The beautiful Iguazú Falls, or Iguaçu Falls, lies on the frontier of Brazil and Argentina. If you're visiting either of these countries, spending 2/3 days discovering one of the most stunning natural wonders of the world is an absolute must-do!
With over 275 distinct waterfalls, stretching 2.7 kilometres wide and reaching drops of up to 82 metres, around 80% of the falls lie on the Argentinian side. I've visited Niagara and the Victoria Falls, but the Iguazu Falls totally blew my mind away!
Should I visit the Iguazu Falls from Brazil or Argentina?
The simple answer is both!
With breathtaking panoramic views on the Brazilian side and views from the top of the Argentinian side, it's totally worth getting sprayed with a little mist and enjoying postcard-perfect views.
One day on the Argentinian side and one day on the Brazilian side are more than enough. If you're really struggling for time, you could even do the Brazilian side in half a day, but be careful to take into account the time it takes to cross the border.
From the Argentinian side, it took approximately 1h 30mins to arrive at the Brazilian side of the Iguazu Falls.
Where to stay: Top picks
| Memorable stays in the jungle | Iguazu Jungle Hotel |
| Budget-friendly in Puerto Iguazú | Alojamiento mei-mei |
| Walking distance of the Brazilian park entrance | Sanma Hotel |
Looking for more options?
Visiting the Argentinian Side from Puerto Iguazú
Basing yourself in Puerto Iguazú, I would really recommend taking the earliest bus to visit the falls. It will easily take one full day to explore, and afternoons can get really crowded for photos.
The trails are divided into three main sections: the Upper Trail, the Lower Trail and Devil's Throat. The earliest bus leaves at 7:20 from the central bus station, and there are buses every 20 minutes.
Handy tip:
1. Visit Devil's Throat first. Not only can you feel the full force of the falls, but the views are also spectacular. Unfortunately, this part gets busy very quickly so best to get there as early as possible. You can either take a free train from the park or walk across the rail line for around 2km.
2. If you have time, there's a final trail to visit the Salta Arrechea waterfall where you can jump in and go for a swim. It's around 3km there and back by foot, so I'd only recommend this if you have a couple of hours to spare.
3. Get your ticket stamped on your way out of the park. You may have to provide your passport number. This will allow you to visit the park a second day for half the price if you decide to do so.
4. I also met a few people who loved the boat ride! The afternoon rides were normally sold out on the day, so if you're really keen to do this, you can book online up to 10 days in advance.
Visiting Foz do Iguaçu in Brazil
I absolutely adored the Brazilian side! If there's a paradise on earth, then this is it. My heart raced at the size, power and scale of the Iguazu Falls.
The Brazilian side has one trail with various viewing points until you reach the climax. Totally worth an extra day!
Handy tips:
1. If you're staying on the Argentinian side, get the earliest bus at 8:30. The bus will take you to the border, where you'll cross immigration at both the Argentinian and Brazilian checkpoints. After you buy your ticket for the Brazilian side of the park, another bus will take you to the falls.
2. The last bus taking you back to Argentina leaves at 5 pm, so keep this in mind if you plan to visit later in the afternoon.
Where to stay in Iguazu Falls?
There are tonnes of accommodation options around Iguazu Falls, and choosing where to stay can be tricky! If you’re visiting from Argentina, I’d recommend spending a couple of nights in Puerto Iguazú and taking a day trip across to Brazil, or vice versa if you’re travelling from Brazil.
On the Argentinian side, you’ll find accommodation in Puerto Iguazú, while on the Brazilian side, you’ll be staying in Foz do Iguaçu. Both make good bases for visiting the falls, so it really comes down to your travel itinerary. You could even spend a night on each side 🙃.
Here are some of my top picks for both sides, from budget-friendly stays to boutique hotels. For a more detailed breakdown of staying on each side, check out my guide to where to stay in Iguazu Falls.
Puerto Iguazú, Argentina
Gran Meliá Iguazú
If you’re thinking about staying inside Iguazú National Park, this is the hotel to check out. You’ll have the opportunity to be at the waterfalls before anyone else arrives and stay after everyone has left. With stunning views from various rooms and the pool, you can enjoy the scenic views all day long.
Iguazu Jungle Hotel
Set among gardens and rainforest beside the river, Iguazu Jungle Hotel feels more like a lodge than a hotel. Balconies look out over the greenery, with birds to spot from your room, and paths wind through the grounds to the pools and restaurant. It’s a peaceful place to return to after visiting the falls, and also well placed for crossing the border into Brazil.
Iguazú Grand Hotel
For a boutique experience, the rooms are elegant and beautiful, making it a great place to come back to after a long day exploring the waterfalls.
Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil
Hotel das Cataratas, A Belmond Hotel, Iguassu Falls
In a dreamy location, staying inside Iguaçu National Park, just in front of the waterfalls, you have access to the falls after the crowds are gone for the day. A charming and elegant place to stay, it makes for a memorable experience.
Sanma Hotel
At only 400 metres from the entrance to Iguaçu National Park, Sanma Hotel is ideally located for visiting the Brazilian side of the falls, with the bird park also within walking distance. Back at the hotel, there’s a beautiful pool area, and in the evenings, you might also catch live music in the bar or restaurant.
Park Golf Hostel Ipelandia
A budget-friendly option. It has a relaxed, almost resort-like feel, with a garden, swimming pool and plenty of space to unwind. It’s also close to the airport and a short taxi ride from the falls.
A little montage of photos from my visit
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