Cataratas do Iguacu (Iguacu Falls)

This spectacular landscape of crashing waterfalls was once held sacred by the Guarani people, who called it Iguassu, or "Big Water." It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World, an enormous basalt staircase streaked with some 275 cascades, rising shear and gray from the humid subtropical rainforest to 82m (269ft) cliffs arranged in an ever eroding arc of incredible waterfalls that span almost 3km (2mi).

While Argentina, with 80% of the falls, has more trails and activities, the Brazilian side offers the finest views. Pedestrian walkways descend into the fierce rainbow-strewn mists of Fiorano Falls, and take in panoramic vistas over the massive flowing curtain of Rivadavia Falls, which cascades across a plateau before separating into the powerful Three Musketeers. Take an elevator to a postcard-perfect viewpoint over Garganta del Diablo (Devil's Throat), considered the most spectacular scene in the park.

Most services can be found in Cidade Foz do Iguacu, a sizeable (population 320,000) and fairly cosmopolitan city with more than 100 hotels and scores more restaurants boasting dozens of ethnic cuisines. In addition to the falls, several family-friendly attractions can be found around town.

Practical Info

The best time to photograph Iguacu Falls is in the morning, making it the perfect time to enjoy the Brazilian side. Though you only need three hours to explore the paved walkways and viewpoints, you could easily spend the day.