If you're fortunate enough to visit Iguazu Falls with your kids like we were, there are some things that are not-to-be missed. Here's my list of five things to do with kids at Iguazu Falls:
1. Hike the trails in Iguazu National Park, Argentina: Most of the main trails on the Argentina side are well marked and paved. There are three main trails, or Circuits to walk. The Upper Circuit offers panoramic views of the falls, and takes about 30-35 minutes. It is easily accessed by people with mobility impairments, and kids should have no trouble keeping up. The Lower Circuit takes about an hour and fifteen minutes to complete, and includes stairs and catwalks. The Green Trail is a quick 10-15 minute walk to the beginning of the Upper and Lower Circuits. Be sure to stay on the trails, since there are snakes lurking, and you don't want to come face to face with an anaconda without being prepared! Many of the trails have brick pavement that you could push a rugged stroller over. Be sure to bring water, sunscreen, and insect repellent along for the journey.
2. Get wet at the Devil's Throat: The Devil's Throat, or
Garganta del Diablo, is the largest waterfall in the Iguazu Falls
chain. You get to the main viewing platform on the Argentina side by a
series of catwalks out, and then stand right above the falls. At Devil's
Throat, fourteen falls drop 350 feet, causing
a 100 foot cloud of spray overhead. Beautiful rainbows appear in the mist as you look down into the rushing water. It's
an amazing view that will thrill both young and old alike. One thing
to note is that the falls are very loud, so children who are sensitive
to noise might not enjoy it, or you may want to bring earplugs along
just in case it's too much for them. Wear light cotton clothes that
will dry out easily if wet, and bring extra sunscreen. Bring a rain
poncho if you don't want to get wet.
3. Take a ride on the Ecological Forest Train: One fun way to get around the National Park is by a small train that runs through the rainforest. The train runs on natural gas and holds about 50 people. It's a pleasant ride through some gorgeous scenery that is not to be missed.
4. Visit the Bird Park (Parque das Aves): The Parque das Aves is a bird preserve that is home to thousands of exotic tropical birds. Located in Brazil, just outside the Brazilian Iguassu Falls National Park, the Bird Park focuses on conservation efforts for endangered tropical birds, and to give visitors an opportunity to observe these beautiful creatures up close. It takes about two hours to see the entire thing, wandering from aviary to aviary. The park also features small Caiman crocodiles and some snakes. The hike is gentle enough for kids to be able to keep up easily. The entrance fee is about US $12.
5. Take a Boat or Helicopter Tour: Iguassu Falls Tours offers a variety of excursion
s by boat or helicopter that allow you to get a different view of the falls than on the trails. The excursions vary in price, based on the number of hours and availability. We didn't get a chance to take one of these tours, but used Iguassu Falls Tours for their private guide service, which was terrific.
Iguazu Falls was one of the natural attractions in the running to be named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World a few years ago, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Enjoy your visit!
