Post #52
Iguazu Lower Hike Flora
Post #51
Iguazu Falls Cabeza de Vaca
Post #50
I was shocked to find a small monument to Cabeza de Vaca on the lower trail. His fascinating tale of shipwreck, extreme hardship, and surprising gift of healing are recounted in his autobiography, “The Account of Cabeza de Vaca: A Literal Translation with Analysis and Commentary,” translated by David Carson. I had read an older translation many years before this one was published.
In 1528, Cabeza de Vaca, a Spanish conquistador, got stranded on a little island off the coast of Texas. It took him eight years to finally get to Mexico City.
He returned to Spain in 1537, only to be appointed governor in much of what we now call Paraguay.
In 1541-42, Cabeza de Vaca led an expedition that took him to Iguazu Falls, making him the first European to see them.
Iguazu Argentina Lower Hike
Post #49
There were 3 trails on the Argentina side: lower, upper, and Devil’s Throat.
Here is just a tiny taste of the lower trail.
Paraguay for a Half Day
Post #48
When at the border of 3 countries… see them all!
We took a quick half-day trip into Paraguay. I was interested in the colored lace, which Adriana said was a specialty made by the locals.
Unfortunately, we were told Covid wiped out many of the elderly, leaving few who knew the craft or were willing to continue making the lace. And we only saw 3 stores in the large shopping area with any local products. : (
But I did get some of the lace. I liked this pattern–like a spinning Sun. It’s the size of a coaster, but it’s not going under a glass in my home.
Iguazu Falls Brazilian Fun
Post #47
Brazilian Side Fun
We went to an all-you-can-eat with some interesting new foods. Perito shows the casava root on the left and “Paraguay soup” on the right. The “soup” was more of a casserole of corn bread with cheese, onion, and milk. Delicious!
Iguazu Falls Brazil Side Flora
Post #46
I don’t know what these are, but they are beautiful and different.
The top right might be bird of paradise.
Iguazu Falls Brazil Side Bird Sanctuary Birds
Post #45
I stood in awe of the scarlet #ibis—such a rich color.
The Bare-faced #Curassow waves hello. I love the curly crown.
And Perito met a new species.
Iguazu Falls Brazil Side Hike
Post #44
We hiked along the Brazil side looking toward the Argentinian side. The falls just stretched on, and on, and on…
Iguazu Falls Boat Ride
Post #43
After riding the helicopter, Adriana, Perito, and I took the boat ride into—literally—the falls. It was like being in a wild and ferocious storm. I couldn’t do anything while the water pounded. My baseball cap was worthless for protection.
As I have often done, I set my phone up for video. And as I have often done, I ended up getting a nice recording of my shirt–or in this case, life vest. Sh*t.
Here’s something of what I have–thank you, Adriana Bertola! As you can see, Perito gets noticed. He rode the waterfall in a plastic bag.
