Planning travel 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.
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Argentina Travel Inspiration
- 12 Facts About Iguazu Falls That Will Inspire Your Wanderlust
- One Month Argentina Itinerary: Patagonia to Iguazu Falls
- Perito Moreno Glacier Tour: Breaking Ice and Boat Adventures
- Mendoza Argentina Wine Tour: Cycling and Sipping Malbec
- 20 Interesting Facts About Argentina to Know Before You Go
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.
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. To return we booked with LATAM which is part of One World Alliance for $65. These flights were purchased one month in advance.
Why Travel to Iguazu Falls by Air?
We wanted to explain this because often budget travelers assume it’s too expensive to fly, and end up 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’ve actually done a 24 hour bus ride before, and while we survived it obviously wasn’t a highlight of our travels. The craziest part is that the bus cost $100-150 round trip… So it would have been more expensive! If you travel to Iguazu Falls on a budget make sure to check out all your options.
From Aeropuerto Internacional Cataratas Del Iguazú (IGR)
Prebook 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, but 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!
→ 12 Facts About Iguazu Falls That Will Inspire Your Wanderlust
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 snacks 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.
For a more in-depth look at our day trip to Brazil and crossing the border check out the article below.
→ Day Trip to the Brazilian Side of Iguazu Falls With Border Crossing & Tips
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 a complete breakdown of our favorite circuits, can’t miss viewpoints, and the the epic boat ride into the falls in our post below.
→ Guide to the Argentinian Side of Iguazu Falls With Boat Tour & Waterfall Route
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. To be fair though, after all the amazing meals we had in Buenos Aires it’s hard to compete! We found ourselves paying more for food that wasn’t as good as other places in Argentina.
You should know that the veggie and vegan options were also very limited. 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.
Check out our full post for the best food we ate while traveling through Argentina!
Have any questions about our Iguazu Falls itinerary or your own Iguazu Falls travel tips to share? Let us know in the comments!
Safe Travels,
Brigitte & Jake
Where in the world are we? Follow our daily adventures on Instagram @nothingfamiliar!
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Argentina Travel Planning
Flights: We always find the best flights using Skyscanner. Remember that a lot of the time it’s cheaper to fly between cities in Argentina than driving or taking the bus!
Accommodation: Compare multiple sites such as Booking.com and Agoda. Also, Hostelworld should be your go-to source if you’re traveling on a budget.
Rental Car: We use Discover Cars to explore when traveling in Argentina. It is especially fun to have a car in scenic regions like Patagonia.
Tours: Check out Get Your Guide for activities all over Argentina. Attend a tango show in Buenos Aires, visit Iguazu Falls with an epic boat tour, or go glacier trekking in El Calafate!
Travel Insurance: Never travel abroad without being covered. We’ve been using SafetyWing for the last few years on the road and they are there when we need them.
Packing Lists: Here’s all the inspiration you need with our Amazon packing lists. Including electronics and camera gear, must-have medical items, and long flight essentials!
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Where to Stay on Your Iguazu Falls Visit
Ultra Luxury – Gran Meliá Iguazú – As the only hotel set inside Iguaza Falls National Park in Argentina, this 5 star property is the perfect place to stay to experience luxury. It’s complete with a swimming pool overlooking the falls and everything else you need to enjoy your stay.
Ultra Luxury – Belmond Hotel das Cataratas – This bright pink luxury hotel is the only place to stay inside the park, and has views over the Iguazu Falls! Unless you get a room at Belmond Hotel das Cataratas Resort we recommend staying across the border and taking an Iguazu Falls day trip to Brazil.
Fun Vacation – O2 Hotel Iguazu – This brand new hotel in the heart of the Puerto Iguazu is one of the nicest places to stay in town. In addition to large spacious rooms and a rooftop pool, you’ll be within walking distance to all the best bars and restaurants!
Budget Travel – Marín Apartments – Nice apartments in the center of town with kitchens and balconies overlooking the street. The owner is very helpful and will even provide a map of Puerto Iguazu and the falls for you.
For more places to stay in Puerto Iguazu you can explore the latest prices here!
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Explore More of Argentina
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