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Bucket list experience:

A group of men and women are rafting on the river, extreme and fun sport

Last updated: 12 June, 2022
Expert travel writer: Alex Robinson

There’s edgier white-water rafting in Latin America, but you won’t find a more spectacular setting than Iguaçu. And it’s not just the falls – where the rafting excursion begins. River descents run through the heart of the protected rainforest – so you’ll see parrots and toucans all around, and if you’re very lucky a jaguar, healthy populations of which live in the jungles around the river.

Depending on the water flow, the rapids vary from 1.5 (easy) to 3.5 level (intermediate). They can go up to level IV or even V after very heavy rains in December and January, but tour operators seldom run trips under these conditions.

Price from: £80
Minimum age: 14
Age suitable: 14+
When: All year around
Duration: 4+ hours

Getting there & doing it

Numerous agencies in Puerto Iguazu (Argentina) and Foz de Iguacu offer white-water rafting. Macuco are the longest established – with their own transport and an experienced team. Rafting packages include a safari in the rainforest and getting close to the falls on a boat prior to the descent (be prepared to get wet!).

When to do it

Rafting trips run all year round, seven days a week, except during periods of exceptional high (and dangerous) river levels). The water is fastest between October and March.

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Iguazu Falls

Iguazu National Park, Missiones Province, Argentina

Recently voted one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World, these magnificent 3km-wide falls see 46 million litres of water cascade over an 80m drop every second. Experience them by walkway, bike, boat and helicopter.

Best for ages: 4+ | Free

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