Iguazu Falls in one minute

All you need to know about the world’s most remarkable places in 60 seconds. This week: the Iguazú waterfalls in Argentina.

Where are they?
On the north-east tip of Argentina, on the border with Brazil.

Why are they special?
They’re among the world’s most spectacular waterfalls.

Did you know?
The name comes from two local words meaning “big” and “water”. The site consists of 275 separate falls along 1.7 miles of river: two thirds are within Argentina. The highest reach 270ft in height. The falls’ basalt lips recede a fifth of an inch a year.

Why go?
To follow the boardwalks, walkways and nature trails offering views of the falls; and take a boat/Jeep trip with an operator such as Iguazú Jungle Explorer (www.iguazujungleexplorer.com) Note that helicopter trips are usually banned form the Argentine side. Avoid Easter and July (very busy) – May is usually a good month, because it’s in the rainy season and you’ll see the falls in spate.

Take me there
The falls’ Argentine side has the better views. Fly from Buenos Aires to Puerto Iguazú, a few miles from the falls – a better and (relatively) less busy base than the Brazilian equivalent, Foz do Iguaçu. Stay at the Iguazú Grand Hotel (0054 3757 498050; www.iguazugrandhotel.com)

What about a package?
Journey Latin America (020 8747 8315; www.journeylatinamerica.co.uk) can tailor-make tours across South America. Or join one of its escorted “Classic Tours”, in this case the 22-day “From the Atlantic to the Pacific – Highlights and Hidden Treasures” trip, which includes two days at the Falls. From £3,848 per person; the next departure is May 2.
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SOURCE:
“Iguazú Falls, Argentina: One-minute wonder”
Travel
Telegraph
17 Mar 2009
By Tim Jepson
http://www.telegraph.co.uk
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/southamerica/argentina/5001053/Iguazu-Falls-Argentina-One-minute-wonder.html