The Iguazu Falls attract thousands of tourists every year, having been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984 and chosen as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
The falls consist of approximately 275 cascades, with the most impressive one being the Devil’s Throat. This incredible waterfall has an 80-meter drop that leaves every visitor in awe when they reach the end of the walkways.
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Below, we’ll share all the details and ways to visit Iguazu Falls so you don’t miss a thing.
Where Are the Iguazu Falls?
Iguazu Falls are such an important attraction that they can be visited from two countries. They create unique landscapes on both sides of the Iguazu River, which serves as a natural border between Argentina and Brazil.
The falls are located within two national parks. On the Argentine side, they are near the city of Puerto Iguazú in the northern part of Misiones province, and on the Brazilian side, they can be accessed from the city of Foz do Iguaçu.
How to Get to Iguazu Falls?
How to Get to the Main Cities
Iguazu Falls are accessible via three cities: Ciudad del Este in Paraguay, Foz do Iguaçu in Brazil, and Puerto Iguazú in Argentina.
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- By plane: There are direct flights from Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, and other cities to both Foz do Iguaçu and Puerto Iguazú. However, if your destination is Ciudad del Este, flights operated by Latam or Paraná Air make a connection in Asunción, Paraguay’s capital.
- By bus: You can take a bus from Asunción to Ciudad del Este or from Buenos Aires and other major Brazilian cities to Foz or Puerto Iguazú. The journey by road can take between 12 and 14 hours.
- By car: If you’re traveling from nearby cities, driving to one of the three mentioned cities is an option. This gives you the flexibility to explore other destinations along the way.
What Is the Closest Airport to Iguazu Falls?
The most convenient airports for visiting Iguazu Falls are Cataratas del Iguazú International Airport (code IGR) in Puerto Iguazú and Foz do Iguaçu International Airport (code IGU) in Brazil.
Both airports are located very close to the national parks on both sides. In fact, many travelers go straight to the parks upon arrival before even checking into their hotel to make the most of their visit.
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What Is the Closest City to Iguazu Falls?
Both Foz do Iguaçu (Brazil) and Puerto Iguazú (Argentina) are very close to the national parks that provide access to Iguazu Falls.
Choosing a city depends on where you are traveling from and how you plan to organize your trip. Both cities offer excellent accessibility. If you’re coming from Rio de Janeiro or São Paulo, it’s more convenient to stay in the Brazilian city.
If you’re traveling from Buenos Aires, then staying in Puerto Iguazú makes more sense, as this is where your return flight will likely depart from.
How to Get to the National Parks?
From Puerto Iguazú (Argentina):
The best way to visit is by booking a full-day tour with a guide. This way, all necessary transportation will be arranged, and you’ll benefit from the expertise of a local guide.
However, you can also visit the park on your own.
One of the most budget-friendly options is taking a regular city bus that departs from downtown and drops you off at the entrance of the Iguazú National Park, where you can purchase your ticket. The bus route starts at key locations like the Triple Frontier Landmark, the Puerto Iguazú Bus Terminal, and Avenida Victoria Aguirre in the city center. Service begins at 7 AM, with the last return bus departing from the park entrance at 7 PM.
Taxis and private rides (remises) are also available from anywhere in the city. If you need a taxi contact, ask your hotel for assistance. After your visit, you can catch another taxi from the park entrance.
From Foz do Iguaçu (Brazil):
The Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls is about 28 kilometers from the city center.
A public bus runs from the Foz do Iguaçu Bus Terminal to the park approximately every hour.
If the terminal is far from your hotel or if you prefer a more comfortable option, you can take a taxi or a private ride service directly from your hotel to the park. When it’s time to leave, you’ll find taxis available at the park entrance.
Just like on the Argentine side, booking a guided tour is the best option since it ensures all transportation details are taken care of for your visit to the Brazilian park.
From Ciudad del Este (Paraguay):
Accessing the falls from Ciudad del Este is more complicated because you have to cross international borders. If you want to visit the Argentine side, you’ll need to cross into Brazil first and then enter Argentina.
If you’re staying in Ciudad del Este or your trip starts there, booking a tour is the best option. Many tours take visitors to both the Brazilian and Argentine sides of the falls.
If you prefer to go on your own, it’s best to take a taxi or a private ride service to the entrance of either park.
However, staying in Paraguay is not highly recommended, as crossing the borders can take a long time and may reduce the time you have to explore the falls.
