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Iguazu Falls Tours & Trips

Nothing beats standing before a waterfall and watching water cascade into hidden depths. The Iguazu Falls on the border of Argentina and Brazil will take your breath away! You'll also get to discover two vibrant countries and famous cities like Buenos Aires.

81 Iguazu Falls tour packages with 170 reviews

• In-depth Cultural

Lima to Rio: Coast to Coast

Amazing tour, I will keep great memories from it

The Great South American Journey: Quito to Rio Adventure

This is the best G adventures tour I have done in terms of itinerary and people I was traveling with. I had a fantastic time with a great group of people. The only feedback I will give G is I feel the CEO guides are pressured to get 9s or 10s in their reviews and hence transmit that to us which made me not leave a review on the G website as I felt I could not be completely honest without harming the tour guides' rating. This culture should change if you want constructive feedback. I loved all 4 of my CEOs on my tour but 2 of them were outstanding (10/10s) and I felt as a result of above, I could not give them the credit they were due without causing harm to the other 2 who were also good but more 7/10s.

• Sightseeing
• Christmas & New Year

Best of Argentina & Brazil

Great trip! Very well organized and lots of fun! Perfect amount of activities, adventure, and free time to explore on your own.

Premium Argentina & Brazil

Action-packed sightseeing of amazing waterfalls, great food and beautiful beaches. Hotels were wonderful and nice and the team was very organized

Iguazu Falls on a Shoestring (3N)

The tour was very on time. We were originally put in a Spanish speaking group. The tour guide immediately moved us to another English speaking group. Everything worked out great!

3 Days PRIVATE Experience @ IGUAZU, including everything! JUST A SIMPLE AWESOME EXPERIENCE !

A very good tour. The local guide (Rene) met us and adjusted the itinerary for 1st day because our flight was late. He also updated us on the following days and any options available. We had an early start on the 2nd day. Rene was very knowledgeable about Iguazu and avoided crowds in most of the viewpoints. The boat ride was the highlight and a must-do for Iguazu. Because of the hot weather, we finished around 3 pm and returned to the hotel to enjoy a very good World cup game between Argentina and Australia. St George hotel in Puerto Iguazu was very nice and there were lots of restaurants within a few minutes walk. All in all, no issues, and very satisfied

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Iguazu Falls Short Break

Intrepid tour leaders were all excellent. They managed the tour very well. Questions were answered beforehand using the tour radar messages. This was good when questions were simple but it was harder to get an answer with complex questions. In the end we trusted them to do a good job and they did

Argentina - Getaway to the Iguazu Falls, Nature Wonder of the World 4 days

Very professional, always on time, new and clean vehicles, very nice drivers and guides. Eveeything flowed smoothly!

Argentina: Buenos Aires & Iguazú or Viceversa - 6 days

Had a wonderful time in Buenos Aires and Iguaza. Micaela, my guide, contributed a great deal to this. She was pretty much available 24/7 to answer all my questions and give me advice on ways to fully immerse myself in the Argentinian culture. Furthermore, she was always happy to help and never made me feel as if I was being a burden. She is the standard from which guides should be measured. Micaela made me feel totally comfortable and welcome when traveling in Argentina. I absolutely recommend this trip and if possible request Micaela.

Magnificents Iguazú Falls - Share Services

Overall a great tour experience. The falls are beautiful and the guides are friendly and knowledgeable. My one complaint would be that the transportation and communication can leave a lot to be desired. I was originally confirmed to tour the Brazilian side after landing on my first day and then the Argentinean side the second day, but was told upon landing that I would be not doing a tour after landing and would be doing the Argentinean side and then the Brazilian side the next day before my flight out. The first day pickup was maybe 30 minutes late and the second day about an hour late, without warning, which made me worried that I had somehow missed the pickup completely.

Magnificent Iguazú Falls - Private Services

Make the time to visit the waterfalls, and see the Devil's Throat in person!

Jewels Of Argentina And Brazil

6 Days Iguazu Falls & Buenos Aires Express

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Tailor-Made Best Brazil Tour to Rio and Iguazu Falls, Daily Departure & Private Guide

7 Days Buenos Aires & Iguazu Falls Experience

What people love about iguazu falls tours.

This is the best G adventures tour I have done in terms of itinerary and people I was traveling with. I had a fantastic time with a great group of people. The only feedback I will give G is I feel the CEO guides are pressured to get 9s or 10s in their reviews and hence transmit that to us which made me not leave a review on the G website as I felt I could not be completely honest without harming the tour guides' rating. This culture should change if you want constructive feedback. I loved all 4 of my CEOs on my tour but 2 of them were outstanding (10/10s) and I felt as a result of above, I could not give them the credit they were due without causing harm to the other 2 who were also good but more 7/10s.

A great experience. Intrepid leader Javier Buchnann is excellent

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Iguazu Falls Travel Guide For Argentina & Brazil (+Map)

Iguazu Falls is one of the world’s most spectacular and impressive waterfalls, straddling the border between Argentina and Brazil in South America.

With more than 275 individual cascades, Iguazu is actually the biggest waterfall system in the world! The closest comparison is probably Niagara Falls in Canada and the United States, although Iguazu Falls is bigger than Niagara by most measurements.

This spectacular waterfall has been made into a national park in Argentina and Brazil, and both sides of the falls are well worth a visit since they offer different views! You can see the best highlights of Iguazu in a couple of days, although you could easily spend longer.

This travel guide will explain how to get to Iguazu Falls on the Argentina or Brazil side (with or without a tour), plus a map of the falls and more info. Lastly, I’ll share some interesting facts about the waterfall itself!

Where Is Iguazu Falls?

Iguazu Falls is located on the border of Argentina and Brazil, in the continent of South America.

There are towns and airports on both sides of the border, with plenty of tourist friendly hotels and restaurants, and you can easily go back and forth between the two countries to see both sides of the waterfall.

The town on the Argentine side of the falls is called Puerto Iguazu , while the Brazil side is called Foz do Iguacu .

Iguazu Falls is in Argentina and Brazil

How To Get To Iguazu Falls Argentina & Brazil

The main way to get to Iguazu Falls is by flying there from one of the big cities in Argentina or Brazil.

For the Argentina side, you can fly from Buenos Aires to Puerto Iguazu (airport code: IGR), which takes less than 2 hours and is offered by multiple airlines, with pretty reasonable prices. There are two airports in Buenos Aires (AEP or EZE) and you can use either of them to fly here.

If you’re in Brazil, you can fly from Sao Paulo or Rio De Janeiro to Foz do Iguacu (code: IGU), which takes about 2 hours, more or less. These routes are also offered by multiple airlines with daily departures.

Shop Now: Argentina & Brazil flights at Skyscanner

A busy day at Iguazu Falls

Once you arrive in the town of Puerto Iguazu, you can get to the Argentina waterfall by bus, taxi, or tour . The bus is cheap, safe, and easy to use, with regular departures from the bus terminal in town to the waterfall, and back.

However, if you want something more personalized and convenient, then a taxi or private tour can be a good option. You can ask the driver to wait for you while you explore the waterfall, and then take you back to town afterwards.

The Brazil side of Iguazu Falls works much the same way. You can get to the Brazil waterfall by bus, taxi, or tour , and all of these options work well depending on your needs and how much time you have in your itinerary.

Iguazu Falls Brazil side

It’s also easy to cross the international border between Argentina and Brazil, and go back and forth by bus, taxi, or tour , seeing both sides of the Iguazu waterfall.

For example, I based myself on the Argentina side of Iguazu Falls, but I did a day trip to the Brazil side using the bus, and I also did a separate day trip to the Paraguay side with a taxi.

As a US citizen, I didn’t need any visa for Argentina, Brazil, or Paraguay, so it was very easy to do day trips between them, but remember to check the current visa requirements for your nationality in these countries to avoid any border hassles, and don’t forget to bring your passport!

Views above the Iguazu waterfall

Best Iguazu Falls Tours

One of the easiest ways to visit Iguazu Falls is with a day tour from Puerto Iguazu or Foz do Iguacu.

GetYourGuide has high-rated day tours to see Iguazu Falls on the Argentina side , with optional boat tours where you can see the waterfalls up close and get soaked. This can be a fun way to see the beauty of Iguazu Falls from a different angle.

On the Brazil side, they have day tours to Iguazu Falls from Foz do Iguacu , with similar boat tours and an optional visit to the bird park. Just like on the Argentina side, these tours include a trilingual tour guide and hotel pickup and drop-off.

We’ve used GetYourGuide for lots of tours and activities around the world, and they’re great. Highly recommended!

Book Now: Iguazu Falls Argentina / Brazil Tour

Other Iguazu Falls Tours

GetYourGuide also has some convenient day tours that cross the border to see Argentina or Brazil from the other side. This can be a handy solution if you’re planning to see both sides of Iguazu Falls.

In other words, they have a tour that goes to the Argentina side of the falls starting from Brazil, or a tour to the Brazilian side starting from Argentina. Both of these are great.

If you’re short on time, they even have package tours from Buenos Aires or Rio De Janeiro that include flights, a private driver and tour guide, and your national park entrance tickets.

Iguazu Falls Argentina Side: What To Expect

Visiting Iguazu Falls is an amazing experience! The pictures don’t really do it justice at all.

The Argentina side of Iguazu Falls is bigger and more spread out than the Brazil side, so it’s divided into circuits that go to different parts of the waterfall. The very best things to see are the upper circuit, lower circuit, and Devil’s Throat viewpoint.

The park is well connected by walking trails and a free mini train system, so it’s pretty easy to get around. You can choose to walk the entire park, explore it by train, or use a combination of the two transport methods. There are also benches and cafes where you can stop and rest along the way.

If you’re in decent shape, I would recommend walking the upper and lower circuits in the morning without the train, and then using the train to go to the Devil’s Throat viewpoint in the afternoon. This will give you a good workout, but it’s not too much for a day.

Twin waterfalls on the Argentina side

As you explore the national park, you can see all kinds of wildlife like monkeys, coatis, crocodiles, turtles, and lizards, plus various kinds of birds, spiders, and butterflies. If you’re lucky you might even see a tapir.

The upper and lower circuits at Iguazu both have some amazing panoramic views of the waterfall to enjoy, but in my opinion the very best thing to see in Argentina is the Devil’s Throat viewpoint (in Spanish: ‘Garganta Del Diablo’).

At the appropriately named Devil’s Throat, you can stand and gaze directly into the center of Iguazu Falls, which has a massive U-shaped curtain of water with a tremendous roaring sound and a cloud of mist.

I’d say this viewpoint is the single most impressive feature on either side of Iguazu Falls!

Devil’s Throat viewpoint (‘Garganta Del Diablo’)

Massive wall of water

• Entrance Fee (Argentina)

Iguazu Falls is a national park in Argentina, so there’s a fee you have to pay to enter the park. This applies whether you’re visiting the walkways or doing other activities like a boat cruise, although some day tours may include the park fee in their price.

You can find the current entrance fee on the Argentina national parks website . However, if you visit two days in a row then the second day price is marked down by 50 percent, so just remember to keep your ticket so you can show them and get a discount.

You can pay for your park tickets with a credit or debit card, or with the local currency (Argentine Pesos). They also accept Brazilian Reals, US Dollars, or Paraguayan Guarani. I paid with a foreign credit card and that was fine.

You can book your park tickets in advance, but there’s really no need, because they’re unlimited and never sell out. Lines are always quick at the ticket counter, and I got my tickets in less than a minute. The only thing you might want to book in advance is the boat cruise.

Iguazu Falls Argentina side

• Opening Hours (Argentina)

The opening hours for the Argentina side are 8 AM to 6 PM, but the last entry is at 4:30 PM.

This is the same every day of the year, including holidays like Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, and Easter Sunday.  

• Map (Argentina)

Here’s a handy map of the Iguazu Falls Argentina side you can use to plan your trip. You can click the map to view it in full size.

There are also maps signposted throughout the national park to help you find your way to all of the trails and waterfalls.

Map of Iguazu Falls Argentina side (© Parque Nacional Iguazu )

Iguazu Falls Brazil Side: What To Expect

The Brazil side of Iguazu Falls is a bit smaller and more simple than the Argentina side, but there’s still plenty of great things to see and do.

The park has one main pathway that follows the side of the river, ending with a thrilling balcony near the edge of the falls, and then several platforms that let you see the waterfall from above, either by going up stairs or taking an elevator.

The Brazil park is set up in a loop arrangement with a free bus service that takes you from the entrance gate to either end of the park, and back. Overall, it’s shorter and easier to visit than the Argentina side.

Getting up close with the waterfall

One of my favorite views on the Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls

I loved the Brazil side of Iguazu Falls, and even though it’s not quite as impressive as the ‘Devil’s Throat’ viewpoint in Argentina, I still think it’s more photogenic than the Argentina side in many ways. It would be a big mistake to skip this side of Iguazu just because it’s smaller!

When you get done exploring the Brazil side of Iguazu Falls, there’s also a nice bird park you can visit near the entrance to the national park. It has lots of great South American birds, including some colorful macaws and toucans!

The bird park is called ‘ Parque Das Aves ‘ and it’s just a short walk from the waterfall entrance. Don’t miss it! The ticket is separate from Iguazu, and it’s a little pricey, but it’s worth it.

An amazing toucan at the Brazil bird park

• Entrance Fee (Brazil)

You can check the current Brazil park fee on the official website here , and they also let you buy tickets in advance.

Just like on the Argentina side, there’s no need to book the park tickets in advance, because they’re unlimited and never sell out.

At the park entrance, you can pay for your tickets with a credit or debit card, or with the local currency (Brazilian Reals). They also accept Argentine Pesos, US Dollars, or Paraguayan Guarani.

• Opening Hours (Brazil)

The opening hours for the Brazil side are 9 AM to 6 PM every day of the year, but the last entry is at 4:30 PM.  

• Map (Brazil)

Here’s a map of the Iguazu Falls Brazil side to help you navigate the waterfall area. You can click the map to view it in full size.

Map of Iguazu Falls Brazil side (© Parque Nacional Do Iguacu )

How Much Time To Spend At Iguazu Falls

You need two full days to really see and explore both sides of Iguazu Falls: one day for Argentina, and one day for Brazil. The Brazil side can be done in a half day if you skip the bird park.

A third day at Iguazu will give you more flexibility with weather, and it’ll allow you to re-visit one of the national parks or else do a day trip to Paraguay to see Monday Falls (the Saltos Del Monday waterfall).

If you’re really pressed for time, it’s possible to see both sides of Iguazu Falls in a single day (Argentina and Brazil), although you’ll have to use a tour in order to speed up the border crossings and other logistics.

Boat cruise in a rainbow

What To Bring To Iguazu Falls

• Clothing: The climate at Iguazu is tropical, so it’s hot and humid year round. You’ll want to dress for summer. Shorts and sandals are a good idea.
• Sunscreen: It can be very hot and sunny here, so you’ll want a hat and sunscreen. This is the only place I got any burn in Argentina.
• Rain Coat: There can be extreme mist and spray at some areas of the waterfall, such as the Devil’s Throat, so a poncho is helpful to keep you dry.
• Bug Spray: In general there aren’t many mosquitoes at Iguazu, and I think they’re mostly scared away by the noise and spray of the waterfalls. However, some areas of the park are more calm and you’re likely to run into mosquitoes and other bugs there, so bring bug spray just in case.
• Vaccines: I got the Yellow Fever vaccine before traveling here, and I think it’s a good idea, especially if you plan to travel to Yellow Fever areas in the future. The vaccine is good for life. According to the US CDC , there is some presence of Yellow Fever in the mosquitoes around Iguazu. The vaccine is recommended, but not required by Argentina or Brazil, so that’s your decision to make. Most people don’t bother with the vaccine, and have a great trip anyways.
• Camera: Both sides of the waterfall are very photogenic. A lens with a little bit of zoom is best, although for the Devil’s Throat you’ll want a wide angle lens.
• Passport: If you’re crossing a border, remember to bring your passport. You’ll need it, and it’s easy to forget. Aside from border crossings, however, you won’t need to carry your passport everywhere. For example, if you’re staying in Argentina you won’t need to bring your passport to visit the Argentine side of the falls. It’s not required for entering either of the national parks (just crossing the border), and it would be bad to get your passport wet!

Best Time To Visit Iguazu Falls

There’s really no best time to visit Iguazu Falls. It has a good flow all year long, and it’s always photogenic!

If you want cooler weather, the humidity and temperatures are best from May to August. These are also some of the least rainy months of the year, and the bright sunny days are great for seeing rainbows at the falls.

With that said, I’ve visited Iguazu in the wet season and there really wasn’t too much rain at all. It was mostly sunny every day, with one shower in the evening, and the rain didn’t affect any of my plans.

Naturally, the waterfalls have the strongest and most impressive flow during the rainy season, although sometimes the water can look a bit brown and muddy, which may not be ideal for photos (I’m nitpicking there).

The best time of day to visit Iguazu Falls is in the morning so you can avoid some of the heat and crowds. This is a very popular tourist destination, so it gets pretty crowded by noon. Photography is good at any time of day, though.

You can see macaws and toucans at the Brazil bird park near Iguazu

The walkways in Argentina give you some great views

Iguazu Falls Argentina vs Brazil: Which Side Is Better?

So which side of Iguazu Falls is better? The Argentina side, or the Brazil side? That’s a tough question, because both sides are amazing.

The main advantage of the Argentina side is that it’s bigger and has more trails and walkways to explore. The Devil’s Throat viewpoint is also arguably the most spectacular thing you can see at Iguazu.

The Brazil side, on the other hand, is more compact but it still has some unique scenery and walkways. I would even argue it’s more photogenic than the Argentina side. Plus there’s a nice bird park near the entrance!

In conclusion, I thought the Argentina side was a bit more impressive to see with my own eyes, but the Brazil side may be better for taking photos. Both sides are very worthwhile, and I would recommend seeing both if you’re able.

Iguazu Falls Paraguay Side: Saltos Del Monday

If you want to see another big and beautiful waterfall near Iguazu Falls, there’s a nice one in neighboring Paraguay called Monday Falls (‘Saltos Del Monday’).

Technically this waterfall is not part of the same river system as Iguazu Falls, and it can’t compare in size or greatness, but it’s located nearby and the cascade is a pretty impressive one in its own right, with a height of more than 45 meters (150 feet).

It’s easy to visit Paraguay and the Monday Falls on a day trip from either the Argentina or Brazil side of Iguazu Falls, and as a bonus, you also get to check off another country (Paraguay) from your bucket list!

Read More: Saltos Del Monday Paraguay

Saltos Del Monday is a nice waterfall in Paraguay that you can visit on a day trip.

Fun Facts About Iguazu Falls

• How big is it? Iguazu Falls is huge. It’s actually the largest broken waterfall system in the world, with 275 individual cascades. Iguazu has a height of 64 to 82 meters (210 to 269 feet), a width of 2,700 meters (8,858 feet), and a mean annual flow rate of 1,746 cubic meters per second (61,600 cubic feet per second).
• How does it compare to Niagara Falls in Canada and USA? Iguazu Falls is frequently compared to Niagara Falls in North America, which sits on the border between Canada and the United States. Iguazu is bigger than Niagara in most ways. It’s higher and much wider, although Niagara has a stronger flow rate.
• How does it compare to Victoria Falls in Zambia and Zimbabwe? Iguazu Falls is also often compared to Victoria Falls, which is a waterfall in Africa on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. Victoria Falls is the biggest curtain of water in the world, and it’s also taller than Iguazu. Collectively, Iguazu is wider than Victoria, but it’s split into roughly 275 distinct waterfalls.
• What is the source? The Iguazu River is the source of the waterfall, and it originates in the Serra do Mar mountains of Brazil. This river is about 1,320 kilometers (820 miles) long.
• How did it get its name? The name Iguazu comes from indigenous Guarani words meaning ‘great water.’ It’s pronounced ‘ee-wasu’ or ‘ee-wazu’ although many people also pronounce it ‘eeg-wazu’ or ‘ig-wazu.’
• Is it a national park? Yes, Iguazu is a national park in both Argentina and Brazil. Each side is considered a separate national park. The Argentina side is officially called Parque Nacional Iguazú in Spanish, while the Brazilian side is called Parque Nacional Do Iguaçu in Portuguese.
• What is the UNESCO status? The Iguazu National Park in Argentina has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984, and the Brazil side has also been separately recognized by UNESCO since 1986. This is because of the area’s outstanding natural significance and beauty, as well as the biological diversity.
• Can you stay inside the national park? Yes, the Argentina national park has the Gran Melia Iguazu , while the Brazil side has the Belmond Hotel Das Cataratas . These hotels are expensive but high rated, and they’re the only options if you want to stay directly inside the national park and be right at the falls.
• What other facilities are there? Both national parks have lockers for storing luggage, and they also have plenty of bathrooms, cafes, maps, and souvenir shops. The parks have ATMs, but they’re not reliable for drawing cash. Thankfully you can pay for everything in the park with a credit card, and it’s possible to get cash from the banks in town.
• How hard is it to get to Iguazu Falls? It’s easy to get to either side of Iguazu Falls. You can fly into the town on either side of the river and use it as a base to see both Argentina and Brazil using a bus, taxi, or tour.

The roaring Devil’s Throat

Other Tips For Puerto Iguazu / Foz do Iguacu Town

• Hotels: There are a bunch of comfortable hotels and hostels in Puerto Iguazu town (Argentina), and also in Foz do Iguacu town on the Brazilian side.
• Restaurants: You can find lots of nice cafes and restaurants on both sides of Iguazu, so you’ll never have a hard time finding somewhere to eat breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
• Cash: You can withdraw cash at one of the bank ATMs in town. Sending money to yourself via Western Union is another option.
• Credit Cards: Most places in town accept credit cards, but some smaller places may be cash only. Keep some cash just in case.
• WiFi: The hotels and restaurants in town usually have fast, reliable WiFi. I was able to find great WiFi everywhere I went.
• Cell Service: There is good cell service/phone reception in town on both sides of the falls, although you may lose signal at times when touring the Iguazu waterfall because it’s pretty spread out.
• Safety: The Iguazu area is safe for tourists, and generally you don’t have to worry about crime in town. Just practice normal precautions. Don’t leave cash in your room, or valuables in your car.

Is Iguazu Falls Worth It?

Yes, Iguazu Falls is absolutely worth it!

Even though it’s not the easiest place to visit in Argentina or Brazil, this waterfall really deserves the detour. It’s one of the biggest and most impressive falls in the world.

If you’re planning to travel through South America, definitely add this place to your bucket list!  

Is Iguazu Falls Open / Closed Right Now?

Yes, Iguazu Falls is currently open to tourists in both Argentina and Brazil! Both parks are wide open to international tourists. I’ll update this travel guide if anything changes.

Some areas of the park may be closed from time to time for maintenance, but this is temporary and they usually reopen quickly. You can also check current updates on the official websites for Iguazu Argentina and Iguazu Brazil .

Happy travels!  

More South America Travel Tips

Thanks for looking! I hope you enjoyed this map and travel guide for Iguazu Falls Argentina and Brazil.

I have a bunch of other travel blog posts for Argentina and South America , so don’t forget to check them before you go.

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10 best iguazu falls tours + 1 self-guided option.

Disclaimer! I’m going to be straight up from the start and say I’m not a huge fan of tours, especially to destinations like Iguazu Falls where they are not really needed.

Yes that’s right, you don’t need a tour to go to Iguazu Falls!

Easy to access via flight or bus, easy to sightsee around the falls and easy to find somewhere to stay, there really is no need to take an Iguazu Falls tour.

Ha, what a good start to a tour recommendation blog post… but stick with me here!

Because it’s for this exact reason that  I’ve included a self-guided option at the end of this article that will have you seeing the best of this might spectacle with a tour, just like I did!

That said, I do understand that many people do feel more comfortable with taking organised tours in South America and for that reason, I’m also including my pick of the bunch for you here.

Having visited the amazing place that is Iguazu Falls myself, I know exactly what to look for when it comes to finding the best tour and have included here a range of 10 that should suit what you’re looking for.

From day tours to boat ride tours, private tours to package tours, Iguazu Falls tours that just cover the Argentina side, or that just cover the Brazil side or that cover both… I’ve got you covered!

So read on to discover my pick of the bunch – that’s right the 10 best Iguazu Falls tours based on the value, experience and ease of travel they offer…

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This page contains affiliate links meaning Big World Small Pockets may receive a small commission on any purchases at no extra cost to you.

Top Things to Do at Iguazu Falls

As a quick intro to this list of the 10 best Iguazu Falls Tours, as well as self-guided itinerary you can follow if you don’t want to take a tour, I want to start by outlining the things there are to do in Iguazu Falls.

This will help you know what to look for in a tour, what to expect and how to choose the best option for you.

Of course, the best thing to do in Iguazu Falls, is experience the falls, but don’t roll your eyes at me just yet, because there’s a heap of different ways you can do this.

First up, you need to be aware that there are 2 different sides to the falls – the Argentina side and the Brazil side.

Both have their own access towns – namely Puerto Iguazu in Argentina and Foz do Iguaçu in Brazil – and you should stay in these towns, but there’s little else to do there.

Instead, I suggest just using them as bases to access the National Park or to travel to the border so you can view the falls from the other side as well.

Once at the Falls, the main thing to do there is to walk the many trails around them to take in this giant spectacle of nature.

That said, boat rides under the falls, as well as helicopter rides and skydives above them, are also popular.

Learn more about incorporating these things to do at Iguazu Falls into your time here below…

#1 The Best Private Tour

MMC Receptivo Tours

If you don’t want the hassle or lack of flexibility involved in sharing your guide with other tourists, then a private Iguazu Falls tour is the way to go.

Benefitting from a private guide and aircon transport, this private tour offers great value for money, especially given that it builds both sides of the falls into a one day itinerary, and it includes your admission tickets.

A hotel pick-up / drop-off is also included in the price and there’s free cancellation up to 24hrs before the start of the tour if you change your mind.

Informative guides, punctual pick-ups and skip-the-line efficiency make this a top-rated option.

#2 & #3 The Best Day Tours

Falls Vision Receptivo Tours

If you want to see the Argentinian side of the falls, but you’re staying on the Brazil side (and don’t want to navigate the border independently), then this great tour that takes you across the border and round the Argentinian National Park is a top option.

With a stop built-in so you can grab some Argentinian Pesos at the best rate in the morning to help you enjoy your day, and a guide to accompany you through the border, this tour takes in all the walking trails + the train ride on the Argentina side as well as a hotel pick-up / drop-off back in Foz do Iguaçu.

With a ride up the panoramic elevator included in this Iguazu Falls tour and small groups guaranteed, this is definitely one of the best tours if you are staying in the Argentina side of Falls, but want to check out the action in Brazil too.

Giving you great views of all 270 waterfalls incorporated in this massive spectacle, this tour doesn’t rush you, but allows almost a whole day and ample time for you to explore and photograph at your leisure.

#4 The Best Boat Ride Tour

An Iguazu Falls boat ride is a must for adventure lovers and while they operate from both sides of the falls, it’s the Argentinian side that I recommend you enjoy one from, because of the amazing access and angles of the falls they give you.

This tour takes you from Brazil to explore the Argentinian side of the Falls, including the walking trails here as well as an epic ride on the water.

With skip-the-line boat tickets included, as well as a bilingual guide and a hotel pick-up / drop-off, the great reviews of this tour praise the excellent organisation and top-notch guides.

Book this boat ride tour here !

#5 The Best Small Group Tour

This brilliant small group tour is unique because it takes visitors to both the Argentinian and Brazilian sides of the falls in just 1 day!

Perfect for those on a tight time frame, this really is a whistlestop tour of the falls highlights, with a local, English-speaking guide to explain the wonders you are seeing.

Starting and ending on the Brazilian-side, this small group tour promises a maximum of 12 people and offers exceptional value with a hotel pick-up, transport and empanada tasting in the price.

Rave reviews praise the good organisation of this tour, the degree of flexibility it offers and the knowledge of the guides.

Book this top small group tour here !

#6 Best Tour with a Specialised Guide

This awesome tour is quite different in that it includes not only a specialised bilingual guide, but also the option to upgrade and include a trip to the bird park and a helicopter ride over the falls too if you wish.

Different upgrade options include the above activities, so you can really customise this tour as you see fit.

Even if you don’t upgrade, then a ride in the Panoramic Elevator , followed by a visit to the Porto Canoas Space are all included in the price.

So too are entrance tickets and hotel pick-up / drop-off.

Previous guests repeatedly say that guides and helicopter ride were superb.

Book this tour HERE !

#7 Best Tour from Rio

Globus Tours

This 9 day tour, which starts in Rio de Janeiro and ends in Buenos Aires, allows for ample time at the falls and a good mix in general of organised excursions and downtime.

Food costs, accommodation, guide services and a good number of activities are included in the price and vegetarian / vegan-friendly food options are available.

The addition of a day in the Pampas, as part of your time in Buenos Aires, is a great addition and really sets this tour apart.

#8 Best Tour from Buenos Aires

Signature Tours

This 9 tour begins in Buenos Aires and ends in Rio, meaning it’s an excellent way to take in both sides of the falls, as well as plenty of time in these 2 great cities as well.

2 nights at the Falls means this won’t be a rushed visit either, with 1 day spent at the Brazil side and the other on the Argentinian one.

Accommodation is in 4 star hotels and is included in the price along with a guide, meal, transport (except flights) and admission tickets.

Reviews praise the great organisation of the tour, the professionalism of the company and the varied nature of the itinerary.

#9 The Most Flexible Tour

G Adventures

This 4 day tour is based out of the Brazil side of the falls, but takes you to the Argentina side too, and includes the ability to cross into Paraguay as well if you wish to add this on (although do check your visa status first!)

You can also add boat rides and helicopter trips into this tour, which makes it one of the most flexible around.

With guides to help you organise these add-on activities, as well as navigate the borders and skip the lines, this is a great tour to take if you don’t want the hassle of organising all the separate components of a jam-packed trip to Iguazu Falls yourself.

Local guides throughout also add value to this tour, which offers a great price, especially given that all accommodation, ground transport and main meals are included and specialised dietary requirements can be catered for.

All in all, this makes for a very flexible tour.

#10 The Great Value Tour

Milhouse Hostel Tours

Offering exceptional value this 2 day Iguazu Falls tour has you seeing both the Argentina and Brazil sides and includes accommodation costs and breakfast as well as a boat ride and 4×4 excursions.

If budget is your main concern and you don’t mind a backpacker-style trip with tons of adventures, then this is the tour for you!

Visiting parts of the national park closed to the public, as well as a thrilling boat ride where you get showered by the falls, this one is really hard to beat in terms of price and experience.

You’ll also have a specialised and experienced guide with you and get to base yourself on Argentina side, which I think is more favourable.  

Brazil Vs Argentina: Which Side of the Falls is Better?

Because the best thing about a tour that covers both the Argentina and Brazil sides of Iguazu Falls is, of course, the fact that you can assess for yourself which side is better!

And honestly, it’s a hard choice to make.

In my personal experience, I found the Brazil side more organised, but it is smaller meaning you can take it all in with half a day up your sleeve.

You are closer away from the main falls from the Brazil side, but this does mean you get a better perspective and you can walk out on a platform right over a river that sets you in front of the falls.

Most Iguazu tours visit the Brazil side first.

The Argentina side is larger and involves a lot more walking and trails, which if, like me, you enjoy being outside, is wonderful.

The Argentina side gives you more angles to see the falls from too – including above and below perspectives and the opportunity for you to stand right over the main section of the falls is here as well – it’s pretty impressive.

Most Iguazu Falls tours visit the Argentina side on the second day.

Boat ride tours are available from both sides of the falls, but more common (and probs better) from the Argentinian one.

Self-Guided Tour Option for Iguazu Falls

And this pattern of the Brazil side on the first day and the Argentina side on the second day is exactly what I would suggest following if you’re going for the self-guided option when you visit Iguazu Falls.

And that’s because, despite what you might have heard, a tour guide is absolutely not necessary for this place!

Nope, you can easily take yourself around both sides of this huge national park, as well as across the border easily and simply.

If you want to choose this option, over a tour like I did, then I would suggest visiting the falls from Buenos Aires (read more about how to make this journey in a post I wrote exactly about that here ).

I would then suggest staying on the Argentinian side of the Falls in the access town of Puerto Iguazu and from here visiting both sides of the national park.

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How Many Days for Iguazu?

In general, I’d recommend a stay of 2-3 night / 3-4 days in the Iguazu Falls area to independent travellers, depending on how long it take you to get here and when you arrive.

That’s because on day 1, you’re likely to just arrive, find your accommodation and settle in -get some food, get your camera charged and generally get ready for day 2.

On day 2, I’d visit the Brazil side, leaving Puerto Iguazu after 10am so that you avoid the worst queues at the border.

Use the bus company Rio Uruguay, from the public bus station in Puerto Iguazu, to shuttle you across the border to the Brazilian entrance and back again.

Spend day 2 visiting the Brazil side of the falls – essentially this involves walking 1 trail that takes you closer to and out over the river and the falls.

You can then use Rio Uruguay to return to Puerto Iguazu.

Spend day 3 visiting the Argentina side of the falls, again using the Rio Uruguay bus service to take you to this entrance around 10am

Hit up the walking trails on the Argentina side in this order:

• Green Trail
• Superior / Upper Trail
• Inferior / Lower Trail

And saving the train ride to visit the Devil’s Throat as the grand finale.

This route will help you avoid the crowds and also have you seeing the falls in the most impressive way.

There’s also maps available throughout the park to ensure you know what I’m talking about!

At the end of Day 3, you can then head out of Puerto Iguazu to your next destination via an evening bus or flight – it might help you to know that you can pay to store your luggage securely on the Argentina side of the falls and then catch a taxi straight to the airport if you need.

Otherwise, you can return and spend another night in Puerto Iguazu before leaving the following day at a more relaxed pace.

And while we’re on the subject, I can’t recommend Hostel Bambu in Puerto Iguazu enough to budget travellers!

Definitely stay here if your accommodation is not included in your tour – the place is brilliantly located, safe, secure, spotlessly clean and the staff are super helpful when it comes to planning your trip.

Iguazu Falls Costs & Admission Tickets

No question that making a self-guided tour of Iguazu Falls is the cheapest option.

That said, there’s also no question it does involve a little bit more planning too – booking transport, booking accommodation and looking at a few maps!

If you’re happy to put in the effort however, the rewards can be big in the cost department.

Here’s some example prices to help you cost it out and see how much you might save:

• One Way Flight to Puerto Iguazu from Buenos Aires – $75 USD BOOK HERE
• Shuttle Bus from Puerto Iguazu Airport to Puerto Iguazu Accommodation – $4 USD
• 1x Night Accommodation in Hostel Bambu, Puerto Iguazu – $13 USD BOOK HERE
• Return Rio Uruguay Bus to Brazil Side of Falls from Puerto Iguazu – $6 USD
• Brazil Side Admission Ticket – $16 USD
• Return Rio Uruguay Bus to Argentina Side of Falls from Puerto Iguazu – $3 USD
• Left Luggage at Argentina Side of Falls – $5 USD
• Argentina Side Admission Ticket – $13 USD
• Taxi From Argentina Side of Falls to Puerto Iguazu Airport – $12 USD

Obviously these prices are just rough guides, as they have been exchanged from the country’s currency to USD at the current rate, which may fluctuate.

Nevertheless, they should help you piece together a sense of what an independent experience might cost you versus an Iguazu Falls tour.

Iguazu Falls Weather

And now we come to a few tips for visiting Iguazu Falls in general.

First up, the issue of weather!

Being close to the tropics, it’s possible to visit Iguazu Falls almost any time of the year, but probably the best time is during the months of either March and May (essentially Autumn in Argentina) and avoiding Easter holidays in April in between.

It’s not as rainy then and temperatures are not too hot either.

Alternatively, September, October and November (essentially Spring in Argentina) and avoiding the Christmas holidays in December, are months which have less visitors and when, yet again, temperatures are reasonable.

Rain can start to increase as you head into November, but this does give the chance to see to the falls at their highest and on a sunny day – as I did!

5 Things to Remember When Visiting Iguazu Falls

#1 Don’t forget to take your camera with you – my Go Pro Hero 7 was perfect for the job of capturing this huge natural spectacle, but the latest Go Pro Hero 8 would be even better!

#2 You’ll also want to ensure comfortable walking shoes for all those trails in Iguazu Falls. These New Balance trainers , and good walking socks for all the miles you’ll cover, plus sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat to shield you from the UV rays are a must!

#3 A day pack, like this brilliant one from Osprey , would be ideal for carrying all maps, snacks, water, guidebooks, cameras and sunscreen in as you walk through the park.

#4 And don’t forget you’ll absolutely need a waterproof jacket (or swimwear) if you’re planning on taking the boat trip to the bottom of the falls! This North Venture 2 , which is thin and waterproof would be perfect for the job!

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That’s my list of 10 best Iguazu Falls Tours based on the value, experience and easy they offer, as well as my full guide to visiting the falls without a tour if you wish too.

I hope this information was useful and will help you plan your trip to this amazing place even better.

Any questions still?

Drop them into the comments box below and I’ll do my best to answer…

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

2 thoughts on “ 10 Best Iguazu Falls Tours + 1 Self-Guided Option! ”

All I need is round trip private transportation from my Brazil hotel to the Argentine side of the falls. Any company who you would recommend for this?

Thnaks for the question Cody. Maybe see if this company can help you. Best wishes, Steph 🙂

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Iguazu Falls Tours

Why Visit Iguazú Falls?

Feel the breath of the world’s largest waterfall system on your cheek and glimpse full rainbows in its spray with one of the most memorable experiences of your life – an Iguazú Falls tour. This staggering flight of foam cascades down a chain of hundreds of waterfalls across nearly three kilometers of Argentinian and Brazilian rainforest, cleaving a lush landscape in two and forming one of the most majestic natural wonders of the world.

Get up close and personal with these phenomenal waterfalls on the upper and lower circuits of the Argentinian side , and witness breathtaking panoramic views of the Devil’s Throat canyon from the Brazilian side . For a unique experience, and perhaps the only way to truly admire the awesome scale of the Falls is to fly over them on a spectacular helicopter ride.

From this bird’s-eye view it will become apparent that the Iguazú Falls lie within vast swathes of national park, so while the waterfalls themselves might be the main attraction, there is also a host of incredible flora and fauna around to appreciate, including jaguar, ocelot, anteaters, harpy eagles and toucans, and many more magnificent birds which can also be seen at the nearby bird park.

Iguazu Falls Tour Packages

Our custom Iguazú Falls tours have been carefully crafted with enriching private excursions and thoughtful routes honed with years of in-destination experience. See our best-selling Iguazú Falls tour packages below and begin an unforgettable journey tailored uniquely to you.

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Travel guide.

Want to know more about how to visit Iguazú Falls? Our destination specialists have compiled the definitive Iguazú Falls travel guide to help you plan your Iguazú Falls trip. Find out when and where to go, what to see and do, where to eat and sleep, and more below.

5 Attractions At Iguazu Falls You Shouldn’t Miss

How to get to Iguazu Falls

Iguazu Falls Travel Tips: 15 Things To Know Before You Go

10 Incredible Iguazu Falls Facts

Iguazu Falls With Kids: The Family-Friendly Falls Guide

Brazil Vs Argentina: Which Side Of The Iguazu Falls Is Best?

What our customers are saying.

Do I Need a Visa To Travel To Iguazú Falls?

Visitors from most countries, including the US, Canada, European countries and Australia do not need a visa to enter Brazil or Argentina where the Iguazú is located. A valid passport (at least 6 months after your trip) is sufficient and you will be permitted to stay in the country for up to 90 days.

Do I Need To Get Any Vaccinations Or Malaria Tablets Ahead Of Travel?

Depending on which country you enter through, you may need to start a regime of malaria pills before leaving home. Your doctor may also recommend getting vaccinated for typhoid, yellow fever, and hepatitis A. Some visitors might need vaccines for hepatitis B and rabies.

What Is One Thing I Shouldn’t Miss In Iguazú Falls?

It may be a little on the pricey side, but there is arguably no better way to view the Falls than from above. The ten minute scenic helicopter rides gives an incredible bird’s-eye view of most of the site’s 275 falls, including the unmissable Garganta del Diablo.

What Is The Local Cuisine Like?

In the region around Iguazú Falls, you will find a mix of Brazilian, Argentinian, and Paraguayan cuisine. Iguazú’s cuisine is characterized by the typical asado. You can also find Guarani food, which is quite unique. Popular local delicacies include yuca root, corn pie, and yerba mate.

Is Iguazú Falls Safe?

Iguazú Falls is generally very safe. One thing of which to be aware is the large coati population. These small mammals live abundantly around the falls and can be aggressive, especially when food is involved. They also bite and can carry rabies. Insect repellent is highly recommended as well.

When Is The Best Time Of Year To Go To Iguazú Falls?

The Falls are beautiful at any time of year. However, many consider the best time to go to Iguazú Falls the off seasons, which fall between July and October and February and April. During this time, the weather is pleasant and tourist crowds tend to be smaller.

Is Iguazú Falls A Good Family Destination?

If you and your family love seeing natural wonders, Iguazú Falls is a wonderful family destination . There are many opportunities for exploring here and enjoying some of the most beautiful sights in South America. Just take care around the wild animals, especially if you have young children.

Is Iguazú Falls A Good Honeymoon Destination?

If you and your significant other are looking for a one-of-a-kind romantic destination, an Iguazú Falls honeymoon is the perfect choice. Serene, beautiful, and unique with some great places to stay , it is the perfect way to celebrate your new life together in a way that you will always remember.

How Many Days Do You Need To Visit Iguazú Falls?

If you only plan to see Iguazú Falls from one side then you will need just one day, two days at most if you want to take things more leisurely. However we advise to visit both the Argentinian and Brazilian sides to get the full experience and recommend spending two to three days in total.

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The Ultimate Guide to Visiting the Iguazu Falls – a 2 Day Itinerary

Last Modified: August 17, 2023 //  by  Anda //   47 Comments

Visiting the Iguazú Falls is one of the most powerful encounters with nature that you will ever have. You may have seen photos of this waterfall before, but coming face to face with it is like facing a dragon! It’s an experience you’ll never forget.

“ My poor Niagara! “were Eleanor Roosevelt’s words when she first saw the waterfall. And that was exactly my thought when I first saw the Iguazu Falls. 

Located on the border of the Argentina and Brazil, Iguazú Falls stretch over 2.7 kilometers (1.7 miles) along the length of the Iguazu River. About 80% of the falls are on the Argentinean side, and only 20% on the Brazilian side.

Table of Contents

The Legend of the Falls

What’s the best way to visit the falls, the flora and fauna at iguazú, argentina vs. brazil: which side of the falls is better, visiting the argentinian side of iguazú falls, visiting the brazilian side of iguazú falls, best time to visit the falls, how to get to iguazú falls, where to stay when visiting iguazú falls, things to do on the brazilian side of iguazu falls.

Like many other beautiful places on Earth, Iguazu Falls has its own legend. The story says that a monstrous serpent named Boi used to live in the waters of Iguazu River. In order to tame the serpent, a beautiful woman had to be sacrificed every year by throwing her into the river.

One year, a young girl named Naipí was chosen for the sacrifice. Her lover,Tarobá, found out and kidnapped her in a canoe the night before the ceremony. In rage, the serpent split the river, creating the waterfalls and condemning the lovers to an eternal fall.

The Ultimate Guide for Visiting the Iguazú Falls Independently

Later in this article, I’ll share with you my top tips for making the most of your visit to the falls, including when to go, how to avoid the crowds, and which extra attractions are worth your money. All the practical information in this guide was updated in 2020 to reflect current prices, exchange rates, visa requirements, etc.

The best way to visit the Iguazú Falls is to approach them from the Argentinean side. By doing that, you’ll steadily get closer and closer so that you can appreciate first their size.

I recommend that you start on the short (but panoramic) upper circuit before heading down the lower circuit. The upper circuit has several viewing points from where you can admire the falls.

Visiting the Iguazú Falls involves a fair amount of walking through the jungle, so you should come prepared for that. The walking is done mainly wooden decks, but in certain areas you’ll be on birth paths as well.

Mosquitoes at Iguazu are the most active in the spring and summer, but we visited the falls in spring and didn’t have problems. However, if you are prone to mosquito bites, take the usual precautions like wearing long pants and long sleeve shirts, or using insect repellent.

You should allow at least a couple of days for visiting the the Iguazú Falls.

The biggest surprise we had when visiting Iguazu Falls was the abundance of flora and fauna around. There are hundreds of species of butterfly, birds and plants which flourish in the nearby tropical forest, with orchids, palms, lianas and colorful begonias.

We came across packs of Coati  roaming all around the park. Coatis are members of the raccoon family and have long upward-turned noses, long tails and very long non-retractable claws.

Some are brown, some dark gray all are very, very cute. They were especially present around the food stands, bagging for scraps. Although there are signs throughout the park warning visitors that Coatis can attack for food, my experience was different. They seemed very friendly and rather reminded me of little puppies. 

There are also   Agouti ,  which look a lot like guinea pigs, and  Capybara, which can be spotted in the more dense forest areas, or around the water. Capibara is the largest rodent in the world and can get as big as 140 pounds and can be over 4 feet tall. They also resemble a guinea pig.

Iguazu Falls are shared by three countries: Paraguay, Brazil, and Argentina. Both Brazil and Argentina have National Parks devoted to them, and they are sufficiently different in character to each merit a visit.

The Argentinian side has a long circuit of trails that is some parts will take you very close to the water, while the Brazilian side offers great panoramic views of the falls. If you can spend two days in Iguazú, you should visit each side on a different day.

On the Argentinian side you can take the Jungle Train to the Fall Station, where there are two walking trails: the lower circuit and the upper circuit. On the lower circuit (about a mile long) you can enjoy the best views of the waterfalls.

You can climb down to Salto Bossetti falls and catch a ferry to San Martin Island that has a beautiful beach. The upper circuit is slightly shorter and takes you over the canyon. From there you can look down at the waterfalls. On  this circuit you can enjoy a lot of birds and a luscious vegetation. You’ll see giant trees, ferns, orchids and many other tropical plants.

The Jungle Train will also take you to the Devil’s Throat ( La Garganta del Diablo ). The U-shaped cliff marking the border between Argentina and Brazil is arguably the most impressive thing at Iguazu Falls. At over 80m (260ft) high, La Garganta del Diablo is the tallest of the waterfalls at Iguazú. We were blown away by the power and greatness of these falls. 

The river waters that run calmly until a few feet away from the drop, turn suddenly into a huge mass of raging waters that roar fiercely just a few feet away from.

A newly build platform allows you to get pretty close to this site, making the experience overwhelming.  The best time of the day to photograph the Devil’s Throat is late afternoon, when the sun shines behind you.

The law says that citizens from the United States, Canada, and Australia must get a visa to enter Brazil, whether it is for just one day or more. Yet, you hear about many American citizens crossing the border to Brazil without any obstacle. Some hotel concierges and tourist agencies ignore the rule to make a few extra bucks.      

The Brazilian border patrol lets day visitors cross without a visa, if they are accompanied by a reputable local guide. Using the local guide at the Sheraton was apparently good enough because could cross the border without any problem.

So should you pay $140 for the Brazilian visa for just one day? If you want to be on the legal side you probably should. We learned about the rule only after we arrived in Iguazú, but there is not guarantees that this will work for every time.

When planning your visit to Iguazu Falls it’s important to know a little about the weather in this area. The region has a  humid, subtropical climate, with cooler temperatures in winter and hot in summer. Rain can come at any time during the year, but there is a dryer season from April to July.

The best time of the year to visit Iguazú Falls is in spring or in fall. We went there in May, when in the Southern Hemisphere is fall time. The weather was pleasantly cool for walking in the morning (6-7°C) and it warmed up a little during the day. We were lucky to have the best possible weather and see the waterfalls at their peek. 

Iguazu Falls stretches over a 3 km long rim that is shared by Argentina and Brazil. The quickest and most convient way to get to the falls is by air.

There are two airports within five miles of the falls — Foz do Iguaçu Airport (IGU) on the Brazilian side and Cataratas del Iguazú (IGR) on the Argentinian side. We arrived in Iguazú from Buenos Aires , as there are no direct flights from the USA to Iguazú.

The spread-out entrance complex ends at a train station, with departures every half-hour to the Cataratas train station, where the waterfall walks begin, and to the Garganta del Diablo. 

There are many lodging options for all budgets in Puerto Iguazú, about 11 miles away from the waterfalls. Yet, if you can afford to spend more money, staying at the Sheraton Iguazu Falls  right in the Park will put you to a big advantage.

This luxury hotel sits right in the heart of the forest, offering spectacular views the waterfalls. The rooms are clean, spacious and comfortable, but nothing extravagant.

There is a beautiful swimming pool area, a couple of bars and a restaurant. But the greatest benefit of staying in this hotel is that, when the park opens, you can wander out to the falls before the big crowds arrive from the city. 

After visiting Iguazu Falls on the Brazilian side, our guide took us to Parque das Aves . This aviary has huge cages where birds are actually able to fly. The visitors can get into some of the cages and mingle with the birds. Some even come very close. 

It was a fantastic experience. Not only have we never seen a toucan in real life before, but playing with one and photographing it from a few inches away was more than we expected. They have quite a variety of birds. We’ve seen some species that we didn’t even know existed.      

Iguazu Falls is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and in 2011 it became part of the New Seven Wonders of Nature. The two days we’ve spent there are the most memorable ones from our trip to Argentina.

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Anda is an award winning travel writer, avid globetrotter and passionate photographer. She is the voice behind "Travel Notes & Beyond," a collection of stories and travel impressions from her wanderings around the world. When she is not busy writing, traveling, or editing photographs, you can find her hiking in the foothills behind her house together with her husband and their dog.

Reader Interactions

Rhonda Albom

July 10, 2018 at 11:09 pm

I am pretty sure we will be there later in the year with my daughter who has been before. I appreciate the inclusion of where to stay, as that is one thing she won’t know. I can’t wait. Your photos are stunning.

Anda Galffy

July 11, 2018 at 12:39 am

I think you’ll have a great time at Iguazu Falls, Rhonda. Just make sure you don’t go there in summer. It’s way too hot.

Samantha Sparrow

February 22, 2018 at 5:02 am

Iguazú National Park has been on my bucket list for so long – right at the top of it! And your breathtaking pictures certainly make me yearn for it more. It’s great you saw it from both sides, that is something I’d like to plan too – and the hotel tip is gold, as staying within the national park makes total sense to me!

February 21, 2018 at 10:11 am

Wow! Your photos took my breath away! All this while the Victoria falls were high on my bucket list and I had decided to visit them from both Zambia and Zimbabwe. But this one honestly makes me want to rethink my Victoria Falls! So gorgeous and so mighty! I love the beauty from the Argentinian side though =)

February 21, 2018 at 11:53 am

I’d love to see the Victoria falls too, Meghna. I’ve heart they are beautiful.

February 20, 2018 at 5:27 am

Wow the mighty Iguazú Falls! I hope to see it from both sides. As suggested by you will look out for a sty option at Sheraton. Loved the colorful captures of the wild life there.

February 19, 2018 at 7:56 pm

I have heard so much about it and have seen it in so many films and TV programs. But it still remains one of the most formidable sights. However, for me the surprise was teh wildlife. Coatis and toucans were a delightful sight and I did not know you can meet them like that.

February 18, 2018 at 7:22 pm

I totally love Iguazú! I’ve been twice and was equally impressed both times as well. I didn’t stay at the Sheraton but I’ve had dinner there as it was Xmas and my birthday as well, loved it!

Megan Jerrard

February 18, 2018 at 4:37 am

Haha I love that quote by Eleanor Roosevelt – Igazu Falls truly are a sight to behold! I would love to get here at some stage, I’ve seen photos but obviously I’m sure it doesn’t compare to witnessing such grandeur in person. Thanks for the tip on staying at the Sheraton – I agree that it would be a big advantage to be able to stay within the national park. Glad to hear that your experience with the Coatis was a friendly one – they do appear rather cute creatures! I’m thinking that the view from Devil’s Throat is one of the most spectacular vantage points. But it’s definitely hard to pick a favorite one!

February 17, 2018 at 6:45 pm

Iguazu Falls is certainly the most stunning waterfall I’ve seen! And i’ve only been to the Argentina side. From your photos, it looks like I should have also gone to the Brazilian side. I liked it so much, I would definitely go again…this time to both sides.

February 17, 2018 at 7:05 am

Oh my god, your photos!?!? Stunning. I definitely need to pay a visit <3

February 17, 2018 at 4:08 am

Both I and my husband love to visit waterfalls. This looks like the ultimate dream destination for us. I can only imagine how the roar of so much water falling would be. I am sure we would love to spend at least 2 days there. Putting this on my wishlist right away.

February 17, 2018 at 12:09 am

Stunning photos! I know visiting Iguazu would blow my mind for sure, but I never realized how cool it would get, I was surprised to see how warmly dressed you guys were! Will aim to visit in the Summer time! (:

February 16, 2018 at 9:52 pm

I’m glad that the falls were named after the indigenous name and not some random European one. The mighty Iguazu falls have been on my bucket list for quite a while. I agree with your suggestion to go to both sides and can’t wait to check them out myself!

March 11, 2016 at 10:38 am

Loved Iguazú Falls when I was there in June 2014. Overall, I had more fun on Argentina’s side of Iguazú Falls because of its adventurous activities, including a speed boat road ride up to the base of the falls. But, the Brazilian side didn’t disappoint with its panoramic views. If speed boats aren’t your “cup of tea,” then Brazil has created a system of pedestrian bridges that allow you to walk towards the base of Devil’s Throat and its sister falls. You get completely soaked, so bring a waterproof camera if you have one. It will be at this point where you realize how massive Iguazú Falls truly is.

March 11, 2016 at 10:56 am

I agree with you, Ray. The Brazilian side has those platforms that allow you to get close to the waterfall, but the Argentinian side is more beautiful.

October 26, 2014 at 6:56 pm

Wow! just wow. Iguazu falls has been on my bucket list, but your photos move it higher up. Spectacular. Thanks for sharing so many, and the birds and wildlife too.

October 26, 2014 at 9:36 pm

Iguazu Falls and the Brazilian Aviary make a spectacular trip. I think you’ll fall in love with that area.

Meg @ Mapping Megan

October 15, 2014 at 10:24 pm

Thanks for all of the great detail on your experience – I love your photos. I love the Argentinian side for getting right up close to the water, though I totally agree with you that the best views are from Brazil. Loved this post 🙂

Michele {Malaysian Meanders}

August 6, 2014 at 9:12 pm

Thank you so much for the tip about staying at the Sheraton. I would happily stay that close to the falls so that I could explore it before the crowds arrive.

August 6, 2014 at 10:50 pm

That was our main reason for choosing this hotel also.

Adelina // Pack Me To

August 6, 2014 at 12:33 pm

Stunning photos and great breakdown of Argentina vs. Brazil. Good to know about the visa requirements. I had no idea. I would love to see these in real life one day.

August 6, 2014 at 12:37 pm

Yea, that’s a catch. We didn’t know either.

August 6, 2014 at 12:14 am

Okay, that definitely beats out Niagra. It looks amazing!

Christa Thompson

August 5, 2014 at 10:44 am

Hey, on behalf of Christa, Host of The Sunday Traveler, I was stopping by to check out your article. I would have to agree, absolutely breathtaking! I never knew of Coatis before. Great pictures throughout. Looks like a trip with memories made that will last a lifetime. I especially enjoyed reading about the Legend behind the falls. Great post, Thank you.

August 5, 2014 at 1:54 pm

Thank you Christa for your your nice comment. I hope you’ll get to see Iguazú Falls someday.

Chanel | Cultural Xplorer

August 4, 2014 at 2:39 pm

Wow! What beautiful falls and such helpful information! I will be bookmarking this page for my future visit 😀

August 4, 2014 at 10:00 am

Those waterfalls are absolutely spectacular and your photos are stunning!

August 4, 2014 at 2:54 pm

Thank you, Rosemary.

Travelling Penster

August 4, 2014 at 6:41 am

Simply breathtaking!! Hoping to make it to Argentina next year some time, and this will definitely be on the list.

August 4, 2014 at 3:00 pm

The real thing is even better!

August 17, 2023 at 8:57 am

* “ULTIMATE GUIDE” but doesn’t talk about what to do on the Brazilian side

August 17, 2023 at 9:00 am

If you look more carefully, you’ll notice that I mention visiting the Aviary on the Brazilian side, Lukas.

August 4, 2014 at 5:15 am

wowww I would so love to see this in real. The waterfall looks so majestic!!! stunning captures.

August 3, 2014 at 7:40 pm

Wonderful photos and a great description of the waterfalls. Wish I was there with you too.

August 3, 2014 at 7:12 pm

Loved your photographs. It’s a place I’ve never visited, but of course would love to one day. We visited Victoria Falls way back when we were backpackers but this is something else 😉

August 3, 2014 at 7:16 pm

Actually they say that Victoria is a bigger waterfall than Iguazú.

August 3, 2014 at 5:10 pm

Stunning, I would love to visit there some day including an extensive trip to Latin America.

August 3, 2014 at 5:59 pm

Iguazú is the second greatest waterfall in the world, after Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.

August 3, 2014 at 4:19 pm

I’ve been wanting to visit Iguazu for a very long time. Your pictures are awesome and makes me want to go even more! Good to know about the Visa, I didn’t know that Canadian residents would be required to get one if they entered Brazil, even if only for the day!

Amy Lynne Hayes

August 3, 2014 at 10:11 am

Wow – these photos are stunning!! I had a friend who visited from the Brazilian side, and she absolutely loved it (naturally). I would love to visit for myself one of these days.

August 3, 2014 at 10:25 am

Thank you, Amy. It Iguazú was one of the most beautiful things I’ve seen in my life.

August 3, 2014 at 2:21 am

Wow – how did I not even know this existed before now?? Dare I say more beautiful than Niagra Falls? Yeah, definitely just got added to the bucket list.

August 3, 2014 at 10:09 am

Thanks, Mandie. You definitely should visit Iguazú.

August 2, 2014 at 7:25 pm

The falls are just stunning and are definitely on my bucket list.

August 2, 2014 at 9:24 pm

Iguazú Falls are a must-see, definitely.

August 2, 2014 at 10:30 am

Wow, absolutely stunning pictures! I would love to see this wonderful waterfall one day 🙂

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Best of Iguazu 3 Day Tour

On the last step, please inform the dates

Peak Dates -Carnival, Easter, Christmas, and New Year- require a 3 nights/4 Days Tour .

Discover the best of the falls in a complete experience! Enjoy the magnificent natural beauty of Iguazú National Park from different panoramic views: Argentina and Brazil. Feel the rush with the jet boat ride. A three days journey exploring the Iguazú Falls highlights with a pinch of adrenaline!

ITINERARY AT A GLANCE

DAY 1 | Arrive at Iguazú and private transfer to your Selected Hotel . Rest of the day at leisure.

DAY 2 | Enjoy the Argentina Side of the Falls accompanied by a local expert on a Small Group and the Great Adventure Boat Ride!

DAY 3 | Enjoy a morning visit to the Brazilian Side of the Falls in Small Group. Private transfer to the airport. Goodbye Iguazú!

View the Best of Iguazú 3-day Private Tour >

- Excursions

- English Speaking local guides

- Entrance fees & Taxes

- Hand-Selected Accomodations

- Private Airport Transfers

- On-site Agency Support

NOT INCLUDED

- Local Flights

- Eco-tax fee

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES

Iguazú falls argentina side.

This tour consists of  a panoramic walk, penetrating the geological formation of the Falls and perceiving from different points of view the  magnificence of more than 200 waterfalls running constantly for millions of years.

Accompanied by a local private guide, you will begin with a quiet journey through the jungle in the picturesque Ecological  train. You will visit the Upper and Lower circuits, and the most impressive waterfall, the famous “Devil’s Throat”, a spectacle  of nature at more than 80 meters height.

It’s important to start this tour early in the morning to increase the chances to observe the endless manifestations of life,  and a variety of unique species of the region, including birds, butterflies, mammals, flowers, and plants.

Private transportation

Private english speaking local guide 

National Park tickets

Not included

To consider.

You will have free time to have lunch inside the National Park

Length of excursion: 8 hours approximately

• Difficulty: Medium

Suggested equipment: bag/backpack, hat, repelent, sunscreen, sunglasses, camera

Great Adventure

During this trip, you will enter the jungle through a narrow path called Yacaratìa using special off-road vehicles 4x4 and will continue for about 5 kilometres observing and interpreting the natural richness of the jungle.

You will reach the margins of Iguazu River to get on the inflatable boats which will cross, the canyon of Iguazu Lower River along the Falls. You will enjoy the amazing view of Brazilian and Argentinian Falls, the majestic ‘’Garganta del Diablo’’ and Salto San Martin, the second one by dimension and the biggest one to which a boat can approach, allowing us to experience an authentic natural baptism. For reasons of force majeure you'll return to the same Puerto Macuco, where you will descend and climb again to the 4x4 truck to cross the Yacaratìa trail again, returning to the place from where you started.

• Great Adventure Ticket
• Type of service: Group Tour
• Duration: 2.15 hours
• You will have to walk more than 150 meters of steep stairs, 2 km of fast water and you will get completely wet with the water from the falls.
• Boarding Restrictions: pregnant women, children under 12, people with osteoporosis or spinal problems,  lung diseases, heart diseases, physical disabilities, sensory visual and hearing disorders, cognitive disorders
• Protect all personal belongings by placing them inside waterproof bags specially designed and provided by the company, or they will get wet during the approximation to the falls

Iguazú Falls Brazilian Side

The National Park of Foz do Iguaçu in Brazil was declared World  Natural Heritage by UNESCO in 1986, after such nomination of the Iguazu National Park in Argentina. Visiting this area consists of the only circuit of walkways that are placed in front of the Falls, offering a truly impressive panoramic view and full contact with the natural surroundings.

The circuit is 1200 meters long and has a medium difficulty since it has stairs leading to viewpoints where you can see the falls until you reach the main viewpoint of the Devil's Throat. At the end of an unforgettable tour, you can take the stairs or an elevator straight down to the vehicle waiting for you to take you back to the hotel.

The circuit is composed of stairs. Unfortunately, for this reason it’s impossible to use a wheelchair. The stairs contain  130 steps and are 220 meters long.

Length of excursion: 3 hours approximately.

HOTEL OPTIONS TO CHOOSE

Select your preferred hotel. You can choose between a 4-star or a 5-star hotel at the Booking Request form

Iguazú Grand Resort, Spa & Casino

Showcasing a year-round outdoor pool and views of the garden, Iguazú Grand Resort Spa & Casino is a luxury hotel located on eight hectares of beautifully landscaped gardens only fifteen minutes away from Iguazú National Park. Elegant environments and impeccable service, this five-star hotel offers stylish rooms surrounded by gardens and pools.

Junior Suite

The junior suite has a classic decoration and views to the hotel’s swimming pools or the man-made lagoon.

Room size: 430 ft²

Loi Suites Iguazú Hotel

This exclusive five-star hotel is immersed in the Iryapú Jungle, in perfect harmony with nature. Its splendid swimming pool attract all passengers, who can also enjoy some drinks by the water while relaxing surrounded by the magnificent trees and impressive wildlife.

Studio Junior

The spacious Studio Junior Room is a nice standard option that offers pure contact with nature, and a modern decoration featuring a flat Screen TV, minibar, and safety box. Small hanging bridges made of wood connect the main lobby with these rooms.

Room size: 398 ft²

Falls Iguazú Hotel & Spa

Falls Iguazú Hotel & Spa is set in the 600 hectares district in Puerto Iguazú, offering a 24/7 personalized attention and entertainment for kids. The hotel counts with many different paths to walk around the installations inside the Iryapu jungle.

Master Room

The master room is equipped with a comfortable bed, an incredible hydromassage and a little balcony with a nice view of the jungle or the outdoor pool. The floor is made of soft carpet and the bathroom is very spacious.

Room size:  344 ft ²

WEATHER IN IGUAZÚ

From December to March

Summer and rainy season, featuring higher temperatures and a significant increase in the water level of the falls. These are the busiest months.

November & April

Suitable time because it is not too hot, and you won´t find many people as in summer. However, as in any other tropical destination, you could expect some rains.

From May to October

Great period if you are trying to get a lower hotel budget and a really quiet experience. You may find lower temperatures and dryer days.

Plan your Iguazú trip the way that best suits your preferences!

Our travel specialists can customize this tour fo you or create a tailor-made tour from scratch.

Related Tours

Iguazu Highlights 3 Day Private

Iguazu Highlights 3 Day Tour

Iguazu Family 3 Day Private

Start planning the best of iguazú 3 day tour.

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Which Hotel do you prefer? Which Hotel do you prefer? Iguazú Grand Resort - Junior Suite Loi Suites Iguazú Hotel - Studio Junior Falls Iguazú Hotel & Spa - Master Room

What would you like to add or modify?

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When Is the Best Time to Visit Iguazu Falls?

Magui jones.

• November 12, 2021

When planning your visit, there are two things you should keep in mind when looking for the best time to visit the Iguazu Falls: the weather and the month you want to visit.

Combining these two factors, it is that  the best time to visit the Iguazu Falls is from April to May and from September to October . This is because at that time the heat is not so strong and you will not find many people in the park either. Also, if you can visit this destination between Monday to Friday, even better! Since there will be even fewer people.​

When you have the best weather to go to Iguazu Falls?

In this case you must keep in mind two factors:  rain and temperature .

In the Iguazu Falls you will have a tropical climate – humid and hot. However, there are some months in the year where it will be less hot and it will rain less. Visiting the Iguazu Falls in April, May, September, and October will be less hot, which will make walking the circuits much more enjoyable.

In addition, on those dates are the days with less rain, so there is less chance of getting wet. Now, if you want to see the falls with the highest rainfall, the best date is November and December (and the second half of October), but also keep in mind that there are more local tourists and a little more rain on those months.

The following table shows the minimum and maximum temperature of the destination and the suggested month to vist the park.

In our experience as travel agents ,  keep in mind that not going in those months does not mean you cannot enjoy the Iguazu Falls . On any of the other dates you can visit the park without problem, and if it happens that you go in the most rainy months, the worst thing that can happen is to get a little wet, something that, anyway, is welcome considering the high temperatures and that you will get wet anyway when you do the Devil’s Throat circuit or Great Adventure (boat navigation) during the visit to the argentiean side.

When is the best month to see the Iguazu Falls?

As we mentioned at the beginning, the best month of the year to see the Iguazu Falls is April (except Easter Days), May, September, and October. This is because in these dates you will find fewer people, so you can more comfortably visit all the circuits in the argentinean and brazilian side of the National Parks.

There are certain dates that, if possible,  you should try to avoid when traveling to this destination :

• Easter Days in April : In these dates the local tourism chooses Iguazu as the favorite destination to visit during the holidays. Because of this, you will find a lot of lines to get the tickets, to boar the ecological train to the Devil’s Throat, and many people on the circuits. We highly recommend avoiding these dates.
• Winter Holidays : For the same reason as in Easter Days, in winter holidays (usually in the second half of July) local tourism travels a lot to Iguazu. We also recommend avoiding these two weeks. If you can only travel on this month to Iguazu, we recommend doing it on weekdays, as there will be a little less people.

Related to summer vacations  from December to March, although there are more visitors on these dates (December to March), as the months available to visit Iguazu are wider, tourism is better distributed during these three months.  You can visit the destination during this period without any problem . And if it is in December, even better, since there are fewer people than in January and February (in March you will also find fewer visitors).

We hope you have a better idea about the best time to visit the Iguazu Falls! We recommend seeing the following article about  how long to stay at Iguazu Falls .

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What is a best stopping point for Iguazu Falls - Iguazu National Park Forum

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What is a best stopping point for Iguazu Falls

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Hi all, I'm sure this has been asked before. I'm still not 100% sure this is even on my itinerary. Its also the not my travel style to just go to the falls and leave. I would want to explore the area a little. So my question is, what is a good stopping point for Iguazu falls. Are there any larger cities in the vicinity worth visiting and staying in?

2 replies to this topic

Usually a trip to the falls takes about 4 days minimum in order to explore the area:

Both sides of the park (in Argentina and Brazil, that will take you at least 1 and half day).

Foz do Iguaçú, can take half a day (with the birds park) or a complete day if you want to also go to the damm and or restaurant/shops on the brazilian side.

The visit to Ciudad del Este in Paraguay is more controversial as there are lot of illegal things and knock offs being sold there, so if you go try to arrange a fixed tour.

Then on the Argentinian side you have the Ruinas de San Ignacio and Wanda's cave/mines (that takes a whole day).

Hope it helps!

i gave each side 2 days more or less for what i wanted.

here is a link to the "things to do and see at Igauzu". if you want, browse it and see if there is anything nearby? that is worth your time/money.

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g312803-Province_of_Misiones_Litoral-Vacations.html

my short time there, i only stayed on the BR and AR side. no day trips.

the travel books i used/read mentions about Paraguay and the shopping and the bridge and so forth, but at that time, i chose not to go there. I guess if you want to "see" all 3 sides you can.

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