park in Argentina

LATAM and Aerolineas Argentinas fly from Buenos Aires to Puerto Iguazu. The flight will take a little more than half an hour, the cost of a one-way ticket is about 150-200 USD.

From Sao Paulo to Foz do Iguacu, you can get by Gol and LATAM airlines from USD 90 per one-way flight. You can also fly from Rio de Janeiro (from 130 USD), the flight lasts about 3 hours.

What to do in Iguazu National Park

On the Argentine part of the Iguazu National Park:

• Walk along seven kilometers of paths with a mass of gorgeous viewing platforms and find yourself in the immediate vicinity of the waterfalls.
• Take a train ride to the Devil's Throat, the most powerful Iguazu Falls, and be deafened by its powerful roar.
• Go mini trekking on the Macuko Trail, a 7 km trail through dense jungle. If you are lucky, you will see local birds, insects and monkeys. At the end of the road you will find a beautiful 20-meter waterfall where you can swim.
• If swimming under the 20-meter waterfall is not enough, get on the boat and take a shower under the more serious cascades. A sea of ​​adrenaline, goosebumps and unforgettable impressions are guaranteed.

• Visit Guiraoga, a shelter for animal victims of poachers from the region.
• Take a canopy ride in the jungle, zip down near one of the waterfalls (another option to get a good wet!) And ride through the mud of the jungle in off-road vehicles and ATVs.
• Enter the hummingbird garden - an ordinary private house, the owners of which feed the hummingbirds. These little birds have long considered the garden their home and often come here for a treat. A unique place where you can see rare and, most importantly, free birds up close.

On the Brazilian side of the Iguazu National Park:

• See panoramic views of the waterfalls
• Take a shower under the waterfalls by boat
• Go on a couple of mini-river hikes with boats and canoes to see the local fauna, including crocodiles.
• Take a 12-minute helicopter tour over the Iguazu Falls
• Visit the Iguazu Bird Park.
• Relaxing in a small water park is a good option if you are traveling with children.

In Paraguay has its own mini-waterfalls Mondai, and it is also worth going on an excursion to one of the largest hydroelectric power plants in the world - Itaipu.

Where to eat in Iguazu National Park

Puerto Iguazu:

• The Argentine Experience is an option for those who are not too lazy to cook their own food in a fun atmosphere, and at the same time learn the basics of a simple one. Here they will teach you how to order steaks, show you how to cook empanadas and alphahorians, and much more. The food is great!
• La Vaca Enamorada (cow in love) is a simple home-made restaurant served by the owner himself. Very soulful atmosphere, huge portions of steaks, pasta, salads, fish dishes.
• Aqva Restaurant is a good fine dining restaurant. The set is typical for Iguazu: meat, fish, pasta, grill.

Foz do Iguacu:

• Emporio Com Arte is a restaurant with an almost homely atmosphere and excellent food.
• Vo Bertila Pizza & Pasta is the best pizzeria in town with an almost Spartan feel. In the evening, the place is overcrowded with locals, and this is a sign of quality.

Where to live in Iguazu National Park

Iguazu needs to live in both cities outside of them. In this region, you can stay in luxury jungle hotels. Air, atmosphere, selva - this is practically not found in the city.

Prices in Argentina: Iguazu National Park

Shown below are the average prices for entertainment, accommodation, food and transfers around Iguazu National Park. They may change depending on the jumps in the exchange rate of the national currency of Argentina to the dollar, the holiday season and local holiday weekends:

• Entrance to the national park - around 20-25 USD per person. Entry fees on the Argentine and Brazilian sides have to be paid separately.
• Shower under the waterfalls by boat - 30 USD.
• Taxi from the airport to the city - 15-20 USD.
• Bus from the airport to the city center - about 2 USD.
• Dinner for 1 person (average bill in an average restaurant) - 15-25 USD.
• Overnight at the hostel - 15-20 USD
• Overnight in a 4-star hotel - 100-150 USD.
• Overnight at a 5 star hotel - from 200 USD to infinity 🙂

2. Photo tour of Iguazu Park in Argentina and Brazil

Iguazu National Park attracts as many tourists to Argentina as probably all other attractions combined. The world-famous waterfalls are rightfully recognized as one of the natural wonders of the world and included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. They give visitors an unforgettable and incomparable experience. You need to look at the waterfalls from both the Argentinean and Brazilian parts. The Argentinean side is notable for its proximity to the waterfalls themselves, while in Brazil you can enjoy their panoramic views.

05. Iguazu pleasantly stands out among the majority of its organization: excellent paths, good navigation, already at the entrance there are stands where you can see where and why to go.

06. Separate waste collection was even noticed in Argentina very rare... We hope that the contents of these tanks do not go into one heap afterwards 🙂

24. Others went swimming 🙂

Iguazu National Park was formed at the initiative of the Argentine government in 1934 around waterfall with the same name for saving natural resources region. It is located in the northern part of the province of Misiones, and is declared by UNESCO world heritage humanity. The park is located at a distance of eighteen kilometers from the city of Puerto Iguazu. It covers an area of ​​five hundred and fifty square kilometers. The Iguazu River borders it from the north. The Brazilian National Park begins on the opposite bank. Everyone recommends a visit to this beautiful place.

The modern territory of the park has been inhabited since ancient times. There is evidence of people staying here for eight thousand years BC. They were engaged in fishing, hunting and gathering, and subsequently in agriculture. At the turn of the 10th century, they were replaced by the people of the tribe, who at that time possessed advanced agricultural technologies. In the 16th century, they were supplanted by the Spaniards and the Portuguese, although the tribe itself has survived in the region to this day. The name "Iguazu" has also survived, which means "Big Water" in Guarani.

In the National Park, the Iguazu River spills up to 1500 meters wide and, thanks to the bends of the channel, forms a horseshoe shape. The main cascades of the waterfall have the same shape. Underwater ledges and islets divide the deep river into turbid turbid streams that rush down from great height creating fountains of spray and mist of mist over the waterfall. The Iguazu River in the southern regions of Brazil flows through a solid, basalt bedding left by solidified lava. A waterfall formed at the place where the lava flow stopped.

The National Park has over two thousand species of native plants and animals. Here grow: ferns, orchids, palms and tall trees that support climbing plants. These are multi-level forests, the trees of which, due to their different heights, form "steps". At the lower level, there are dense bushes and grasses, climbing plants rise up, embracing giant trees. Vines descend from above, which, together, makes the local forests impassable. There are whole families of moisture-loving and exotic plants. Here you can also find fruit trees that attract various representatives of the fauna, mainly toucans. The bird population numbers over 450 species, which are best seen in the morning or at dusk. During the walk, many colorful bright parrots, hummingbirds and lizards come across to the waterfall. The park is home to about 80 species of mammals and five species of the cat family, including jaguars, cougars and others. Rare and endangered animals have found refuge in the National Park: ocelots, anteaters, and South American tapirs. Here you can see a huge number of insects, especially the variety of butterflies. An environmental service has been operating in the park since its foundation. The climatic conditions of the Iguazu National Park are reminiscent of the tropics of the Amazon basin.

At the entrance to the park there is an information tourist centre, from where a panoramic view of the waterfall opens. True, it is far enough from here to it, it is much more interesting to wander along the multilevel paths and bridges above the individual cascades of the waterfall. There are two main routes: upper and lower. The upper one goes over the waterfall, and the lower one allows you to look at it from the side and leads directly to one of the cascades. Here, on a special site, those who wish can feel the pressure of the water on themselves. Large boats with inflatable boards take fans of extreme sports to the island of San Martin, covered with dense vegetation, wet with water dust, which is located opposite the raging elements. Climbing to its top is not so easy, but a magnificent view of one of the main cascades of the waterfall opens up from here. On the territory of the Iguazu National Park, there is a special ecological train that takes you to the waterfall, cafes and kiosks are open. On the territory, there are also hotels, the best of which is Sheraton 5 *, the only one has rooms overlooking the Iguazu Falls.

On the territory of Brazil in the ecological region "Atlantic Forests of Parana" there is a UNESCO World Heritage Site - Iguazu National Park... The stunning waterfall of the same name is officially recognized as its dominant attraction. It is so large-scale that some of it is even located on Argentine territory. Colorful wildlife became home to a huge number of various species of birds and butterflies. Among them there are endangered and rare breeds of birds. Therefore, Iguazu is under the protection of UNESCO. Near the Park, tourists can see the remains of the Jesuit mission. The church of San Ignacio Mini attracts enthusiastic views, which was built in the Guarana Baroque style.

The origin of the name of the Park. Local infrastructure

The name of the Park literally translates as "Big Water". It was named so because on Iguazu Territory there are more than 270 waterfalls! Tourists explore the vastness right in their swimsuits, because there is nowhere to hide from the splashing of waterfalls. For the sake of comfortable observation of natural phenomena by local residents, a sufficient number of crossings, bridges and observation platforms were built. It is even possible to go down from the height of the waterfalls to their foot by boat or jeep.

A short walk along the river on an open boat will give you a lot of pleasure. After all, travelers will come very close to the cascades of the waterfall. And the most courageous will even "burst" into the numerous streams of the waterfall. Photos taken in this place will fully convey all the grandeur and stunning beauty of the waterfall. The boat trip lasts only 1.5-2.0 hours.

On the territory of the Park, you can carry out not only walking excursions, but also car excursions. The park infrastructure provides an opportunity to see the waterfall in all its glory, even from a helicopter. Fans of extreme sensations are invited to swim along the river in inflatable boats. Park staff attached jump ropes, pulled platforms between trees. This makes it possible to climb trees with a safety net. Above the waterfall zone, comfortable stations were built for training water view sports.

Since the park area receives a large number of travelers from all over the world every day, a couple of hotels, restaurants and bars had to be built near the waterfalls. And even an airfield. Today, the village is home to about 6,000 residents who serve travelers.

The local river has a similar name, which originates from the shores of the Atlantic and flows along the entire coast. Therefore, it is also called the natural water border between Argentina and Brazil. Water Iguazu river break down from a natural reddish plateau and fly from 60 meters in height with a stunning waterfall. And from the plateau in the form of a crescent, which is located at an altitude of 2.7 km, the water mass falls directly into the formed canyon. Lush vegetation and a large number of rocks divide the river into 275 streams. Highest point the fall of river water reaches 82 m. this place is known by the name

"Devil's Throat"

The delightful sight of the waterfall is complemented by a constant rainbow. Day after day, it shimmers in different colors over the sparkling water dust, adorning the tops of lush vegetation.

In the vicinity of the famous waterfalls there is small island with trees and rocks and a beach area. Those who wish can sunbathe and swim there. Although you can admire the waterfall both from the Brazilian side and from the Argentinean territory, an incredible panoramic view opens up from the Brazilian side.

Iguazu Falls legend

Any landmark has its own legend. This waterfall also has it.

The god of the surrounding forests fell in love with the local beauty and decided to marry her. Yes, only she fled with her lover in a canoe downstream of the river. Being very angry, God did not hesitate for a long time and cut the water surface. The couple in love did not escape and crashed. They fell into the abyss that arose. In the blink of an eye, the beauty turned into an impregnable rock, and the young man into a sturdy tree.

There is more than enough moisture here. This allows the forest to grow in several levels. It surprises with its exuberant flora and beauty. Very often, the nature of the Park is even compared to the Amazonian tropics. The flora is represented by iron trees - cabbage trees, aspidosperms, cabbage palms, etc. They are home to tapirs, monkeys, hummingbirds and rare butterflies of indescribable colors the size of a tea saucer. Most often they can be found near puddles. There they extract minerals from the water. Also in the Park grow a legcarp, phoebe, holly, orchid, palo-rose, bromeliad, zest and araucaria. Florists will easily name all varieties of numerous vascular plants, show trees that belong to the Burzer family.

In order to preserve in its original form all the power and beauty of the waterfalls and endangered species of representatives of fauna and flora, it was decided to organize protected areas on the territory of the Park. On the Brazilian side, 180,000 hectares have been allocated. This is how one of the largest reserves in the world appeared. On Argentine Territory protected area covers 55,000 hectares.

Exotic bird park

In the protected area Iguazu Bird Park occupied 4 hectares of pristine subtropical forests. In the bird sanctuary, travelers can see birds in their natural habitat. They can not only be viewed, but even fed. The reserve has sheltered more than 500 different species of birds with different continents... So in the air you can see not only hummingbirds and toucans, but also American swifts with parrots, wine-breasted Amazons, Brazilian mergansers, South American harpies and bronze penelopes. Although this part of the Park is reserved for birds. This does not interfere in any way with a quiet habitat, turtles, crocodiles and 40 species of reptiles (wide-faced caiman, Paraguayan caiman, coral snake, etc.), howler monkeys and capuchins, as well as 70 species of mammals. The park is inhabited by the caliber, jaguar, puma, Brazilian otter, ocelot, giant anteater, plain tapir and mazama deer, jaguarunda cat, water possum and bush dog. The exotic bird park is inhabited by squads of bats. Most often, you can find an ordinary vampire.

Makuku Safari

To the formed Iguazu canyon you can ride comfortably in jeeps through the forest thickets. This excursion has the official name Makuku Safari.

Helicopter tour over the main attraction of Iguazu Park.

Travelers can take a short or long stroll in the helicopter cabin.

A short helicopter tour takes place directly above the waterfalls themselves. Tourists will be shown both parts of the waterfall (Brazilian and Argentinean) and Devil's throat... The helicopter will travel at low altitude and at low speed. Therefore, a natural phenomenon will unfold in all its raging glory.

The half-hour helicopter tour is designed to show tourists the hydroelectric dam with the most power in the world. The flight itself is also so exciting because travelers will fly over three states at once: Paraguay, Argentina and Brazil. Since their common border just falls at the junction of the Iguazu and Parana rivers. When travelers head from Paraguay to the falls, they will see the illustrious Friendship Bridge.

Classic excursion

The usual classic tour begins with a short walk from the main entrance to. The photo can just be taken. And then take the narrow-gauge railway at the railway station. 15 minutes. tourists will ride in a trailer and find themselves near the waterfalls. If you allocate 20 minutes, then this time will be enough to overcome 1200 meters on suspension bridges. And then it will be possible to personally see the glorified "Devil's Throat". The guide will then lead the group to the train to head to the central camp. From this point, travelers will transfer to jeeps and go straight through the jungle to a natural canyon. There, on the small pier, a boat will already be waiting for them. On it, tourists will go on an exciting journey along the rough waters of the river. In an hour, the boat will calmly maneuver at the foot of the waterfalls.

Cultural heritage of Iguazu National Park

The first signs of the presence of Homo sapiens in this territory date back to the prehistoric era. After examination, it was found that the fragments of the vessels found are close to 10,000 years old. At that time, this territory was inhabited by Indian tribes who subsisted on fishing, gathering and hunting. And in 1000 BC. this area was visited by the northern Guarana and drove out the local aborigines. Unlike the Indians, the northerners already knew how to grow vegetables.

As for the first tourist expedition to all the famous waterfalls. Then it was organized at the end of the 19th century. For the sake of success, Victoria Aguirre, a participant in the trip, at her own expense organized the arrangement of the road surface from the local port directly to the waterfalls. Thus, she greatly facilitated the way for other groups of tourists, for which she received gratitude.

Literally 50 meters from the entrance to the National Park, travelers can see the Ivira Reta Visitor Center, which means “the country of trees”. The staff of the center will tell the guests that the territory of Iguazu Park, the photo of which adorns the walls of "Ivira Reta", protects not only unique waterfalls, but also animals and vegetable world... Tourists will hear brief history about the area and about the first settlers. From the fascinating stories, travelers will learn that environmentalists and European colonists are still working for the good of the Park. After a short narrative introduction, guests will be guided to a miniature eco-train that will take them to the falls.

If you go on an excursion along the lower path, you will have the opportunity to photograph the waterfalls from the front and from the top. But from a long distance, you will get impressive shots of "The Devil's Throat" and others waterfalls brazil... Whoever expresses a desire, he can find himself under the streams of the Bocetti waterfall. The upper trail runs along the entire line of waterfalls. It opens up a magical panorama of a phenomenal sight.

From a close distance, you can admire the "Devil's Throat" from a wide balcony located directly above the gorge itself.

It definitely doesn’t hurt to set aside time for a visit. San Martin Islands... All comers are transported there by boats. It's hard enough to climb to the very top. But the effort spent will pay off. The reward will be an impressive view of the Three Musketeers Falls.

As for the "Makuko" trail, along which the guests will be taken to the waterfalls by jeeps, it is designed so that during the travel period tourists can see the charms of wild vegetation close by. And if you are lucky, then meet some animals, take pictures of butterflies and birds.

Dam building

Not far from mountain gorges and the swampy surroundings, home to the feline mammal, the ocelot, in 1982 a stunning hydrotechnical procedure was carried out on the mighty waters of the Parana. In 7 minutes, 12 massive gates were lowered to the bottom of the river, which are closed using a hydraulic mechanism. For two weeks, the water rose to a level of 100 m, as its flows were stopped by a wall of concrete. Then it was thrown out through an equipped channel. To build a giant concrete dam, it was necessary to break through the rocks. Then it was possible to divert the river bed 2 km to the side and proceed to the construction of the dam.

When everything was ready, they started the water. The dam became the basis of an artificial lake with an area of ​​1340 sq. km. Previously, all valuable archaeological monuments were removed from this territory. Many species of animals that have inhabited the mentioned territory before have adapted to the "new" home. About 20 million trees were planted along the perimeter of the artificial reservoir.

As you can see, Brazil strikes not only with its city sights. Its parks and waterfalls deserve no less admiration from travelers from different parts of the world.

Iguazu National Park, video:

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