Visiting Iguazu Falls in Argentina And Brazil: The Ultimate Guide

Planning on visiting Iguazu Falls? You’re in for an unforgettable adventure. This natural wonder straddling the border between Argentina and Brazil is a must-see. But before you go, it’s important to get the details right—from when to visit, to navigating the border to visit both sides and making the most of your time exploring the falls both in Brazil and Argentina.

In this guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know to plan your trip to Iguazu Falls, so you can focus on enjoying the experience without any last-minute surprises. Let’s dive in!

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Table of Contents

How To Get to Iguazu Falls: Argentina Side

The view from an airplane window overlooking a dense, lush jungle canopy. The picture is taken while the plane from Buenos Aires approaches Iguazu Falls Airport. — The jungle from the plane window before landing at Puerto Iguazu Airport

If you plan to visit Argentina, a visit to Iguazu Falls is a must. For a trip to the falls, flying from Buenos Aires to Iguazu Falls is fast and straightforward, with a flight time of less than two hours.

Aerolineas Argentinas, FlyBondi, and JetSmart offer daily flights from both Ezeiza (EZE) and Jorge Newbery (AEP) airports. Be sure to check which airport you’re departing from. Budget airlines often provide affordable options, especially from AEP, which is closer to tourists’ favorite areas to stay.

Tip: Book a window seat for a stunning view of the jungle as you land at Puerto Iguazu International Airport.

Puerto Iguazu airport is small but comfortable, with basic amenities. From the airport, you can take the Rio Uruguay bus to the city of Puerto Iguazu for about USD 3, grab a taxi, or book a transfer.

While buses from Buenos Aires are available, they take 17-19 hours one way and aren’t always cheaper than flights. For convenience, flying is the better choice.

The Best Time To Visit Iguazu Falls

Iguazu Falls is a year-round destination, but the timing of your visit can impact your experience.

December, January, and late July are peak seasons due to school holidays. Expect large crowds, limited accommodation, rainy weather, and high water levels, which may close some trails.

From March to June, the weather is hot with plenty of sunshine and manageable humidity.

August and September are cooler, but lower water levels mean the falls might not be as impressive.

A picture of Iguazú Falls showing expansive waterfalls cascading down in a powerful display of nature's force. — Iguazu Falls

Tip: Pack for a humid climate.

For the best experience, visit during the shoulder seasons (March to June, August to October) to avoid crowds.

How Many Days At Iguazu Falls

Wondering how many days will be enough to explore Iguazu Falls? If you have the time, plan to spend at least two to three full days.

I have heard of people traveling from Buenos Aires to Puerto Iguazu and back in one day. I wouldn’t advise it. Iguazu Falls is not a place to rush. Trust me, you’ll want to savor every moment in this majestic place. It’s an experience you’ll cherish forever.

If you are short on time, consider a private day trip. This is not a cheap option, but it does have its advantages: airfare included, pick-up and drop-off from your hotel in Buenos Aires, and a private guide at the falls. Bear in mind, that you will only visit the Argentine side of the falls and will not see the falls from the Brazilian side.

Where To Stay When Visiting Iguazu Falls On The Argentine Side

If you’re looking for a first-class hotel in the area, look no further than the Gran Meliá Iguazú. This hotel offers luxury and unbeatable views of the park, and on top of that, you can access the falls from your room. Imagine seeing Iguazu Falls from your hotel room or the convenience of being so close to the falls that you can reach them within minutes.

You can walk out your door and straight into one of the wonders of the world. The hotel offers unparalleled views and walking trails right on your doorstep. Waking up to the sound of the waterfalls is an unforgettable experience.

The comfortable beds, exquisite cuisine, and the opportunity to relax in the spa after a day of exploration make this hotel the perfect choice. Staying at Gran Melia Iguazu will without any doubt turn your visit into a lifelong memory.

The photograph displays a scenic view from the hotel room in Puerto Iguazu, showcasing a serene river flanked by lush greenery. A prominent bridge with distinctive yellow triangular structures spans the river in the distance. On the right, a large Ferris wheel creates a focal point against the clear sky. In the foreground, a swimming pool with azure water provides a leisurely contrast to the natural scene. — The view from my room at O2 Iguazu Hotel

Gran Melia Iguazu was out of my budget, so I chose the O2 Iguazu hotel for my stay at Puerto Iguazu. I highly recommend O2 Iguazu if you’re looking for a comfortable and affordable Iguazu hotel.

It is conveniently located near the bus station. The rooms are spacious and immaculately clean and the hotel is new. The lobby is an atrium, complete with panoramic lifts that offer stunning views.

During my stay, I asked for a corner room on the top floor and enjoyed a breathtaking view of Tres Fronteras. The best part of my experience was the rooftop pool and bar. I loved relaxing there with a refreshing drink and enjoying the cool breeze as the sun set over Tres Fronteras.

The image shows a luxurious rooftop swimming pool at dusk, with a clear blue sky above. The pool area is adorned with stylish sun loungers, some of which are occupied by guests enjoying the tranquil setting. Large umbrellas provide shade, and a chic bar structure offers refreshments. The wooden deck and glass balustrades add to the modern aesthetic, while the background reveals a sprawling landscape that fades into the horizon, highlighting the urban setting of the O2 Iguazu Hotel. — Rooftop pool and bar at O2 Iguazu Hotel

Visiting The Argentinian Side Of Iguazu Falls

Iguazu National Park is open every day from 8:00 to 18:00. Last entry is at 16:30. The entrance fee for foreigners is ARS 35,000. You can pay both in cash in Argentine pesos or with a Visa or Mastercard credit card. If you plan to visit the Iguazu National Park for two consecutive days, at the end of the first day revalidate your ticket and thus you will obtain a 50% discount on the second-day ticket. Go to the park directly on the second day with the ticket from the previous day.

The entry ticket gives you access to: the Upper Circuit, the Lower Circuit, the Devil’s Throat, the Green Trail, the Macuco Trail, and the Jungle Ecological Train. The Jungle Ecological Train travels through the jungle to connect the entrance of the park with the main trails.

Things to do in Iguazu Falls in Argentina

The Upper Circuit

The start of the Upper Circuit is 200 meters from the Falls Station. It is a very easy walk of almost 2 kilometers. As there are no steps, the circuit is fully accessible and takes about 1.5 hours to complete. To get there you can take the ecological jungle train. Just make sure you get on the train no later than 16:00. There are toilets and a cafe at the start of the trail.

You will have an incredible view of the falls from above and as you will want to stop every few steps to admire the scenery, it is best to allow at least two hours for the Upper Circuit. The footpaths pass over many smaller falls, giving you the feeling of walking over water. All the time you will be in the jungle, surrounded by lush vegetation and greeted by colorful birds and inquisitive animals.

The photograph showcases a striking view of Iguazú Falls, where numerous waterfalls cascade into a turbulent, golden-brown river. A vivid rainbow arches gracefully through the mist created by the falls, adding a spectrum of color to the scene. The lush greenery of the surrounding forest is partially visible, framing the natural wonder, while the powerful rush of water conveys a sense of the falls' majesty and the dynamic energy of nature. — Rainbow over Iguazu Falls

The Lower Circuit

The Lower Circuit is a little shorter and not fully accessible. It has two paths leading to the same place. One is accessible by ramp and the other by stairs.

On the Lower Circuit, the falls are right next to you. You will feel their power from the thunderous sound of the falling water. Be prepared to get wet from the mist. Following the Lower Circuit trail, you enter the deepest part of the Paraná jungle.

Take your time and take your best pictures.

TIP: Be careful with your camera and mobile phone: make sure to keep them dry.

Full Moon Walk

If your visit coincides with the days of the full moon, you can join the Full Moon Walk. This tour lasts approximately 3 hours and you have the option to hire the dinner service, which is offered in the Restaurant “La Selva” in the Park. Ask for it at the park’s entrance.

Devil’s Throat (Garganta del Diablo)

The Devil’s Throat is the largest and most impressive waterfall in the Iguazú National Park, with a drop of over 80 meters. After completing the 2,200-meter circuit, you can come within a few centimeters of the waterfall.

Devil’s Throat Waterfall is nothing short of amazing! You can hear it before you see it and when you get close, you can feel the power of the water as it falls into a huge hole. It’s an unforgettable experience! The falls are so powerful that they make a big mist that will soak you and leave you feeling refreshed. You may even see rainbows! Devil’s Throat is all about the beauty and power of nature. It’s an experience that will leave you in awe of how powerful nature can be.

Boat Ride

If you are into thrilling experiences, a boat ride is the unforgettable highlight of visiting Iguazu Falls! The boat ride below Iguazu Falls is an exhilarating experience. It takes you right to the heart of the thundering water, where the power of nature is simply undeniable. The boat provides exclusive views of the falls from angles that are not visible elsewhere! This is why this experience is so incredibly popular.

Wildlife

Iguazu Falls is also a place to spot a diverse range of wildlife! From toucans to monkeys, coatis to jaguars, and a variety of birds and animals, there’s so much to see. More than 400 species of birds live in the park! Please remember you are their guest, respect them, and don’t bother them. Keep your snacks away and dispose of your trash in the designated bins. And please, don’t feed them!

Reasons Not To Miss The Iguazu Falls In Brazil

Getting Close to the Devil’s Throat. On the Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls, you can get incredibly close to the Devil’s Throat. The boardwalk offers views from different angles, with rainbows, mist, and the sensation of walking right on the falls. There’s also an observation tower for a bird’s-eye view.

The Best Panoramic View. While most of the falls are in Argentina, the Brazilian side offers the best panoramic views. The walkway ends at a platform with breathtaking views, perfect for photos (just keep your gear dry!).

Visiting Iguazu Falls on the Brazilian side is a must.

Less Time Consuming. Unlike the Argentine side’s multiple circuits, the Brazilian side has a single 1500-meter walkway, easily accessible via the park tourist bus. You can complete it in about an hour, though you’ll want extra time to take in the scenery.

Accessibility. The Brazilian side is also more accessible, with manageable stairs and elevators to the Devil’s Throat walkway. Wheelchairs are available at the Visitor Center free of charge for those with mobility issues.

How To Get From Puerto Iguazu To Foz do Iguaçu

If you’re visiting the Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls from Puerto Iguazu, Argentina here’s what you need to know.

Bus From Puerto Iguazu To Foz do Iguaçu

There’s a regular bus service from Puerto Iguazu’s bus station to the Brazilian park, running about every 20-30 minutes. Buy your ticket at the station, and be sure to specify you’re heading to the park, not the town of Foz do Iguaçu. I don’t remember the exact price, but the round-trip ticket is very affordable.

Argentina-Brazil Border Crossing

Crossing the border is usually smooth. However, check visa requirements for Brazil beforehand. If you’re returning to Argentina the same day, only the Argentine side has a checkpoint. For overnight stays, you’ll need to go through Brazilian passport control. Take all your belongings with you, as the bus won’t wait. You’ll continue your journey with the same ticket getting on the next bus after clearing customs.

Buying The Entry Tickets For Foz do Iguaçu

You can buy tickets either online in advance or at the Visitor Center. When I tried to purchase online, I was required to select a date and time for park entry, which I found confusing since I couldn’t predict my exact arrival time.

I planned to visit the Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls the same day I flew into Puerto Iguazu from Buenos Aires. After landing, I needed to get to the bus station and I didn’t know the bus schedule or how long the border crossing would take. So, I opted to buy my ticket at the park.

At the visitor center, tickets are sold through vending machines, with card payments only. You’ll still need to choose a date and time for boarding the National Park Tourist Bus, but the 15-minute intervals are mostly a formality. Buses depart based on how busy the park is, and no one checks your ticket time—when a bus fills up, it leaves, and the next one follows.

National Park Tourist Bus Stops

The first stop of the National Park Tourist Bus is Macuco, where you can get off for a longer jungle walk or enjoy water activities like boat rides and rafting.

The photo shows a single-story building with a terracotta-tiled roof nestled among verdant greenery. A sign with the word "Macuco" and an illustration of a bird and leaves hangs prominently over the entrance, suggesting the building is a stop or attraction, possibly named Macuco, within a larger park or tour area. The structure has an open, pavilion-like design with large supporting wooden pillars, offering a welcoming area for visitors. The setting appears tranquil and shaded, a pleasant stop for those exploring the surrounding natural attractions. A clear sky and bright sunlight indicate a fine weather day, perfect for outdoor activities. — Macuco Stop of the National Park Tour bus

The second stop is directly across from the Belmond Hotel das Cataratas. This is the place where you can already see the falls and where the walk to the falls begins.

The image captures a vibrant scene at the start of a trail on the Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls. A group of visitors is gathered at a viewpoint, overlooking the spectacular waterfalls in the distance. The falls are a series of vast and powerful cascades, creating a dramatic backdrop against the clear sky, with a few puffy clouds floating above. Lush greenery frames the scene, with a large tree in the foreground providing shade and a sense of scale. The observation area is marked by yellow railings and paved with stone tiles, suggesting an accessible path for tourists to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The photo conveys a sense of wonder and the allure of exploring one of the world's most magnificent waterfalls. — The start of the trail on the Brazil side of Iguazu Falls

From the moment I stepped off the bus, I was in awe—and it only got better. The highlight came at the end of the walkway: the Devil’s Throat. Words can’t capture how it felt. I stood there, speechless, unable to believe the sheer power and majesty of what I was witnessing. Seeing it in person felt like a rare privilege.

The last stop of the National Park Tourist Bus (and the first on the way back) is accessible for those with mobility issues. The path is paved, and there are elevators that take you down to the falls. You’ll also find a gift shop, restrooms, a restaurant, and several self-service food and drink stands at this stop.

I really enjoyed sipping a refreshing coconut after visiting the falls.

The Advantages Of Staying At Hotel das Cataratas

For a luxurious stay on the Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls, Hotel das Cataratas, a Belmond Hotel, is the top choice. This 5-star resort is located inside the National Park and offers easy access to the falls—just a short walk across the street.

One of the perks of staying at Hotel das Cataratas is having exclusive access to the falls outside regular park hours. While the park closes to the public at 5:00 p.m., the guests of the hotel can enjoy the falls from early morning until night, including breathtaking sunsets without the crowds. Plus, unlimited park admission is included with your stay, so you can visit as often as you like.

The photo showcases a picturesque two-story building painted in a soft pink hue with white trim, featuring a prominent clock tower with a spire at the center. The architecture suggests a colonial style with arched porticoes lining the front of the building. Lush, well-manicured lawns surround the structure, dotted with tropical palm trees and a large, shady tree at the forefront. The clear blue sky suggests a bright, sunny day. Stone steps lead up to the entrance, and a few vehicles are parked on the side, indicating that this may be a place of interest, possibly a hotel or historic site, which is frequented by visitors. — Hotel das Cataratas

Things To Do At Iguazu Falls, Brazil Side

Parque Das Aves (Bird Park)

The bus from Puerto Iguazu stops at Parque das Aves before reaching the Iguaçu Falls visitor center in Brazil. The park is home to over 150 bird species. If you plan to visit the Bird Park, get off the bus at this stop. The Bird Park is located a mere 100 meters away from the visitor center, so after your visit, it’s an easy walk to the National Park entrance.

Canoeing

Apart from paddling and walking along the trails, you will have the chance to bathe in the waterfalls!

Macuco Safari Boat

You will climb a canyon, and pass through the middle of the waterfalls on a boat!

Helicopter Flight Over Iguazu Falls

You can select a departure time that suits you best to enjoy a privileged view of the falls from the sky.

Should You Take A Guided Tour of Iguazu Falls?

You can visit the Falls as an independent traveler pretty easily. Once there, consider booking a guided tour, especially if going to the Brazilian side of the falls. Guides will lead you to spots with sprawling panoramic views you might otherwise miss. You will gain insights that will enrich your experience beyond just the visual admiration. There’s always a charm in the untold stories and hidden corners only a local guide can reveal.

Things To Do In Puerto Iguazu Argentina, apart from visiting Iguazu Falls

Hito Tres Fronteras

This is where Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay meet.

The wonder lies in the proximity; each nation’s border is just a stone’s throw away. The Parana River and the Iguazu River converge here, their waters mixing before flowing on. You can view the borders without crossing them. Monuments from each country add to the charm, with their respective flags flying high.

Biocentro Iguazu

You will discover in Biocentro Iguazu lush vegetation and an abundance of wildlife: colorful butterflies, beautiful orchids, and curious toucans. The peaceful chorus of bird songs provides a stark contrast to the thunderous sound of the falls.

Local Food Tasting

Enjoy a dinner with empanadas, chorizo, matambre, grilled provoleta cheese, steak, and more, paired with three wine selections, and learn the yerba mate etiquette.

La Casa de las Botellas

This attraction is truly impressive in its creativity and innovation. The entire house is made from upcycled plastic bottles, from the walls to the furniture and decor. But it’s not just about aesthetics; the project serves as an eco-friendly prototype, designed to inspire visitors to consider their own role in preserving the beauty of nature.

If you visit the Bottle House, take a moment to appreciate the ingenuity behind the use of materials and the potential of every object we think of as waste.

San Ignacio

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Jesuit Mission of San Ignacio Miní is a remarkable testament to the history of the region. Walking through the ruins, you feel as if you have been transported back to the 17th century. The sandstone walls tell dramatic stories of the interaction between European missionaries and the indigenous Guarani people. Jesuits aimed to create a harmonious Christian community. A visit to San Ignacio Miní is a must if you are interested in history and the mixing of cultures. You can easily explore the site on a day trip from Puerto Iguazu.

Conclusion

Visiting Iguazu Falls is an experience you’ll never forget. Whether you’re marveling at the roaring Devil’s Throat, exploring the lush jungle trails, or soaking in panoramic views from the Brazilian side, every moment is a chance to connect with nature.

With the right planning, you can navigate the park efficiently and make the most of your time. So, get ready to be amazed and enjoy every breathtaking view and thrilling moment.