The end of an epic Patagonian adventure has come. With mixed feelings, I had to say goodbye to a group of amazing people, which will be missed badly. No more 24/7 food talk, camping in the middle of beautiful nowhere, or Team Seduction photoshoots. But then again, so many adventures are awaiting me. Leaving the cold, the snow, the wind, and the rain behind in Patagonia, I couldn’t wait for some sun, heat, and even humidity. Well, that was exactly what was waiting for me up north in Argentina. Iguazu Falls were my next destination and humid it was (map).
Iguazu Falls on a National Holiday
Not being prepared for the insanity of Semana Santa, I kind of underestimated the busyness of this wonder of nature. Apparently, the whole of Argentina AND Brazil think Iguazu Falls is the place to be during this weekend. Which makes it more like Six Flags on a sunny Saturday. Even though at least a million people were crawling around, the falls did have a massive impact on me. These falls are humungous, there’s no other word for it. Wherever you look, you see water falling with a power Poseidon would be jealous of. Not only the falls itself are beautiful, but also the scenery around it is worth a stroll. The place is surrounded by rainforest filled with colorful butterflies, birds, and monkeys, and the Macuco hike up to the Arrechea waterfall gets you away from the crowds (and will offer you the much-needed dip in the water!).
Where to stay
The town of Puerto Iguazu itself is just a tourist hub, but I do have to say quite a relaxing one. If you are planning on visiting the Iguazu Falls, try to stay at Mango Chill Hostel. This seriously is one of the nicest hostels I’ve seen so far and the staff is incredibly friendly. Lounging next to the swimming pool with happy hour caipirinha’s, playing one of the games laying around everywhere, or joining in on their impressive home-cooked dinner. It will all make you one happy clam after a day of hiking around the falls.
Fall in love with Iguazu Falls
Iguazu Falls is definitely a spot you don’t want to miss out on if you’re planning a trip to Argentina. The majestic waterfalls are one of a kind and an absolute force of nature. Before planning a trip up there, however, I would check the Argentinian holiday calendar. I can imagine this place being even more mind-blowing if you’re skipping the Easter crowds. What an amazing world we live in, right? Go check it out yourself!
Adios,
Marthe
Photos by: M. Barends ©
Recap
Do you rather look at images than reading stories? No worries, we have a short recap of everything you need to know below.
Best time to visit
February - March. The water levels of the falls will still be high, while it's mostly clear blue skies.
Our hotel picks
Mango Chill Hostel
Our restaurant pick
Terra Wok & Grille
Currency
Argentinian Peso
Weather
Summer: October to April (25-32ºC/77-90°F)
Winter: May to September (20-25ºC/68-77°F)
Entrance Fee
800 Pesos/18 USD (2020)
