Beyond the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro, Iguazu Falls (or Foz do Iguaçu in Portuguese) stands as another iconic Brazilian landmark recognized worldwide. Nestled on the border with Argentina, these magnificent waterfalls, known locally as Cataratas do Iguaçu, are celebrated as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature and are protected as a UNESCO World Heritage site within a National Park. This spectacular destination offers an unforgettable experience, and visiting both the Brazilian and Argentinian sides is highly recommended to fully appreciate the diverse perspectives of the falls. This travel guide will provide you with essential information to plan your trip to Iguazu Falls, a must-see in any comprehensive Travel Guide For Brazil.
Getting to Iguazu Falls: Your Travel Options
Foz do Iguaçu is a popular destination, making it relatively accessible, although it’s located in the far corner of Paraná state, distant from other major Brazilian cities. Reaching Foz do Iguaçu typically involves either flying or taking an overnight bus.
By Air
The conveniently located Foz do Iguaçu Airport (IGU) is just a short 10-minute drive from the entrance to the Brazilian side of the falls. It offers flights from various Brazilian cities, often with layovers in Rio de Janeiro or São Paulo. Across the border, Puerto Iguazu Airport (IGR) in Argentina is about 15 minutes from the Argentinian side of the falls, primarily serving flights from Buenos Aires.
By Bus
Foz do Iguaçu has an international bus station in the city center, providing connections to major Brazilian cities and Paraguay. For long-distance travel to Argentinian destinations, buses depart from the main bus station in central Puerto Iguazu.
Must-See Attractions in Foz do Iguaçu
The star attraction is undoubtedly the Iguazu Falls themselves!
Explore the Brazilian Side of the Falls
Dedicate an afternoon to the Brazilian side of the falls. Walk the trails to various viewpoints offering panoramic vistas. The Brazilian side provides a broad, sweeping perspective of the Devil’s Throat and the numerous cascades. Keep your eyes peeled for the diverse wildlife inhabiting the National Park; you might spot monkeys, toucans, and other fascinating creatures.
Discover the Argentinian Side of the Falls
Spend a full day exploring the Argentinian side, which boasts a more extensive network of trails. Here, you can get up close and personal with the falls, walking directly above and around them, including the awe-inspiring Devil’s Throat. The trails offer immersive experiences through the lush rainforest and bring you to the heart of the cascading water.
Visit the Três Fronteiras (Three Borders Landmark)
For a unique experience, head to the Três Fronteiras, where Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay meet. This tri-border landmark offers cultural significance and interesting photo opportunities, symbolizing the confluence of three nations.
Hot Tips for Your Iguazu Falls Visit
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Beware of Coatis: Watch out for coatis, especially in picnic areas on both sides of the falls. These seemingly cute animals can be bold when seeking food and may try to snatch items from your bags.
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Arrive Early: To avoid crowds, especially on popular trails like those on the Argentinian side, aim to arrive when the park opens. Early mornings offer a more peaceful and intimate experience of the falls.
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Visit Both Sides: If possible, experience both the Brazilian and Argentinian sides of Iguazu Falls. They provide distinctly different, yet equally breathtaking, perspectives.
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Check Visa Requirements: If you plan to cross into Argentina, even briefly, check visa requirements beforehand, depending on your nationality. Many nationalities enjoy visa-free entry for tourism for up to 90 days, but it’s always best to confirm the latest regulations.
Extra Activities in Foz do Iguaçu
If you have more time in Foz do Iguaçu, consider these additional activities:
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Itaipu Dam Tour: Visit the Itaipu Dam, one of the world’s largest hydroelectric dams, for an impressive display of engineering and power generation.
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Ciudad del Este, Paraguay: For a unique cultural excursion and shopping opportunities, cross the Friendship Bridge into Ciudad del Este in Paraguay. Remember to check visa requirements before crossing any borders.
Where to Eat and Drink in Foz do Iguaçu
Foz do Iguaçu in Brazil offers a wider range of dining options compared to Puerto Iguazu in Argentina, with many choices beyond typical tourist fare. When in southern Brazil, be sure to savor authentic gaucho-style Brazilian barbecue (churrasco). Complement your meal with chimarrão (maté tea), a traditional South American beverage, for a local culinary experience.
Accommodation in Foz do Iguaçu
Foz do Iguaçu caters to all budgets and preferences when it comes to accommodation. You can find budget-friendly hostels in the city center or opt for luxurious stays like the Hotel das Cataratas. This iconic hotel is located within the National Park, mere meters from the falls, offering the exclusive opportunity to experience the falls outside of regular park hours.
