Greatest waterfalls in the world
Written: Jun 02 '01
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Spectacular scenery
Cons: Extreme heat in summer
The Bottom Line: These are the best waterfalls, and probably the greatest natural phenomenon, I have seen in my life.
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| nycsteve's Full Review: Iguazú Falls |
I visited Iguazú Falls in October 2000, taking a bus tour there from central Argentina. The tour was for all ages, and I traveled with three other students who I knew. We were the only foreigners on the trip and among the younger people in our group. At first, I was reluctant to take the 20-hour bus trip in each direction, but everyone who had preceded me said the falls were magnificent, and they were right. My discomfort on the bus was well worthwhile. Traveling with some kind of tour can be useful for visitors from Argentina, because U.S. citizens may have some visa difficulties at the Brazilian border, and the tour can smooth those over.
Iguazú spans the border between Argentina and Brazil. Most people will say that the best views are from the Brazilian side, but the better falls are on the Argentinean side, and I agree. The panoramic views from the Brazilian side are breathtaking, and there are several catwalks along the way where people can walk out over the river to get a superior view. Some caution is necessary, as the spray from the falls is prolific, and it is easy to get wet.
The Argentinean side offers a more up-close view of the falls, often from right above or underneath. The cascading water is deafening and drives home the force of the falls. I was less attracted to this side -- it seemed a little more crowded and had a greater tourist presence -- but it was still impressive.
It's possible to ride a boat up close to "La Garganta del Diablo" (The Devil's Throat), for the most powerful view of the falls. I didn't try this, but the people in our group who did said the experience was unparalleled.
Other attractions in the area include Itaipú Dam, which is purported to be the biggest hydroelectric power plant in the world, and Ciudad del Este (City of the East) in Paraguay, which is most famous for its black market of goods -- you can buy just about anything there, especially clothes and electronics.
In the summer (seasons are reversed in the Southern Hemisphere), the weather is generally extremely hot and humid, and there could be high levels of mosquitoes.
Recommended:
Yes
Best Time to Travel Here: Jun - Aug
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Epinions.com ID:
nycsteve
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Reviews written: 6
Trusted by: 0 members
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