Iguazu Falls

The basics

The best way to experience the Argentinean side of Iguazú Falls is by hiking the surrounding trails. The Upper Circuit Trail offers panoramic views over Mbigua Falls and the Iguazú River before dropping toward the Bernabé Méndez Falls. The Lower Circuit Trail has more viewpoints, as well as access to activities such as boat trips, white-water rafting, and a free ferry to Isla San Martín. A guided Iguazu Falls tour will help you find the best trails and can take you deeper into Iguazú National Park, or on ATV tours and hiking excursions in the area. You can also opt for a helicopter ride to view the Iguazu River and falls on the Argentina side and Brazil side from the air.

The entrance fee for the Iguazu Falls ticket includes unlimited rides on the Jungle Train to different trailheads, as well as ferry service (depending on the water level) to Isla San Martín. You can visit the park a second day for half price; be sure to get your ticket stamped after the first day.

Things to know before you go

• Plan to spend at least 1 full day exploring this side of the falls.

• Regardless of which trail you take, prepare to get soaked: Wear waterproof clothing and protect your valuables and electronics with waterproof bags.

• The Argentinean side is known for its hiking and opportunities to get closer to the cascades.

• Don't miss the spectacular vistas over Devil's Throat (Garganta del Diablo).

• Many guided tours take you to both the Argentinean and Brazilian sides of the falls.

• If crossing the border without joining a guided tour, be sure to check visa requirements for your country.

How to get there

Iguazú National Park is located 10 miles (17 kilometers) from Puerto Iguazú on the border between Argentina and Brazil. Buses run from Puerto Iguazú to the park every 30 minutes during park hours. If you're coming from Buenos Aires, take a 90-minute flight or a 24-hour bus ride.

When to get there

The Iguazú Falls are accessible year-round. For the best weather and the smallest crowds, plan to go between July and October or February and April. Morning visits are rewarded with rainbows in the ever-present mist of Devil's Throat.

Experiencing Devil’s Throat

Devil's Throat, whose 14 thundering cascades comprise the tallest and most famous part of Iguazú Falls, is best viewed from the Devil's Throat Walk, which takes you right up to the brink of the water. If that's not close enough, you can also take a boat ride that glides right under the falls.

What is the best month to visit Iguazu Falls?

The falls are at their most dramatic during the wet and humid summer months, but sightseeing, hiking, and other outdoor activities are far more enjoyable during the dry season. The best compromise? Come between late March and early June, when water levels will still be high but the temperatures cooler.

What should you wear to Iguazu Falls?

Prepare to get wet! Whether taking a boat cruise beneath the falls or just admiring the views, a rain poncho is an essential accessory for visiting Iguazu Falls. Opt for light, weather-appropriate clothing as you’ll be outdoors, and consider long sleeves/pants to protect yourself from the sun and mosquitos.

How much time do you need to visit Iguazu Falls?

The remote location of Iguazu Falls means you’ll need at least one night in Puerto Iguazu or Foz do Iguaçu to visit the falls. Plan a whole day to admire the falls, enjoy a rainforest hike, and take a boat cruise or two days to see the falls from both sides.

Do you need to book Iguazu Falls in advance?

It depends. Many tours of Iguazu Falls require advance booking, especially if you’re visiting in peak season, and it’s highly recommended to book boat cruises, helicopter flights, and other activities. However, if you plan on visiting Iguazu Falls alone, you can buy your tickets on arrival.

What is the best way to see Iguazu Falls?

On the Argentinian side, ride the jungle train to the falls, hike in the surrounding rainforest, and follow the marked walkways to enjoy spectacular views over the falls. Opt for a boat cruise beneath the Devil’s Throat or a thrilling helicopter flight over the falls for a unique perspective.

Is it worth seeing both sides of Iguazu Falls?

Yes. Spectacular views await on the Brazilian and Argentinian sides of Iguazu Falls, allowing you to experience the falls from all angles. More than 80% of the falls can be admired from the Argentinian side, while boat cruises on the Brazilian side get even closer to the Devil’s Throat Falls.

Ways to explore

More than 80 percent of the falls within Iguazu National Park lie on the Argentine side, and there are plenty of ways to explore. Take a scenic train ride (included with general admission) or hike through the jungle; follow the boardwalk trails for views of the upper falls, lower falls, and Devil’s Throat; or enjoy a boat cruise beneath the falls or along the Iguazu River.

Most full-day tours to Iguazu Falls set out from Puerto Iguazú, but it’s also possible to take a day or overnight tour from Buenos Aires.

Accessibility

The main trails and jungle train are accessible for wheelchairs and people with limited mobility. Manual wheelchairs are provided for free at the park’s train stations, and transfers by golf cart are available upon request. Note that the Lower Circuit has some steps.

Age limits

Children under 6 can visit for free; free strollers are available from the ticket office.

What to pack

Your passport and visa (if crossing into Brazil), reusable water bottle, camera, sun protection, rain poncho, waterproof bag, bug spray

What to wear

Lightweight, quick-drying clothing (you will likely get wet from the spray); flat, fully enclosed shoes with a good grip

Not allowed

Pets (free kennels provided in the parking lot), feeding or interacting with wildlife in the park, walking off the marked trails

Amenities

Cafés and restaurants, restrooms, drinking water fountains, gift shops, first aid station, paid storage lockers, paid parking

Address 

Iguazú National Park is located 10 miles (17 kilometers) from Puerto Iguazú on the border between Argentina and Brazil. You can reach the park by car, public transport, or by joining one of the daily tours.

Driving

To reach the falls from Puerto Iguazú, head south along National Route 12 until it merges with National Route 101, then follow signs to the park. There’s plenty of parking on-site.

Public transportation

Rio Uruguay buses run from the Puerto Iguazú bus terminal to the Argentine side of the park every 20 minutes during park hours. The journey takes roughly 30 minutes; tickets are cash-only.

Best times to visit

Get there early to make the most of your visit—the gates open between 7am and 8am, depending on the season—and beat the crowds.

Best days to visit

Iguazu Falls can get busy during peak periods. For a quieter experience, choose a midweek visit outside of the Argentine school holiday periods.

Best months to visit

The waterfalls are most powerful in December and January, but this is also peak season. Visit in February–April for similar views with fewer crowds, although try to avoid Easter travel.

Special events

Special guided moonlit walks take place five nights a month to coincide with the full moon.