The breathtaking majesty of Iguazu Falls needs no introduction. As the widest waterfall in the world, it offers a stunning spectacle that stands as one of South America’s crown jewels and an absolute must-see for any traveler.
To experience Iguazu Falls, you can access it from either Brazil or Argentina. If entering from Brazil, your journey begins in Foz do Iguaçu, while the Argentine side requires arriving at Puerto Iguazú (Iguazu Port).
We chose the Brazilian side for our adventure, and flying is highly recommended, as most major Brazilian cities offer direct flights to Foz do Iguaçu. For those coming from Argentina, there are convenient flights available from Buenos Aires to Puerto Iguazú.
Upon landing at Foz do Iguaçu airport, you’ll encounter drivers loudly claiming to be “Uber” services outside. Ignore them—many are unlicensed, and their rates can escalate quickly. Stick with a legitimate Uber service for safety and reliability.
For accommodations, consider booking a hotel in the southern part of Foz do Iguaçu, as the falls are located in the southeastern region. For the ultimate experience, reserve a stay at the renowned Hotel das Cataratas, which sits just steps away from the falls. A night here costs approximately 600 RMB and offers unparalleled views and an unforgettable atmosphere.
If opting to stay in the city, rest assured about safety. The area boasts well-developed transportation options, including Uber and the local ride-hailing app 99, ensuring seamless travel throughout your visit.
There’s no need to join a guided tour to explore the falls. Begin your morning by taking an Uber directly to Parque das Aves, the Bird Park, where you can enjoy its wonders over the course of 1-2 hours.
The bird park is conveniently located near the entrance to the falls. Afterward, head to the Visitor Center kiosk on the left side of the entrance to purchase your tickets. Don’t worry if you don’t speak Portuguese—the ticket sellers communicate fluently in English.
Insider tip: While visiting the nearby hydroelectric plant may not be worth your time, the thrilling boat ride beneath the falls is a highlight not to be missed. Additionally, a helicopter ride offers a spectacular aerial view. Remember, each activity requires separate tickets, so keep them secure.
Once tickets are secured, follow the schedule printed on them to board the shuttle bus. The entrance is still over 10 kilometers away from the falls themselves, but the bus will first stop at the Macuco Safari station for the boat ride before continuing to the starting point of the scenic walkway, Trilha das Cataratas Brasil (located across the road from the aforementioned famous hotel).
Feel free to disembark at any stop along the way and catch the next shuttle to continue your exploration. Shuttle services run frequently, so convenience is guaranteed.
Start your adventure by heading to the scenic walkway first. Follow the crowd after getting off the bus, and you’ll find yourself walking all the way to the iconic Devil’s Throat. Be prepared for heavy mist—it’s almost guaranteed to soak your clothes—but fear not! Raincoats (capa de chuva in Portuguese) are readily available for purchase, and wearing one is highly recommended. Exploring the walkways typically takes around three hours, offering ample time to marvel at nature’s grandeur.
Once your tour concludes, make your way to the shuttle station located along the road at the end of the walkway. Hop on the shuttle traveling in the opposite direction from which you arrived, and disembark at the boat ride station.
