Located right on the border between Argentina and Brazil, one breath-taking place to visit are the Iguazu Falls. Between both sides, Iguazu Falls feature a total of 275 waterfalls, differing in height and width. Found the Niagara Falls fascinating? Here’s another Wonder of the World to blow your mind!

Best time to visit Iguazu Falls

The best time to visit Iguazu Falls is definitely the months of September and October, when the temperature is moderate, footfall is less and accommodation and touring are economical. Thus, the rainy season is the best time.

However, January and February are peak visitation months, when both Brazilians and Argentinians visit the Falls in large numbers. This, however, leads to excessive crowds. The summer months offer clear skies and high volume of water, but the hotel occupation is extremely high and the weather is immensely hot and humid.

Things to do in Iguazu Falls

The most important things to do in Iguazu Falls include visiting both the Brazilian and Argentinian sides. For this, numerous organized tours are available, such as-

  1. Puerto Iguazu- Iguazu Falls Full-Day Argentinian Tour
  2. Iguazu Falls Private Tour: Brazil and Argentinian Sides
  3. Helicopter Ride over Iguazu Falls
  4. Iguazu Falls: Gran Aventura Boat and Argentinian Falls Tour

The two sides of the fall which are must visits are as follows-

Argentinian Side

The Argentina side of the Falls feature lots of walking paths, and one can easily spend 6+ hours walking along the park. The upper and lower trails should be explored in great detail, and a train which makes 3 stops from the top to the bottom of the park is available along the trails.

This side features the following attractions:

1. Garganta del Diablo

Garganta del Diablo (The Devil’s Throat) is the main attraction of the Argentinian side of the Fall. A free train ride is offered to the Devil’s Throat Station, from where water can be seen rushing into the river from an 80-meter high sheer drop. The best time to visit Devil’s Throat is in the afternoon, when the sun rises above the Falls.

2. Nautical Adventure Boat Tour

Nautical Adventure Boat Tour is the best tour recommended for enjoying this side of the Iguazu Falls. They not only offer 4×4 Drives, but also help you get the closest to the falls as possible. It is highly advised that this Tour be booked in advance.

Brazil Side

1. Macuco Safari

Macuco Safari is a great option for providing tours on the Brazilian side of the waterfall.

2. Helicopter Rides

Helicopter Rides are also available for tourists only from the Brazilian side from the Visitor Centre, but they might be a little expensive. The duration of these rides is usually 15 minutes or so.

The end of the walking trail brings rewards in the form of an inexpensive, delicious buffet. Beware of an animal called Coati which is found here, and might try to snatch your food when you aren’t looking!

If the weather is in your favour, Argentina is the better option if the trip has a short duration. This is because the Argentinian side offers more walking paths, viewing points and up-close boat rides. The Brazilian side may be more favourable to those looking for panoramic scenes and picturesque backdrops for their pictures.

Places to Stay in Iguazu Falls

Both sides of the Iguazu Falls have two main places for accommodation- the towns of Puerto Iguazu in Argentina and Foz do Iguacu in Brazil. Both towns are located at a one-hour distance from each other, and commute can be done through bus. Foz do Iguacu has more accommodation choices, and is reasonably safer.

Puerto Iguazu provides two types of accommodations- hotels and residing within the National Park, which is extremely expensive. On the other hand, hotel recommendations include-

  • Budget Hotel: Ambay Suites and Dorms
  • Mid-Range Hotel: Selvaje Lodge Iguazu
  • Luxury Hotel: Gran Melia Iguazu

What to Pack when Visiting Iguazu Falls

As per changing weather and the area mostly remaining moist, a T-shirt and shorts are the best attire while visiting Iguazu Falls. A waterproof bag is must, for storing valuable belongings like cell phones and camera. A bug spray is an optional carry-on.

A Rain Poncho may also be carried from home or purchased upon reaching the Falls – this will help to remain dry when approaching the Falls from close quarters.

Other essentials include-

  1. Comfortable shoes (for slipper sidewalks)
  2. Sunscreen
  3. Dry Sack (for carrying everything)

Wildlife in Iguazu Falls

Wildlife in Iguazu Falls includes many native animal species like howler monkeys, toucans, capybaras, and even jaguars. Coatis are racoon-like creatures found in areas where food is available. They sure appear cute, but must not be fed or touched as they carry diseases and have sharp claws. They might prove to be dangerous.

Although it is a certified Wonder of the World, Iguazu Falls is one of the best places to visit for those in search of adventure, looking for something new. Its beauty and uniqueness can be well enjoyed if the trip is planned well in advance. Make sure that your bag pack is well equipped with all the required essentials, and you are good to go!

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