Devil's Throat (Garganta del Diablo)
Iguazú National Park, Puerto Iguazu, Misiones
With 14 cascades tumbling over 260 feet (80 meters) into a cloudy mist as they hit the frothing water below, Devil’s Throat (Garganta del Diablo) is easily the star of Iguazú Falls. The tallest of Iguazú’s 275 waterfalls, Devil’s Throat is evenly split across the border of Argentina and Brazil, making it easy to visit no matter your starting point.
The basics
Many tours visit both sides of Iguazú Falls so you can get the best of both vistas. The Argentinean side of Devil’s Throat offers better hiking options, including a catwalk that runs close enough for you to get soaked with spray, as well as a boat ride that takes you beneath the famous cascades. The Brazilian side boasts postcard-perfect views of the U-shaped falls: Ride an elevator to the top of a viewing platform for the best vista. Those interested in seeing Devil’s Throat from above can catch a helicopter ride on the Brazilian side (the Argentinean side does not support helicopters in the park). For a full-day adventure, look for tours that combine a trip to Devil’s Throat with other activities, such as rafting trips and safaris.
Things to know before you go
Brazilian vistas are open year-round.
Be sure to wear waterproof clothes and pack your electronics and valuables in waterproof bags.
Plan to spend at least 2 days visiting Devil’s Throat and the rest of the falls, especially if you plan to see both sides.
How to get there
In Argentina, Iguazú National Park is located 10 miles (17 kilometers) from Puerto Iguazú. Buses run from Puerto Iguazú to the park every 30 minutes during park hours. If you're coming from Buenos Aires, take a 90-minute flight or a 24-hour bus ride. On the Brazilian side, the closest town to Iguassu (Iguaçu) National Park is Foz do Iguaçu, and you can catch a bus from there to the park; buses and taxis also run directly from the airport. Foz do Iguaçu is a 2-hour flight from Rio de Janeiro.
When to get there
Devil’s Throat is accessible year-round. For the best weather and the smallest crowds, plan to go between July and October or February and April. The falls are at their most powerful during the rainy season, which can sometimes result in trail closures on the Argentinean side. Morning visits sometimes afford rainbows in the ever-present mist of Devil’s Throat.
Visa requirements
Be sure to check the visa requirements for your country before crossing the Argentina-Brazil border.
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