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Puerto Iguazú
The Argentine base for the Iguazú Falls, a UNESCO-listed chain of about 275 waterfalls in subtropical rainforest
The Argentine base for the Iguazú Falls, a UNESCO-listed chain of about 275 waterfalls in subtropical rainforest
The Garganta del Diablo is the largest and most powerful part of the falls, a U-shaped chasm reached by the park’s small train and a walkway of about 1km over the river.
The walkway can close when the river is very high.
Photo: Falk2, CC BY-SA 4.0
The Upper Trail runs along the top of the falls, and the Lower Trail gives close views from below. Boat trips go right up to the falls.
Bring a rain jacket or a bag for your phone.
Photo: Pierre André Leclercq, CC BY-SA 4.0
The park’s rainforest is home to coatis, monkeys, toucans and many butterflies. Coatis are bold and can bite, so do not feed them.
Photo: Ralf Steinberger, CC BY 2.0
At the edge of town, the Hito Tres Fronteras viewpoint overlooks the meeting of two rivers and three countries: Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay.
Go at sunset.
Photo: Horacio Cambeiro, CC BY 4.0
Try river fish such as surubí and pacú, Argentine steak and chipa (cheese bread). Yerba mate is grown in the province.
Most restaurants are in the town centre near the bus station.
Cataratas del Iguazú International Airport (IGR) has flights from Buenos Aires of about 2 hours. Buses run frequently from the town’s bus station to the park entrance.
To see the Brazilian side, which has panoramic views of the falls, cross the border to Foz do Iguaçu; bring your passport. Citizens of the EU, the UK, the US, Canada, Australia and many other countries can visit Argentina without a visa for up to 90 days. Travel insurance is strongly recommended. Check current rules before you travel.
Argentina uses the peso (ARS), which has been very volatile, so prices here are given in US dollars as a guide. Foreign cards are widely accepted and usually get a market-based exchange rate; carry some cash for small purchases.
Park fees are set in pesos and change often; check them before you go.
Both sides of the falls.
Arrive at opening time, take the train to the Devil’s Throat first, then walk the Upper and Lower Trails and take a boat trip.
Cross to Brazil for the panoramic walkway, then watch sunset at the Triple Frontier.
Arrive at opening time to avoid crowds at the Devil’s Throat.
Waterproof bags are essential for the boat trip.
Keep food in your bag and do not feed animals.
Bring your passport for the Brazilian side.
Quick answers for planning time in Puerto Iguazú.
About 275, spread over nearly 3km.
About 18km, around 30 minutes by bus.
Both if you can: Argentina has more trails close to the falls, Brazil the best panoramas.
Yes, since 1984.
March to May and August to November, when it is less hot and humid.
Spanish is the main language; English is less common outside tourist areas.
Free
Planning a wider trip? Our Argentina travel guide covers getting there, costs, when to go and more.