From Island Vibes to Thunderous Falls: Florianópolis and Iguazú
After the vibrant rush of São Paulo and Rio, we found ourselves craving coastal calm and wild nature. This part of the journey unfolded between ocean breeze and roaring waterfalls.
Floripa – The Magic Island
Florianópolis, affectionately known as Floripa, is a cute island city in southern Brazil, famous for lovely beaches, vibrant culture, and laid-back atmosphere. The city is divided between the mainland and the island of Santa Catarina, where most of its natural beauty and attractions are found. We didn’t even go up downtown, just stayed in a holiday-vibe-style on the peninsula.
With over 40 beaches, Floripa is a paradise for surfers, sun-seekers, and nature lovers. From the lively Jurerê Internacional, known for its upscale beach clubs, to the wild and rugged Lagoinha do Leste, there’s a beach for every taste. We stayed in the scenic Lagoa da Conceição, a lagoon surrounded by lush hills, trendy cafes, and just the right amount of activity and nightlife.
Not Only Beach: Architecture, Food & Activities
Beyond its beaches, Florianópolis reveals a rich Azorean heritage, visible in the charming colonial architecture of Santo Antônio de Lisboa (we loved it – so cute!) and Ribeirão da Ilha. The local cuisine is all about fresh seafood, from grilled fish to traditional dishes like sequência de camarão – a true shrimp feast. At Ostradamus (in Ribeirão), we indulged in an oyster feast – such a treat! I also enjoyed plenty of salmon and tuna tartare, as well as shrimp cocktails, during the time on the island.
If you prefer something more down to earth, we loved the outdoor food court Quinta Lagoa – live music, great pizza and laid-back vibes. Speaking of laid-back vibes… another great outdoor spot is Layback Park – a mix of skatepark, bars and restaurants, all paired with live music.
Adventure seekers can enjoy divers activities: Sandboarding in the dunes of Joaquina, hiking through rainforest trails, or paragliding over the stunning coastline. Despite its growing popularity, Floripa retains a relaxed and welcoming vibe with an alternative touch.
They call it Ilha da Magia – the Magic Island. Well I personally didn’t see any magic but i really liked it. I recommend renting a car and driving around the island. Uber works perfectly well too, if you opt for a non-driving-relaxation but still would like to experience different beaches.
Iguazu Falls – A Natural Wonder
And at the end there was untamed nature.. And water…A lot of water..
Straddling the border between Brazil and Argentina, Iguazu Falls (Cataratas do Iguaçu) is one of the most breathtaking natural wonders on the planet. We decided to see it for ourselves. I already visited Niagara Falls so I thought, what can be better, right? Well, I have to say, the Iguazu waters are just a majestic experience.
A True Force of Nature
With 275 individual cascades stretching nearly 2.7 kilometers, it is the largest waterfall system in the world, dwarfing even Niagara Falls. While Niagara are rather in the city (I visited the Toronto side), Iguazu are embedded into beautiful nature. The sheer power and beauty of the falls create a mesmerizing spectacle, surrounded by lush subtropical rainforest teeming with wildlife.
You can experience Iguazu Falls from both the Brazilian and Argentine sides. Which we of course did! The Brazilian side offers panoramic views, with stunning walkways with a full perspective of the cascades. Especially awe-inspiring is Garganta do Diabo (Devil’s Throat), the most powerful section of the falls. On the Argentine side, a network of trails and catwalks brings visitors up close to the rushing water. A trully immersive experience! You could say, in Brazil you are up close and under the water while in Argentina you walk on the water (kind of Jesus style :)).
One Fall – Two Countries
Coming from Rio we visited the Brazilian side first and took the bus to cross the border to Porto do Iguacu, where we stayed for a couple of days. Porto itself is pretty small and quite cute with a nice and vibrant nightlife scene and some good places to eat and drink. I recommend Botanicá Iguazú – good food, pretty garden, live music and very good prices. Have a steak! It’s all about Asado – you are in Argentina now!
Iguaçu National Park – A UNESCO World Heritage
Beyond the falls, the surrounding Iguaçu National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to diverse flora and fauna, including toucans, monkeys, and even jaguars. Boat rides, helicopter tours, and jungle excursions offer even more ways to explore this incredible natural wonder.
Whether you’re standing on a viewing platform feeling the mist on your face or hearing the thunderous roar of the water, a visit to Iguazu Falls is an unforgettable experience. One that truly showcases the raw power and beauty of nature and that makes you cry (happy tiers – you basically hear the angels sing).
With that feeling of universal power and divinity I ended my trip through Brasil. Said goodbye to my fellow traveling friend and flew to Buenos Aires… (read about it in my related article).
Meeting Point of Three Countries
But before I left, I visited one more place – the Mirador Tres Fronteras, whereere you stand at the meeting point of Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay, as the rivers flow gently between them. Another moment to remember..
