Iguazu Falls,
Argentina
Sunday, December 21, 2008
We traveled from Buenos Aires to Iguacu by bus and this time got to try out Super Cama. This is where there are only 6 seats downstairs and they all recline into full flat beds. With the red wine flowing and as comfortable as if you were lounging on your sofa at home the 18hour journey flew by. We arrived early afternoon feeling refreshed and ready to see the falls. What we weren't ready for was the intense searing heat as we stepped off the bus and it only intensified as the day wore on, reaching it's peak around six in the evening. If you can imagine all the hairdryers in the world on full force in your face or being trapped in a dryer then you'll grasp the energy sapping heat we were experiencing. Fortunately as there's a lot of water at the falls, approximately 1,500 sqm3, it was the best place to be. We started off our falls experience by safari through the lush rainforest and were lucky enough to see our first Toucan. With it's bright orange beak it stood out amongst all the greenery. Next we clambered into a jet boat to experience the rapids and the falls. It was exhilarating and so refreshing. The best part was our first sighting of the falls. We could hear the water before we saw it and rounding the corner unfolded such an impressive and spectacular sight. We left the boat completely soaked and feeling much happier for it. Following one of the many walking trails back we appreciated the view and getting up close to the Coatis, a raccoon like animal that are common in the park & are not shy of humans. After a relaxed evening out we retired to the hostel where a swim is mandatory before bed if you want to get any sleep.
As there is a lot to do on the Argentinean side of the park we went back the following morning and were still in awe of the beauty of these falls. The highlight of the day was going down the quiet side of the river by raft where we saw a Caiman and two Toucans, it was exactly what we had wanted to see. After finishing off the remaining walking trails we left the park, having loved the experience.
So it's adios Argentina and what an unforgettable experience it has been. Especially our last night in a hostel where upon check-out you had to hand in your sheets! I'm not sure what kind of people their usual clientele are but seriously as if we'd want to pack their sheets, I mean we have enough to carry as it is!
Some of the things that will always remind us of this great country are:
- superb steak always cooked to perfection
- Matte Tea, similar to a green tea but with a whole drinking and social ritual attached
- money machines that only dispense 300 pesos at one time due to historical reasons
- first class bus services that could teach airlines a trick or two
- everything happens on Argentinean time so you need to have a lot of patience
