Today’s entry is a flashback post to our June 2014 trip to Iguazu Falls, Argentina (pre-baby).

Iguazu Falls is one of the biggest waterfalls in the world, and straddles Brazil and Argentina. It’s seriously impressive, but I would check with my doctor before going (being of child-bearing age and with the Zika and all…)

In June of 2014 we got tickets to the World Cup in Brazil, so we decided to make the most of our trip to South America and visit both Peru and Argentina beforehand. Iguazu was a natural detour.

Visiting the Falls

I must admit that I was a little disappointed that the water was so brown – but I guess it was a little childish of me to expect crystal clear blue water (especially after what was reportedly a heavy morning rain).

Beware the mosquitos (especially with Zika!) and these creatures, called coatis. They are about the size of large cats and travel in packs (this picture was taken on the hotel grounds). Coatis are super creepy in that they make eye contact, are not afraid of humans, and might bite you. The stuff of nightmares, folks!

So — if you’re in the area, Iguazu Falls is definitely worth the detour. It’s an astonishing natural wonder, but check with your doctor before you go.

Staying in Iguazu National Park

We found an Sheraton located inside Iguazu National Park on the Argentinian side and opted to stay there to make the most of our visit. It’s now a Melia hotel.

The hotel wasn’t luxurious at all despite its proclamation of being a “five star” hotel, but its location was really special. It reminded me a lot of the cabins and lodges they have in the national parks in the U.S. (like John Muir and Wuksachi lodges, reviewed here and here) — they’re charming and memorable but not “resorting” for sure).