We decided to start the day at the Parque das Aves, a bird park opposite the Brazilian entrance to Iguazu Falls.

Parque das Aves has over 1000 birds, 130 species in large avaries and we were keen to be able to get close to the birds of South America and specifically the toucans and macaws. We were not disappointed. After taking the local bus, the local buses are surprisingly easy and cheap, about $2.50R a ride, we arrived at the bird park. Paying our money (even a $2R discount with a voucher from our hotel) and entering we were happy to see the enclosures were very large and the birds well looked after.

Entering the first area I was struck by a really bright red bird. I have no idea what it is called but it was so striking. I've never seen such a big bird be that bright. Surprisingly there was also Caiman's at the bird park. Was quite fascinating to size the size difference between the adult and the juvenile. Wonder if the juvenile gets worried that it might get eaten?

Making our way around the park we entered into the main toucan enclosure. I have taken a real liking to these birds and would loe to take one home! You can see below how close we could get to them and they were so cool close up, really looking like the soft toy ones. Their beaks were just amazing. They look so out of proportion and they fly strangely because of it even though the beak itself is quite light. I think because of its size it must still be a bit heavy for them. Amazingly they are really inquisitive. Well maybe one just liked my shoelaces . . . .

Next was onto the butterfly and hummingbird enclosure. Now I have been trying to get a hummingbird photo since the Inca Trail with no success. These guys are so quick. Absolutely gorgeous birds and I have no idea how i managed to snap this one. Even Phil was impressed!

Now we had heard the macaws since we had entered the park. As we approached their enclosure we found that a film crew was filming them for a documentary. All was not lost. After only a couple of minutes they had finished and we had our opportunity to enter the enclosure and have them fly around us. Wow is about the only way to describe them. They are huge and gorgeously coloured. Even better was when we left the enclosure and found that we could have our photo taken with one. Bizarrely for free!

After Parque das Aves it was onto Iguazu Falls, Brazilian side. We had heard that the Brazilian side wasn`t as good as the Arentinian side but for us this wasn`t the case. After paying our entrance fee and catching the included bus, (you have no choice - you can't walk) the bus is included and you probably need it due to the distances between the entrance and the falls, we were on our way. Getting off at the stop prior to the main fall we made our way along the path. These falls are called the San Martin Falls.

Quarti`s again came to greet us, again they are so cute, but this time not so friendly, hopefully that means they don`t get fed so much on the Brazilian side by tourists, and some truely amazing views.

We made our way to the view of Devil`s throat and yet again got soaking wet. I truely think that no matter what you do you will get wet. It was actually quite nice with the temperature in the high 20's anyway.

Tip:
Bring your own raincoat or poncho the cost is huge to buy one for a couple of minutes being worn - about $5R.

Walking out to Devil`s throat we were reminded of how great our purchase of our waterproof camera was and unfortunately of how selfish some people could be. A couple wanted their photo taken and were actually told no by another couple who then pushed them out of the way!! The falls were awesome and we were happy to say that both sides were just as good. On the Brazilian side you can get the complete photo of the falls and on the Argentinian side it is more about the experience and roar.

We stopped and had a look at the souvenir stores and were absolutely gobsmacked at the price of a semi-precious stone toucan statue. . .$5000R!!

Another great day had by us and the realisation that both of us are happier simply in the country areas rather than cities. 

And off for another 15 hour bus ride to Sao Paulo and then 6 more to Paraty. . . .