Nestled where Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay converge, Iguazu Falls is a dazzling display of nature's grandeur and power. This iconic cascade system is one of the largest and most breathtaking in the world. It spans nearly 2.7 kilometers and has over 270 individual waterfalls cascading through lush rainforest.
Often counted among the planet's most awe-inspiring natural wonders, Iguazu Falls captivates millions of visitors annually with its thunderous roar and breathtaking vistas.
Dive into our comprehensive guide to learn how to get there, where to stay, and insider tips for experiencing both the Argentine and Brazilian sides of the falls.
Things to know before visiting Iguazu Falls
Where is Iguazu
Iguazu Falls are located on the border between Argentina and Brazil.
Where to stay to visit Iguazu Falls
The short answer to this question is: it depends.
On the Argentine side, Puerto Iguazu is the closest city to the Falls. This city offers more services and is known to be safer than its Brazilian counterpart. Tourist-friendly public transportation to both sides of the Falls is also available here.
If you prefer to stay on the Brazilian side, check out the accommodations in Foz do Iguaçu.
You will find semi-private and private transportation from either city to both sides of the Falls.
How many days to stay in Iguazu
Ideally, you should spend at least two full days in Iguazu, 1 for each side.
Note that this area has subtropical weather, meaning there will be rainy days throughout the year. If you absolutely want to enjoy the sunny weather, you can stay longer to increase the chances of clear skies.
How to get to Iguazu
-From Argentina: the closest airport to Iguazu is Puerto Iguazu. Flights from Buenos Aires are about 1h55 long.
-From Brazil: the closest airport to Iguazu is Foz do Iguaçu. Flights from Rio de Janeiro are about 2h15 long.
Entrance fees to Iguazu
In 2025, the entrance fees for foreigners on the Brazilian side will be R$117,00 (approximately 20 USD) daily. You can buy tickets here.
On the Argentine side, the Falls are situated inside Iguazu National Park, so foreigners must pay an entrance fee of ARS 45,000 (approximately 40 USD) per day. Tickets can be bought here.
Both countries have multi-day passes, which reduce the daily fee if you wish to visit for more than a day.
Which side is better to visit Iguazu
I highly recommend you visit both sides as they offer different perspectives.
The Brazilian side will let you have a vue d'ensemble of the falls, while on the Argentine side, you will feel immersed in the waterfalls.
Brasilian side
Entrance
Respect the time indicated on your ticket, as you might be refused entry on busy days.
After showing your ticket, you will queue to take a bus. The bus is included in the ticket fee and stops at several points of interest both ways, where people can get off.
Waterfalls visit
To visit the waterfalls, get off the bus at the "Path of the Falls" stop.
From there, you follow the path to the Garganta do Diablo, which ends next to a big waterfall.
Once you're done, you can head to the Porto Canoas Square, where you will find restaurants and toilets. The bus back to the entrance leaves from there as well.
Boat Ride in Iguazu Falls
At first, I wasn't convinced about the boat ride because of its relatively elevated price tag (70 USD per person for 30 min.). However, I don't regret doing it since it gives you an extra perspective of the Falls and is quite fun.
We decided to take the boat ride on the Brazilian side since this side only has one path to discover the falls, whereas the Argentine side has several paths. Time-wise, this was a better decision.
The boat tickets can be bought in the entrance building before showing your regular entrance tickets.
To board the boat, get off the bus at the "Macuco Safari Station" and show your tickets at the building there. Then, a guide will take you on a short bus ride and a hike to the departure pier.
Please note that the boat will pass under a waterfall, so ensure your electronics are safe in a waterproof bag. If you prefer, you will find paying lockers in the area before boarding the boat, where you can store your backpack and personal items.
Argentina side
Entrance to the train station
After showing your tickets at the entrance, you will walk straight for about 10 minutes to the train station.
Train station to Waterfalls station
You have two options from here: continue walking or take the train (the latter is included in the entrance fee).
If you choose to take the train, you must get a free ticket at the station. This ensures a first-come, first-served system. The train departs every 30 minutes.
Get off at the first stop for the upper and lower circuits, or the second stop for the devil's throat circuit.
For those who prefer to walk, follow the "Green Trail" for 650 meters to reach the Waterfalls station.
Upper and Lower Circuit
The upper circuit is 1,750 meters long and takes about 1 hour to complete.
The lower circuit is 1700 meters long and also takes about 1.5 hours to complete
Waterfalls Station to Devil's Throat Station
Once you're done exploring the upper and lower circuits, return to the Waterfalls Train Station and head towards the Devil's Throat Station.
The Devil's Throat circuit is a 2200-metre round trip and takes about 2 hours to complete. This is the closest you will be to the massive water flow of the Falls.
Beware that this part of the park gets closed when heavy rainfall causes the river to carry too much water.
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