The Insider's Guide to Iguazu Falls in Brazil
Devil’s throat - the most spectacular part of the falls
Exploring Iguazu Falls is an absolute must when you're in Brazil. It's undeniably one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders on Earth. Standing before its majestic cascade, you'll be left speechless, completely absorbed by the sheer power and beauty of nature's spectacle. I visited in December 2023, I can confidently say that Iguazu Falls surpassed all expectations. Its grandeur is unparalleled, leaving me in utter disbelief!
In this guide, I'll provide you with everything you need to know for your visit to Iguazu Falls in Brazil, from transportation tips and the optimal time to visit to accommodations.
About Iguazu Falls
Iguazu Falls is a majestic masterpiece, ranking among the largest waterfall systems globally, spanning a staggering 2.7km, along the Brazil-Argentina border. With around 270 individual waterfalls, soaring between 197-269 ftin height, it's an awe-inspiring spectacle of nature's grandeur. Honored as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and acclaimed as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature, it had long been a bucketlist visit for me!
Though my visit was confined to the Brazilian side, I urge exploration of both, as each offers a distinct perspective. The ongoing discourse on which side reigns supreme persists, yet both hold their allure. Argentina's side boasts extensive pathways for up-close encounters with cascading waters, while Brazil's side unveils panoramic vistas that leave a lasting impression.
The serene pathway trails on the Brazilian side
How to get to the falls
From Argentina / By Air: Fly into Cataratas del Iguazú International Airport (IGR) in the city of Puerto Iguazú. Many domestic flights connect Buenos Aires to this airport.
By Bus: There are direct buses from major cities like Buenos Aires, Rosario, and Cordoba to Puerto Iguazú. The journey takes around 18-20 hours from Buenos Aires.
From Brazil / By Air: Fly into Foz do Iguaçu International Airport (IGU), which is the closest airport to the Brazilian side of the falls. Many domestic flights connect Foz do Iguaçu to major Brazilian cities.
By Bus: There are regular buses from cities like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro to Foz do Iguaçu. The journey from São Paulo takes around 15-18 hours by bus.
Once you're in either Puerto Iguazú (Argentina) or Foz do Iguaçu (Brazil), you can cross the border to visit the falls from both sides. There are regular buses and taxis that can take you across the border. Make sure to have the necessary travel documents (passport, visa if required) with you.
Getting from both the Argentinian and Brazilian sides, there are well-marked trails and walkways leading to various viewpoints of the falls. Additionally, both sides offer guided tours, boat rides, and other activities to enhance your experience of this natural wonder.
Make sure to:
Check the visa requirements for your nationality if you plan to cross the border.
Plan your visit considering the weather, as the falls can look different depending on the season.
Consider spending at least a day on each side to fully appreciate the beauty of the falls from different perspectives.
arriving at the falls
Once you arrive at the Iguazu Falls Visitor Center, you'll need to purchase an entrance ticket, unless it's already included in your tour package. For Brazilians and visitors from Mercosur countries, the ticket costs 91 BRL, while for others, it's 100 BRL. Children up to 6 years old enter for free. After obtaining your tickets, a shuttle bus will take you to the waterfalls, located approximately 11 km (6.8 mi) from the visitor center. This shuttle bus ride is included in your ticket.
The shuttle bus makes three stops – Macuco boat safari, waterfalls trail, and the food court. I recommend disembarking at the second stop (waterfalls trail, also known as 'Trilha das Cataratas'). This is where the walking trail alongside the waterfalls begins.
Eventually, you'll arrive at a footbridge that allows you to walk over the rushing waters and presents an incredible view of Devil’s Throat, the most awe-inspiring part of Iguazu Falls.
Being enveloped by the thundering waters is an unforgettable experience!
Viewing platform to see the breathtaking devil’s throat
Towards the end of the trail, you'll find an elevated viewing platform that offers yet another perspective of the waterfalls, allowing you to admire them from above.
Due to the mist from the waterfalls, it's highly likely that you'll get soaked during your visit to Iguazu Falls. Therefore, it's advisable to take precautions with your camera and phone, and consider bringing a waterproof poncho if you're concerned about getting wet. However, with temperatures around 30°C (86°F) outside, getting wet might not be a bother at all.
Animal sightings at Iguazu Falls
When exploring Iguazu Falls, there's a good chance of encountering various animals, given the rich wildlife in the surrounding national park.
One common sight is the coati, resembling raccoons, known for their boldness in approaching visitors in search of food. Despite their cuteness and curiosity, it's important not to feed or touch them due to the risk of bites, scratches, and disease transmission. The park reminds visitors of this rule with ample signage.
Interestingly, during our visit to Iguazu, we didn't encounter any coatis (although we saw many in Costa Rica and Guatemala).
However, we did spot a howler monkey, beautiful blue morpho butterflies, and a few large lizards.
where to stay
Most of the lodging options near Brazilian Iguazu Falls are found in Foz do Iguaçu town, approximately 20 km (12 mi) from Iguaçu National Park. Some hotels are close to the park entrance, with one particularly privileged option located inside the park itself.
Here are my recommendations, including where I stayed:
Luxury hotel on the brazil side: Belmond Hotel das Cataratas
We stayed at the Belmond Das Cataratas and it was totally worth the splurge! The epitome of luxury, this 5-star hotel is the sole lodging within Iguazu National Park on the Brazilian side, offering breathtaking view of the waterfalls. With its splendid colonial architecture, pastel-pink facade, and exquisite pool area, staying here is like living a dream. If you're willing to indulge or celebrating a special occasion, it's definitely worth considering!
The best part is that as a guest of the hotel, you are able to visit the park before and after hours to avoid the crowds during opening hours.
See my post on our stay at this stunning property here.
luxury hotel on the ARGENTINA side: Gran Meliá Iguazú
This exceptional hotel, the only one inside the Iguazú National Park on the Argentinian side, is right next to it. The stunning views of the Iguazú Falls from its rooms and suites, its infinity pool and its fine dining options constitute a unique experience: staying in front of one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World!
Mid-Rangen hotel on the brazil side: sanma Hotel
Located 1312 feet from the Iguazu National Park entrance, the 5-stars Sanma Hotel invites you to enjoy its leisure activities and nature near the Iguazu waterfalls. For a fee, guests can enjoy the spa with a sauna unit, hot tub, massage services and relaxation area. In addition to a large swimming pool surrounded by gardens, the Sanma Hotel offers an ecological hiking trail in the surrounding native forests, and several sport facilities, such as volleyball, soccer and tennis courts.