Epic Adventure to Iguazu Falls with Friends
Day 11: Moonlit Mysteries and Borderline Adventures: A Night in Iguazu
Experience Iguazu under the full moon & explore the tri-border point where Argentina, Brazil & Paraguay meet. A night of wonder awaits!
Chasing Moonlight and Borders in Iguazu
Another day, another adventure in Iguazu! Tonight was all about experiencing the falls in a completely different light—literally. We're talking about the Paseos de Luna Llena, a full moon walk to see the majestic Garganta del Diablo. But before the moon took center stage, we squeezed in a visit to the Hito Tres Fronteras, that intriguing spot where Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay converge. Let me tell you, it was a day of geographical and celestial wonders!
Experience the magic of Iguazú Falls under the full moon: a unique nighttime adventure revealing nature's beauty in a new light.
The day kicked off with a hearty breakfast at ParkFoz Steakhouse. Now, I’m not usually one for a heavy breakfast, but when in Brazil, right? I had a fantastic steak and eggs, which fueled me up perfectly for the day’s explorations. Emily would have loved this place, she really enjoys a good steak. I made a mental note to bring her here someday. Oliver, of course, would have been more interested in the pancakes!
With our bellies full, we headed to Hito Tres Fronteras. It’s a fascinating place, offering a panoramic view of the point where the Iguazu and Parana rivers meet, and where the borders of Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay all come together. Each country has an obelisk painted in its national colors, and it’s quite something to stand there and see three countries at once. I imagined what it must have been like for the first explorers to map out these territories, the decisions that led to these borders being drawn where they are. As a history enthusiast, I found myself completely absorbed in the historical significance of the place. The area was buzzing with activity, a mix of locals and tourists milling about, enjoying the craft fair and soaking in the atmosphere. I even managed to pick up a few souvenirs for the family – a small, hand-painted mate gourd for myself and a colourful bracelet for Emily.
Experience the convergence of three nations at Hito Tres Fronteras, where Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay unite in a vibrant display of culture and nature.
Sometimes, the greatest adventures are not about conquering new lands, but about seeing familiar places in a new light.
For lunch, we decided to try Venancio Parrilla Restaurant, known for its Argentine cuisine and grilled meats. I opted for the tomahawk steak, which came highly recommended, and it didn't disappoint. Cooked to perfection, it was a carnivore's dream. The restaurant had a rustic ambiance, with live music adding to the experience. It was a great spot to relax and recharge before our evening adventure. It reminded me a bit of some of the pubs back in Exeter, with that warm, inviting atmosphere. Hugo, the waiter, was incredibly friendly and made the experience even better. He really knew how to make us feel welcome.
Experience the best of Argentinian barbecue at Venancio Parrilla Restaurant in Puerto Iguazú – where flavor meets tradition.
As the sun began to set, anticipation grew for the highlight of the day: the Paseos de Luna Llena en las Cataratas del Iguazú. This is a special event that takes place during the full moon, offering visitors a chance to see the falls illuminated by the moon’s glow. We arrived at the park as the sky was turning a deep indigo. The air was filled with a sense of excitement and mystery. The park organizes the tours into three shifts, and we were in the first group. The experience began with a ride on the Rainforest Ecological Train, which took us through the jungle to the Garganta del Diablo station. Even in the dark, the sounds of the rainforest were alive – the chirping of insects, the rustling of leaves, and the distant roar of the falls.
From the station, we walked along the elevated walkways towards the Garganta del Diablo. The only light came from the full moon, which cast an ethereal glow over everything. It was a bit eerie, but also incredibly beautiful. The mist rising from the falls created a mystical atmosphere, and the air was thick with anticipation. As we approached the Garganta del Diablo, the roar of the water grew louder and louder. When we finally reached the viewing platform, the sight was simply breathtaking. The falls were illuminated by the moonlight, creating a silvery cascade of water. The power and majesty of the Garganta del Diablo were amplified by the darkness, making it an unforgettable experience. I tried to capture the scene with my camera, but no photo could truly do it justice. It was one of those moments that you just had to be there to fully appreciate.
After spending some time marveling at the moonlit falls, we made our way back to the train. The walk back was just as magical, with the moonlight filtering through the trees and the sounds of the jungle all around us. It was a perfect end to a perfect day. As we were leaving the park, I couldn’t help but think about how lucky I am to be able to experience such incredible things. This trip with my friends is exactly what I needed – a chance to reconnect with nature and escape the everyday stresses of life.
To cap off the night, we had dinner at Restaurante La Selva. The restaurant had a mind-blowing interior, with a jungle theme that fit perfectly with our day’s adventures. The service was outstanding, and the food was delicious. I tried the Argentine asado, which was cooked to perfection. It was a great way to end the day, sharing stories and laughs with my friends. It was a bit different from the jungle theme at Rainforest Cafe, but still fun. I think Oliver would have loved the giant mushroom in the bar area.
Discover exquisite Argentine flavors amidst nature's splendor at Restaurante La Selva in Iguazú National Park.
Before heading back to camp, we made a quick stop at Nomen Nescio, a local bar. It was a cool spot, with a relaxed vibe and a good selection of drinks. We had a few beers and chatted about the day’s adventures. It was the perfect way to wind down before heading back to our tents. As I lay in my sleeping bag, listening to the sounds of the jungle, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for this incredible experience. Iguazu Falls is truly a magical place, and seeing it under the full moon was something I will never forget.
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Nomen Nescio, Puerto Iguazú's premier bar and restaurant, perfect for unwinding after your adventures.
Tomorrow, we’re planning to explore the Parque Nacional do Iguaçu on the Brazilian side and visit the Reserva Selva Iryapú. I’m excited to see what other wonders await us. And who knows, maybe we’ll even spot some more wildlife along the way. Until then, goodnight from Iguazu!
The next day promises more exploration, with plans to visit the Parque Nacional do Iguaçu and Reserva Selva Iryapú. I’m particularly excited about the prospect of seeing the falls from a different perspective and immersing ourselves further in the rainforest. Maybe, just maybe, we’ll even catch a glimpse of some of the local wildlife. It’s these moments of anticipation that make travel so thrilling. Knowing that there’s always something new to discover, something beautiful to behold, just around the corner. And as I drift off to sleep, I can’t help but feel a sense of contentment and gratitude for the experiences I’ve had so far.
This trip has been a reminder of the importance of taking time to disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with nature. It’s a chance to recharge, to reflect, and to appreciate the simple things in life. And it’s a reminder that sometimes, the greatest adventures are not about conquering new lands, but about seeing familiar places in a new light. And with that thought, I close my eyes and drift off to sleep, dreaming of waterfalls and moonlit skies.
Join Andrew and friends on a 17-day adventure exploring the stunning Iguazu Falls National Park, blending nature and camaraderie.
Meet this Featured Explorer
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Occupation: Historical Reenactor and Tour Guide
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Country: Canada
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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.
- Arsenal Football Club
- Football culture and history
- British History
- Genealogy
- Maritime History
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