How to Visit the Iguazu Falls Argentina Side: A Complete Guide
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If you’re traveling to South America and want to experience one of the most breathtaking natural wonders on Earth, Iguazu Falls needs to be at the top of your list.
After visiting both the Argentinian and Brazilian sides during a three-week solo trip to Brazil, I can confidently say this is the most amazing nature experience I’ve ever had, and is one you’ll never forget!
With 275 separate waterfalls — some of which are as tall as 269 feet — surrounded by gorgeous jungle, Iguazu Falls is seriously impressive.
But considering its massive size and how it spans two countries, planning your visit might seem overwhelming — but I promise, it’s easier than you think.
We’re taking it one side at a time here, and in this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about visiting the Iguazu Falls Argentina side, from must-see viewpoints to essential logistics.
While both sides are 100% worth visiting (seriously! don’t skip either), 80% of the falls are in Argentina, meaning there’s way more to see.
Let’s get into everything you need to know to make your Iguazu Falls Argentina trip seamless and unforgettable.
(If you’re looking for more of an overview about both sides first, I recommend checking out this guide first then coming back to this one!)
Where are the Iguazu Falls?
As I mentioned, Iguazu Falls is split across two countries, Brazil and Argentina.
Puerto Iguazu is where the Argentinian side is located, and is in the northeast of the country. Foz do Iguacu, the Brazilian side, is in the southwestern state Paraná.
How to get to Puerto Iguazu
From Buenos Aires
Puerto Iguazu is 745 miles/1,200 km away from Buenos Aires,
Flying will be the fastest and most convenient, and there are several daily direct flights that take from 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours and 15 minutes total.
You can fly from Ezeiza International Airport (EZE) or Aeroparque Jorge Newbery (AEP) in Buenos Aires and land in Iguazu Falls’ airport, Cataratas del Iguazú International Airport (IGR).
Based on what I’m seeing now, a one-way flight should only set you back $24 to $62. Some random dates I’m seeing go as high as $150, but in general, it looks pretty easy to find an affordable flight.
If the dates you need to travel happen to be one of those randomly expensive days, you could also consider taking a bus from one of Buenos Aires’ three bus terminals, although based on how much longer it will take, I still don’t think it’s worth it, since the trip will be 18 to 20 hours and cost around $60 to $80 USD.
How to get to the actual falls
From Puerto Iguazu
If you’re based in Puerto Iguazu, getting to the actual entrance of the falls is super easy.
From Puerto Iguazu, you can easily take a bus for 320 pesos, which at the time of writing is just 30 cents USD (but prices in Argentina are constantly fluctuating, so don’t hold me to that!). Buses leave from the town’s terminal every 20 minutes or so, and the trip will just take around 25 minutes.
Since the park opens at 8 a.m. and can often get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays, you’ll want to aim to get the bus by 7:30 a.m. or so.
Apparently there are no ride sharing apps like Uber available in Puerto Iguazu, but you could definitely take a taxi or book with a private driver as an alternative to the bus.
Since the bus seems pretty easy and affordable, I personally feel like that’s the best choice, though.
Going with a tour is also a great option! This tour will pick you up and drop you off from your accommodation in Puerto Iguazu, so you don’t need to worry about any of the logistics. Just keep in mind that park entrance will be a separate fee.
While I don’t think a tour is necessarily needed to explore the park, it could definitely be helpful if dealing with transportation stresses you out, or if you’re traveling solo!
🏞️ Book your spot on this unforgettable full-day tour! ☀️
From Brazil
While it’s slightly more involved to visit from Brazil since you have to deal with crossing the border, it’s not at all complicated. Since Iguazu Falls is a major tourist destination, you have a few different options to easily visit the Argentina side.
The trip from Foz to Iguazu, the town in Brazil where the falls are, to the Argentina side takes roughly 1 to 1.5 hours.
I personally was based in Brazil during my trip to Iguazu Falls, so I visited the Argentina side on a tour that picked me up from my hostel in Foz do Iguacu.
This made it super easy to navigate the border crossing, as I was literally able to just sit in the bus while the guide took everyone’s passports into the immigration center to get them stamped.
The specific company I went with was booked through my hostel, but it looks pretty similar to this highly-rated option. You get picked up from your hotel in Foz and don’t have to worry about a thing.
But if you’d rather go without a tour, it should still be fairly easy.
By far the simplest way is to arrange a private driver to take you directly to the falls and then pick you up.
If you’re on a stricter budget though, there is public transportation that can get you across the border. It involves a few more steps, so just give yourself some extra time to figure everything out.
Both Rio Uruguay and Crucero del Norte buses operate across the border, and buses should come every 20 minutes or so, but I’ll just say that being late is definitely not unheard of.
The whole thing shouldn’t cost more than a few dollars.
- You’ll first take a 10 to 20 minute bus ride to Brazilian immigration (you will need to ask to be dropped off there), where you will get your passport stamped. Your first bus will most likely not wait for you, so definitely keep your original receipt!
- The next bus will take you another 10 minutes to the Argentinian immigration center, where you’ll have to get your passport stamped again.
- You should be able to get back on the same bus again, and then go another 20 minutes or so to the park entrance.
Park details
The national park is open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., with last entry at 4:30 p.m.
Keep in mind that prices can supposedly fluctuate a lot, and the exchange rate is also constantly updating. But at the time of writing, an adult foreigner ticket is $45,000 pesos, which is currently $42.12 USD.
Tickets can be purchased online ahead of time, or at the park entrance.
You’re allowed to bring food into the park, but there are some options within the park, including a buffet-style restaurant, Restaurant la Selva, near the park entrance, as well as a food court in the Visitor Center, plus some other kiosks and cafes throughout the park, where you can expect to find things like sandwiches and empanadas.
I ate at the food court, and found it kind of overpriced and meh for what it was, but that’s what I’d expect from a park food court.
There are also lockers near the Iguazu park entrance that you can pay for in the gift shop.
What to see in Iguazu Falls, Argentina side
Although the Brazilian side is technically bigger, the Argentina side has way more that’s open to tourists. Here, there are a few different circuits you can check out.
All in all, you’ll want to plan to spend around five to seven hours in the park, or longer if you’d like to go on a boat trip. Sadly, I skipped this due to time, but I would 100% do this if I’m able to visit again.
I manage to get myself a bit lost literally everywhere I go, but trails are all well-marked, so don’t worry.
Upper circuit
The upper circuit, also referred to as the superior circuit, gives you amazing views from above. Definitely don’t skip it!
You won’t see the main event, the Devil’s Throat waterfall (more on that in a second) but you’ll see a bunch of other impressive waterfalls, including a panoramic view at the end that includes both the Brazilian and Argentinian sides.
There are no stairs and the whole path is flat, and takes around two hours to complete, but I would say that it took me around an hour-and-a-half or so. Along the way, you’ll see some other nature scenes, that are nice, but I wasn’t all that impressed. But once you get to the final part — wow — seeing these giant waterfalls from above is really crazy.
I personally started with this one, then went to the lower circuit, and ended with Devil’s Throat. I think any order you want to explore is totally fine!
Lower circuit
This path takes you through the jungle, with a chance to see a lot more of Iguazu Falls’ surrounding natural beauty.
This will also take around two hours, and culminates with a panoramic view. But keep in mind that this path is considered a bit more difficult, since it involves some stairs and a steep path.
I found that this one was a little less crowded than the Upper Circuit, and it takes you kind of within the falls as opposed to overtop it.
If you don’t have time for everything, some people say the Upper Circuit is better than this one, but I don’t really know if I agree! Being on top of the waterfalls is really jaw-dropping, but feeling almost immersed by the waterfalls, surrounded by forests, with rainbows running across the falls, was also just super special.
Devil’s Throat
Now, this is what you really don’t want to miss! Iguazu is full of massive waterfalls, but this is the biggest and best.
Apparently, it’s as tall as a 30-story building, and there’s enough water to fill six Olympic-sized swimming pools in just one minute — which is crazy to think about. Here, you’re really going to feel the mist on your face, you’ll hear a powerful rushing sound like no other, and you may even see a rainbow or two.
On the Argentinian side, you’re overlooking the waterfall, which is really an awe-inspiring experience.
To get here, you can either follow a trail, which is a flat path that would take about two hours round-trip, or take the ecological train, which we’ll talk more about in a moment.
But you’ll want to get on the train that’s specifically for the Devil’s Throat, or “La Garganta del Diablo.” I didn’t take it, but it apparently stops every 15 minutes. You’ll then have to follow a short walkway up to the viewing platform.
Macuco Trail
This 4.7-mile round-trip trail leads you through more nature, including plants that you can’t see elsewhere in the park. It takes about three hours total, and leads you to a 65 ft-tall waterfall, Arrechea.
I didn’t have time to make it on this one, but it’s supposedly nice if you’re more into hiking and want to get away from the crowds. It’s also your best chance of seeing more wildlife.
Tren de la Selva
In all honesty, I had no idea this train existed when I visited for some reason, but apparently it’s free with your ticket, so oops.
It has three different stations — at the entrance, then at Estacion de las Cataratas, where you can access the Upper and Lower circuits, and at Devil’s Throat trail.
It seems like a great option if you’re sick of walking everywhere, which is definitely possible considering how big the park is, or you just want to save yourself some time. Apparently it stops every 15 to 30 minutes.
Green Trail
This is a super short trail that just leads from the Visitor Center to the Cataratas train station, and connects the lower and upper circuits.
Honestly, I don’t think I was even aware of this trail when I visited, but I’m mentioning it so you can have the full picture!
Boat ride
This looks like such a fun experience! I didn’t get to do this — I honestly didn’t want to spend the extra money or figure out what to do with my camera when I was there (now I know that there are lockers!). Plus since I visited on a tour, I was more restricted on time
But I’m lowkey jealous of everyone who has.
It looks like different companies run various boat tours, with a big price range. Some tours are $200 to $300, but they also include everything like a full-day trip to the park and transportation, so maybe that makes sense for you, but it still seems a bit steep to me.
Others that I found don’t list clear prices on their site.
This company currently offers the best price I can find — two-hour boat tours are $75,000 pesos, which is currently $69.71 USD. If you know of a better option, let me know though!
Wildlife in Iguazu
All kinds of wildlife call Iguazu Falls home, from tapirs, to giant anteaters, howler monkeys, ocelots, jaguars and caymans (which are similar to alligators).
It’s said that in total, around 2,000 species of plants, 400 species of birds like Chestnut-eared aracari, toucans, and the colorful Green-headed tanager, and up to 80 different mammals live around here.
Considering how many people will be out and about at Iguazu, I definitely wouldn’t expect to see most of these, apart from some birds, monkeys, and notably, coatis.
The first and only time I’ve seen these furry raccoon-like animals was at this park, and they were definitely way too comfortable around humans. Of course, if you do see any coatis or other animals, don’t try to touch or feed them!
But if you want your best shot at seeing some more wildlife, definitely consider exploring Macuco Trail.
How to get to the Brazilian side
First things first, definitely check out this guide about the Brazil side with all the details you’ll need for visiting.
But basically, your options are to hire a private driver (super easy since the driver can help you with the immigration/border crossing situation — but definitely not the cheapest) or to take a Rio Uruguay bus for a few dollars.
You’ll have to take one bus to the immigration checkpoint, then take a separate bus or just Uber to the park entrance.
If the idea of all of this is stressful to you, you can also take a tour! Like I said, this is what I did in the reverse, when I wanted to come from Brazil to the Argentinian side for the day.
This tour will take you from Puerto Iguazu to Brazil for a half-day tour, which is definitely enough time to explore the Brazilian side.
Where to stay in Puerto Iguazu
Puerto Iguazu has a ton of different options, depending on your price range and what you’re looking for. Here are some that all look like amazing choices, aren’t crazy expensive, and have all-around great reviews.
$ – HOSTEL IGUAZU FALLS
This cute and cozy hostel looks like the perfect choice for budget travelers. There’s a pool and outdoor space with hammocks, and there are beds in shared dorms as well as private rooms with private bathrooms available.
This hostel has lots of positive reviews, especially when it comes to the staff, the location close to lots of food options and the bus station, and overall value for the money.
🌴 Hammocks, a pool, and friendly staff — this hostel is a budget traveler’s dream. Grab your bed (or private room!) while it’s still available.
$$ – RINCÓN ESCONDIDO B&B
This bed and breakfast looks so peaceful and secluded. It really seems like the perfect place to recharge after exploring Iguazu.
It’s rated an amazing 9.4 on Booking with nearly 1,000 ratings, and reviewers especially love the breakfast and how kind and helpful the hosts are! All rooms also have A/C and private bathrooms, and there’s also a swimming pool, a garden, and free bicycles.
🌿 Escape the crowds and wake up to a peaceful garden view at Rincón Escondido B&B — a top-rated stay with rave reviews for its breakfast and hosts.
$$$ – HOTEL SAINT GEORGE
Wow, this place looks stunning. This is your spot if you’re looking for a place that pulls out all the stops, with amenities like two different pools and spa facilities.
A buffet breakfast at its onsite restaurant is included with your stay, and it’s included close to other restaurants as well as the bus station that will take you to the falls.
Of its nearly 4,000 reviews, past guests especially love the location, the breakfast and onsite restaurant, and overall comfort. They also love the pool!
🌟 Want a stunning hotel that past guests can’t stop raving about? Book Hotel Saint George now for an unforgettable experience near the falls.
If you’re considering staying on the Brazil side, I’ve got a few great options for you in this Iguazu Falls hotel guide (plus more detail about the places I mentioned above).
What to pack for Iguazu Falls
- Water shoes or sneakers – Although there were some points on the Argentina side that involved stairs or a bit of incline, it definitely wasn’t intense enough to warrant hiking boots or anything like tha. I personally just wore my regular sneakers, but water shoes would also suffice, as long as you’re okay with your feet possibly getting dirty from any muddy areas.
- Athletic clothing – Definitely prioritize comfy clothes that you don’t mind getting wet. If you’re going on a boat ride, you may even want to pack an extra change of clothes and a bathing suit.
- Sunscreen – Enough said, but you’ll be outside all day, so definitely protect yourself!
- Insect repellant – I’m perpetually attacked by bugs whenever I travel, and I somehow didn’t have much of a problem with this here, but I’ve definitely heard differently from other travelers. You’ll be outside and in nature, so it’s a good idea to have.
- Snacks and water – You can purchase snacks and water throughout the park, but if you’re looking to save some money, you can bring food into the park.
- Camera – As one of the most amazing waterfalls in the world, definitely take some photos!
- Camera protector – On that note, you do want to keep your camera safe from water! I skipped a boat ride that would take you directly underneath the falls so I wasn’t too worried, but there were a couple points where the water was spraying a lot so I kept my camera away for a bit. A protector would solve this problem, although I still wouldn’t trust it on a boat ride, tbh, and I would definitely want a waterproof bag as well or just keep things in a locker.
- Water poncho – I didn’t bring this and didn’t mind getting wet, especially since I visited during the summer, but this would definitely be a good idea if you don’t feel the same.
- Waterproof bag – You’ll definitely want a waterproof bag to protect your things at certain points when there’s a lot of water spraying.
Best time to visit
If you ask me, any time’s a good time!
If you’re like me and don’t mind the heat and humidity, you would be okay visiting during the summertime. I was there in January when it was very hot and humid, but the mist from the falls and lots of shade from the trees made it bearable.
This is generally a rainier time of year so you do run that risk, but the benefit is that the falls are even more impressive during this time. But since it’s a subtropical climate, the difference in rain throughout the year honestly isn’t huge.
Although this is considered a busy time, it honestly wasn’t a problem when I went.
But your best bet, regardless of what time of year you visit, is to plan your trip for a weekday that isn’t a public holiday.
In general, shoulder season — April, May, September, and October — is considered a great time to visit, for less crowds and more moderate temperatures.
South America’s winter, June through August, typically sees temperatures from the 50s to 70s F, so just bring some layers if you visit then.
Schools typically have off for winter break the second half of July, so keep this in mind.
How long to spend in Iguazu Falls
I would definitely recommend dedicating two full days to explore the falls. The Brazil side is smaller, so you only need two to three hours or so, while the Argentina side is larger and you could easily spend a few hours here.
Some people try to fit both sides into one day, and you’ll see many tours offering full-day excursions covering both sides, but I think this is doing yourself a disservice.
By packing them both into one day, you’ll just end up 1) exhausting yourself and 2) rushing through everything.
You came all this way to see a world wonder, so at the very least, enjoy it as much as you can!
And if you’re not yet convinced if you really have to visit both sides — yes, you really do! Both sides are insanely beautiful and just offer different experiences.
Of course, you could always extend your trip even longer, too. I didn’t have time to see everything on the Argentina side during my one day, so giving yourself a second day would allow you to take even more time and really see it all. You can also just explore more of the area around Puerto Iguazu, if you wanted.
What else to do around Puerto Iguazu
The best known excursions apart from the falls are technically on the Brazil side: there’s a bird sanctuary, Parque das Aves, as well as seeing Marco das Três Fronteiras, where you can see the borders of Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay all at once.
If you’re looking to explore more of the Argentina area, however, Jardin de los Picaflores, is a hummingbird garden close to downtown Puerto Iguazu. It’s open Mondays through Saturdays and costs around $5 to $7 USD.
Visiting a Guarani (the Indigenous group local to the area) village is another idea that honestly looks like an amazing experience. I didn’t have time to explore more beyond the falls when I was here, but I would love to do this in the future!
Comunidad Jasy Porã is located right in Puerto Iguazu, and if you speak Spanish, you can take a guided tour of the village for a few dollars.
The Iguazu Falls also has an interesting Jesuit history that can be explored here. Several missions were built in the 17th and 18th centuries, and today, are an UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You can visit as part of a day trip along with the Wanda Mines — like I said, I didn’t get to do this, but it seems like a really cool way to learn more about the area’s history, and explore beyond just the falls!
Final thoughts: Is Iguazu Falls worth it?
This should probably go without saying, but if you’re still not convinced you need to visit Iguazu Falls, then let me give you a bit more encouragement.
Whether it’s part of a bigger trip through Brazil, you’re planning to visit Buenos Aires, or even if you’re considering making this the one stop on your itinerary … do it!
Its landscapes are truly unforgettable. I still love looking at my photos from both sides and feeling disbelief that I literally went there and saw them in person???
And although this guide was pretty long, it’s just because I wanted to give you all the information you could possibly need. Hopefully you’re now feeling pretty confident that visiting the Argentina side, regardless of if you’ll be based in Argentina or Brazil, is super easy and doable.
Let me leave you with one more reminder — I’ve already said this, but don’t skip the Brazil side either! Because these posts would just be absurdly long if I tried to combine everything, you can find everything you need to know about visiting Iguazu Falls’ Brazil side here.
Head to one of these guides next:
- How to Visit Iguazu Falls (Argentina + Brazil Guide) — start here for an overview of both sides, how to visit, etc.
- How to Visit the Iguazu Falls Argentina Side: A Complete Guide — here, I break down allll the details about the Argentina side, including how to visit depending on which side you’re based on, all the trails to see, and so on.
- Brazil Side of Iguazu Falls: What to Know Before You Go — everything you need to know about the Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls!
- Where to Stay in Iguazu Falls — I’ve got a few amazing options for you on both sides of the falls in this guide, ranging from budget to more luxury (but still affordable!).
If you’re looking for more inspiration for your South America trip, head to one of these guides next:
