Toucan't

Still haven't seen a toucan. They are pervasive here when it comes to silly little knicknacks made of wood or plush toys or keychains. Not so much in the treetops of the jungle, making me doubt their existence around here.

But no matter. I'd say we got our consolation prize in terms of sights:

And I must say I am satisfied. The falls are more powerful than I ever imagined. Breathtaking, stunning, all that.

The weather was perfect--sunny, cool and breezy--and the park is beautifully organized and proudly maintained. We walked alone along some of the trails, then squeezed among crowds of folks speaking primarily Spanish and Portuguese. 

There were determined hikers decked out in perfect, zipper-covered Patagonia gear, and sweet giggling teens in flip-flops and jean skirts. Grandmas in all-terrain wheel chairs and babies in strollers.

Everyone can come and see this spectacular sight. Cool.

In fact, other than the falls, I'd say the most spectacular thing I witnessed was the plastic-covered baby. On our way out, a mommy was pushing a stroller that had been draped and wrapped in makeshift ponchos...giving baby an appearance of some sort of bubble-boy situation.  She could clearly breathe, but it was hilarious to see her so well protected against any sort of errant spray. Mom looked pretty proud of herself, satisfied that baby wouldn't melt. What a great national park.