Iguazu Falls lies in Iguazú National Park in Misiones province, Argentina, near Puerto Iguazú. UNESCO lists it as a World Heritage Site, and it is counted among the seven natural wonders. You can see the falls from the Argentine and the Brazilian side. Walkways take you out over the rivers and to the edge of the water, and the Devil's Throat is the most powerful viewpoint. Boat rides run beneath the falls on both sides. Jaguars, howler monkeys and colorful birds live in the park, so keep an eye on the trees as you walk.
The park and the two sides
Iguazu Falls sits inside Iguazú National Park, in the province of Misiones. The area around Puerto Iguazú is one of the most visited destinations in Argentina. The falls are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are counted among the seven natural wonders.
The falls can be seen from both Argentina and Brazil, and the two sides give different views. On the Argentine side you walk on catwalks above the rivers and waterfalls and look at the falls from their tops. There is more walking here than on the Brazilian side. The Brazilian side is known for its panoramic views, with many spots for photos.
One visitor's advice is to do Brazil first and Argentina second. Most tours go in the opposite order, so the Argentine side is quieter after the Brazilian side.
Walking to the Devil's Throat
The Devil's Throat is the main attraction and the one most visitors remember. On the Argentine side, a train carries you to the start of the trail, and from there you walk out on a bridge to the viewpoint. The bridge is safe, with benches in a couple of places where you can sit and rest. Go here first, since the walk is long enough that you may not feel like doing much afterward.
On the Brazilian side, the Trilha das Cataratas follows the Iguaçu River for 1,200 meters and ends at the Garganta do Diabo, the Brazilian name for the same spot. To reach it, take the national park bus to the third stop, at the Belmond Hotel das Cataratas, where the trail starts.
Expect spray at the Devil's Throat. A raincoat helps, and so does a waterproof case for your phone. On the Brazilian side there is an elevator to the highest viewpoint, and the wait for it can be long. A few spots on the walkways are high, so tell yourself beforehand if heights bother you.
Boat rides under the falls
Boat trips run on both sides and take you very close to the water. A boat carries around ten people, and you will get soaked. You are given a fully waterproof bag for your belongings, so wear a swimsuit and flip flops. The crew stops so you can take photos and video, then asks you to put phones away before you go under the falls.
The two boarding points differ. On the Argentine side you walk many steps up and down to reach the boat. On the Brazilian side an elevator makes the access easier.
Boat rides are not the only way to see the falls. You can also walk the trails or book a helicopter tour. Many guided tours around Puerto Iguazú last several days.
Wildlife on the trails
The park is home to jaguars, howler monkeys and colorful birds. The trails are well kept and easy to walk, so you can look into the trees without watching your step every minute. Dogs are allowed according to the park's facilities information, and there are kid-friendly hikes.
If you are traveling with a wheelchair, the entrance, restrooms and parking lot are accessible.
Seeing both sides from Puerto Iguazú
Many visitors stay in Puerto Iguazú and visit the Argentine and Brazilian sides on separate trips. To cross the border you need your passport and proof of where you are staying, such as the hotel tax payment. A private taxi makes the crossing easy and will wait while you tour the falls. One visitor found little border traffic outside the high season.
The weather matters. In August, temperatures are lower and crowds thinner. In heat and humidity, with many people on the walkways, the visit is harder.
FAQ
Can I visit the falls from both Argentina and Brazil?
Yes. From Puerto Iguazú you can go to both sides. Carry your passport and proof of where you are staying, such as the hotel tax payment.
Which side should I visit first?
One visitor recommends starting with the Brazilian side, so the Argentine side has fewer people. Most tours do the opposite order. The Argentine side has more walking and the views from the top.
How do I get to the Devil's Throat?
On the Argentine side a train takes you to the start of the trail, and then you walk across a bridge with benches. On the Brazilian side, take the park bus to the third stop, at the Belmond Hotel das Cataratas, then follow the 1,200 m Trilha das Cataratas to the Garganta do Diabo.
What should I bring for the boat ride?
Wear a swimsuit and flip flops, since you will get soaked. You are given a waterproof bag for your belongings. Bring a raincoat and a waterproof phone case for the Devil's Throat walkway.
Is the park accessible?
The entrance, restrooms and parking lot are wheelchair accessible. The walking paths are easy, and there are kid-friendly hikes.
