What Are The Iguazu (Iguassu) Falls Like?

They lie at the border between Brazil and Argentina, extending literally over over a cliff almost 3 miles wide in verdant rainforest. Their origin is from a volcanic eruption which left the large cliff they fall over. The falls plunge up to 269 feet in a single drop, and their roar can be heard miles away. There are about 275 separate waterfalls in the group -- four times bigger than North America's Niagara Falls. An average of 553 cubic feet per second go over the Iguassu, much more in the rainy season.

There are several walkways for tourists to traverse directly over the intermediate pools and falls. The walkways provide an experience for all the senses. There's an endless rushing sound from the distance that turns into a roar up close. There are sheets of spray that hit visitors and buffeting winds caused the falls themselves (the cascading water literally pushing the air out of the way).

Although most of Iguassu is in Argentina, it's said that the best views are from the Brazilian side of the border.

Views are best from late morning to sunset. There are also special moonlight visits; ask in local hotels.

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