Dutch tourist Mark Lensink dies after boat accident at Iguazu Falls By Luís Henrique Costa
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Dutch tourist Mark Lensink, aged 26, died on July 29, 2026, after a boat capsized during a Macuco Safari tour. The incident occurred at the Iguaçu Falls, in Foz do Iguaçu, Paraná, while he was enjoying the attraction with his family.
Details about Mark Lensink’s life
Mark, a resident of the city of Rijssen in the province of Overissel, eastern Netherlands, was traveling through Brazil with members of his family. On his professional online platforms, he presented himself as an employee of the family company, Lensink Bouwservice, which operates in the construction industry.
In addition to his professional work, Mark had studied at the Saxion University of Applied Sciences, also located in the Netherlands. After the incident, the case led to the action of several rescue teams and is currently under investigation by the Civil Police of Paraná and the Brazilian Navy.
How the accident occurred in Iguaçu National Park
Mark was on board a vessel from the Macuco Safari dealership for a private tour, accompanied by five other family members, as well as the pilot and co-pilot. The activity involved navigating the rapids of the Iguaçu River, one of the most famous attractions in the region.
According to information released by the Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation (ICMBio), the boat overturned around noon, within the limits of the Iguaçu National Park. The vessel’s capsize caused all passengers to fall into the water, but they were promptly rescued.
The rescue operations included the participation of teams from the company itself, the Fire Department, the Mobile Emergency Care Service (Samu), the Brazilian Navy and ICMBio.
According to the Fire Department, Mark drowned, which resulted in a cardiorespiratory arrest. He received first aid while still in the park and was transported by boat to Port Kattamaram. An ambulance then took him to Padre Germano Lauck Municipal Hospital, where, despite resuscitation efforts, his death was confirmed.
Other family members were also affected
In addition to Mark Lensink’s death, three other family members required medical assistance due to the accident.
A 49-year-old man was hospitalized and remained in stable condition under observation. A 48-year-old woman suffered a broken foot, while another family member was treated and released after a detailed medical assessment.
Authorities investigate the causes of the collapse
The Paraná Civil Police opened an investigation to clarify the circumstances of the accident. The investigation includes collecting statements from survivors, family members involved and company employees, in addition to analyzing expert reports produced by the Scientific Police.
At the same time, the Brazilian Navy initiated an Administrative Inquiry into Navigation Accidents and Facts (IAFN). The objective is to identify the causes of the vessel’s overturning and verify whether there was any responsibility for what happened.
Macuco Safari tours are suspended by ICMBio
As a preventive measure and while investigations continue, ICMBio ordered the suspension of Macuco Safari operations for three days, starting on July 30, 2026.
The institute confirmed that the concessionaire had all the necessary licenses and certifications to carry out the tour, which is widely known and sought after by tourists visiting the Iguaçu Falls. The suspension aims to ensure safety and allow the circumstances of the accident to be fully investigated.
