Iguassu Falls, one of the world’s
most awesome series of cataracts which combine to create the
spectacular grouping of 275 thundering waterfalls, is located
on the borders of Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay. Three hour’s
flying time from Rio de Janeiro, Iguassu Falls is a spectacle
whose beauty and force can be seen, but never fully described
or completely captured by any camera. The drama of these massive
cascades is heightened by the almost deafening roar of the
torrents of water crashing into ravines. Ever present rainbows
sparkle against forest of green pines and lush vegetation.
Nearby, visitors can stroll along trails to the viewpoints
where the mighty Falls thunder into the gorge. The Falls are
2 ½ miles wide with 250 separate jumps, for a total
height of 200 feet. A truly magnificent work of nature. The
Falls themselves are part of the Iguassu Park, the largest
national park in South America. It covers 507 acres, and is
made up of vast forest reserves including tropical wood species
such as Brazilian walnut, cedar, ipê, secular peroba,
silk-cotton trees, and jaracatiá. The park is also
home to a wide array of rare birds and animals. Stop at the
museum with stuffed animals, botanical samples, regional objects,
and ethnographic materials. Visit Ciudad del Este in Paraguay,
to buy merchandise from all over the world as well as lovely
Paraguayan handicrafts located across the Ponte da Amizade
(Friendship Bridge). The bridge is a remarkable work of Brazilian
engineering, consisting of a 300 yards arch of steel concrete,
one of the largest in the world. Special attraction of the
city are the Casinos, with roulette, baccarat, twenty-one
and slot machines. A short drive upstream from the Falls is
the Itaipú Hydro Power Plant, the largest in the world
with its 14 million kilowatts. This bilateral project is the
result of a treaty signed between Brazil and Paraguay in April
1973 with completion of the main part of the structure, in
October 1982. Fishing enthusiasts will discover a new challenge
in the Dourado fish. Known as the “Tiger of the Paraná
River”, the Dourado is difficult to catch and can weigh
up to 15 pounds. Iguassu Falls is truly one of Mother Nature’s
master pieces!
For more information about Iguassu Falls,
its highlights, tours and a complete list of hotels, please
send us an e-mail
telling us of your specific interests.
|
