The park hosts remarkable biodiversity with over 400 bird species, including toucans, parrots, and the threatened harpy eagle. Mammals include jaguars, ocelots, tapirs, giant anteaters, and howler monkeys. The park is also home to numerous reptile species, including yacare caimans and various snake species. Notable among the invertebrates are the giant morpho butterflies, known for their brilliant blue wings. The waters of the Iguazú River contain over 100 fish species, though few can survive the massive falls themselves. Many species in the park are considered threatened or endangered, making it a crucial conservation area.
The park protects one of the largest remnants of Atlantic Forest, featuring over 2,000 species of vascular plants. The vegetation is characterized by a dense subtropical rainforest with distinct layers including emergent trees reaching heights of 35 meters, a continuous canopy layer, and rich understory vegetation. Notable species include the palmito tree, rosewood, orchids, bromeliads, and various species of ferns. The constant spray from the falls creates unique microhabitats where specialized plant communities thrive, including various species of mosses and lichens adapted to the perpetually moist conditions.
The falls and surrounding landscape were formed approximately 150 million years ago through volcanic activity that produced the distinctive steps of basalt rock. The falls occur where the Iguazú River drops over the edge of the Paraná Plateau, creating a massive fault line. The river flows through a series of basalt steps, creating 275 individual waterfalls spanning 2.7 kilometers (1.7 miles). The most impressive of these is the Devil's Throat (Garganta del Diablo), a U-shaped chasm that is 82 meters (269 feet) high, 150 meters (492 feet) wide, and 700 meters (2,297 feet) long.
The area was originally inhabited by the Guaraní people, who considered the falls sacred. The first European to discover the falls was Álvar Núñez Cabeza de Vaca in 1541. The park was established in 1934 to protect the Iguazú Falls and surrounding rainforest. UNESCO designated it as a World Heritage Site in 1984, recognizing its exceptional natural beauty and biological significance. The name 'Iguazú' comes from the Guaraní words 'y' (water) and 'ûasú' (big), literally meaning 'big water.' The park has since developed into one of Argentina's premier tourist destinations while maintaining strict conservation practices.
The park's crown jewel is the Iguazú Falls system, particularly the Devil's Throat. Visitors can access the falls via an extensive network of walkways, including the upper circuit (Circuito Superior) and lower circuit (Circuito Inferior). The Ecological Jungle Train (Tren de la Selva) provides transportation to key viewing points. The park offers several hiking trails, including the Macuco Trail, which leads to a hidden waterfall. The viewing platform at Devil's Throat provides spectacular panoramic views of the falls. The park also features the Güirá Oga bird rehabilitation center and various lookout points offering views of both the falls and the surrounding rainforest. Boat rides that approach the base of the falls are available for more adventurous visitors.
Iguazú National Park experiences a subtropical climate with high humidity year-round. Average temperatures range from 15°C (59°F) in winter to 32°C (90°F) in summer. The region receives substantial rainfall, with annual precipitation averaging 1,700mm (67 inches). October to March are typically the wettest months, while July to September are relatively drier. Visitors should be prepared for sudden rain showers at any time of year. The most comfortable months for visiting are April-May and September-October when temperatures are moderate and rainfall is less frequent.
Argentina
-25.6830°, -54.4500°
1934
677
Iguazú National Park is home to the spectacular Iguazu Falls, one of the world's largest waterfall systems. The park protects Atlantic rainforest ecosystem and numerous endemic species. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site for its exceptional natural beauty and biodiversity.