The Saltos del Mocona are one of the most extraordinary hydric formations on the planet: longitudinal waterfalls that run parallel to the Uruguay River course, extending approximately 3 kilometres with drops up to 15 metres (lat -27.1528, lng -53.9069). Unlike conventional waterfalls that cut across the river, Mocona features a geological fault that divides the riverbed into two levels, creating this unique lateral waterfall. Located within Mocona Provincial Park, protecting 999 hectares of virgin Parana rainforest in Misiones. The town of El Soberbio, 80 km away, is the operations base. Mocona is 330 km from Puerto Iguazu, combinable on a Misiones rainforest circuit.
Getting there — distances & times
| From | Distance | Flight | Bus | Drive |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York (JFK) | 8700 km | 10 h + 2 h layover | — | — |
| Madrid (MAD) | 10300 km | 13 h + 2 h layover | — | — |
| Buenos Aires (EZE) | 1300 km | 1 h 45 | 18 h | 15 h |
| São Paulo (GRU) | 950 km | 1 h 40 | 16 h | 14 h |
| Córdoba | 1100 km | 1 h 30 | 16 h | 14 h |
Month-by-month climate
| Month | Temp. | Rain | Crowds | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 22° / 33°C | 170 mm | Humid summer | |
| Feb | 22° / 32°C | 160 mm | ||
| Mar | 21° / 31°C | 155 mm | ||
| Apr | 18° / 28°C | 160 mm | Mild, ideal | |
| May | 14° / 25°C | 125 mm | ||
| Jun | 12° / 22°C | 110 mm | ||
| Jul | 11° / 23°C | 85 mm | Winter break | |
| Aug | 13° / 25°C | 90 mm | ||
| Sep | 14° / 26°C | 130 mm | Clear skies | |
| Oct | 17° / 28°C | 160 mm | ||
| Nov | 19° / 30°C | 155 mm | ||
| Dec | 21° / 32°C | 170 mm |
How to Get There
From Puerto Iguazu
330 km via RN 12 and RP 2 (Rainforest Route). 4.5-5 hours on paved road through the Misiones rainforest. Can be done by rental car or organised tour (generally 2 days with overnight in El Soberbio).
From El Soberbio to the Park
From El Soberbio to Mocona Provincial Park is 80 km on red dirt road (RP 2), passable with high-clearance or 4x4 vehicle. 2-2.5 hours. Tour operators in El Soberbio offer 4x4 transfers and complete excursions with boat rides to the falls. This is the most recommended option.
What to See and Do
Boat Ride to the Falls
The most spectacular way to see the falls is by navigating the Uruguay River in an inflatable raft or motorboat from the park dock. Boats approach within metres of the longitudinal cascades. The ride lasts 1-1.5 hours. Price: USD 20-35 per person.
Rainforest Trails
Interpretive trails through virgin Parana rainforest. The Grotto Trail (1.5 km) leads to a natural cave with stalactites. The Chachi Trail (3 km) follows the Uruguay River bank with panoramic views of the falls from above.
El Soberbio and Hot Springs
Known as the "National Capital of Essence", El Soberbio offers rainforest lodges with natural hot springs on the Uruguay River. Natural hot pools surrounded by rainforest are a perfect complement after the falls excursion.
When to Visit
Key fact: The falls are visible only when the Uruguay River level is low. During floods, water covers the fault and the falls disappear beneath the surface.
- Best period (March-November): Especially April to October, when rainfall is lower and the river stays low. Visibility of falls is 70-80% in these months.
- Difficult period (December-February): Summer rains raise the river and falls may be fully or partially covered. Check before travelling.
