Macuco Safari Is Operating Normally After the July 2026 Incident

Last updated: September 10, 2026. Macuco Safari has resumed its regular visitor operations at Iguaçu National Park on the Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls. The boat excursion restarted on August 1 after a temporary three-day suspension following the serious incident of July 28. The national park itself remained open during that suspension, and its principal visitor areas continued operating.

What happened at Macuco Safari?

On July 28, 2026, a Macuco Safari boat carrying six Dutch visitors and two crew members capsized shortly after beginning the river portion of the excursion. All eight people were rescued from the water. Tragically, one of the visitors later died after suffering cardiac arrest, and two other passengers received hospital treatment.

We extend our sincere condolences to the traveler’s family and companions. An event of this seriousness should be reported with accuracy and respect, without speculation or sensationalism.

The causes of the incident remain under investigation by the competent Brazilian authorities. At the time of writing, no definitive public conclusion has been issued. Reports noted that the Iguaçu River was carrying substantially more water than its historical average that day, but authorities had not established that river flow was the cause of the accident.

When did Macuco Safari reopen?

The boat operation was suspended for three days and resumed on Saturday, August 1, 2026. Current information published by the operator once again presents normal opening hours, ticket sales and regular departures. Our own Macuco Safari tour page is also available for travelers who want to review the experience and organize it as part of their Brazilian Falls visit.

It is important to distinguish two separate facts: the tourist operation has resumed, while the official investigation is still ongoing. Reopening should not be interpreted as a final conclusion about the cause of the incident.

Macuco Safari in Iguazu Falls

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Did the incident close Iguaçu National Park?

No. Iguaçu National Park on the Brazilian side did not close because of the Macuco Safari incident. The temporary suspension applied to the boat excursion, while the park’s panoramic trail, viewpoints and other visitor services continued operating.

Travelers can therefore continue planning a guided visit to the Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls. Macuco Safari is an optional activity within the park and is not required to enjoy the main walking circuit or the panoramic views of the waterfalls.

What does “back to normal” mean for travelers?

For practical trip planning, normal operation means that visitors can once again purchase the excursion and join scheduled departures. It does not mean that navigation is guaranteed at every hour or under every river condition. As with any activity on the Iguaçu River, departures may be adjusted, delayed or suspended when the operator or park authorities consider conditions unsuitable.

After more than 25 years organizing trips to Iguazu Falls, our recommendation is always the same for river excursions: confirm the activity close to the operating date, listen carefully to the safety briefing, wear the provided life jacket exactly as instructed and follow the crew’s directions throughout the navigation. Travelers who are uncomfortable with an active boat ride can still have a complete visit by enjoying the Brazilian panoramic circuit without adding Macuco Safari.

What should you know before booking?

Check the latest operational conditions

Even when regular service is available, river levels and weather can change. Confirm the most recent departure information before traveling to the park, especially after heavy rain or unusually high river flow.

Allow enough time inside the park

Macuco Safari combines an electric-vehicle journey through the Atlantic Forest, a short nature trail and the boat navigation. The complete experience normally takes around two hours, so it should be coordinated carefully with the Brazilian Falls walkway and any other attractions planned for the same day.

Remember that park admission is separate

The Macuco Safari ticket does not normally include admission to Iguaçu National Park. Travelers should arrange both components and verify the current meeting instructions on their voucher.

Carry the correct travel documents

Visitors traveling from Puerto Iguazú in Argentina must cross the international border to reach the Brazilian park. Passport and visa requirements depend on nationality and can change, so each traveler should verify the rules that apply before departure.

Macuco Safari in Iguazu Falls

Embark on a captivating jungle adventure followed by an unforgettable boat navigation experience at the majestic Iguazu Falls!

• Adventure

From Price: USD110

SEE TOUR

Can you still include Macuco Safari in your Iguazu itinerary?

Yes. Macuco Safari is currently operating and can be included in a visit to the Brazilian side, subject to availability and the conditions assessed on the day. Travelers should make an informed personal decision, understanding both that regular service has resumed and that the official investigation into the July incident has not yet concluded.

If you would like help coordinating the Brazilian Falls, Macuco Safari, border crossings and transportation, contact our Iguazu travel specialists. We can organize the itinerary and reconfirm the latest operating information before your visit.

Sources and update policy

This report was prepared using information published by the Macuco Safari operator, Iguaçu National Park visitor channels and established news organizations reporting on the investigation. Because the official investigation is continuing and river operations can change, this page should be updated whenever authorities or the operator release material new information.