Planning a trip to Argentina or Brazil? Then a visit to Iguazu falls should absolutely be part of your itinerary! Over the course of two epic days, we explored every inch of the park from both sides of the border. Brazil was the perfect introduction to Iguazu Falls. With sweeping views, your excitement will only increase as you look across to Argentina. The second day is all about getting up close and personal with the falls, and even under them on a boat ride! Let us breakdown how to travel to Iguazu Falls, the border crossing to Brazil, and more great travel tips.
How to Get to Iguazu Falls
With the airline industry and budget flights quickly changing the landscape, so is the way people travel to Iguazu falls. First off, there are two airports near Iguazu Falls that you can fly into.
Which one you use really depends on where you’re traveling from, and what flight deals you can find. Be sure to check out apps like Skyscanner to find the best deals before your trip.
We came from Buenos Aires and booked two one way tickets. Our flight to Iguazu falls was only $30 USD using Norwegian Airlines, which recently opened routes in Argentina.
Our return flight was with LATAM for just $65 USD. We should also mention these flights were purchased one month in advance.
When it comes to hotels in Iguazu, know that you’ll have plenty of options. We stayed at both O2 Hotel Iguazu and the Marín Apartments during our visit. Also, be sure to check out Belmond Hotel das Cataratas and Gran Meliá Iguazú if you’re looking for a luxury accommodation.
Why Travel to Iguazu Falls by Air?
We wanted to explain this further, as budget travelers often assume it’s too expensive to fly. We’ve met people that definitely regretted booking a hellish 18+ hour bus ride from Buenos Aires to Iguazu Falls!
There was a time where this flight did cost $300 USD or more, but not if you plan ahead. We have actually done a 24 hour bus ride before. While we survived, it obviously wasn’t a highlight of our travels in South America.
The craziest part is that the bus cost over $100 USD round trip. You can even rent a car if you’re up for an adventure! Just know that Argentina is a huge country, and many of the best attractions are very spread out.
From Aeropuerto Internacional Cataratas Del Iguazú (IGR)
Pre-book a transfer from the airport to your hotel for 700 pesos ($12 USD) each way. You can do this simply by emailing your hotel beforehand, and a driver with be waiting at arrivals for you.
A bus to the city center is only 150 pesos ($2.60 USD) each. However, it takes much longer and you’re not dropped at your hotel.
From Foz do Iguaçu International Airport (IGU)
Even if you stay on the Argentinian side of Iguazu Falls, you can still fly into the Brazil airport. From there, you will be able to travel by taxi or pre-arranged transfer to your hotel in about 45 minutes with the border crossing.
Two Day Iguazu Falls Itinerary
When we first checked into our accommodation, our host sat us down and gave us a full detailed breakdown of the falls. His first great recommendation was to visit the Brazilian side before the Argentinian side.
After two days of exploring, we couldn’t agree more with this! Guaranteeing you have enough time to see Brazil and Argentina a must for your Iguazu Falls itinerary. Also, make sure to check out our fun facts about Iguazu Falls before your visit.
Arriving in Iguazu Falls Argentina
- From the Iguazu Falls airport, head to the town of Puerto Iguazu to check into your hotel.
- Hit the supermarket and stock up on any food, water, and snacks you need for the park.
- Pre-pack for your first day with your passport, credit card, camera, bug spray, sunblock, hat, plenty of water, and any food you need.
- Go to bed and get an early morning start on your Iguazu Falls visit!
Iguazu Itinerary Day One: Day Trip to Brazil
- 7:30am: Jump on the bus to Brazil.
- 8:30am: Buy tickets to the park and get in line.
- 9:00am: Be one of the first to enter the park.
- 9:00am-2:00pm: Explore and admire the falls.
- 2:30pm: Bus back over the border.
- 3:30pm: Arrive in Puerto Iguazu.
- 6:00pm: Grab dinner in town and have an early night.
Check out an in-depth look at the Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls and all about crossing the border from Argentina.
Iguazu Falls Itinerary Day Two: Argentina Side
- 7:00am: Get on the first bus to Iguazu Falls in Argentina.
- 7:45am: Book tickets and confirm the boat is running.
- 8:00am: Be one of the first inside when the park opens.
- 8:30am: Walk the Lower Circuit.
- 10:00am: Adventure through the Upper Circuit.
- 11:15am: Take an EPIC boat tour to visit Iguazu Falls from the river below.
- 1:15pm: Lunch Break.
- 2:oopm: Take train to the Devil’s Throat Waterfall.
- 4:00pm: Bus back to Puerto Iguazu.
- 6:00pm: Pool, sunset, dinner, and relax. Don’t forget to pack for your flight the next day!
Read all about the Argentinian side of Iguazu Falls, with our favorite circuits, can’t miss viewpoints, and the epic boat ride.
Where to Eat After Your Trip to Iguazu Falls
We hate to say this, but the food was slightly disappointing on our trip to Iguazu Falls. After eating our way through the best restaurants in San Telmo Buenos Aires, it was hard to compare!
Due to its touristic nature, we found ourselves paying more for food that wasn’t as good as other places in the country. Check out our full post for the best food in Argentina.
You should know that the veggie and vegan options were also very limited in Iguazu. With that being said, there are still some decent restaurants to be found.
La Mamma Pastas and Salsas: Large servings of pasta in a small local setting. Try Sorrentinos which is Argentina’s version of ravioli.
Cremolatti: The best ice cream place you’ll find in Puerto Iguazu, and perfect for a late night treat!
Casa de Empanadas: Solid empanada place with a large selection. Great for a mid-day snack or something to pack with you for the falls.
The Argentine Experience: Upscale eating experience that blends old school Argentina cooking with new fusion.
Have any questions about our Iguazu Falls itinerary or have your own Iguazu Falls travel tips to share? Let us know in the comments!
Safe Travels,
Brigitte & Jake
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We’re Brigitte and Jake! American travel bloggers currently based in Spain. If you can believe it, we started Nothing Familiar way back in 2015 on an Ipad in the Ecuadorian jungle. Ever since, we haven’t stopped traveling! We’ve now been to over 60 countries around the world, with our expertise being Europe and Southeast Asia. We love outdoor adventures, tasting local specialties, and island hopping through tropical destinations. Hopefully, our guides and authentic experiences will inspire you on your own travels!
