Iguazú National Park
Iguazú National Park is one of the most stunning and interesting parks in South America. Located close to the triple border of Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina, the park spans more than 670 sq. km and offers visitors breathtaking views, access to majestic nature and an abundance of activities. Along with its sister park, Iguaçu in Brazil, it is home to one of the world’s greatest natural wonders, the magnificent Iguazú Falls. From stunning scenery to powerful waterfalls, a Iguazu Falls tour is perfect for anyone looking to combine incredible nature with adventure and excitement.
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Things to do in Iguazú National Park
1. Experience Iguazú Falls
The Iguazú Falls are the centerpiece of Iguazú National Park. Located on the Argentinean border with Brazil, the falls are a chain of hundreds of waterfalls spanning nearly 3 km and ranging in height from 60 to 82 meters. Majestic and magnificent, the Iguazú Falls are the largest waterfall system in the world. Many catwalks and viewpoints are situated along the falls and across the river, giving visitors spectacular views of these awe-inspiring and powerful chutes.
2. Stare down the Devil’s Throat
The Devil’s Throat or ‘Garganta del Diablo’ is the main attraction and the area’s largest waterfall. This curved cascade is home to 14 waterfalls that drop from a height of more than 100 meters. Nearly 50% of the entire fall’s flow runs through this section, letting out a deep roar and an impressive amount of mist. Experience the power of the Devil’s Throat by walking the 1 km elevated catwalk near the upper edge of the falls. Prepare to get wet!
3. Take a boat ride
Boat tours are available in the park and give visitors the unique chance to experience the full force of the falls from a different angle. Sit back, relax and learn more about the history of the park and its flora and fauna as you cruise around the Iguazu river and through some of the smaller falls. Then, be prepared to get wet as your cruise captain takes you through rapids and mist as you come face to face with these gushing giants.
4. Kayaking and rafting
Spend a beautiful sunny day exploring the Iguazu river by kayak or raft. Paddle by some of the smaller falls as you make your way through the forest. When the conditions are right, you can even hop out of your boat and test the waters yourself by swimming up to and under the water streams.
5. Hiking
There are five main tracks that run through Iguazú National Park, making it perfect for hiking. The trails are paved and well marked, and they vary in length and difficulty giving hikers of all abilities a chance to see a different side of the park. Heading out onto the trails is also the best way to see some of the rare and endangered species that call the park home.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Iguazú National Park is from March to April, as well as August to September. During these periods you will encounter the most pleasant and comfortable conditions. Temperatures range from 25° to 30° C and periods of rain are infrequent. Most trails and lookouts will be open and accessible giving visitors access to the full park experience.
It’s best to avoid the park from December through February as the weather is hot, humid and wet, and the park attracts large crowds on summer holidays. During this time, river levels also rise making certain trails, lookouts and parts of the park inaccessible to visitors.
How to get there
The closest airport to Iguazú National Park is Cataratas de Iguazú International Airport (IGR) which is located 25 km from the city of Iguazú.
From the city, the easiest and fastest way to get to Iguazú National Park is by bus. Buses run to the entrance of the falls every 30 minutes throughout the day and the trip costs just USD 4*.
It is also possible to make a bus journey from Buenos Aires to Iguazu National Park but takes from 16 to 18 hours. You can also join a multi-day tour to Iguazu National Park from Buenos Aires via bus.
Recommended length of stay
It is possible to visit the park and see the falls as a one-day Iguazu Falls trip; however, to make the most of the park and all of its many activities and attractions, we recommend you spend two days. From hikes and boat rides to seeing the falls, one day just isn’t enough to experience it all. Plan to spend two days in the park immersing yourself in this stunning natural environment.
Accommodation types available
Accommodations are limited within the park. Only two hotels operate in the park within walking distance of the falls. Both offer spectacular views of the falls, but at a high price.
A large number and range of accommodation types can be found in the nearby town of Puerto Iguazú. Transportation between the town and falls is convenient as buses run frequently throughout the day.
Permits
There are no permits to visit the park; however, you will be required to pay an entrance fee. Admission to the park varies on your country of origin. Visitors from the U.S., Europe, and Asia can expect to pay USD 25*. Local residents from Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay and Venezuela will pay less.
Admissions fees must be paid in Argentine pesos. Although credit cards are accepted in other areas of the park, they are not an accepted method of payment for the admission fee.
Save 50% off the price of admission on the second day of your visit by getting your ticket stamped as you leave.
Good to know
- Park opens at 8:00, closes at 18:00; the latest you can enter is 16:30.
- Swimming is possible under certain falls. Bring a bathing suit and ask a guide which of the waterfalls are safe for swimming.
- Be prepared to get wet. Wear waterproof clothing and protect your camera as it will get wet at some of the viewpoints or on boat rides.
Iguazú National Park is one of the most stunning and interesting parks in South America. Its dynamic landscape of magnificent waterfalls and thick forests have something to attract, entertain and inspire awe in any visitor.
*Note: Prices are as of March 2018.
