The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Iguazu Falls: Brazil & Argentina Side

Visiting Iguazu Falls is a breathtaking experience—it’s impossible not to be amazed. Nestled between Brazil and Argentina, this natural wonder is one you’ll want to see from every angle. People often ask which side is better, but the truth is, both offer something unforgettable.

On the Brazil side, you’ll find sweeping panoramic views perfect for those iconic shots, while the Argentina side takes you closer with trails, catwalks, and boat rides that let you feel the raw power of the falls. If you’re ready to chase waterfalls and dive into the adventure, this ultimate guide to visiting Iguazu Falls will help you plan your trip with practical tips, tours, and itineraries to make every moment count.

Visiting Iguazu Falls: Quick Facts & Highlights

Waterfall Wonder

Imagine 275 separate waterfalls cascading across nearly 2.7 kilometers (1.7 miles) of the Iguazu River! The tallest drop plunges 82 meters (269 feet)—that’s almost twice as high as Niagara Falls. Every viewpoint is a chance to feel nature’s raw power up close.

UNESCO Treasure

Both the Brazilian and Argentine sides of Iguazu Falls are protected UNESCO World Heritage Sites, safeguarding lush rainforest, exotic wildlife, and a sense of wonder that makes you pause and breathe it all in.

One of the New 7 Wonders of Nature

In 2011, Iguazu Falls joined the ranks of the world’s most breathtaking natural wonders. From the thundering Devil’s Throat to serene jungle trails, my trip reminded me why adventure is good for the soul.

How to Get to Iguazu Falls

Airports

There are two international airports near Iguazu Falls: Cataratas del Iguazu International Airport (IGR) on the Argentine side and Foz do Iguaçu International Airport (IGU) on the Brazilian side. We flew from Salvador and chose IGU on the Brazilian side because it was significantly cheaper than IGR. 

Both airports are small and easy to navigate, and there are taxis, shuttle services, and some buses waiting to take you to your accommodation or directly to the parks.

Border Crossing Tips

If you want to visit both the Brazilian and Argentine sides, you’ll need to cross the border between Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil, and Puerto Iguazu, Argentina.

Here’s what to expect:

When to Go

Early morning or late at night is ideal to avoid crowds. We crossed around 1 a.m. with no lines, but during the day, it can get busy.

Required Documents

Passport (check your visa requirements ahead of time) and any necessary forms. Some taxis or shuttle services provide the migration forms that you can fill out on the way.

Transport Options

• Taxi: Local private taxis can take you across the border for around $39 USD one way from IGU Airport to Argentina. Always confirm the fare before departure.
• Shuttle Services: Many hotels offer pre-booked vans or minibuses that take you across the border to your hotel or park entrance, usually costing $20–$30 USD per person. Booking ahead is recommended, especially in high season.
• Bus: Local buses also cross the border, but this is slower and less convenient if you have luggage. Perfect for budget travelers, though.
• Process: Your driver or shuttle will stop at border control. You’ll present your passport, fill out forms if needed, and have your entry/exit stamps processed.

Pro Tip: Bring small bills or cash in local currency for taxis, and always carry your passport in a secure, easy-to-access pocket.

Getting from Town to Park Entrances 

Taxis or local buses will take you from town to both park entrances. Planning ahead and knowing your transport options will save time and stress, allowing you to focus on the adventure ahead.

Visiting Iguazu Falls – Argentina Side

Location and Admission

The Argentine side of Iguazu Falls sits in Misiones province. Adult tickets cost about $26.44 USD (600 Argentine Pesos). If you plan on spending two days in the park, you can get a discounted return ticket—perfect for a more relaxed visit. We stayed at Guaminí Misión Hotel in Puerto Iguazu, which was convenient for exploring the falls.

Tours and Booking Tips

If you want to experience the boat ride under the Garganta del Diablo (Devil’s Throat), it’s smart to book in advance, especially during peak season. Due to a recent mudslide, boat-only excursions weren’t available when we visited, so we had to do the combined jungle trek and boat ride instead.

Pro Tip: Tour agencies all sell the same experiences at similar prices, so you can save time by visiting just one agency if booking in advance. At the park, boat rides can sell out fast, so reserve your time slot as soon as you enter—we got an 11 a.m. slot, which was perfect.

Transportation to the Park

From downtown Puerto Iguazu, we walked about 8 minutes to a bus stop. The Rio Uruguay bus runs every 20 minutes (slightly delayed sometimes) and takes about 45 minutes to the park. On the way in, we paid the driver directly ($3.37), but returning required pre-purchased tickets at a nearby office.

Pro Tip: Catch the bus at the main road stop to ensure a seat—it’s very popular with locals and tourists.

Getting Started at the Park

Grab a map at the information kiosk and plan your visit around the three main highlights:

• Upper Circuit – panoramic views from above the falls.
  
• Lower Circuit – walk along the base for a closer view of the cascading water.
  
• Devil’s Throat (Garganta del Diablo) – the most iconic viewpoint.

Suggested order: Upper Circuit → Boat Ride → Lower Circuit → Devil’s Throat.

Getting Around

The park is well-marked, fully accessible on foot, and has a free train that drops you close to the main circuits. During peak season (January–February), it’s extremely crowded, so early morning is best for fewer people.

Jungle Trek and Boat Ride Experience

The jungle trek is a short truck ride through the rainforest to the boat meeting point. While informative about plants and animals, the highlight is the boat ride under the 82-meter Garganta del Diablo. 

Life jackets and dry bags are provided, and the experience lasts about 20 minutes. Going under the falls is an exhilarating, water-soaked adventure. I highly recommend this as you’ll feel like you’re on a natural waterpark ride!

visiting Iguazu Falls: Photography and Wildlife Tips

Keep your camera ready! Coatis, toucans, and butterflies are common. Early morning or late afternoon light gives the best photos, and the mist adds a magical effect.

How Much Time to Spend

Plan for 6–8 hours in the park. We spent 8 hours in the park. Between trails, boat rides, crowds, and potential weather delays (we got stuck in a rainstorm for 1.5 hours!), the day goes by quickly.

Visiting Iguazu Falls – Brazil Side

Location and Admission

The Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls is in Paraná state (Iguaçu National Park), and adult tickets cost about $18 USD (96 Brazilian Reais). While smaller than the Argentine side, the Brazilian side offers panoramic views of the entire waterfall system—a perfect complement to the up-close experiences on the Argentine side.

Transportation and Getting Around

The park is accessible via public bus or taxi. Since we were short on time, we opted for a taxi to and from the park. Once inside, we hopped on the free double-decker panoramic bus, which stops at all the main viewpoints, making it easy to see everything without exhausting yourself.

Walking Trails and Viewpoints

The Brazilian side features a main Mirador walkway with several lookout points. We followed the path, stopping frequently to admire the falls from different angles. The highlight is the walkway extension to the lower base of the Garganta do Diabo, where you get drenched in the mist and can truly feel the power of the falls. 

From there, an elevator takes you up for a stunning aerial view—ideal for photos and soaking in the full landscape. Even though this side is smaller, the panoramic perspective is unmatched, letting you see almost the entire Iguazu waterfall system in one sweep.

Macuco Safari Boat Tour

For a closer adventure, the Macuco Safari boat tour takes you under some of the smaller falls on this side. Life jackets and waterproof bags are provided. Expect to get soaked—it’s exhilarating and perfect for thrill-seekers. Booking in advance is optional, but during peak season, it helps avoid long waits.

Nearby Attractions

• Bird Park (Parque das Aves): A short walk from the park entrance, featuring vibrant birds and wildlife encounters.
• Itaipu Dam: One of the largest hydroelectric plants in the world, about a 30-minute drive from the falls.
• Three Frontiers Landmark: Where Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay meet—great for a quick photo stop and cultural perspective.

Pro tip: If you’re short on time, take the panoramic bus to hit all the main viewpoints efficiently.

Suggested Itineraries

1-Day Plan (Short Visits)

Morning: Hit the Brazilian side first for those sweeping panoramic views and, if you’re up for it, the thrilling Macuco Safari boat ride.

Afternoon: Cross over to the Argentine side to wander the Upper and Lower Circuits, finishing at the Garganta del Diablo.

2-Day Plan (Both Sides, Relaxed Pace)

Day 1 – Argentina: Spend your day on the Upper Circuit, take the jungle trek and boat ride under the Garganta del Diablo, then wander the Lower Circuit.

Day 2 – Brazil: Hop on the panoramic bus, stroll the main walkway, get soaked at the falls’ base, and then take the elevator for a gorgeous aerial view. If you have energy left, check out Bird Park or the Three Frontiers Landmark.

Optional 3-Day Plan (Adventure and Chill)

Day 1 – Argentina: Full exploration of the park and that unforgettable boat ride.

Day 2 – Brazil: Panoramic views, Macuco Safari, and nearby attractions.

Day 3 – Chill & Recharge: Sleep in a bit, enjoy a spa, have a slow morning in Puerto Iguazu or Foz do Iguaçu, or take a gentle hike in the rainforest.

Pro tip: Book any boat rides ahead of time and get there early. It’ll help you avoid the crowds and snag the best photo spots.

For tours and activities that make planning easier, I recommend checking out Viator. It’s a great way to find trusted options, compare experiences, and book ahead—so you can focus on soaking in the adventure.

Where to Stay When Visiting Iguazu Falls

Argentina Side: Puerto Iguazú

Best Budget Spot: O2 Hotel Iguazú

This sleek, modern hotel in downtown Puerto Iguazú is just a 30-minute drive from Iguazú Falls, with convenient access to local transport that makes exploring the park simple and affordable.

Best Mid-Range Spot: Falls Iguazú Hotel & Spa

This retreat is a perfect blend of comfort and convenience, located about 30 minutes from Iguazú Falls. Guests can enjoy resort-style amenities such as a spa, outdoor pool, and complimentary breakfast while easily accessing the park.

Best Luxury Spot: Gran Melia Iguazú

This luxurious retreat is the only hotel inside the park on the Argentine side, offering unmatched views of Devil’s Throat and direct access to the falls. Guests can relax in two outdoor pools, enjoy the spa with hydrotherapy, and dine at three restaurants serving international cuisine.

Brazil Side: Foz do Iguaçu

Best Budget Spot: Hotel Foz do Iguaçu

This charming pocket-friendly hotel is perfect for travelers seeking comfort on a budget. Its family-friendly vibe, free breakfast, and WiFi make it practical, while the convenient location near the Friendship Bridge provides easy access to both the Brazilian and Argentine sides of Iguazú Falls.

Best Mid-Range Spot: Sanma Hotel

This tranquil retreat features lush gardens, a rejuvenating spa, and the soothing sounds of nature. It’s ideally located near the Brazilian park entrance, making it perfect for visitors who want comfort, easy access to the falls, and a relaxing base after a day of waterfall adventures.

Best Luxury Spot: Hotel das Cataratas by Belmond 

The only hotel inside Iguazu National Park, this luxurious retreat offers unparalleled access to the falls, including exclusive early and late entry. Guests enjoy fine dining, indulgent amenities, and attentive service—ideal for travelers who want to immerse themselves in the Iguazu Falls experience fully.

Tips and Warnings

Precautions About Iguazu Falls Animals

One animal to be extra cautious about when visiting Iguazu Falls is the coati. These little raccoon-like creatures might look sweet, but they can be surprisingly bold—and even aggressive. 

The Brazilian side has graphic posters warning visitors about coati attacks, and I personally saw a few grab-and-run incidents with people’s food. Be extremely careful keeping snacks and personal items secure, and never attempt to feed or touch them.

It’s also important not to feed any wildlife. Those charming monkeys, iguanas, and butterflies are best admired from a distance, as feeding them can disrupt their natural behavior.

Safety Tips 

• Stick to marked trails and viewpoints. The paths are well-maintained, but the rocks can get slippery.
• Carry water, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Between the rainforest humidity and sun, you’ll need them.
• Keep your belongings close and dry. Mist from the falls can soak cameras, phones, and bags in seconds.
• Travel in pairs or groups if possible. It’s safer and more fun!
• Don’t attempt helicopter tours if you’re prone to motion sickness or have heart conditions. They’re incredible for photography, but not for everyone.

Accessibility Info

Both sides of the falls offer wheelchair-accessible pathways, making many of the main viewpoints easily accessible. However, some trails—such as the boat rides or jungle treks—may not be suitable for those with limited mobility.

Trains, elevators, and ramps help visitors reach key viewpoints without the need for strenuous hiking, allowing everyone to enjoy the beauty of the falls.

If mobility is a concern, it’s a good idea to plan your route and check with park staff, who are incredibly helpful and can provide guidance to make your visit as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Planning Your Trip to Iguazu Falls

Best Time to Visit

When visiting Iguazu Falls, timing can make all the difference. The waterfalls are spectacular year-round, but the flow is strongest between November and March. If you prefer fewer crowds and slightly cooler weather, April to June is perfect for a more peaceful adventure. 

Keep in mind, the dry season (July to September) still offers beautiful views but with lower water levels—perfect for photography and exploring the trails.

Visa Requirements and Border Tips

A tourist visa is required to enter Brazil, so be sure to arrange this ahead of time if your nationality needs it. U.S. citizens visiting Argentina for tourism or business for up to 90 days do not need a visa. That said, visa rules can change—always confirm with your nearest Argentine embassy or consulate before traveling.

Crossing between Brazil and Argentina is easier than it sounds, but you’ll need your passport handy and a bit of patience for border queues. If you’re planning to hop between sides, give yourself extra time and factor in possible delays.

Visiting Iguazu Falls: What to Pack

While you can spend plenty of time at the park without getting wet, certain spots—the Lower Circuit, Devil’s Throat, and especially the boat ride—will leave you completely drenched. Packing smart makes all the difference:

• Waterproof cellphone case: Essential if you want those misty selfies without a dead phone afterward.
  
• Sunscreen: The sun can be intense, even with the spray from the falls.
  
• Dry bag: The boat tour provides one, but I loved having my own for extra protection while walking through the park.
  
• Waterproof pants or quick-dry shorts: I wore athletic shorts for walking and pulled on waterproof pants for the boat ride—game changer!
  
• Rain jacket or poncho: Lightweight but effective. You’ll thank yourself when you’re standing near the Devil’s Throat.
  
• Water shoes: By far one of my best travel buys. Nothing ruins a good day like soggy sneakers.
  
• Optional change of clothes: If you’re going on the boat ride, this is a lifesaver.

Pro Tip: Pack everything in a light backpack with room for snacks, water, and sunscreen. That way, you’ll be comfortable, prepared, and free to focus on the adventure ahead.

Final Thoughts: Visiting Iguazu Falls

So, which side should you visit? As you can see, it is a tough choice to make. The Brazilian side offers impressive panoramic views of the falls, and the Argentinian side provides the opportunity to get up close to the falls.

Both have lovely walks through forested scenery, but of course, you’ll get more of that on the Argentinian side since it covers more land. Ultimately, I say go to both if you can! However, there may be practical reasons for choosing one side.

For U.S. citizens, the price of the Brazilian visa is steep ($160). U.S. tourists don’t need a visa to enter Argentina. Visiting Iguazu Falls is a majestic experience; you can’t go wrong visiting either side!

Explore more of my Brazil Guides:

The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Salvador Brazil Beaches

13 Culturally Rich Things to Do in Salvador

New Year’s Eve in Rio de Janeiro: A Complete Guide

Guide to Hiking Morro Dois Irmãos

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