Many people first encountered the name Iguazu in Wong Kar-wai’s mesmerizing film “Happy Together.” In the movie, the male protagonist finally reaches the breathtaking Iguazu Falls, a stunning natural wonder straddling the borders of Brazil 🇧🇷, Paraguay, and Argentina 🇦🇷.
Iguazu Falls is an awe-inspiring marvel that should be on every traveler’s bucket list in South America. Its sheer vastness has inspired both Brazil and Argentina to establish national parks to protect and showcase its beauty. If you have the time, make sure to explore both sides of this magnificent waterfall.
⭕ **Best Time to Visit**
The ideal travel window is from September to April, which corresponds to spring and summer in South America. During these months, the lush landscapes are at their peak, and the falls roar with life as water levels swell.
⭕ **Getting There**
On the Brazilian side, fly into Foz do Iguaçu (airport code IGU), or take an overnight bus from São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro for a scenic journey.
For the Argentine side, arrive at Cataratas del Iguazú Airport (airport code IGR). Both options offer convenient access to one of nature’s greatest wonders.
⭕ **Recommended Duration**
Plan for at least two days and one night to fully immerse yourself in the magic of Iguazu. Be sure to visit both the Brazilian and Argentine sides! The Brazilian trails provide sweeping panoramic views of the falls, while the Argentine side offers upper, middle, and lower trails that allow you to experience the falls up close from multiple angles. Water enthusiasts will also enjoy thrilling activities like speedboat rides through the cascading waters.
⭕ **Where to Stay**
If staying on the Argentine side, consider lodging in the nearby town and using the park shuttle buses for easy access to the falls. On the Brazilian side, accommodations near the park are recommended. I personally stayed at Hotel San Martin & Resort, located just steps away from the airport.
It’s conveniently close to both the Iguazu Falls and the Bird Park on the Brazilian side, where security is excellent and peace of mind guaranteed.
Another highlight is the luxurious Belmond Hotel das Cataratas, a Portuguese-inspired architectural gem nestled within the Brazilian park. This historic retreat was once a summer haven for royalty.
While it comes with a hefty price tag, guests enjoy exclusive early morning and late-night access to the falls—a truly unforgettable privilege.
⚠️ **Pro Tip: Don’t Miss Either Side!**
The Brazilian side delivers grand, panoramic vistas perfect for marveling at the falls’ enormity, while the Argentine side invites you to get up close and personal with roaring torrents of water. You’ll even have the chance to venture deep into the heart of the falls’ thunderous gorge!
⚠️ **Essential Packing Tip:** Wear non-slip shoes, as the trails can be extremely slippery. And don’t bother packing a raincoat—trust us, you’ll get soaked anyway thanks to the powerful spray from the massive water flow!
⚠️ **Crossing Borders Between Parks:**
At each park entrance, cross-border buses connect directly to the other side. To board, ensure your passport includes valid visas for both countries, as border checks are mandatory. Note that these buses operate on limited schedules, so double-check the return times before heading out.
⚠️ **Water Activities Galore:**
Both Brazil and Argentina offer exhilarating boat tours and rafting adventures. Due to favorable exchange rates, activities in Argentina tend to be around 30% cheaper than in Brazil. So allocate extra time on the Argentine side to explore its trails and indulge in some pulse-pounding water sports!
Now, pack your sense of adventure and head straight to Iguazu—where nature reigns supreme!
(📷 Photos 1 through 13 were captured from the Brazilian side, while photos 14 through 18 were taken from the Argentine side.)
