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Argentina

Iguazú

Iguazú Falls, Argentina
Iguazú Falls, Argentina
Toucan at Iguazú Falls
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Black Capuchin Monkey, Iguazú Falls

Why visit Iguazú

Straddling the border between Argentina and Brazil, Iguazú is home to one of the most extraordinary natural spectacles on Earth. Comprising more than 270 waterfalls spread across nearly 3km, the falls plunge through a vast expanse of subtropical rainforest, creating a scene of immense scale and drama. The sound alone is unforgettable: a constant roar that grows louder as you approach the edge of the cascades.

What makes Iguazú so remarkable is the variety of perspectives it offers. A network of walkways winds through the national parks, leading visitors above, alongside and, in some places, directly over the rushing water. The highlight for many is Devil’s Throat, a horseshoe-shaped chasm where immense volumes of water crash into the gorge below, sending mist high into the air.

The surrounding rainforest is equally compelling. Home to toucans, capuchin monkeys, coatis and countless species of butterflies, it offers a rich contrast to the power of the falls. We often recommend combining Iguazú with other South American highlights, but it is far more than a stopover. Few places capture the raw beauty and force of nature quite so memorably.

Iguazú Falls from above

Highlights of Iguazú Falls

  • Witness the mighty Devil’s Throat – Stand on the viewing platform above the most dramatic section of the falls, where torrents of water plunge into a vast horseshoe-shaped chasm, creating clouds of mist and an unforgettable roar.
  • Explore the Upper and Lower Circuits – Follow a series of walkways that reveal the falls from different angles, from panoramic viewpoints overlooking the cascades to paths that bring you close enough to feel the spray on your skin.
  • Take a thrilling boat adventure – For a completely different perspective, board a high-speed boat that navigates the rapids before heading directly beneath the falls. Expect dramatic views and a soaking along the way.
  • See the falls from above on a helicopter flight – Available from the Brazilian side, a helicopter flight offers a spectacular bird’s-eye view of the waterfall system and the surrounding rainforest. The scale of Iguazú is best appreciated from the air, where hundreds of cascades can be seen weaving through the jungle.
  • Discover the Atlantic Rainforest’s wildlife – Beyond the waterfalls, the surrounding rainforest is rich in biodiversity. Keep an eye out for toucans, capuchin monkeys, coatis and vibrant butterflies as you explore the trails within the national parks.
  • Visit the Itaipu Dam – One of the world’s largest hydroelectric projects, the Itaipu Dam offers a fascinating contrast to the natural power of Iguazú. Guided visits provide insight into the engineering behind this vast structure and its importance to both Brazil and Paraguay.
Both sides of the falls

The Iguazú falls sit on the border between Brazil and Argentina. The Argentine side is home to the majority share and here you can get up close, whereas the Brazilian side provides those majestic panoramic views.

An Atlantic Rainforest

Iguazú National Park protects one of the last remaining stretches of the Atlantic Rainforest, an ecosystem far rarer than the Amazon and home to extraordinary biodiversity. More than 2,000 plant species and hundreds of bird species thrive here, including colourful toucans and elusive harpy eagles. Lucky visitors may also spot capuchin monkeys, coatis, giant anteaters and even the elusive jaguar.

Where to stay

Best hotels in Iguazu

Nothing but the best. Browse our handpicked, tried-and-tested luxury hotels.

Luxury Hotel

Hotel das Cataratas A Belmond Hotel, Iguazu

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Luxury Hotel

Loi Suites, Iguazu

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Eco-Lodge

Awasi Iguazú , Iguazú

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Luxury Hotel

Gran Melia, Iguazú

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Luxury Glamping

Pristine Camps, Iguazú

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Good to know

Getting to Iguazú

Reaching Iguazú by air is easy from either Buenos Aires and Salta in Argentina, or Sao Paulo or Rio de Janeiro with direct flights.

What wildlife might I see

  • Coatis: The most commonly seen mammals in the national parks. These curious relatives of the raccoon are often encountered along the walkways.
  • Capuchin monkeys: Agile and intelligent monkeys that can occasionally be seen moving through the forest canopy.
  • Howler monkeys: Easier to hear than see, their deep calls can carry for several kilometres through the forest.
  • Toucans: Including the striking toco toucan, recognised by its oversized orange bill.
  • Great dusky swifts: Thousands nest behind the waterfalls themselves, flying through the spray to reach their roosts.
  • Butterflies: More than 800 species have been recorded in the region, often gathering in colourful groups along the trails.
  • Caiman: Usually spotted in calmer stretches of the rivers away from the main falls.
  • Tapirs: South America’s largest land mammal lives within the surrounding forests, although sightings are uncommon.
  • Jaguar: The forest remains an important refuge for jaguars, but they are rarely seen due to their elusive nature.
  • Ocelots and other wild cats: Present throughout the national parks, though generally only recorded by camera traps.

When to go

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OUR FAVOURITE TIME TO VISIT

Visits to Iguazú are often dictated by the best time to visit other parts of Argentina or Brazil, but the falls can be enjoyed year-round. December to February is hot, humid and rainy, often bringing particularly dramatic water levels. From March to May, the falls remain powerful while temperatures become more comfortable. June to August is ideal for wildlife spotting, while September to November sees the rainforest flourish with spring blooms and lush vegetation.

Chat to an expert to start planning your trip

Get in touch with us and one of our travel experts will answer any questions you may have and help create your dream trip.

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Karen CTA 230
Karen Chapman
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Caroline Maber