Iguazu Falls Boat Ride & San Martin Island: A Close Look
Iguazu Falls, that place is really something, located right on the border between Argentina and Brazil, and it’s truly one of those sights that just stays with you. So, it’s way more than just a collection of waterfalls; it’s a complete sensory overload, that it offers this unique combination of stunning natural power and the almost serene beauty of the surrounding rainforest. Now, going there and only seeing it from the viewing platforms is simply missing out, I think. Very, that boat ride to actually feel the mist on your face and visiting San Martin Island? A whole other level, that really puts you in the heart of it all.
Getting Up Close and Personal: The Boat Ride
The boat ride, that experience goes by a few different names like “Gran Aventura” on the Argentinian side or “Macuco Safari” on the Brazilian side, is honestly more than just a boat ride; that’s more of an adventure. We actually chose the Argentinian side, so you first go for a ride in an open-top jeep, driving through this part of the rainforest that sort of gives you a peek into the local flora and fauna. And you can find guides who will happily point out different plants and maybe even spot a monkey or some cool birds. Then, that’s when you head down to the river, so prepare yourself, that is where the real fun starts!
Once on the boat, that the guides kind of take things up a notch. So, it starts out smooth enough as you’re heading down the river, very taking in those initial views of the falls from a distance. And after that, soon enough, you’re heading straight for them, is almost specifically the Devil’s Throat and some of the lower falls. The power you feel as you’re getting closer is unreal, like the boat’s engine is revving, you’re getting splashed, and the roar of the water just gets almost deafening. So, when the boat goes right under the falls, you are completely drenched. And you’re laughing and screaming alongside pretty much everyone else on the boat. You get some good views too. It’s like a rite of passage; that’s basically what seals the deal of your visit.
What to expect from the Boat tour?
Alright, so, expect to get extremely wet – really soaked from head to toe is basically what will happen. Therefore, wearing clothes and shoes that dry fast is something that becomes pretty important, that also applies to taking a waterproof bag for any of your belongings you’re just wanting to keep dry, such as phones or cameras, it would also prove really handy. So, the boat trips actually run fairly frequently, yet it is advisable, you arrive earlier in the day. This way you’ll actually miss out on those big queues, especially during peak season. And honestly, don’t stress about the crowds. Despite the number of people, the experience is just way so thrilling and the falls so impressively massive that you won’t even really notice them all that much!
Oh, and the guides, they truly know what they are doing. So, they’re very focused on safety, plus they make the trip really very fun with the odd jokes and a good bit of local information. Tip them if you feel like it!
San Martin Island: A Different Perspective
Alright, so San Martin Island, that’s kind of a quieter contrast to the madness of the boat ride, very yet is every bit as rewarding. Access to it, that’s just via a short free ferry ride, also from the Argentinian side of the falls. Arriving there, it gives you a different look to it.
The island that offers several walking trails that give completely unique views of the falls. That’s because there are trails to both the upper and lower sections of the island. Now, they give you the opportunity to see a totally different perspective than those views from the main tourist paths, with fewer crowds around, it makes everything better, it is nice to experience it from both sides and getting that perspective helps solidify the whole view for you.
Hiking San Martin Island
You know, those trails on San Martin Island, they might not be super long, yet there are actually a few steep steps here and there. Wear decent shoes and just be prepared for a bit of a climb, is almost really worth the slight effort. Also, so factor in a couple of hours to walk the trails at a comfortable pace and soak in all the viewpoints. I have to say too that the island does close sometimes due to high water levels, you will have to check it is open, just to prevent it cutting a day trip short and missing out.
Choosing Sides: Argentina vs. Brazil
The question often arises: which side, Argentina or Brazil, is the better choice, actually. To get the most out of Iguazu Falls, that many people, me included, recommend experiencing both sides of the border. The Argentinian side, so it is generally said that it gives you this really immersive experience, with the walking trails taking you literally right above and around many of the falls. The boat adventures all run from the Argentinian side, also, getting really wet, and access to San Martin Island is possible from there, it lets you get close and personal to that power.
And after that, over on the Brazilian side, you’re very able to see more of a panoramic view of the entire falls. That’s something that lets you appreciate the overall grandeur, and, just saying, the views are truly picture-postcard material. So, that means, if you do happen to be limited to just one side, I would definitely weigh up what it is you’re after, getting right into it or soaking it all up, but in an ideal situation experience them both!
Tips for an Amazing Iguazu Falls Experience
- Plan ahead: This could save some cash but it mainly is time, by very pre-booking any tours or entry tickets, especially during the busier months, or school holiday, which is a great idea!
- Dress accordingly: Now, you’re visiting a humid rainforest, so wear comfy clothing and sturdy walking shoes, is something to keep in mind! And just remember to take waterproofs and anything that will cover electrical items as stated above.
- Stay hydrated and protected from the sun: Basically take water, sunscreen, and a hat, those are something to ensure you are comfortable all day.
- Respect the wildlife: Remember, this is their home! Now, Observe from a distance, avoid feeding the animals, is kind of something to respect their environment.
- Allocate enough time: Honestly, don’t rush. The Falls that are extensive, and to really see them and feel that power that I am describing, giving yourself at least two full days is a much better way of experiencing it all, so that you do not have the stress.