Salto Santa Maria: A Hidden Gem of Iguazu
Discover the serene beauty of Salto Santa Maria, a captivating waterfall within Iguazú National Park, offering stunning views and lush rainforest trails.
Salto Santa Maria, nestled within Argentina's Iguazú National Park, offers a captivating waterfall experience. Part of the larger Iguazu Falls system, it provides stunning views and a chance to connect with nature's splendor. The surrounding rainforest teems with diverse wildlife, making it ideal for birdwatching and hiking.
A brief summary to Salto Santa Maria
- Circuito Superior Cataratas, Misiones Province, AR
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquility of the falls.
- Bring a camera with a waterproof cover to capture stunning photos without worrying about the mist.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes to explore the trails safely and enjoy the natural surroundings.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as rain can enhance the waterfall's beauty.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving to Salto Santa Maria from the main visitor center in Iguazu National Park, head towards the Circuito Superior Cataratas route. Follow the signs for the upper circuit. The drive is approximately 15 minutes, covering about 7 kilometers. There is parking available near the start of the upper circuit walk. Park entrance fee costs around 70 BRL for foreigners. Once parked, you will need to walk towards the falls to reach Salto Santa Maria.
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Public Transport
To reach Salto Santa Maria using public transportation, take the park's internal bus service from the main entrance. The bus stops at various points throughout the park, including the Circuito Superior Cataratas. Make sure to get off at the stop closest to the upper circuit trailhead. The park entrance fee, which includes the shuttle service, costs around 70 BRL for foreigners. The bus ride typically takes around 15-20 minutes. From the bus stop, it is a short walk to the viewpoint of Salto Santa Maria.
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Walking
Once you are at the Circuito Superior Cataratas, follow the marked trail towards Salto Santa Maria. The walk is relatively easy and well-maintained, taking about 10-15 minutes to reach the viewpoint. Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and carry water, especially on hot days.
Discover more about Salto Santa Maria
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hotel das Cataratas, A Belmond Hotel, Iguassu Falls
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Gran Meliá Iguazú
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Cataratas of Iguazu International Airport
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Parque das Aves
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Museo Imágenes de la Selva
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Güirá Oga
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Remise Iguazu Falls
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Circuito Inferior
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Salto Lanusse
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Mirador
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Circuito Superior
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Essential places to dine
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Y Restaurant
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Restaurante La Selva
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Mercure Iguazu Hotel Iru
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Naipi
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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La Casa de Botellas
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Nina Bar
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Casanova Night Club
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