Iguazu waterfalls: What to do and more information
The Iguazú Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most impressive natural wonders in the world. Located on the border between Argentina and Brazil, these waterfalls offer a unique spectacle that you can not miss.
How to get to Iguazú Falls?
The most common way to get to the Falls is by plane. The nearest international airports are Puerto Iguazú (Argentina) and Foz do Iguazú (Brazil). From these airports, you can take a taxi or a bus to the national parks.
Circuits to tour the Falls
● Lower Circuit: This circuit takes you close to the base of the falls, allowing you to feel the force of the water and the humidity of the environment.
● Superior Circuit: From this circuit you will have a panoramic view of the falls, ideal for taking pictures.
● Devil's Throat: One of the most impressive waterfalls, it offers a unique experience. You actually feel the power of the water falling.
Fauna of the Iguazú Falls
The jungle surrounding the falls is home to a wide variety of animal species. You will be able to observe monkeys, toucans, coatis, alligators as well as many other species.
Iguazú Falls prices & ticket purchase
● Parque Nacional Iguazú (Argentina): ARS 35,000 for foreigners (approximately $ 26 US dollars). You can buy tickets online on the official website. You can also buy them at the park's ticket offices.
● Parque Nacional do Iguaçu (Brazil): 88 reals for Brazilians and 97 reals (approximately 18 US dollars) for foreign tourists. To purchase tickets, visit the park's official website or head to the ticket offices.
Important: Ticket prices may vary according to the season and are subject to change. We recommend checking official prices on national park websites before your trip.
What to do in Iguazú Falls?
In addition to touring the circuits and observing the fauna, you can do other activities such as:
● The Great Adventure: An exciting boat ride to the bases of the falls to feel the true power of the water. Get ready to get wet! You can buy it at the Park or in advance on the company's website.
Duration: 30 minutes, tip: have some extra clothes at hand to get changed.
Price: 70,000 Argentine pesos (approximately $ 52 US dollars)
● Macuco Trail: A walking tour through the jungle that will take you to discover the beauty of the local flora and fauna. The adventure culminates with a hike to the Arrechea Falls, where you can enjoy an impressive waterfall.
Duration: 3 hours, to travel the 7 km of extension.
● A Full Moon Walk: An unmissable experience in the Iguazú Falls is the Full Moon Walk. For five nights a month, coinciding with the full moon, a night excursion is organized that allows you to see the falls under the silver light of the moon. This tour takes place on the Argentinian side of the park and begins with a train ride to the Devil's Throat. The journey is magical, with the jungle softly illuminated by moonlight. Once on the walkway, the roar of the water and the glow of the moon over the falls create a unique and breathtaking atmosphere.
Duration: The entire experience is 2 hours. It is advisable to book in advance, as places are limited and demand is high.
Price: 85,000 Argentine pesos (approximately $63 US dollars.)
What to do in Misiones?
● Hiking: Explore the jungle trails and discover the beauty of nature.
● Visit the Jesuit ruins of San Ignacio Miní: A historical site of great cultural importance. More than three hours from Puerto Iguazú.
● Yasy Falls: A hidden wonder in the Misiones jungle. Unlike the more well-known falls, the Yasy is characterized by its more exclusive access, since it can only be reached by water. This makes it a less crowded and more intimate destination. It is located in the heart of the Misiones jungle, and you need to navigate the Paraná River and then the Yasy stream to finally get there. It is a smaller waterfall compared to the Iguazú Falls, but not less impressive. Its natural environment, surrounded by lush vegetation, makes it an ideal place to find peace and quiet, relax, and connect with nature.
● Moconá Falls: A unique geological phenomenon in the world. Unlike other waterfalls, where the water falls in the form of a cascade, the Moconá Falls form a kind of "wall of water" that extends over several kilometers. They are located on the border between Argentina and Brazil, in the province of Misiones, more than four hours away from Puerto Iguazú. The height of the falls varies according to the flow of the river.
Tips for your trip to Iguazu Falls
● Best time to visit: The dry season (from May to October) is the most recommended period to visit the falls, as there is less rain and the trails are more accessible. However, if you prefer to see them with a greater flow of water, you may consider visiting during the rainy season (from November to April), you will find a more impressive spectacle.
● Clothing and footwear: Wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for walking, such as sturdy shoes to hike the trails and enjoy the natural surroundings. If you plan to enter the waters of the Paraná jungle, it is essential to bring som extra clothes to get changed. Tip: Make sure the clothes you wear are light and quick to dry (neither jeans nor joggings), as wet clothes weigh more and can be uncomfortable if you wear them all day long. In addition, a lightweight raincoat will protect you from the splashes of the falls.
● Climate and keeping warm: The climate in the region is tropical mountain with a dry season. Temperatures vary between 75.2 ºF (24 ºC) in summer and 57.2 ºF (14 ºC) in winter, so the amount of warm clothes will depend on the season. Tip: Always wear a cap or hat to protect yourself from the Misiones sun, which can be a bit treacherous. And in the afternoons, when the temperatures drop, a light jacket or sweater will allow you to continue enjoying the tour without any setbacks.
● Protection against insects and sun: Don't forget to bring insect repellent, as the jungle is home to a great biodiversity, including mosquitoes. In addition, sunscreen is essential to avoid burns during your outdoor exploration.
● Camera: Capture the magical moments of your trip. The sights from the viewpoints are spectacular, so make sure you have enough space in your camera or phone's memory for all the pics you will want to take.
● Currency: If you plan to visit both sides of the falls (Argentina and Brazil), bring local currency from both countries, as not all places accept credit cards. In Argentina, the currency is the Argentine peso, and in Brazil, the real.
● Excursions: If you dare to go on the Great Adventure, the boat tour that takes you close to the falls is a unique experience. Just remember to bring a waterproof bag to protect your belongings, as you will almost certainly get wet.
● Hydration and snacks: Always carry drinking water to stay well hydrated during hikes. It's also advisable to bring some light snacks, such as fruits or energy bars, especially if you plan to spend the entire day exploring the park.
This set of tips will help you make the most of your visit to Iguazú Falls, enjoying every adventure to the fullest, without unpleasant surprises, you will be prepared for any situation. Have a great trip!