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Straddling the Brazilian-Argentine Border, you can find some of the world’s most dramatic waterfalls: the Iguaçu Falls. Surrounded by two National Parks of subtropical forests, filled with exotic birds, plants and animals, the falls are a must-see on any backpacking tour around South America. But a trip to the falls requires some forward planning. The site Gringoes.com prepared a guide to backpacking through the Iguaçu Falls. Check it out:

When to Go

The falls have a different appeal year-round – March to November is probably the most pleasant time to visit, as temperatures are not too high, but if you can face it, the falls are more spectacular during the rainy season from May-July. During the hot summer months, the blue skies and intense heat can make the falls even more mesmerizing.

Begin in Brazil

Although most of the falls lie on the Argentine side of the border, the views from the Brazilian side are equally impressive, and promise even better photo opportunities. For overnight accommodation, stay in Foz de Iguacu, a sprawling metropolis close to the Brazilian side of the park.

After viewing the falls from the Brazilian side, you‘ll need to cross the border and take the bus to the Parque National Iguacu, in Argentina. Remember to take the appropriate visas and get stamped as you enter the country.

Exploring the Park

The extensive network of trails and catwalks on the Argentine side offer a better experience of the falls – with views from above and below, and the chance to see the Garganta del Diablo.

Exploring the park is easy – as soon as you arrive, head to the visitor center and pick up a map. Then follow the two trails past the falls – the Paseo Superior (a shorter, easier walk along the top) and the Paseo Inferior (a winding trail through the forest that ends up close with some of the smaller falls).

To see the Garganta del Diablo, take the Cataratas bus from the visitor center to Puerto Canoas, where a small viewing platform takes you within meters of these staggering falls.

On From the Falls
After exploring the park, the rest of Northern Argentina is within easy reach. The best option is to stay in a Puerto Iguacu after visiting the Argentine side – this tranquil town of tropical vegetation and quiet streets is a peaceful place to crash after a hard days hiking. 94fbwpaxjm