Thursday, February 15, 2024

Some Amazing Scenery

We are now back in Buenos Aires after trips to Iguazu Falls, both the Argentine side and over to Brazil for the day and to Salta in the northwest. I'll post another time about these areas. 

We got a flight to Puerto Iguazu and 3 days later to Salta. Our travel agent Jackson arranged these for us, including pick ups from the airports and the hotels. It wasn't cheap going this way but it took some of the headaches out of it. I think it's the first time we've had someone standing near the airport exit with our names on a sign. 


Unfortunately the flights were early morning but at least we had much of the day after both to wander about the respective towns. 

Puerto Iguazu exists largely for the spectacular tourist attraction and natural wonder that is Iguazu Falls. It's also so close to Brazil that many shops and restaurants cater to Brazilians and even price in Reals. That was a bit odd but since we are getting accustomed to pesos we asked for prices in the Argentine currency. You can always pay in US dollars too but we don't.

The hotel was decent, with a pool and buffet breakfast, handy as we had early pickups. The Argentine side of the falls is close, only about a 30 or 40 minute drive. 




It has the most cascades and expanse of falls and the most trails, some of which wind through shady sections in the forest. A small train takes you part way. 

So here are a few pics. 


It also has wildlife like the birds, turtles, and coatimundi. Jaguar and tapirs too but we didn't see any of those. 

Next day we did a similar bus trip to the Brazil side of the falls. It's a bit more involved because of the border and the bureaucracy but it eventually worked out. They expected us to scan a QR code and fill in our passport details on a web form but with no data and no free wifi it's pretty difficult. Thankfully the tour guide could. My Sim card eventually worked too but slowly and not at all as we got further into Brazil.

The falls are more accessible with the viewpoints directly off a paved road so it is easier for Linda. The crowds were even larger though so queuing up was necessary. The views are worth it though. 


And the cooling spray is rather nice! 

I'll publish this now and get back to Salta later.



No comments: