Tourist breaches safety barrier at world's largest waterfall system to recover cellphone

The incident occurred Saturday on the Brazilian side of the falls in Foz do Iguaçu, according to news agency Jam Press.

The stunt took place just yards from the waterfalls, where fast-moving water rushes toward steep drops.

The man managed to retrieve the phone and climb back onto the walkway without being injured.

Iguazu Falls, which spans the border between Brazil and Argentina, is one of South America's most popular tourist attractions.

The attraction drew an estimated 1.5 million visitors last year, according to Travel and World Tour.

Officials prohibit visitors from crossing, climbing or sitting on safety barriers on both sides of the falls, Jam Press noted.

Visitors who drop personal belongings into the water are instructed to notify onsite emergency personnel, who can determine whether recovery is possible, according to Urbia Cataratas, which manages the Brazilian side of the attraction.

In January, a tourist on the Argentine side of the falls reportedly crossed protective barriers near the Devil's Throat viewpoint to retrieve a hat that had blown away.

The individual walked near the edge of the falls before returning safely to the viewing platforms, reports said.