Iguacu VS Iguazu
This is not a post for complaining about spelling (although I wouldn’t be opposed to writing one of those). This is the ultimate South American showdown: Argentina vs. Brazil, who will win it all?
It’s a tough match, of course. How can you choose a winner in a battle of Buenos Aires vs. Rio de Janeiro, the wilds of Patagonia vs. the beaches of Salvador, or the hikes of the Lake District vs. the towns of Minas Gerais? There is one thing both countries share, however, and quite literally: the incredible Iguacu/Iguazu Falls. Choose your allegiance to determine your spelling.
Our South America expert, Anton (aka “The Caballero”) is often asked by clients to explain the differences between the sides, and ultimately to decide which one is best. It’s a tough question to say the least. We thought it only fair to let the two sides battle it out in a series of categories to determine a winner.
Round One: Panoramic View
While the Argentinian side has some amazing outlooks to see the over 150 individual waterfalls in the park, Brazil’s vantage point a little further back allows you to see the sheer magnitude of this world wonder. This round goes to Brazil.
Round Two: The Close-Up
The Argentinian side of the falls has a more extensive raised walkway system which allows you to stand directly on top of several of the waterfalls. If you’re looking to get snuggly with Iguazu, Argentina is the winner.
Round Three: The Devil’s Throat
The Devil’s Throat is the name of the falls’ crowning giant. Set at the end of the path on both sides, its horseshoe shape and thunderous sound make it arguably the most impressive part of the falls. On the Brazilian side, you are lower down and can cross part of the river on an extended walkway to get right into the centre of the action. On the Argentinian side, the walkway is suspended above the Devil’s Throat for views from above. Although the Brazilian side allows for a ponchos required experience right in the heart of it, we give the point to Argentina for the drop dead gorgeous photo opportunities.
Round Four: Atmosphere
While the Argentinian side has a more extensive walkway system, and also a train to connect a few of the trails, this can also make it feel more touristy and crowded than the Brazilian side. Our point goes to Brazil for a more natural feeling in its park.
Round Five: Wildlife
Coatis (a sort of raccoon/anteater hybrid) on both sides of the falls are as common as seagulls on a boardwalk; and even bolder when it comes to your food. On the Argentinian side, however, the sheer volume of butterflies is an amazing extra. Argentina wins this one.
It appears that the championship belt goes to Argentina by a hair. But in truth, you need to see the fight for yourself to choose your own personal victor. Visit both sides and you won’t be disappointed. Nobody has ever objected to a double dose of rainbows.
Amy can’t make up her mind about which one she prefers, call her to persuade her one way or the other.
