The Ultimate Guide for Visiting Iguazu Falls in Argentina in 2023 (2024)

What is Special About Iguazu Falls in Argentina?

You may be wondering- which side of Iguazu Falls is better to visit? Well, we love both. However, Iguazu Falls in Argentina have a special place in our heart, and have become one of our more frequented spots in 2023 for a good reason!

Not only are they absolutely breathtaking to visit, but there are several ways to explore them and activities to do there.

Another perfect excuse for visiting is to save money! Wondering what the hell we're talking about? Make sure to check out our article for how we get cheap flights to and from the US and Argentina.

Iguazu Falls is one of the most beautiful set of waterfalls in the world.

Where are Iguazu Falls in Argentina?

Iguazu Falls are located along the border of Argentina and Brazil, and are actually shared by both countries! Iguazu Falls are in the north east of Argentina, and are tucked away in the corner where there is a triple border between Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay, making it easily accessible from all three countries.

Iguazu Falls is in the corner of Argentina, bordering Brazil and Paraguay.

Can You Cross from Argentina to Brazil at Iguazu Falls?

Because Iguazu Falls are shared by both countries, the park is actually divided in two. You can visit Iguazu Falls in Argentina, and Iguazu Falls in Brazil, but not exactly at the same time. This is because they are actually two separate parks! You cannot cross from Argentina to Brazil at Iguazu Falls Park, but must cross the border outside the park. (We'll cover this more in the section of "Entry Requirements".

Entry Requirements for Argentina

Being that the falls are located in two countries, it makes it very confusing to see both sides! We've done the trip going from Brazil to Argentina, Argentina to Brazil, and Argentina to Brazil and back, so have the info for all possible routes.

Brazil doesn't require you to go through customs if you are just doing a day trip to their falls. However, Argentina always requires you to go through customs if you are coming from Brazil, which is why there are long lines for going to and coming from Iguazu Falls in Argentina. This is where crossing the border by foot was an ideal option, because we skipped the potential one hour line.

That being said, you'd have to be ready to hitchhike between the borders, or do the 40 minute walk between the two.

Visa Entry Requirements for Argentina

If you are from the Mercosur region, you will only need to present your ID, while any other nationality will have to present their passport.

Argentina is quite welcoming to foreigners, and don't really give you a hard time while crossing the land border. We never had them go through our belongings, or ask many questions. As long as you are visiting for less than 3 months, customs quick and painless.

Covid Entry Requirements for Argentina

All requirements in regards to Covid-19 have now been lifted. It's important to note though, that Brazil requires your vaccination card still! So if you are planning on also visiting Brazil (for more than a day trip) you'll need to carry this with you.

Entering the Park of Iguazu Falls in Argentina: Prices & Timetable

The park of Iguazu Falls on the Argentinian side opens at 8 am, and closes at 6 pm. You should book tickets online in advance, as they are 15% cheaper, and you can avoid lines.

How Much are Tickets to Iguazu Falls in Argentina?

Here are the ticket Prices for Iguazu Falls in Argentina:

* Tickets to Iguazu Falls in Argentina are 50% off on your second day visit

Parking Prices for Iguazu Falls in Argentina:

Cars: 750 pesos

Vans: 1,125 pesos

Buses: 1,500 pesos

Scooter and Motorcycles: 375 pesos

Local vehicles: 375 pesos

It's almost important to note that each trail closes at different times. So just because you are in the park doesn't mean you can start a trail at whatever time you want. This is to ensure that everyone finishes the trails in time, and everyone is out of the park by 6 pm.

* Keep in mind that there is huge inflation in Argentina, so prices change quite often.

You can buy tickets at the ticket office on site, but it is cheaper to purchase tickets online.

Here are the hours for each trail:

Upper Trail: 4:00 pm (we've seen them close it as late at 4:30, but it's better to get there earlier)

Lower Trail: 4:00 pm (we've seen them close it as late at 4:45, but it's better to get there earlier)

Garganta del Diablo: 3:10 pm

Macuco Trail: 2:45 pm

Last Boat Ride: 3:00 pm

Keep in mind we'll dive deeper into the details for each trail in the following section.

Each trail has a different closing time.

A Guide for Iguazu Falls in Argentina: Things to Do While Visiting the Park

Now that you know the basics for getting to and adjusting to Iguazu Falls in Argentina, let's jump into the fun stuff! Here is everything you need to know for visiting the Argentinian side of Iguazu Falls.

Can You Swim in Iguazu Falls?

Iguazu Falls can be enjoyed in so many different ways! Unfortunately, swimming in the falls is not one of them. While Brazil only has one trail to enjoy the falls, Iguazu Falls in Argentina can be admired from all different angles, with a variety of trails to choose from. We've done every single one, so are going to share all you need to know for a day at Iguazu Falls in Argentina.

You cannot swim in Iguazu Falls in Argentina or Brazil.

Navigating the Park of Iguazu Falls in Argentina

The park of Iguazu is huge, but not too difficult to navigate. As soon as you walk in you'll find one path that leads to the first information booth. After 5-10 of walking you'll find an area with souvenir shops, handmade crafts, and some cafes for snacks and drinks. After waking through this area, you'll then find the Central Station, which is where you decide which direction you want to go to start the different trails.

There are plenty of maps with everything that you can find in the park.

The Different Trails at Iguazu Falls in Argentina:

There are 4 different trails that you can enjoy while at Iguazu Falls in Argentina, all about a 10 minute walk from the entrance of the park. There actually used to be one or two more, but they have been closed due to safety. Here are the different trails that you can do.

Upper Circuit

The upper circuit is another 5-10 minute walk from the Central Station, and allows you to walk along the top of the falls, which is super powerful! The trail takes about an hour in total, with several platforms and stops for photos. It allows you to walk along the falls, and then the last 10-15 minutes are just circling back to the beginning (the trail is just one way).

You'll find a photographer at one of the most popular viewpoints, and a small souvenir stand at one of the others. The trail is very easy, and is along flat metal walkways.

Lower Circuit

The lower circuit starts right next to the area that the upper circuit starts, and is a loop that allows you to see the falls from a bit further down below, and have spectacular panoramas of the falls. This trail takes around 45 minutes to complete, and finishes with a set of smaller falls.

There is one small platform that has been temporarily closed due to the giant storm that destroyed it. It was supposedly supposed to be fixed by March (just like Garganta del Diablo) but it was still closed when we visited in Mid March. They estimate that it will take a few more weeks, so surely by May it should be open again.

Garganta del Diablo (Devil's Throat)

If you're going to do one trail in Iguazu Falls in Argentina, then make sure it is this one! Garganta del Diablo translates to "the Devil's Throat", and let's you get up close to the most powerful set of falls in the park.

Garganta del Diablo has a set of 14 waterfalls, and is truly spectacular. In order to get here you will have to take a train for 15 minutes, or you can walk (although it would take around 45 minutes to do so).

In order to get to Garganta del Diablo you'll need to take a train.

The first train goes at 8:30 am, and when we went it was completely packed. We got off the train as fast as we could and ran the entire metal platform to the end to reach there before all the huge tour groups.

It takes about 15-20 minutes to walk, and we got there in 5-10 running. There is a professional photographer there taking pictures, but you are also free to take your own equipment. It's important to note that every few minutes a gust of wind an absolutely soak you! So be very careful with your equipment, don't wear light colors, and bring a poncho or umbrella if you don't want to get wet.

Trains going back run every half hour. We would say on average the entire experience of going to Garganta del Diablo takes about 2 hours to complete.

Macuco Trail

We saved Macuco for last, because it's a long trail, and only leads to one waterfall. The trail is 3 km to a viewpoint, and takes about 45 minutes walking through a dirt trail in the jungle. The viewpoint brings you to a fork where you can admire the waterfall from above, or go down a couple sets of stairs to reach the waterfall itself (it only takes a few minutes).

This area is nice because it escapes the crowds, and is kind of a "hidden gem" in the park. While we wouldn't necessarily prioritize it, we did enjoy visiting it. Make sure to bring sunscreen and a hat, as there is little to no shade along the way.

Boat Rides at Iguazu Falls in Argentina

One of our favorite things to do at Iguazu Falls in Argentina is taking one of the different boat rides offered. There are three different rides that you can choose from:

Gran Aventura

This is the number one boat ride to take at Iguazu Falls in Argentina. This 2 hour and 15 minute excursion takes you on a 20 minute safari ride through the jungle, and then a boat ride that takes you up close to the falls, and even through them! You'll get absolutely soaked by the falls, so make sure to wear a bathing suit, and bring a waterproof camera or waterproof phone pouch.

Don't worry about the rest of you belongings, because they will give you a dry bag to keep everything safe while you are on the boat.

Travesia Iguazu

Want to see the falls but not get soaked? Y0u can also take a boat ride that allows you to see the falls from further away, instead of going under them. This costs 7,000 pesos, and also has a 20% discount for those that are handicapped, nationals. provincials, or anyone between the ages of 7-16 (you must be at least 7 years old to do this activity).

Travesia Iguazu is good for those that want to see the falls from the water without getting wet.

Paseo Ecologico

Here's another great boat ride to take while visiting Iguazu Falls in Argentina. However, this ride isn't to the falls, but is actually the opposite way. It goes down the Iguazu river, letting you enjoy the surrounding nature, as well as a few smaller falls. It drops you right in the center of Puerto Iguazu, allowing you to skip the 45 minute bus ride, and enjoy a nice relaxing ride after a long day in the park.

Before the boat rides you'll have a 20 minute safari truck ride through the jungle.

This boat ride goes just once a day a 4:00 pm. It starts with a 20 minute safari ride through the jungle, and sails into the city center around 6 pm. Tickets are 4,000 pesos, with a 20% discount for those that are handicapped, nationals. provincials, or anyone between 7-16 (you must be at least 7 years old to do this activity).

Full Moon Walk

Another super special thing to experience at Iguazu Falls in Argentina is the full moon walk, which is a 2 1/2 hour excursion visiting Garganta del Diablo at night. This happens only 5 days each month, around the full moon, in 3 different sessions. Tickets for the Full Moon walk are 18,500 pesos for adults, 9,250 pesos for children 6-12, and free of charge for children 5 and under. The times are 7:45 pm, 8:30 pm, and 9:25 pm each of the five nights, and are guided tours.

Want to include dinner? You can upgrade your ticket for a dinner at La Selva restaurant for 5,600 pesos for adults, and 2,800 pesos for children.

Bonus: The Lighthouse

While it's not a big attraction, you will notice that in the middle of park between trails is a light house! You can't go inside anymore, but it's still cool to walk by.

Other Things to Do Near Iguazu Falls in Argentina

Now that you know everything to do in the park of Iguazu Falls Argentina, here are a few other things that you can do during your stay!

Go to a Dinner with a Tango Show

One of the most popular activities for foreigners (especially Brazilians) is to go to the Argentinian side to experience the famous tango dinner show in Iguazu. Madero is a special show where you can eat and drink for a fixed price, all while enjoying Argentinian tango.

This is also located in Buenos Aires, so if you don't get the chance to do it in Iguazu, you can also add this to your list of things to do while visiting the Argentinian capital.

Drink at the Ice Bar

Another fun activity in Puerto Iguazu is to visit the ice bar. Just a 5-10 minutes outside the center of town is a bar completely made of ice! Hang out in a bar 10 degrees below zero with ice sculptures, music, and unlimited drinks. You'll be given a large jacket and gloves, so you can stay nice and cozy. Just make sure to bring socks and shoes, so that your feet don't freeze!

Time slots are a half hour, and start every hour from 2 pm to 11 pm. Tickets are 3,300 pesos for adults 2,800 pesos for minors and Argentinian adults, and 2,500 pesos for kids 6-11 (kids under 6 are not allowed).

Visit the Triple Border

Remember how we mentioned that Iguazu is shared by Brazil and Argentina? Well there is actually a border which is shared by Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay. Just a 15-20 minute walk from the center of Puerto Iguazu you can enjoy a beautiful view of the point that all three countries meet! Pretty cool right?

Visit the Triple Frontera to be able to see three countries at once.

Iguazu Falls in Argentina: Amentities at the Park

Now that you know everything to do at Iguazu Falls in Argentina, let's cover the different amenities that the park offers.

Bathrooms & Showers

There are several areas with bathrooms throughout the park. You can find bathrooms at the entrance of the park, at the Central Station, at the Train Station, and near the main restaurant on site.

At the Central Station you'll also find outdoor showers. It was who hot out that I ended up using this shower just to cool off before and after doing the Macuco trail (it's right outside the start of the trail).

Water Fountains

There are several taps that are places around the park, and you can easily fill up your water bottles at them. There are also a few shops and cafes that you can purchase water at if you prefer drinking bottled water.

Souvenirs

Right after the visitors center you'll find a few different souvenir shops, as well as an artisan market where locals sell their handicrafts. For the handicrafts make sure to bring cash, and you can use a credit card if you wish in the shops (although we always recommend using cash in Argentina).

Photo Packages

Scattered throughout the park you'll find professional photographers offering to take your photos. They are places in the best photo spots around the park, ad have ladders so that they can take pictures from a better angle with the falls for you.

If you'd like to purchase a photo, you can do so on your way out of the park, for 3,000 pesos/photo. They are framed, and if you want several, you may be able to bargain with them for a better deal.

There is also a photographer that joins the Gran Aventura boat tour, so if you don't have a waterproof camera, you can get a package of digital photos and a video the experience from the boat ride for 3,000 pesos.

Food & Drink Options in Iguazu Falls, Argentina

Being such a long day, you'll definitely need to make sure that you keep food in mind! Here's all you need to know for foo & drink options in Iguazu Falls.

Are There Restaurants in Iguazu Falls Park?

There are several places to eat inside Iguazu Falls. We personally suggest getting a sandwich and some snacks at the shop across from the souvenir shop that is right after the artisan market. They have healthy options, and have far higher quality than some of the other places to eat in the park.

At the train station to get to Garganta del Diablo, there is a simple cafe where you can get empanadas, burgers, or remade sandwiches. The only thing that is fresh are the empanadas, and they have a deal when you get 3. You can choose between chicken, veggie, meat, and ham & cheese. Do not get the fries or burger, as they are microwaved, and hardly edible.

The park also has a big restaurant, if you would like a sit down meal. This is a great option if you are spending a couple of days at the park, or prefer having a more relaxed day. We on the other hand isn't eat here, as we packed our day with activities.

There is a large restaurant in the park, as well as a few cafes.

The Best Restaurants in Puerto Iguazu

Now that you know where to eat inside the park of Iguazu Falls, here are some of the top spots to eat inside the city of Puerto Iguazu:

• La Rueda:One of the top restaurants in town, this is one of the best options for a nice meal.
• Tatu Carreta:This is a local favorite which has great meat and live music.
• El Quincho del Tio Querido:This was recommended by several locals, and the meat did not disappoint!
• La Misionerita:As far as food goes, this place is incredible! (They serve full swords of meat!). The downside? They are extremely unreliable. They close randomly once a week, with no real schedule, and they also only turn on the grill for the meat swords when they feel like it or if someone reserves in advance. We'd say give it a go! It's a 50/50 chance, and if they are closed or don't have the meat you can easily walk over to La Rueda or Tatu Carreta.

Cuisine of Argentina: The Best Things to Eat in Iguazu

Argentina prides itself on their meat, and with good reason! If you visit Iguazu Falls in Argentina trying a barbecue and having a nice glass of Malbec are an absolute must. Want to learn about some of the best dishes in Argentina to order while you're out? We have a full article about the cuisine of Argentina, so that you can know exactly what to get.

Another thing that is very typical to Iguazu is "Sopa Paraguaya", which to our confusion was not soup. It is actually a type of cornbread from Paraguay, and is commonly served in restaurants in Puerto Iguazu.

Where to Stay in Puerto Iguazu

Now that you know how to get around, let's find you a place to stay! We personally have two recommendations for areas to stay:

1. Stay Inside the Park of Iguazu Falls in Argentina

There is a hotel that actually located inside the park! Of course this is a bit on the pricier side, but in our opinion gives a truly unique experience. Not only will you save on transportation (both time and money), but you will have special benefits that other people don't get to experience.

If you happen to be staying at the Gran Melia inside the park you have early access to the park before it actually opens. If you want to appreciate the park to yourself and enjoy the falls when its cooler out with better lighting (for the photographers out there), then this is definitely the option for you.

If you stay inside the park you can visit the falls before everyone else!

2. Stay in the Center of Puerto Iguazu

If staying at the Gran Melia is too much for you, and you'd like a more "budget friendly" option, then we highly suggest staying in the center of Puerto Iguazu. Staying in this area will allow you to easily walk to the bus station, as well as plenty of bars and restaurants in town.

Here are a few places that we stayed in Puerto Iguazu:

• Mediterraneo Suites: Great value with a pool and AC
• Jasy Hotel: Cozy place with a pool and restaurant on site
• Liart Cabañas: Spacious wood cabins right near our favorite restaurants

Want to keep looking for other options? Check the map below for a list of all of the places to stay in Puerto Iguazu:

Other Things to Know About Visiting Iguazu Falls in Argentina

You now know almost everything you need to know for visiting Iguazu Falls in Argentina! Here are a few more answers to questions you may have.

Animals at Iguazu Falls in Argentina

Other than the fall, another thing that we love about visiting Iguazu Falls in Argentina is the wild life! Keep an eye out for turtles, caimans, coatis, monkeys, and some beautiful birds throughout the park. We had the pleasure of seeing all of them! The two animals we didn't see that occasionally are seen in the park are toucans and jaguars. We wouldn't count on seeing them, but hey- you never know!

Make sure not the feed any wild animals, as feeding them makes them dependent on humans, seriously endangering their survival skills. Don't try to pet them, as you could get seriously hurt, and enjoy them quietly from a safe distance.

What's the Weather like at Iguazu Falls in Argentina?

Being in the north of the country, the weather in Iguazu gets to be much hotter and humid than other parts of the country. It never gets very cold in Iguazu, and the summers (December-March) are brutally hot and sunny.

What is the Best Time of Year to Visit Iguazu Falls in Argentina?

The most popular time of year for people to visit Iguazu Falls in Argentina is the summer. However, we find it to be overbearingly hot during these months. I actually spoke with the park rangers about the best time to visit from a local perspective. They told me that while the temperatures cool down from April on, it isn't actually the most ideal time because the water is browner at that time of year. For the clearest waters and best temperatures, it's recommended to visit Iguazu Falls in Argentina in the end of October or November.

The water at Iguazu Falls gets browner after the summer.

The worst time to visit Iguazu Falls in Argentina is during Easter. This is when flight and hotel prices skyrocket, and the park will feel like Disney World with the amount of people there. If you can avoid this time, then pretty much any other time will be good to go.

Another thing to keep in mind is that if you'd like to experience Iguazu Falls at night, it will have to be during the full moon. So check the dates beforehand, and see if you can visit during that time of the month.

Packing For the Park of Iguazu Falls in Argentina

Now we're going to share a few things that you should bring with you to the park when you go:

• Light, comfortable clothing (preferably not white or super light colors if you go to Garganta del Diablo)
• Change of Clothes (for when you get wet- although you'll dry rather quickly from the sun)
• Sneakers or comfortable shoes (trails aren't difficult but you will be walking a lot)
• Flip flops (our favorites are Havaiana flip flops, as they are long lasting)
• Sunscreen (the sun is strong and there is little shade)
• Hat
• Bug Spray
• Power bank (you'll need it for a long day- we use Anker power banks, as they are super long lasting and sturdy)
• Bathing suitif you do the boat trip
• Towel
• Action Camera (also for the boat trip) we use the Insta 360 X3 because it's small & waterproof
• Waterproof phone pouch(we use theCafa*go Waterproof Phone Pouch)
• Water Bottle (we use the Cafa*go 17oz Double Wall Vacuum Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottleas it holds the temperature in the heat.)
• Cash

Packing for a Trip to Iguazu Falls in Argentina: Other Things You Should Consider Bringing

Here are a few other things you should consider bringing outside of visiting the waterfalls.

• Travel Adapter(we useTessan travel adapters as they are affordable and reliable)
• Socks (if you go to the Ice Bar)
• Toiletries (if you fly domestic or cross via Brazil you don't have to worry about the size of the liquids)
• Aloe in case you get too much sun
• Backpack(you can also check out our article of our top picks fortravel backpacks)

We suggest spending two days in Iguazu Falls in Argentina if you'd like to visit it at a relaxed pace and experience everything the park has to offer.

Can You Do Iguazu Falls in Argentina in One Day?

If you start first thing in the morning and stay until the park is closed, you can definitely squeeze in all of the activities that the park has to offer. If you're pressed for time but don't want to rush, you can do a few of the main trails, and a boat trip in just one day.

Is Iguazu Falls in Argentina Worth Visiting?

We can't stress enough how incredible Iguazu Falls in Argentina are! If you get the change, we definitely encourage you to come visit here. If you are pressed on time, there are packages from Buenos Aires that take care of everything for you, so that you can visit and see the highlights in 1-2 days.

Here are a few packages you can choose from:

Which Side of Iguazu Falls is Better- Argentina or Brazil?

Honestly, we love both sides of Iguazu Falls! However, if we have to choose between the two, we would choose Argentina, as there are so many different things to do.

Brazil is absolutely worth visit too, and you can do both sides if you want to just hit the highlights (this is exactly what we did with my family). Want to learn more about the Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls? We have a full guide coming up next week! Make sure to subscribe to our newsletter so that you can stay up to date with the newest articles, as well as revive exclusive content and discounts on our products and services.

So are you ready to see some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world? We know you'll fall in love with Iguazu Falls just as much as we did.

Want to see other amazing places in Argentina? Make sure to check out some of our other great Argentina Travel Guides, as well as other travel guides for South America.

Ready to plan your trip but feeling overwhelmed? Well, Argentina is our second home, and we can definitely help build your dream trip, as well as save you money along the way! Want to know how it works? Take a sneak peak at our travel planning packages, or simply shoot us an email with any questions you may have. Cheers!

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