Epic Adventure to Iguazu Falls with Friends

Day 16: Moonlight and Magic: A Night at Iguazu Falls

Experience Iguazu Falls under the enchanting glow of the full moon. A day of stunning views, delicious food, and vibrant nightlife awaits!

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Whispers of the Falls at Night



Today was a day of contrasts, from the roaring cascades of Iguazu Falls under the bright sun to the serene, almost mystical experience of witnessing them under the full moon. It’s amazing how a place can transform so completely with just a change in light. I never thought I would experience such a different side of the same location.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at La Mafia Tratoria. The name might sound a bit intimidating, but the food was anything but. It was a charming spot, perfect for fueling up before a big day of exploring. I had a strong coffee and a couple of medialunas – a local pastry that’s become a fast favorite. Emily would have loved this place, she is always looking for a good coffee.

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at La Mafia Trattoria in Foz do Iguaçu - where flavor meets tradition in a cozy setting.
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at La Mafia Trattoria in Foz do Iguaçu - where flavor meets tradition in a cozy setting.

With our stomachs full, we headed straight for the main event: the Iguazú Falls Tour. Even though it was my second time seeing them on this trip, the sheer scale of the falls never fails to impress. The power of nature is on full display here, and it’s both humbling and exhilarating. The group of friends I'm with were in awe, snapping photos and just trying to soak it all in. I tried to capture some videos, hoping to share a fraction of the experience with Oliver back home. Maybe one day I'll get to bring him here to see it in person.

Your adventure to the majestic Iguazú Falls starts here, explore nature's grandeur with ease and expertise.
Your adventure to the majestic Iguazú Falls starts here, explore nature's grandeur with ease and expertise.

We spent hours wandering the various trails, each offering a unique perspective of the falls. The Devil’s Throat was, as always, the highlight. The thundering water and the mist that sprays high into the air create an almost overwhelming sensory experience. I made sure to wear my raincoat, remembering the soaking I got the first time around, a rookie mistake I wasn't keen to repeat. It reminded me of that time I went to see Arsenal play in a downpour at Stoke. No amount of rain could dampen the spirits of the fans, just like here at Iguazu.

The falls whisper secrets under the moonlight, revealing a different kind of magic.


Lunch was at Jungle Restaurante, and it was a welcome break from all the walking. The restaurant has a great vibe, surrounded by lush vegetation, which really adds to the whole jungle experience. I opted for some grilled Argentinian meat, which was cooked to perfection, and a refreshing multifruit drink. The others tried a variety of dishes, from the local parilla to the risotto, and everyone seemed happy with their choices. The service was friendly and attentive, making it a relaxing and enjoyable meal.

Experience authentic Argentinian flavors at Jungle Restaurante in Puerto Iguazú - where exquisite cuisine meets stunning natural beauty.
Experience authentic Argentinian flavors at Jungle Restaurante in Puerto Iguazú - where exquisite cuisine meets stunning natural beauty.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to take it easy for a bit, knowing we had a big night ahead of us. We headed back to our campsite to relax and recharge. Some of the group took a nap, while others played cards or just chatted about the day’s adventures. I took the opportunity to jot down some notes, trying to capture the essence of the day before it faded from memory. It's a bit like trying to recall every detail of an Arsenal match – you want to remember every pass, every tackle, every moment of brilliance (or frustration!).

As darkness fell, excitement started to build for the Paseos de Luna Llena en las Cataratas del Iguazú. This full moon tour is something I’d been looking forward to since we planned this trip. The idea of seeing the falls bathed in moonlight was incredibly appealing, and it didn’t disappoint.

Explore the enchanting Iguazu Falls by moonlight, a mesmerizing adventure that unveils the beauty of nature in a unique and serene setting.
Explore the enchanting Iguazu Falls by moonlight, a mesmerizing adventure that unveils the beauty of nature in a unique and serene setting.

The tour started with a train ride through the jungle, which was an adventure in itself. The sounds of the nocturnal wildlife filled the air, creating an atmosphere of mystery and anticipation. When we arrived at the Devil’s Throat, the view was simply breathtaking. The falls were illuminated by the soft glow of the moon, creating a silvery spectacle that was both beautiful and surreal.

The moonlight cast long shadows, and the mist from the falls created a shimmering halo around the Devil’s Throat. The roar of the water seemed somehow amplified in the darkness, and I felt a sense of awe and wonder that’s hard to describe. It was a completely different experience from seeing the falls during the day, more intimate and magical. We spent a couple of hours just standing there, mesmerized by the view. It was one of those moments that you know will stay with you forever.

After the moonlit tour, we were all pretty hungry, so we headed to Rafain Churrascaria Show for dinner. This place is famous for its Brazilian barbecue and its lively Latin American show. It’s definitely a touristy spot, but it’s also a lot of fun. The food was plentiful and delicious, with a huge selection of meats, salads, and desserts. And the show was energetic and entertaining, with dancers and musicians showcasing the diverse cultures of Latin America. It’s not exactly my usual cup of tea, but it was a great way to end a long and eventful day. It reminded me of the time I went to a cultural show in Liverpool with a group of Arsenal supporters – a bit cheesy, but everyone had a good time.

Experience authentic Brazilian barbecue with live performances at Rafain Churrascaria Show in Foz do Iguaçu.
Experience authentic Brazilian barbecue with live performances at Rafain Churrascaria Show in Foz do Iguaçu.

To cap off the night, some of us decided to check out Cuba Libre, a local nightclub. I’m not much of a clubber these days, but I figured I should experience the nightlife in Puerto Iguazu. The music was loud, the drinks were strong, and the atmosphere was lively. We danced for a while, laughed a lot, and generally let loose after a day of exploring. It wasn’t exactly the Emirates Stadium, but it was a fun way to celebrate our last night in Iguazu.

Experience vibrant nightlife at Cuba Libre in Puerto Iguazú, where music, dance, and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable moments.
Experience vibrant nightlife at Cuba Libre in Puerto Iguazú, where music, dance, and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable moments.

Now, as I sit here writing this, I can’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible experience. Iguazu Falls is truly a special place, and seeing it under the full moon was something I’ll never forget. And to share it with friends made it even more memorable. Tomorrow, we have one last visit to Iguaçu National Park planned. I'm looking forward to soaking in the views one last time before we pack up and head home. It’s been an epic adventure, one that I’ll cherish for years to come.

I'm already thinking about the next trip. Maybe I'll convince Emily to come with me next time. Or perhaps a football pilgrimage to South America is in order? Who knows what the future holds, but one thing is for sure: the travel bug has bitten me hard, and I can't wait to see where it takes me next.
Go to day 15 Embracing the Mist: A Day of Wonder at Iguazu's Lower Circuit
Go to day 17 A Farewell Feast: Savoring the Last Day at Iguazu Falls
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Epic Adventure to Iguazu Falls with Friends

Join Andrew and friends on a 17-day adventure exploring the stunning Iguazu Falls National Park, blending nature and camaraderie.

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Meet this Featured Explorer

Andrew Taylor
  • Occupation icon Occupation: Historical Reenactor and Tour Guide
  • Country icon Country: Canada
  • Age icon Age: 38

Hello, fellow travelers! I'm Andrew Taylor, a Brit now living in Canada, and a lifelong Gooner. This blog is where I share my passions: Arsenal Football Club, travel, and history. Whether I'm recounting a matchday experience in a new city, exploring historical sites, or brewing a beer inspired by an Arsenal legend, I aim to blend my love for the beautiful game with my thirst for adventure. Join me as I explore the world, one match, one pint, and one historical landmark at a time.

Interests:
  • Arsenal Football Club
  • Football culture and history
  • British History
  • Genealogy
  • Maritime History
More about Andrew Taylor

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Explore locations from this diary

  • Iguazú Falls Tour

    Your adventure to the majestic Iguazú Falls starts here, explore nature's grandeur with ease and expertise.

  • Paseos de Luna Llena en las Cataratas del Iguazú

    Explore the enchanting Iguazu Falls by moonlight, a mesmerizing adventure that unveils the beauty of nature in a unique and serene setting.

  • La Mafia Tratoria

    Experience authentic Italian cuisine at La Mafia Trattoria in Foz do Iguaçu - where flavor meets tradition in a cozy setting.

  • Jungle Restaurante - Puerto Iguazú

    Experience authentic Argentinian flavors at Jungle Restaurante in Puerto Iguazú - where exquisite cuisine meets stunning natural beauty.

  • Rafain Churrascaria Show

    Experience authentic Brazilian barbecue with live performances at Rafain Churrascaria Show in Foz do Iguaçu.

  • Cuba Libre

    Experience vibrant nightlife at Cuba Libre in Puerto Iguazú, where music, dance, and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable moments.

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