Travel Guide: How to Visit Iguazu Falls in Argentina & Brazil

Argentina vs Brazil: Which Side to Visit

When planning your trip, it’s important to understand the differences between the Argentine and Brazilian sides of Iguazu Falls. And this must be the most popular question about Iguazu Falls.

Iguazu Falls in Argentina offers extensive walking trails, close-up encounters with the waterfalls, and opportunities to explore the dense rainforest. 

On the other hand, Iguazu Falls in Brazil provides panoramic viewpoints, giving an epic overview of the entire waterfall system. I am sure that your camera will work overtime. 

If you are wondering which side to visit, my answer is both! We will get into the details further down, but you absolutely should plan enough time to experience Iguazu Falls from Argentina & Brazil and pick your own favorite.

My thoughts after visiting Iguazu Falls in Argentina and Brazil?

I have to admit, the Brazilian side offers truly jaw-dropping panoramic views, but I found myself enjoying the Argentinian side way more. 

While I usually chase those picture-perfect shots, Argentina offers something different! A chance to experience wildlife up close in a way that feels almost unreal. I truly had to pick myself while walking the trails of Iguazu.

The Brazilian side, by contrast, feels more curated and commercialized. I’m not saying that’s a bad thing, but for me personally, it took away a bit of the magic.

Best Time to Visit Iguazu Falls

Iguazu Falls is located in a subtropical region, which means the weather can be hot and humid, especially during the summer months. 

Iguazu Falls weather varies throughout the year: December to February is the hottest and wettest period, with the waterfalls at their fullest and most powerful, but you can expect heavy humidity and frequent rain showers. 

From March to May, the temperatures start to drop slightly, making it a more comfortable time to explore the trails while still enjoying impressive water flow. Despite that, we visited in March, and the humidity made the heat pretty unbearable.

Winter months, from June to August, are cooler and drier, offering a more pleasant walking experience, though the waterfalls might be slightly less dramatic.

How to avoid crowds? Aim for the shoulder seasons of March to May and August to September, visit on a weekday, and arrive early (at the opening time!). Alternatively, Hotel das Cataratas gives you private access to the falls outside of opening hours.

How to Get to Iguazu Falls in Argentina

The fastest way to arrive is by flying into Puerto Iguazú Airport, which connects with major cities like Buenos Aires. From the airport, there is no public transport, so your best options are Uber, taxi, or a pre-booked transfer.

Once you are in Puerto Iguazú (city), you can reach Iguazu Falls in Argentina by bus, private driver, or tour. We opted for a private driver because we wanted to start early, and that’s something that most hotels & airbnbs can help you with.

From the Puerto Iguazú bus terminal, you can find buses operated by Rio Uruguay that travel to the Argentine side of Iguazu Falls. Buses depart approximately every 20 minutes, and it takes around 30 minutes. Arrive early and bring cash if you take the bus.

Here are some top-rated tours from Argentina:

• Iguazu Falls Full Day Tour Brazil and Argentina
• Iguazu Falls Full Day Tour Brazil and Argentina (private)
• Argentinian Side with Boat Ride, Jungle-truck and Train
• Brazilian Side of Iguazu Falls Tour from Puerto Iguazu
• Iguazu Falls in 2 Days Private Tour Brazil and Argentina

How to Get to Iguazu Falls in Brazil

In Brazil, you will find Foz do Iguaçu Airport, which is connected to major Brazilian cities like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. Keep in mind that you can’t fly from Argentina to Foz do Iguaçu Airport or from Brazil to Puerto Iguazú Airport.

From the airport, the easiest way to reach Foz do Iguaçu (city) is via Uber, taxi, or a pre-booked transfer. If you prefer public transport, bus number 120 connects the airport to the city. The same bus brings you from Foz do Iguaçu downtown to the waterfalls.

Alternatively, you can book a private driver or a tour from Foz do Iguaçu to the Iguazu Falls in Brazil. Here are some top-rated tours from Brazil:

• Iguazu Falls Full Day Tour Brazil and Argentina
• Iguazu Falls Full Day Tour Brazil and Argentina (private)
• Iguazu Falls in 2 Days Private Tour Brazil and Argentina

Border Crossing Between Argentina & Brazil

If you plan to visit both sides of Iguazu Falls, which I highly recommend, you’ll need to navigate the border crossing. We flew from Buenos Aires to Puerto Iguazú Airport and chose Argentina as our base. Border crossing didn’t take more than 5 minutes.

Carry your passport, check visa regulations, and be aware of customs rules for both countries. These Iguazu Falls border crossing tips are essential for avoiding surprises, especially during peak tourist season. You can also cross the border by Rio Uruguay bus.

Entrance Fees and Ticket Information

Argentina Side (Parque Nacional Iguazú)

The Iguazu Falls entrance fee in Argentina at Parque Nacional Iguazú is 45,000 ARS (around 30 USD) for adults as of 2025. Tickets include access to Iguazu Falls walking trails, viewing platforms, and the park train to major attractions such as the Devil’s Throat.

Brazil Side (Parque Nacional do Iguaçu)

The Iguazu Falls entrance fees in Brazil at Parque Nacional do Iguaçu start from 117 BRL (around 20 USD) for international visitors, with lower rates for Brazilian residents, children, and seniors. Entry includes access to Iguazu Falls viewpoints, walking paths, and park shuttles.

💡 Do you need to book your tickets in advance? No, but I highly recommend doing that, especially if you are visiting during high season and want to avoid waiting in line.

Things to Do at Iguazu Falls

Walking Trails and Viewpoints

On the Argentinian side, the Lower Circuit takes you along paths that pass near several waterfalls, while the Upper Circuit provides elevated views from above. If you’re looking for something longer and quieter, the Macuco Trail is one of Iguazu Falls’ best hikes.

The Brazilian side is known for its panoramic views. If your priority is seeing the best viewpoints at Iguazu Falls, this is where you’ll find them. The main trail is short and easy, but every stop gives you wide perspectives of the entire waterfall system. 

The highlight is the walkway that extends over the river, where you can stand directly in front of the Devil’s Throat. Bring a light raincoat or poncho, protect your camera, and expect to get wet near the viewpoints. 

Devil’s Throat (Garganta del Diablo)

The Devil’s Throat is the most famous part of Iguazu Falls and should be a priority for any visit. This U-shaped gorge is where the largest volume of water plunges down. 

On the Argentine side, a small train connects to a long walkway that leads directly to the viewing platform. Standing here is one of the most memorable experiences at the falls and easily ranks among the top things to do near Iguazu Falls.

Boat Tours & Water Adventures

For a closer look at the waterfalls, consider one of the Iguazu Falls boat tours and experiences. These tours are exciting but can be very wet, so wear quick-drying clothes and use waterproof protection for your phone and camera.

Wildlife Watching and Photography

The national park around Iguazu is rich in biodiversity, making it ideal for wildlife watching. You could spot coatis, monkeys, and a wide range of bird species, along with countless butterflies.

If you enjoy photography, you will have a lot of fun! The Upper Circuit in Argentina and the main viewpoints in Brazil are among the best Iguazu Falls photography spots. Practical Iguazu Falls photography tip: bring lens wipes or a waterproof cover.

I have to say, I dreamt of seeing toucans at Iguazu Falls, but unfortunately, that didn’t happen. Iguazu was part of our 9-month adventure in the Americas, and luckily, I managed to spot a toucan a few months later in Tikal National Park, Guatemala.

Helicopter Tours (Brazil Side)

To see the full scale of Iguazu Falls, a helicopter ride is another option. These tours depart from the Brazilian side and provide a bird’s-eye view of the waterfalls and surrounding rainforest. While expensive, that’s a pretty unforgettable experience.

Hito Tres Fronteras (Argentina)

In the town of Puerto Iguazú, just a short drive from the national park, you’ll find Hito Tres Fronteras, a landmark where three countries meet. 

Standing at this viewpoint, you can see the confluence of the Iguazú and Paraná rivers, which mark the natural borders between Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay. 

There isn’t a lot to do around the square itself, but it’s still worth a quick stop. This is one of the most unique border points in the world, and standing where three countries meet feels almost surreal.

Suggested Iguazu Falls Itineraries

One-Day Visit

If you only have a single day, you’ll need to plan carefully. The easiest option is an Iguazu Falls day trip from Foz do Iguaçu, starting on the Brazilian side. This route gives you the most iconic panoramic views with less walking, and the trail includes the Devil’s Throat.

However, if you don’t want to miss out on the Argentine side, it’s possible to see both in one day by hiring a private driver. With an early start, you can spend the morning exploring the longer circuits in Argentina and then cross into Brazil in the afternoon for the sweeping views.

Our flight was delayed, which meant we lost our first day and had no choice but to see both sides of Iguazu Falls in just one day. We started early on the Argentine side, where we stayed overnight, then crossed the border around midday, stopped for lunch, and continued exploring on the Brazilian side. 

It was a long and exhausting day, and while it worked out in the end, I wouldn’t recommend cramming both sides into one day unless you absolutely have to. If you can, give yourself at least an extra day to enjoy the experience without rushing.

Two-Day Visit

With two days, you can follow a more balanced Iguazu Falls travel itinerary. Dedicate one full day to the Argentine side, where you’ll find several circuits that take you close to the waterfalls. The Lower Circuit, Upper Circuit, and the Devil’s Throat walkway together make for a full day. 

On your second day, head across the border to Brazil for the wide-angle views. The Brazilian side doesn’t take as long to explore, so you can combine it with a boat tour or even a helicopter ride for a different perspective. This combination gives you the best of both worlds.

Three-Day Visit

If you have more time, an Iguazu Falls itinerary for 3 days lets you explore at a more relaxed pace and add extra activities.

Spend the first day on the Argentine side, covering the Upper and Lower Circuits. On the second day, focus on the Devil’s Throat and perhaps the Macuco Trail if you enjoy hiking. 

On your third day, cross into Brazil to enjoy the panoramic views, and consider adding either a boat tour or a helicopter ride. With three days, you also have time to enjoy birdwatching, photography, or simply walking the trails without rushing.

After spending three months in Argentina, we quickly learned that flight delays are fairly common. If I were to return to Iguazu, I would plan a three-day visit to allow some flexibility in case of cancellations or delays. It doesn’t happen every time, but our experience was pretty bad.

Accommodation Near Iguazu Falls

Hotels on the Argentina Side

• Luxury: Overo Lodge & Selva
• Mid-range: Hotel Saint George
• Affordable: Rincon Escondido

Hotels on the Brazilian Side

• Luxury: Hotel das Cataratas, A Belmond Hotel, Iguassu Falls
• Mid-range: Rafain Palace Hotel & Convention Center
• Affordable: CLH Suítes Foz do Iguaçu

Iguazu Falls Practical Tips

Packing Essentials

Knowing what to pack for an Iguazu Falls trip makes a big difference. Lightweight, quick-drying clothes are best, as you’ll almost certainly get wet from the mist.

A light rain jacket or poncho is useful on both sides of the park, and comfortable walking shoes are a must for the trails. 

Don’t forget sunscreen, insect repellent, and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated in the heat. If you’re bringing a camera, a waterproof cover or dry bag will protect it from constant spray.

Safety Tips

Overall, Iguazu is a safe destination, but a few precautions are worth keeping in mind. Stick to marked paths, as the trails can be slippery, especially after rain. Bring cash for small expenses, but keep valuables secure. 

For general Iguazu Falls safety tips, it’s also smart to carry a photocopy of your passport if crossing the border between Argentina and Brazil, and allow extra time for immigration formalities.

Eco-Friendly Travel

Iguazu is a protected area, and traveling responsibly helps preserve it for future generations. One of the easiest Iguazu Falls eco-friendly travel options is to bring a reusable water bottle and avoid single-use plastics. 

Stick to the trails to avoid damaging fragile habitats, and never feed wildlife. Both Argentina and Brazil have shuttle systems within the parks, which reduce traffic and emissions. Using these instead of taxis or private cars is a simple way to lessen your impact.

Iguazu Falls vs Niagara Falls vs Victoria Falls

Travelers often compare Iguazu Falls with other world-famous waterfalls like Niagara Falls in North America and Victoria Falls in Africa. While each is spectacular, the experiences are very different.

Iguazu Falls (Argentina & Brazil)

• Over 270 separate cascades spread across nearly 3 km.
• Famous for its mix of panoramic views (Brazil) and immersive jungle trails (Argentina).
• Located in a subtropical rainforest, rich in wildlife like toucans, monkeys, and butterflies.

Niagara Falls (USA & Canada)

• More compact but extremely powerful, with a huge volume of water flowing every second.
• Highly developed with hotels, casinos, and attractions right at the falls.
• Best for accessibility and urban convenience, but lacks the wild setting of Iguazu.

Victoria Falls (Zambia & Zimbabwe)

• One of the largest curtain waterfalls in the world, stretching over 1.7 km.
• Known locally as “The Smoke That Thunders” for its massive spray and roar.
• Offers adventure activities like white-water rafting, bungee jumping, and ‘swimming’ in Devil’s Pool.

👉 If you’re looking for easy access, Niagara delivers. For sheer scale and adventure, Victoria is unbeatable. But if you want the best mix of rainforest trails, wildlife, and breathtaking viewpoints, Iguazu Falls stands out as the ultimate experience.

Practical FAQ About Visiting Iguazu Falls