DISCOVER THE FABLED FALLS OF IGUAZU: A South American Legend with Braniff International
FLYBRANIFF.COM
Travel Blog
Blog #15
May 11, 2026
Iguazu Falls in Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay
Discover the Fabled Falls of Iguazu: A South American Legend with Braniff International
The fabled Iguazu Falls, situated at the dramatic junction of Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay, remain one of the most spectacular sights in the world. Several times the size of Niagara Falls, this massive complex of crashing cataracts stretches two and a half miles wide, encircled by deep, black jungle. The Falls are a National Heritage Site and is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
Can you feel the falls? Just a click away with FlyBraniff.com. Photo: Braniff Airways, Incorporated, Copyright
Whether you are viewing the foaming white waters of the 14 cataracts from above or standing near the famous "Devil's Throat," the sheer power and beauty of Iguazu are unmatched. The falls plunge into a misty, thunderous maw the natives call Garganta del Diablo, The Devil’s Throat.
For nearly 80 years, Braniff International has been the premier link between the United States and this natural wonder, continuing a legacy of service that began with the inauguration of South American routes in 1948.
In 1972, Braniff commissioned Master Artist Alexander Calder, the inventor of the mobile and stabile art forms, to paint a very special jet for us to celebrate our 25th Anniversary of service to South America. is an experience you can enjoy via FlyBraniff.com. Photo: Braniff Airways, Incorporated, Copyright
Essential Sights at the Falls
To fully experience the magnitude of Iguazu, visitors should explore multiple vantage points across the international borders:
The Argentine Side: Home to the "Devil's Throat" (Garganta del Diablo), where the water’s roar is most intense.
Aerial Views: Historically, Braniff's Boeing 707-227 "El Dorado Super Jet" service was famous for making spectacularly low passes just 500 feet above the water, offering passengers a bird's-eye view of the mile-wide cataracts and the lush jungle canopy.
Surrounding Jungle: The area is teeming with wildlife; keen observers might spot monkeys climbing in the enormous trees near the summits of the falls.
Garganta del Diablo, the Devil’s Throat, is considered to be one of the most spectacular features of the Falls, which can be booked with FlyBraniff.com ! Photo: Braniff Airways, Incorporated, Copyright
The breathtaking depth of Iguazu can be enjoyed up front and first hand on the special viewing platform. This view is an easy book with FlyBraniff.com. Photo: AP, Copyright
Premier Accommodations
Stay in luxury at licensed and partner properties that capture the region's historic charm:
Gran Melia Hotel formerly Iguazu Falls Hotel: Often cited as the best existing hotel at the falls, providing first-class accommodations right at the summit. On the Argentina side.
Hotel das Cataratas (Brazil): This is explicitly identified as a resort lodge and the only hotel located immediately adjacent to the falls on the Brazilian side. It is a first-class property offering a swimming pool and direct views of the falls. Hotel das Cataratas is a five star hotel property.
Luxury Partner Collections: Through FlyBraniff.com, travelers can access significant discounts of up to 60-percent at licensed Braniff International luxury properties and resort partners throughout Latin America.
The luxurious Gran Melia Hotel formerly Iquazu Falls Hotel feature the ultimate in lodging and the most pristine view of Iquazu Falls. The Gran Melia can be booked simply and easily with www.FlyBraniff.com. Photo: Gran Melia Hotel, Copyright
The best of the best hotels at the Falls is the Gran Melia Hotel, formerly Sheraton Iquazu Falls Hotel and you can book the best hotel view of the Falls at FlyBraniff.com. Photo: Gran Melia Hotel, Copyright
The views. The views at Gran Melia are spectacular from every Falls side room. Your stay is easy with FlyBraniff.com. Photo: Braniff Airways, Incorporated
On the Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls, your finest hotel accommodations are found at Hotel das Cataratas, a Belmond Hotel, which you can reserve your experience at FlyBraniff.com. Photo: Hotel das Cataratas, Copyright
Splurge, enjoy yourself with a luxurious Room Suite at Hotel das Cataratas on the Brazilian side in Iquazu Falls National Park. Book your stay at FlyBraniff.com. Photo: Hotel das Cataratas, Copyright
The closest town to Iguazu Falls is Foz do Iguaçu (Brazil), which is located approximately 20 miles from the cataracts. For most travelers journeying through South America, the Paraguayan capital of Asunción also serves as a primary gateway, located a 40-minute flight or four-hour bus ride away.
Sights and Attractions in Foz do Iguaçu
· International Bridge: This structure connects Brazil and Paraguay and is supported by the largest reinforced concrete arch in the world. It is so immense that DC-3 military transports once flew beneath it during its inauguration.
· Foz do Iguaçu Airport: A beautiful, modern facility that serves as the arrival point for travelers flying from major hubs like Asunción.
· Helicopter Excursions: Travelers can rent a Bell Helicopter for a 10-minute aerial tour circling the falls, offering a "thrilling" view from 100 feet above the Devil’s Throat.
An exciting helicopter tour with Helisul can get you within 100-feet of the falls. This adventure can be reserved for you via FlyBraniff.com. Photo: Get Your Guide, Copyright
Nearby Sights in the Border Region
· Puerto Presidente Stroessner (Paraguay): Located on the border of Brazil and Paraguay near Foz do Iguaçu, this area features a first-class hotel and a casino.
· Paraguayan Falls: While less famous than the primary Iguazu Falls, Paraguay has its own waterfalls nearby that are noted for their beauty.
· Shopping and Crafts: In the surrounding region, particularly in nearby villages like Itagua, visitors can find world-famous Nanduti lace, which is considered some of the most delicate in the world.
· Adventure Sports: The fast waters about six miles downstream from the falls offer premier fishing for the golden dorado, a legendary fighting game fish.
Nanduti Lace is a Paraguayan art form featuring precision hand made needlepoint. This colorful lace work is housed in the Braniff International Heritage Archives, in Dallas, Texas. Book FlyBraniff.com to fly to Paraguay. Photo: Braniff Airways, Incorporated, Copyright
Journeying with FlyBraniff.com
Planning your South American adventure is easier than ever through our innovative travel booking platform. By visiting FlyBraniff.com, you can book your entire itinerary—including flights, hotels, car rentals, and specialized tours—directly through Braniff’s highly respected travel partners.
Historically, Braniff provided seamless connections from major U.S. hubs such as New York, Miami, Houston, Dallas/Ft. Worth, and Los Angeles to principal South American capitals like Buenos Aires, Lima, and Asuncion. Today, we continue this tradition by offering a specialized focus on our legendary hospitality legacy. Best of all, a portion of every reservation made through the site directly supports the Braniff Airways Foundation and its mission to preserve our 100-year aviation heritage.
As you prepare to witness the crashing cataracts of Iguazu, let Braniff International be your guide to the southern continent. From our historic 1949 record-breaking nonstop flights to our modern digital booking era, we remain dedicated to keeping the spirit of adventure alive.
Book your trip today at FlyBraniff.com and experience South America with the same "Flying Colors" that have defined our service for decades.
Braniff International Tour 1
This multi-city South American itinerary leverages Braniff International's historic gateway routes to offer a comprehensive exploration of the continent's most vibrant capitals and natural wonders. Travelers will experience a seamless transition from the high-altitude charm of the Andes to the lush tropical grandeur of Iguazu Falls, concluding in the world-renowned beauty of Rio de Janeiro.
Phase 1: The Andean Gateway & Southern Capitals
Day 01-03: Lima, Peru: Begin with a non-stop jet flight from San Francisco or Los Angeles to Lima. Accommodations are provided at the Gran Bolivar, Lima's finest hotel. Explore the "City of Kings," including the Government Palace and the Cathedral.
Day 04-06: Buenos Aires, Argentina: Continue to the largest city south of the Equator. Key highlights include a visit to the "Pink House" (Presidential Palace) and a tour of the Tigre Delta via motor-launch.
Day 07-09: Montevideo, Uruguay: Take a short flight across the Rio de la Plata to the Uruguayan capital. Stay at the Hotel Victoria Plaza. Highlights include the Legislative Palace, constructed of 53 types of marble, and a "Gaucho Tour" to observe traditional ranching.
Phase 2: Natural Wonders & Industrial Giants
Day 10: Iguassu Falls: Depart Montevideo for a short flight to the falls. You will stay at the Das Cataratas resort lodge, the only hotel located adjacent to the falls on the Brazilian side.
Day 11: Exploring the Falls: Experience the "Devil's Throat" and the massive cascades extending over two and one-half miles.
Day 12-14: Sao Paulo, Brazil: Fly over uninhabited Brazilian jungles to South America’s fastest-growing city. Accommodations are at the Hilton Sao Paulo. Essential visits include the Butantan Snake Farm and the Museum of Art.
Phase 3: The Marvelous City
Day 15-18: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Conclude your journey at Copacabana Beach, staying at the Leme Palace or Copacabana Palace. Iconic excursions include ascending Sugar Loaf Mountain, visiting the Tijuca Forest, and seeing the Christ the Redeemer statue atop Corcovado.
Key Decision Point: For travelers interested in ancient history, an optional extension to Cuzco and the lost city of Machu Picchu can be added before departing Lima.
Booking & Preparation Information
Direct Booking: All flights, luxury hotels, and specialized tours can be synergized into a single itinerary through FlyBraniff.com.
Required Documentation: A valid passport and proof of smallpox vaccination (no older than three years) are mandatory for entry into several South American nations.
Legacy Support: Every reservation made through our platform directly supports the preservation efforts of the Braniff Airways Foundation, a 501c3 Non-Profit Organization.
Braniff International Tour 2
To fully immerse yourself in the heritage of the region, we suggest a multi-city tour that mirrors Braniff’s historic routes:
The Andean Gateway (Lima, Peru): Begin your journey with a non-stop flight to the "City of Kings." Stay at the Gran Bolivar, historically recognized as Lima's finest hotel.
The Southern Hubs (Buenos Aires & Montevideo): Experience the "Pink House" in Argentina before crossing the Rio de la Plata to Uruguay, where you can stay at the Hotel Victoria Plaza, famous for its legislative-grade marble architecture.
Iguazu Falls Residency: Stay at the Das Cataratas resort lodge, which holds the distinction of being the only hotel located immediately adjacent to the falls on the Brazilian side.
Industrial Grandeur (Sao Paulo & Rio de Janeiro): Conclude your trip in Brazil’s most vibrant cities. In Rio, we recommend the historic Copacabana Palace or the Leme Palace.
Travel Coordination via FlyBraniff.com
Travelers can leverage Braniff’s 80-year legacy in the region by booking through our innovative travel portal at FlyBraniff.com. This platform allows you to synergize your entire itinerary—including flights, car rentals, and luxury hotel stays—through our global travel partners.
Key Heritage Note: Every reservation made through the portal directly supports Braniff Airways Foundation, ensuring the preservation of our 100-year aviation history for future generations.
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Iguazu National Park map details the simplicity of the Brazilian side of the park and flights to the park can be booked with FlyBraniff.com. Photo: South America Tourism, Copyright
New Mexico Architect and Designer Alexander Hayden “Sandro” Girard was commissioned by Braniff International in 1965, to redesign Braniff’s public contact look. The program was dubbed The End of the Plain Plane and it became the industry standard for airline design programs. Mr. Girard created this series of foil travel posters for Braniff. You can book any of these beautiful South America destinations with FlyBraniff.com. Photo: Braniff Airways, Incorporated, Copyright
Hands down the perfect tote for your trip to Iquazu Falls can be found at BraniffBoutique.com.