Epic Adventure to Iguazu Falls with Friends

Devil's Throat and Dizzying Heights

Day two in Iguazu Falls National Park, and the anticipation from last night was palpable. Today, we were headed straight for the big one: the legendary Devil's Throat. I'd read countless descriptions, seen the photos, but nothing truly prepares you for the sheer scale and power of this natural wonder. After a hearty breakfast with the lads at Bambu Restobar, it was time to face the falls.


Experience the awe-inspiring power of nature at Devil's Throat, the crown jewel of Iguazu Falls, where water thunders into a misty abyss.

The journey to Devil's Throat is an experience in itself. We hopped on the Ecological Train, an open-air carriage that meanders through the jungle. It’s a gentle prelude to the main event, a chance to soak in the sights and sounds of the rainforest. Butterflies fluttered around us, and the air was thick with humidity, a stark contrast to the crisp Halifax air I'm used to. The anticipation grew with every meter, the distant roar of the falls becoming more and more prominent.

As the train pulled into the Garganta del Diablo station, we disembarked and began our walk along the steel walkway. This path stretches over the Upper Iguazu River, leading directly to the heart of the falls. The closer we got, the more intense the experience became. The air filled with mist, a cool spray that kissed our faces and dampened our clothes. The roar was deafening, a primal sound that vibrated through our very bones.

And then, there it was. Devil's Throat. A colossal, horseshoe-shaped waterfall, where the Iguazu River plunges 82 meters into a narrow gorge. The sheer volume of water is astounding, an estimated 1,500 cubic meters per second. It’s enough to fill 36 Olympic-sized swimming pools in a minute ! The mist rises high into the air, creating a perpetual cloud that shimmers with rainbows on a clear day.

The viewing platform offers an immersive experience. You're surrounded by the falls, the water cascading down with incredible force. The noise is overwhelming, a constant thunder that drowns out all other sounds. It’s a sensory overload, a humbling reminder of the power of nature. I found myself lost in the spectacle, mesmerized by the endless torrent of water. I could see why Eleanor Roosevelt, upon seeing Iguazu, reportedly exclaimed, “Poor Niagara!”. It’s a truly breathtaking sight.

The raw power and beauty of Devil's Throat is something that has to be experienced to be believed.

After spending a good amount of time taking in Devil's Throat, we decided to explore another part of the park. We grabbed some lunch at Restaurante La Selva. It wasn't exactly gourmet, but it was decent enough to recharge after all the excitement.


Discover exquisite Argentine flavors amidst nature's splendor at Restaurante La Selva in Iguazú National Park.

Next up was the Circuito Inferior, or Lower Circuit. This trail winds along the base of the falls, offering a different perspective from the panoramic views above. The paths were well-maintained, and the walk was relatively easy, even with my dodgy knees. The rainforest was lush and vibrant, teeming with life. We spotted coatis, toucans, and a variety of other birds. I even caught a glimpse of a lizard sunning itself on a rock.


Get up close and personal with the breathtaking power of Iguazu Falls on the immersive Circuito Inferior.

The Lower Circuit provides a more intimate experience with the falls. You can feel the spray on your skin, hear the rushing water up close, and see the smaller cascades and rapids that make up the Iguazu River. There are several viewpoints along the trail, each offering a unique angle on the falls. We spent hours exploring, taking photos, and simply enjoying the natural beauty of the park.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to head into Puerto Iguazú to check out the Feirinha Puerto Iguazú. This little market is a collection of small shops and restaurants selling Argentine goods, from wines and cheeses to alfajores and empanadas. It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs and sample some local flavors. I grabbed a few bottles of Argentine Malbec, thinking they'd be perfect for an Arsenal match night back in Halifax.


Experience the essence of Argentine culture and cuisine at Feirinha Puerto Iguazú, a lively market and restaurant in the heart of Puerto Iguazú.

The Feirinha had a lively atmosphere, with locals and tourists mingling and browsing the stalls. The aroma of grilled meats and freshly baked empanadas filled the air. We stopped at a few different stands, sampling cheeses and olives. I even tried a local beer, which was surprisingly good. It was a fun way to experience a bit of Argentine culture and soak in the local atmosphere.

For dinner, we ventured to El Quincho del Tio Querido, a restaurant recommended by several locals. This place is known for its traditional Argentine barbecue, and it did not disappoint. The parrillada was massive, a heaping platter of grilled meats, including steak, ribs, chorizo, and morcilla. The quality of the meat was excellent, tender and flavorful. The atmosphere was lively, with live music and a bustling crowd.


Experience authentic Argentine cuisine at El Quincho del Tio Querido in Puerto Iguazú—a culinary gem showcasing local flavors and warm hospitality.

The restaurant itself has a long history, with the owner's father arriving from Lebanon and helping immigrants settle in Argentina. It's become a classic spot for tourists, offering a taste of Argentine cuisine and culture. I particularly enjoyed the lomo criollo, a sirloin dish with potato blinis, poached egg, bacon, and caramelized vegetables. It was a perfect blend of flavors and textures. The portions were generous, and the prices were reasonable. It was a fitting end to a day filled with adventure and natural beauty.

As I sit here writing this, my legs ache, my skin is slightly sunburned, and I'm filled with a sense of awe. Iguazu Falls is truly a remarkable place, a testament to the power and beauty of nature. Tomorrow, we're planning to explore the Brazilian side of the falls, visiting the Parque das Aves and Hito Tres Fronteras. I'm also intrigued by the Icebar Iguazú, which sounds like a fun way to cool off after a day of hiking. It's going to be another exciting day, and I can't wait to see what it brings. I'm also hoping the weather holds up; October is supposed to be one of the rainiest months here. I'll be sure to pack my raincoat, just in case, though I did forget to pack sunscreen and a portable phone charger, which is a bit of a pain.

But for now, it’s time to rest and recharge. Tomorrow, we cross the border!

Until then, keep chasing the roar!