The Iguazu Falls, a natural wonder straddling the border of Brazil and Argentina, is a premier attraction in South America, situated about 1,080 km from São Paulo.
If you’re considering visiting these breathtaking falls, this article provides complete guidance to help you plan an ideal trip.
Iguazu Falls Location
The Iguazu Falls are located in Iguaçu National Park (Foz do Iguaçu) on the Brazilian side and in Iguazú National Park (Puerto Iguazú) on the Argentinian side.
How to Travel from São Paulo to Iguazu Falls
The fastest and most convenient way to travel from São Paulo to the Iguazu Falls is by flying to Foz do Iguaçu.
You can fly to Foz do Iguaçu/Cataratas International Airport (IGU), with direct flights taking about 1h45m and costing around 840 reais (USD 154). Alternatively, you can take a bus from the Barra Funda or Tietê terminals, which takes approximately one day and costs about 200 reais (USD 36.30) each way.
On the Argentinian side, the falls are accessible via Cataratas del Iguazú International Airport (IGR). However, flights to this airport from São Paulo tend to be significantly more expensive.
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Exploring the Iguazu Falls
For a complete experience, I highly recommend visiting both sides of the falls, as one side complements the other.
On the Brazilian side of the Iguazu Falls, you can complete the main trail in about half a day. However, it’s worthwhile to stay longer to appreciate the breathtaking views. The trail begins in front of the Belmond Hotel, which is the only hotel located within the park on the Brazilian side. It concludes at the main walkway and elevator leading to the area with shops, restaurants, and cafés. For adventure enthusiasts, the boat tour, Macuco Safari, and helicopter ride are essential experiences.
On the Argentinian side, it is recommended to spend two days exploring the park due to its extensive trail network, which includes the “Circuito Garganta,” “Circuito Inferior,” “Circuito Superior,” and “Circuito Sendero.”
To travel between Foz do Iguaçu and Puerto Iguazú, you can hire a private transfer, or rent a car. If you opt to rent a car, make sure to obtain Carta Verde insurance. For further details, see the article “Crossing the Border from Brazil to Argentina.”
Tickets for both parks should be purchased directly through their respective websites (cataratasdoiguacu.com.br / iguazuargentina.com).
Best Hotels in Iguazu Falls, Brazil
1. Hotel das Cataratas, A Belmond Hotel, Iguassu Falls
Photo Credit: Hotel das Cataratas, A Belmond Hotel, Iguassu Falls
Hotel das Cataratas, A Belmond Hotel, Iguassu Falls is a luxury hotel in Iguazu Falls Park.
Rooms are adorned in traditional Portuguese style, with a flat-screen TV, dark wood furnishings, and soothing natural tones. Some rooms boast balconies and cozy seating areas.
The hotel features a swimming pool and restaurants offering Brazilian and international cuisine.
National Park – Rodovia Br 469, Km 32 – s/n – Foz do Iguaçu, PR, 85855-750
2. Wish Foz do Iguaçu
Photo Credit: Wish Foz do Iguaçu
Wish Foz do Iguaçu provides luxurious accommodations in Foz do Iguaçu with affordable prices.
Rooms are elegantly appointed featuring classic wooden furniture and soft décor equipped with a flat-screen TV and a minibar. Some rooms offer floor-to-ceiling windows and garden views.
The hotel has outdoor pools and restaurants.
Av. das Cataratas, 6845 – Tamandua, Foz do Iguaçu – PR, 85853-000
3. Bourbon Cataratas do Iguaçu Thermas Eco Resort
Photo Credit: Bourbon Cataratas do Iguaçu Thermas Eco Resort
Bourbon Cataratas do Iguaçu Thermas Eco Resort is a resort hotel that provides contemporary rooms, tastefully decorated.
Rooms have a flat-screen TV and offer pool or garden views.
Av. das Cataratas, 2345 – Vila Yolanda, Foz do Iguaçu – PR, 85853-000
4. MY MABU
Photo Credit: MY MABU
MY MABU is an ideal choice for families, offering outdoor pools and a water park.
Rooms have a seating area, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a dining area, and kitchen amenities.
Rua Dr. Alberto Abujamra, 756 Dona Amanda – Foz do Iguaçu PR CEP, 85853-734
5. Recanto Cataratas – Thermas, Resort e Convention
Photo Credit: Recanto Cataratas – Thermas, Resort e Convention
Recanto Cataratas Thermas Resort & Convention offers a range of amenities including a water park with thermal pools and a bowling alley.
Rooms feature a flat-screen TV and a minibar.
Av. Costa e Silva, 3500 – Parque Pres. 1, Foz do Iguaçu – PR, 85863-000
6. DoubleTree by Hilton – Foz do Iguaçu
Photo Credit: DoubleTree by Hilton – Foz do Iguaçu
DoubleTree by Hilton – Resort – Foz do Iguaçu offers guests an array of amenities including an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and a kids’ club.
Rooms are comfortable and feature a flat-screen TV, a coffee machine, and a minibar.
Av. das Cataratas, 2930 – Vila Yolanda, Foz do Iguaçu – PR, 85853-000
7. Eco Cataratas Resort
Photo Credit: Eco Cataratas Resort
Eco Cataratas Resort is a budget-friendly resort offering a comfortable triple room option with a flat-screen TV and a minibar.
The hotel features swimming pools, a spa, and a gift shop.
Av. das Cataratas, 8173 – km 6 – Remanso Grande, Foz do Iguaçu – PR, 85853-000
8. Cataratas Park Hotel e Eventos
Photo Credit: Cataratas Park Hotel e Eventos
Cataratas Park Hotel e Eventos offers budget-friendly accommodations with bright décor, each equipped with a TV and a private bathroom.
The hotel features a children’s playground, an outdoor hot tub, a heated swimming pool, and a garden.
Av. das Cataratas, 6075 – Vila Yolanda, Foz do Iguaçu – PR, 85853-000
9. Grand Carimã Resort & Convention Center
Photo Credit: Grand Carimã Resort & Convention Center
Grand Carimã Resort & Convention Center offers comfortable accommodations, a restaurant, an outdoor swimming pool, and a fitness center. Guests can also enjoy a bar, shared lounge, and garden on-site.
Rooms have a flat-screen TV and a minibar.
Av. das Cataratas, 4790 – Vila Carimã, Foz do Iguaçu – PR, 85851-300
10. Vivaz Cataratas Hotel Resort
Photo Credit: Vivaz Cataratas Hotel Resort
Vivaz Cataratas Hotel Resort offers an outdoor pool and a fitness center. Additional amenities include a shared lounge, babysitting services, and a gift shop.
Rooms have a flat-screen TV and a minibar.
Av. das Cataratas, 6798 – Carimã, Foz do Iguaçu – PR, 85855-678
Best Hotels in Iguazu Falls, Argentina
11. Gran Meliá Iguazú
Photo Credit: Gran Meliá Iguazú
Gran Meliá Iguazú is a luxury hotel in the Iguazu National Park, Argentina, offering an infinity pool, spa amenities, three restaurants, and four bars.
Rooms are elegantly appointed and boast spacious private balconies. Some offer breathtaking views of the waterfalls, while others provide serene jungle vistas.
Ent. A Parque Nacional Iguazú S/N, N3370 Puerto Iguazú, Misiones, Argentina
12. Loi Suites Iguazu Hotel
Photo Credit: Loi Suites Iguazu Hotel
Nestled in the subtropical forest a 15-minute drive from Iguazu Falls, Loi Suites Iguazu Hotel features an outdoor pool, a spa, and suspended bridges.
Rooms have parquet floors, soft olive tones, and luxurious fabrics. Each room includes cable TV and a bathroom with a bathtub. Some rooms boast spacious balconies offering uninterrupted jungle views.
The hotel has a restaurant that serves gourmet local cuisine.
Selva Iryapú s/n, N3370 Puerto Iguazú, Misiones, Argentina
13. Mercure Iguazu Hotel Iru
Photo Credit: Mercure Iguazu Hotel Iru
Set amidst the lush Iryapú Jungle, Mercure Iguazu Hotel Iru offers spacious rooms decorated with classic details in an elegant style.
The hotel boasts an outdoor swimming pool and spa facilities.
Selva Iryapu S N Predio 600 Has, N3370 Puerto Iguazú, Misiones, Argentina
14. Hotel Saint George
Photo Credit: Hotel Saint George
Hotel Saint George boasts a lush garden with two pools and luxurious spa facilities.
Rooms are adorned in soothing pastel colors and equipped with a cable TV and a minibar. Some rooms offer garden views.
Av. Córdoba 148, N3370 Puerto Iguazú, Misiones, Argentina
15. Amérian Portal Del Iguazú Hotel
Photo Credit: Amérian Portal Del Iguazú Hotel
Amérian Portal Del Iguazú Hotel near the Three Borders Landmark, provides upscale accommodations featuring spa amenities and two swimming pools.
Rooms are decorated in soft hues and feature private balconies with views of the river or garden and a TV.
Av. Tres Fronteras 780, N3370XAJ Puerto Iguazú, Misiones, Argentina
16. La Reserva Virgin Lodge
Photo Credit: La Reserva Virgin Lodge
La Reserva Virgin Lodge provides comfort and immersive jungle experiences in the heart of Selva Iryapu Jungle, just a 10-minute drive from the Iguazu Falls.
Rooms feature a light jungle theme with abundant windows and tasteful wooden architecture. Each room includes a TV, and private balconies overlooking the jungle.
RN12 km 5, N3370 Puerto Iguazú, Misiones, Argentina
17. Falls Iguazu Hotel & Spa
Photo Credit: Falls Iguazu Hotel & Spa
Falls Iguazu Hotel & Spa offers great value for money and features an outdoor pool and a restaurant.
Rooms have a flat-screen TV. Some rooms offer a relaxing seating area and a balcony or patio.
Batalla Mbororé s/n, Reserva Selva Iryapú, Lote 05,, N3370 Puerto Iguazu, Misiones, Argentina
18. Iguazú Grand Resort Spa & Casino
Photo Credit: Iguazú Grand Resort Spa & Casino
Iguazú Grand Resort Spa & Casino features 2 swimming pools, spa facilities, a casino, and luxurious décor.
Rooms are comfortable equipped with a TV and a minibar.
RN12 KM 1640, N3370 Puerto Iguazú, Misiones, Argentina
19. Iguazu Jungle Lodge
Photo Credit: Iguazu Jungle Lodge
Featuring an outdoor swimming pool and rooms with spacious balconies offering views of the subtropical rainforest, Iguazu Jungle Lodge is conveniently located a 10-minute walk from downtown Puerto Iguazú.
Rooms are decorated in a warm palette with elegant wood furnishings.
Hipólito Irigoyen y San Lorenzo, s/n, N3370 Puerto Iguazú, Misiones, Argentina
20. Yvy Hotel de Selva
Photo Credit: Yvy Hotel de Selva
Yvy Hotel de Selva boasts an outdoor swimming pool and an a la carte restaurant, serving regional and international dishes
Rooms are comfortable and have a flat-screen TV and a minibar.
Selva Iryapu – Lote 20 Parcela 190, N3370 Puerto Iguazú, Misiones, Argentina
Iguazu Falls Map
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Trancoso Brazil: Where Rustic Charm Meets Tropical Paradise
Petrópolis: A Travel Guide to the Imperial City of Brazil
São Paulo to Manaus: Journeying from Urban Jungle to Rainforest