Argentina Travel Planet

Saltos del Moconá

A product of a bend in the Uruguay River, the Saltos del Moconá (or Moconá Falls) is a 3 kilometer stretch of powerful waterfalls, with water jumping between 12 and 15 meters, where it forms swirling patterns which drag everything to the bottom of a canyon more than 90 meters deep. Moco, for which the falls are named, means “swallow” in the native Guaraní.

Saltos del Moconá, Misiones

The falls are located 81 kilometers from El Soberbio, in the Moconá Provincial Park, or 337 kilometers from Posadas and 322 kilometers from Iguazú. This is just one of the grand landscapes that the province of Misiones has to offer, a geographical fault where the rivers Yabotí, Pepiri Guazú, Uruguay, Serapio and Calixto all unite.

The Saltos de Moconá are unique because they don’t follow the normal downward, forward trajectory of most waterfalls. Instead, it is as if the side of the river were falling, and they can reach a height of 25 meters and a depth of 115 meters, if the river levels are right. The entire area of the Saltos del Moconá is considered a Provincial Park, which includes the Yabotí biosphere.

Such an incredible natural landscape offers a variety of activities specially organized for the visitor to truly enjoy the open air and all the uniqueness that the area has to offer.

Rubber boat rafting is a popular activity, giving a first-hand experience of the power of the river and the falls. The river can also be traveled in a motorboat, which is still an effective way to get up close and personal with the powerful water, without the extremity of rafting. Wooden canoe trips are also possible, but of course visit calmer waters along the Uruguay River. Finally, kayaking trips can be organized, where you can float down the streams and rivers that snake throughout the land. Fishing can also be organized for those who like a little sport with their river experiences.

If you prefer to stay on dry land, there are a number of activities for you, as well. Guided hikes and walks are given regularly throughout the park, and all along the falls. Horseback riding is another popular way to travel the land. Bird watching is a rich sport here, where flora and fauna abound. Imagine seeing all the colorful and graceful birds speckled in among the vibrant green plant life and rushing waters. Telescopic views can be had, too, giving a completely new look at the landscape.

The falls have officially been declared a National Natural Monument, and they can be found near the city of Aristóbulo de Valle, which is known as the capital of waterfalls. The most interesting thing about the falls is how they form a transversal drop from the Uruguay River, which gives the waterfalls a perpendicular sense, as it comes from itself. This in itself creates an unforgettable view, only helped by the beautiful nature surrounding it. For more information about other Natural Monuments and National Parks, visit this Argentina Travel Guide.

There are more than 2000 different species of plants, from cedar and pine trees to orchids and daisies. There is also a multitude of animal life, including coatis, toucans, and more different butterflies than there are colors in the rainbow.

To arrive at the Saltos del Moconá, you must travel 337 kilometers from Posadas, of which the last 80 kilometers are on a dirt road. Once you arrive to Jardín América, you must continue along RP 7 until you’ve reached Aristóbulo del Valle. From there, it’s RN 14 until San Vicente, and then RP 2, until Mesa Redonda, where there is an intersection. One route will take you to Paraíso, 70 kilometers away, and the other takes you to the falls, just 18 kilometers away. It may be quite a journey to get there, but it can be said with confidence that you’ll never look back.