Saltos Del Monday

Plunging over a horseshoe-shaped cliff on the Monday River, Saltos del Monday is a dramatic waterfall that often steals the spotlight from its more famous neighbour, Iguazú. Located just 10 km from Ciudad del Este, this 45-metre-high cascade is a powerful spectacle, especially after heavy rains, when the sheer volume of water creates a thundering roar and a permanent rainbow. The surrounding subtropical forest is home to coatis, toucans, and howler monkeys, making it a perfect stop for nature lovers on a self-drive itinerary through eastern Paraguay.

Highlights & What to See

• Main Viewing Platform: Walk to the edge of the cliff for a mist-soaked, up-close view of the falls – you'll feel the spray and hear the thunder of the water.
• Walkway to the Base: A steep trail (with many steps) leads down to a lower platform where you can look up at the full height of the cascade and spot rainbows on sunny afternoons.
• Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for white-nosed coatis scavenging near the picnic areas, and for toucans and parrots in the canopy above.
• Picnic Areas & Lookout Points: Several shaded spots with benches let you linger and take in the scenery, while a short trail along the riverbank offers quieter perspectives.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend 1.5 to 2 hours at Saltos del Monday – enough time to admire the main viewpoint, descend to the lower platform, and enjoy a relaxed picnic or a cold drink at the small kiosk. If you're keen on photography or birdwatching, you could easily stretch it to 3 hours. The site is compact, so it works well as a morning or afternoon stop on a day trip from Ciudad del Este or as a quick detour en route to Iguazú.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Ciudad del Este: The bustling border city offers the Itaipu Dam (the world's second-largest hydroelectric plant) and the massive Monday Pyramid shopping centre.
• Iguazú Falls (Brazil/Argentina): Just 30 km away, the iconic falls are an obvious pairing – you can easily visit both in one day.
• Saltos del Ñacunday: A less-visited but equally impressive waterfall about 2 hours south, perfect for a quieter adventure.
• Hernandarias: Home to the Itaipu Dam visitor centre and the Museo de la Tierra Guaraní, offering insights into local Indigenous culture.

Please check official sources for current details.