To Iguazu Falls, No Time To Tango
Dec 2nd, 2014 | 02:00 PM
#1
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Joined: Oct 2009
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To Iguazu Falls, No Time To Tango
This is my third trip to Argentina and I am a bit embarrassed to say that am sure that I still cannot “Tango” without hurting myself or someone else.
After about a ten hour flight it is a quick and friendly welcome through Immigration and Customs before I am again trying to figure out the best (most economical) way to get myself to Aeroparque Jorge Newbery Airport (AEP).
Meeting up with a fellow like-minded passenger also headed to AEP we turn down taxi offers (US$53) and opt for an hour and a half bus ride for US$17 per person. After sharing smiles and waves with a bus full of school kids while stuck in Buenos Aires morning traffic we arrived at AEP as promised one hour and thirty minutes after leaving EZE.
A few hours later I am airborne for a less than two hour flight this time headed for Puerto Iguazu (IGR) airport gateway to the Argentina side of Iguazu Falls.
A short stop at a “Tourist Information” booth and I almost miss a once every four hour shuttle into town that fills up very quick. Much more slumbering around and my trip into town would have been about US$25 for a taxi instead of only US$7 for the shuttle.
Without any hotel plans as of yet I opt to be dropped off at the central bus station to start my hotel search for the next two nights. Turns out there are numerous hotel options within easy walking distance of the central bus station. I opt for “Marcopolo Inn” just across the street. In less than twenty minutes I have accommodations for the next two nights for about US$30 per night.
A walk around town, dinner and then I wait for my “Great Adventure” at Iguazu Falls to begin at 7:15am tomorrow morning.
After about a ten hour flight it is a quick and friendly welcome through Immigration and Customs before I am again trying to figure out the best (most economical) way to get myself to Aeroparque Jorge Newbery Airport (AEP).
Meeting up with a fellow like-minded passenger also headed to AEP we turn down taxi offers (US$53) and opt for an hour and a half bus ride for US$17 per person. After sharing smiles and waves with a bus full of school kids while stuck in Buenos Aires morning traffic we arrived at AEP as promised one hour and thirty minutes after leaving EZE.
A few hours later I am airborne for a less than two hour flight this time headed for Puerto Iguazu (IGR) airport gateway to the Argentina side of Iguazu Falls.
A short stop at a “Tourist Information” booth and I almost miss a once every four hour shuttle into town that fills up very quick. Much more slumbering around and my trip into town would have been about US$25 for a taxi instead of only US$7 for the shuttle.
Without any hotel plans as of yet I opt to be dropped off at the central bus station to start my hotel search for the next two nights. Turns out there are numerous hotel options within easy walking distance of the central bus station. I opt for “Marcopolo Inn” just across the street. In less than twenty minutes I have accommodations for the next two nights for about US$30 per night.
A walk around town, dinner and then I wait for my “Great Adventure” at Iguazu Falls to begin at 7:15am tomorrow morning.
Dec 8th, 2014 | 07:31 AM
#7
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Joined: Oct 2009
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To Igauzu Falls
After having a surprisingly comfortable night rest in a truly single bed, I am awake long before the chickens. Having paid about US$50 (520 pesos) yesterday afternoon I am up early to catch a 7:15am bus to Igauzu National Park.
A walk across the street from my hotel and I am at the central bus station that just seems to be waking up for today's activities. At one of the open out of many tour businesses I purchase a round trip bus ticket to the Igauzu Fall for 80 pesos compared to 220 peso one way in a taxi. A short walk across a bridge and I head to platform 11 and sit on a bench next to a four legged friend to wait for the “Rio Uruguay” bus.
It is about a forty minute bus ride out to the park where there is a 215 pesos, cash only entrance fee. Just inside the park I check in for my “Great Adventure” tour then take a leisurely walk to the designated meeting point.
At 9am its “Buenos dias, beinvenido” as I join a group of others on a short tour through the rain forest. I am not expecting to see any of the animals that make their home here but as we stopped for a moment it is a delight to hear birds singing from somewhere beyond the dense green vegetation. I am seeing and enjoying this part of Argentina with my ears more than my eyes.
Before long we are at the point where most if not all of us want to be. The highlight of our “Great Adventure” is soon to begin:
Video:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=24putrSQvHo
After having a surprisingly comfortable night rest in a truly single bed, I am awake long before the chickens. Having paid about US$50 (520 pesos) yesterday afternoon I am up early to catch a 7:15am bus to Igauzu National Park.
A walk across the street from my hotel and I am at the central bus station that just seems to be waking up for today's activities. At one of the open out of many tour businesses I purchase a round trip bus ticket to the Igauzu Fall for 80 pesos compared to 220 peso one way in a taxi. A short walk across a bridge and I head to platform 11 and sit on a bench next to a four legged friend to wait for the “Rio Uruguay” bus.
It is about a forty minute bus ride out to the park where there is a 215 pesos, cash only entrance fee. Just inside the park I check in for my “Great Adventure” tour then take a leisurely walk to the designated meeting point.
At 9am its “Buenos dias, beinvenido” as I join a group of others on a short tour through the rain forest. I am not expecting to see any of the animals that make their home here but as we stopped for a moment it is a delight to hear birds singing from somewhere beyond the dense green vegetation. I am seeing and enjoying this part of Argentina with my ears more than my eyes.
Before long we are at the point where most if not all of us want to be. The highlight of our “Great Adventure” is soon to begin:
Video:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=24putrSQvHo
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Dec 10th, 2014 | 01:14 PM
#8
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Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 4,080
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Getting Drench At Iguazu Falls
From our drop point it is about a hundred feet or so to descend to Iguazu River. Created million of years ago, Iguazu River begins its life about 1300 kilometers from here. Others from my group are quick to make the descent but old knees and a hip replacement allow me once again to see and enjoy the beauty around me with my ears.
I know this is going to be a fun and dousing adventure as along the way I am handed a large water proof bag to secure my items that I do not want to get wet. Sensing what lies ahead some have began to dawn ponchos prior to putting on our mandatory life vest. The clear plastic investment is just not for me because I came here to get wet.
A few safety announcements and soon we are moving along the Igauzu River at no less than 20 miles per hour. A crisp and cool Argentina breeze is whipping through my hair and I am full of “pearly whites” as this time I enjoy with my eyes the spectacular scenery around us. Jagged brown and green cliffs surround us with an occasional waterfall thundering from their sides.
Crossing the sometimes viciously swirling brown waters of the river occasionally gives us a white arching spray of refreshingly cool water from along the side of our boat. About ten to fifteen minutes of excitement and soon the majestic Iguazu Falls comes into view. Our speed drops almost to idle and we are given the chance to awe at the sight before us. Smiles are wide as cameras roll and click away.
We are then given fair warning before our speed comes above idle and our boat is maneuvered with precision even closer to the falls. Within minutes I am being hit in the face with falling water darts and then I grasp for breathe as I get drenched. Squeals of adventurous fear and excitement can be heard as we all get our monies worth.
After what seems like an eternity my breathing returns to normal and I can safely open my eyes. I can again feel a warm sun on my face but my legs are heavy and shaking from being drenched with what seems like buckets of ice cold water.
Back up to speed we visit another area of the falls where the drenching process is again repeated. Our adventure comes to an end with a round of applause as we approach our disembarkation point.
More of the sun's warmness is filling the air as morning clouds are beginning to disappear. My wet body can appreciate this and the beautiful day that lies ahead.
Video:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AfLvstRQ95Q
From our drop point it is about a hundred feet or so to descend to Iguazu River. Created million of years ago, Iguazu River begins its life about 1300 kilometers from here. Others from my group are quick to make the descent but old knees and a hip replacement allow me once again to see and enjoy the beauty around me with my ears.
I know this is going to be a fun and dousing adventure as along the way I am handed a large water proof bag to secure my items that I do not want to get wet. Sensing what lies ahead some have began to dawn ponchos prior to putting on our mandatory life vest. The clear plastic investment is just not for me because I came here to get wet.
A few safety announcements and soon we are moving along the Igauzu River at no less than 20 miles per hour. A crisp and cool Argentina breeze is whipping through my hair and I am full of “pearly whites” as this time I enjoy with my eyes the spectacular scenery around us. Jagged brown and green cliffs surround us with an occasional waterfall thundering from their sides.
Crossing the sometimes viciously swirling brown waters of the river occasionally gives us a white arching spray of refreshingly cool water from along the side of our boat. About ten to fifteen minutes of excitement and soon the majestic Iguazu Falls comes into view. Our speed drops almost to idle and we are given the chance to awe at the sight before us. Smiles are wide as cameras roll and click away.
We are then given fair warning before our speed comes above idle and our boat is maneuvered with precision even closer to the falls. Within minutes I am being hit in the face with falling water darts and then I grasp for breathe as I get drenched. Squeals of adventurous fear and excitement can be heard as we all get our monies worth.
After what seems like an eternity my breathing returns to normal and I can safely open my eyes. I can again feel a warm sun on my face but my legs are heavy and shaking from being drenched with what seems like buckets of ice cold water.
Back up to speed we visit another area of the falls where the drenching process is again repeated. Our adventure comes to an end with a round of applause as we approach our disembarkation point.
More of the sun's warmness is filling the air as morning clouds are beginning to disappear. My wet body can appreciate this and the beautiful day that lies ahead.
Video:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AfLvstRQ95Q
Dec 16th, 2014 | 06:58 AM
#11
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Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 4,080
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A Pollinating Mariposa
Being in the rainforest it is difficult to see many of the animals here that camouflage so well against the dense green vegetation. However, with hundreds of species of butterflies I do get to witness two unique experiences with these often colorful insects.
My first experience watching a pair of them mating then seeing some pollinating done by a solo flier. I know this may not be exciting for some but I am often easily enthralled by the simple things of nature.
Video:http://youtu.be/_xSRQS7iZpw
Being in the rainforest it is difficult to see many of the animals here that camouflage so well against the dense green vegetation. However, with hundreds of species of butterflies I do get to witness two unique experiences with these often colorful insects.
My first experience watching a pair of them mating then seeing some pollinating done by a solo flier. I know this may not be exciting for some but I am often easily enthralled by the simple things of nature.
Video:http://youtu.be/_xSRQS7iZpw
Dec 16th, 2014 | 09:05 AM
#13
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Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 4,080
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Exploring Iguazu Falls
Still wet from being drenched, I practically stand in one spot to allow the sun and mother nature to begin their drying magic. I am in the lower area of the falls and get more chances to be awed by them and the thundering sounds of the water crashing from hundreds of feet above me.
With most of the morning clouds gone the skies are now a mesmerizing blue and the day is becoming truly beautiful. I take out my dry camera and begin clicking away. I know the pictures I capture will never do the scenery here justice. I just hope that looking at them in the future will help me relive if only a small portions of my memories here.
From the lower area of the falls it is a hike to the upper portions and there are signs posted everywhere that this offering may not be for everyone. Nonetheless, I think the trail is broken down into manageable stages for most to be able to enjoy.
Progressing along the trail I stop in an area so close to one of the falls that it is totally wet from the falling mist. To my surprise there are birds which are difficult to see that live on the cliffs behind the cascading water. There are also plants and trees that have adapted to the high humidity of the falling water and add to the beauty of the falls.
There are numerous falls here throughout the park and the well managed trails makes its easy to enjoy all of them. There are a few restaurants around the park with reasonable prices although you have to be careful to not unwilling share your meal with one of the park residents.
Making my way to the upper area of the falls I come across one of the reasons you might not want to swim in what seems like a relaxing stream. Relaxing with you might just be a few crocodiles.
Unfortunately due to recent heavy rainfall a popular area of the upper falls to “Garganta del Diablo” is closed along with access to San Martin Island. Although disappointing this does not spoil the experience of being here. On the upper portion there are still areas where you can almost touch the water just before it plunges hundreds of feet below you.
At one point you can get a panoramic postcard view of most of the falls here that is simply superb. Again my photo taking ability does not do the scenery here much justice. Back at the Central Train Station I wait with others for a free train ride out of the park. Nothing much different to see on the train ride but for me it is an opportunity to reflect on my experience here as I sway in motion with the train.
Given the opportunity you must come and enjoy Iguazu Falls for yourself. From Buenos Aires (AEP) or Sao Paulo (GRU) there are convenient less than two hour flights. If you are a bit more adventurous you can take a 15-18 hour comfortable bus ride from either city for about US$200 round trip.
Video:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sL4B..._OzLrx0EcInIKQ
Still wet from being drenched, I practically stand in one spot to allow the sun and mother nature to begin their drying magic. I am in the lower area of the falls and get more chances to be awed by them and the thundering sounds of the water crashing from hundreds of feet above me.
With most of the morning clouds gone the skies are now a mesmerizing blue and the day is becoming truly beautiful. I take out my dry camera and begin clicking away. I know the pictures I capture will never do the scenery here justice. I just hope that looking at them in the future will help me relive if only a small portions of my memories here.
From the lower area of the falls it is a hike to the upper portions and there are signs posted everywhere that this offering may not be for everyone. Nonetheless, I think the trail is broken down into manageable stages for most to be able to enjoy.
Progressing along the trail I stop in an area so close to one of the falls that it is totally wet from the falling mist. To my surprise there are birds which are difficult to see that live on the cliffs behind the cascading water. There are also plants and trees that have adapted to the high humidity of the falling water and add to the beauty of the falls.
There are numerous falls here throughout the park and the well managed trails makes its easy to enjoy all of them. There are a few restaurants around the park with reasonable prices although you have to be careful to not unwilling share your meal with one of the park residents.
Making my way to the upper area of the falls I come across one of the reasons you might not want to swim in what seems like a relaxing stream. Relaxing with you might just be a few crocodiles.
Unfortunately due to recent heavy rainfall a popular area of the upper falls to “Garganta del Diablo” is closed along with access to San Martin Island. Although disappointing this does not spoil the experience of being here. On the upper portion there are still areas where you can almost touch the water just before it plunges hundreds of feet below you.
At one point you can get a panoramic postcard view of most of the falls here that is simply superb. Again my photo taking ability does not do the scenery here much justice. Back at the Central Train Station I wait with others for a free train ride out of the park. Nothing much different to see on the train ride but for me it is an opportunity to reflect on my experience here as I sway in motion with the train.
Given the opportunity you must come and enjoy Iguazu Falls for yourself. From Buenos Aires (AEP) or Sao Paulo (GRU) there are convenient less than two hour flights. If you are a bit more adventurous you can take a 15-18 hour comfortable bus ride from either city for about US$200 round trip.
Video:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sL4B..._OzLrx0EcInIKQ
Jan 14th, 2015 | 02:46 PM
#15
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Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 4,080
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sdtravels,
I have a Samsung HMX-W300 camcorder... works get for those situations.
I do not know when you plan on going but I am told some times are better than others as far as the water flow. However, I think that at anytime it's a great experience.
Thanks for compliments
I have a Samsung HMX-W300 camcorder... works get for those situations.
I do not know when you plan on going but I am told some times are better than others as far as the water flow. However, I think that at anytime it's a great experience.
Thanks for compliments
Jan 14th, 2015 | 04:29 PM
#16
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 1,941
Likes: 0
What a great trip report. Just the kind of travel style I like! When I was there about a year ago I did too much on organised tours and next time I will follow your advice.
If you have done something similar in Ecuador/Galapagos, let me know, that's next up for me.
If you have done something similar in Ecuador/Galapagos, let me know, that's next up for me.
Jan 15th, 2015 | 07:04 AM
#17
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Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 4,080
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gertie3751,
Have only visited Quito in Ecuador. Would like to return to visit the Galapagos so I would be interested in hearing about your trip.
I did do the "World's Most Dangerous Road" in Bolivia and I think that is worth adding to anyone's "Bucket List"
Have only visited Quito in Ecuador. Would like to return to visit the Galapagos so I would be interested in hearing about your trip.
I did do the "World's Most Dangerous Road" in Bolivia and I think that is worth adding to anyone's "Bucket List"
Jan 15th, 2015 | 11:11 AM
#18
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 5,221
Likes: 0
Did you try to visit the Brazil side?
I heard you get more of a panoramic view so you're not going in the falls themselves.
Is the boat ride included with the 215 pesos entry to the Argentine park?
What was 520 pesos for, if you paid 80 pesos for the round-trip bus ticket and 215 pesos for the entry fee?
Did you have your camera in the plastic bag?
I heard you get more of a panoramic view so you're not going in the falls themselves.
Is the boat ride included with the 215 pesos entry to the Argentine park?
What was 520 pesos for, if you paid 80 pesos for the round-trip bus ticket and 215 pesos for the entry fee?
Did you have your camera in the plastic bag?
Jan 15th, 2015 | 11:30 AM
#19
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Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 4,080
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scrb11,
Yes, I did visit Brasil side as a part of a day tour that included a side trip to Paraguay.. I think it was about US$40 per person and included lunch. I posted a TR about it under Brasil.
The views from Brasil side were amazing but the Argentina side was more FUN...
520 pesos was for a tour which included a short trip through rain forest and the boat ride.
215 pesos was just for park entrance fee...
I used a camcorder that is waterproof for video shots. They do provide a large size waterproof bag to keep your valuables dry.
Yes, I did visit Brasil side as a part of a day tour that included a side trip to Paraguay.. I think it was about US$40 per person and included lunch. I posted a TR about it under Brasil.
The views from Brasil side were amazing but the Argentina side was more FUN...
520 pesos was for a tour which included a short trip through rain forest and the boat ride.
215 pesos was just for park entrance fee...
I used a camcorder that is waterproof for video shots. They do provide a large size waterproof bag to keep your valuables dry.
