Dutch Tourist Dies at Iguaçu Falls Boat Tour

What happened on the Iguaçu Falls boat tour?

On Tuesday, 28 July, a 26-year-old Dutch tourist drowned during a private boat excursion at Iguaçu Falls in Foz do Iguaçu, Paraná. The boat capsized while carrying the victim, five of his family members, and two crew members. All survivors were rescued by the Paraná Fire Brigade and treated on site before being transferred to hospital at Porto Seco do Kattamaran. They are all out of danger.

Which company operates the tour?

The boat belongs to Ilha do Sol, the concession holder for the Macuco Safari excursion. The concession contract was signed in January 2010 between Ilha do Sol and the Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation (ICMBio). The company states it has operated in the Iguaçu National Park for 35 years and holds all required certifications and licences.

How did authorities respond?

The Fire Brigade confirmed the cause of death as drowning that progressed to cardiorespiratory arrest. ICMBio expressed condolences and announced a three-day suspension of the Macuco Safari tour starting Wednesday, 29 July, while the circumstances of the accident are investigated. ICMBio also confirmed that all documentation relating to Ilha do Sol is up to date and compliant. Ilha do Sol said it is assisting the victims and cooperating fully with investigators.

What should travellers know before booking this tour?

The Dutch family had arrived in Brazil on Monday, 27 July, and had been due to return to the Netherlands on 30 July. The Macuco Safari is one of the most popular boat experiences at Iguaçu Falls, taking visitors close to the base of the waterfalls. Travellers are advised to follow all safety briefings given by crew, ensure life jackets are correctly fitted, and check current operational status before booking, as the tour is suspended until at least 31 July 2026.