Tragedy at Iguazu Falls: What Happened
On July 28, 2026, around 12:20 PM local time, an emergency was reported at Iguazu National Park in the Brazilian state of Paraná. A boat from the tour company Macuco Safari capsized during a routine excursion, throwing all passengers and crew into the waters of the Iguazu River.
The Victims
The accident claimed the life of a 26-year-old Dutch tourist, who was traveling with his partner's family. Despite rescue efforts, he suffered cardiac arrest and was rushed to the Municipal Hospital Padre Germano Lauck in Foz do Iguaçu, where he was pronounced dead.
Two other Dutch nationals were injured: a man (the victim's father-in-law) and his son-in-law. The father-in-law remained conscious and breathing without assistance, while the son-in-law was kept under observation but did not require intensive care. In total, the boat carried eight people: six tourists and two crew members (pilot and co-pilot). All were rescued from the water.
Environmental Context: Iguazu River Flow
The investigation will examine whether the river's unusually high flow contributed to the capsize. Between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM on the day of the accident, the average flow was 4.3 million liters per second — nearly three times the normal rate of 1.5 million liters per second. Just days earlier, on July 23, a peak of 9.1 million liters per second had forced the temporary closure of some trails and the Devil's Throat walkway.
Investigation and Response
The Brazilian Navy and the River Paraná Port Authority arrived at the scene to coordinate rescue and oversee emergency measures. The official investigation aims to determine the exact cause of the capsize, possible negligence, and whether safety protocols were followed.
The Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation (ICMBio), which manages the park, issued a statement expressing deep regret. It confirmed that the concessionaire's documentation was in order and pledged full cooperation with authorities to clarify the incident.
Tourism Suspended
As a direct consequence, Macuco Safari suspended its excursions for three days, starting July 29. Tourists who had already purchased tickets can request a full refund or reschedule their trip. The company, with over 40 years of experience in the park, expressed condolences and assured continued assistance to the victims and their families.