Iguazu Falls: Visiting from Argentina and Brazil
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 lies on the Argentinian side. I've visited Niagra 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 spray 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.
Visiting the Argentinian Side from Puerto Iguazu
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 tips:
- 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 talk a free train from the park or walk across the rail line for around 2km.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 from 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:
- 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 on both the Argentinian and Brazilian checkpoints. After you buy your ticket to the Brazilian side of the park, there'll be another bus to take you to the falls.
- 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 Puerto Iguazu, Argentina
There are tonnes of options, it was so hard to choose! Here’s a mix of budget friendly and boutique hotels.
Budget-friendly places to stay
Hospedaje Los Vencejos
Around 5-minutes from the bus station it's conveniently located for visiting the Iguazu falls.
Alojamiento mei-mei
Conveniently located, there are a range rooms available depending on your needs. On a quiet street, apartments come fully-quipped.
Boutique hotels to stay
Iguazu Jungle Hotel
With an outdoor pool and views of the rainforest, rooms are spacious and morning coffees on the balcony are a must-do!
Entre Arboles Iguazú, Singular Collection by Amérian
An elegant and beautiful place to stay, there’s really nothing not to like. With accommodation options ranging from a treehouse with a private pool, to a birdhouse capsule, this is the kind of place I’d love to stay if I ever go back to visit Iguazu Falls!
Where to stay in Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil
APARTAMENTO Silencioso e Bem Situado
A comfortable and spacious apartment, it’s equipped with all the amenities you might need. It’s in a good location, a little out of the centre on a quiet street.
With a clean, contemporary design and private pools, these elegant villas are perfect for a relaxing family stay.
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