Puerto Iguazú Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, food, accommodations, and things to do in Puerto Iguazú, Argentina with this comprehensive travel guide.


Puerto Iguazú, located in the Misiones province in Mesopotamia, Argentina, is a charming destination that enjoys worldwide fame thanks to its breathtaking natural wonder: the Iguazú Falls. But there’s much more to Puerto Iguazú than the falls, as you’ll discover in this comprehensive travel guide.

Introduction to Puerto Iguazú

Puerto Iguazú is a small town that boasts a welcoming atmosphere and a relaxed pace of life. Its location, surrounded by lush jungles and forests, makes it a paradise for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a break from the urban chaos.

List of Places to Visit in Puerto Iguazú

Puerto Iguazú offers a wide variety of attractions for visitors of all ages and interests. Here are the main places you should consider visiting during your trip:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museo Imágenes de la Selva: This museum showcases the history, culture, and biodiversity of the region through photographs, audiovisual materials, and artifacts.
  • Museo de la Guerra de la Triple Alianza: This museum is dedicated to the history of the Triple Alliance War, fought between Paraguay and the alliance of Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina from 1864 to 1870.
  • Jardín de los Picaflores: This garden is a paradise for bird watchers, as it’s home to a wide variety of hummingbirds.

Natural Attractions of Puerto Iguazú: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Iguazú Falls: The main attraction of Puerto Iguazú, the Iguazú Falls are a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders on the planet. With 275 cascades and a height of up to 80 meters, they’re simply breathtaking.
  • Parque Nacional Iguazú: This national park surrounds the Iguazú Falls and offers visitors a chance to explore the jungle and its flora and fauna through hiking trails and guided tours.
  • Parque das Aves: This bird park, located on the Brazilian side of the Iguazú Falls, is home to over 150 species of birds, including toucans, macaws, and parrots.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Puerto Iguazú

Puerto Iguazú is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts who love to hike, bike, or simply explore nature. Some of the must-try routes include:

  • Sendero Macuco: This 7-kilometer trail leads visitors through the jungle to the base of the Salto Arrechea waterfall. Along the way, you can spot endangered species such as jaguars and ocelots.
  • Circuito Inferior: This hiking trail takes visitors to the lower part of the Iguazú Falls, where you can experience the full force of the river and get up close and personal with the cascades.
  • Ruta de la Yerba Mate: This scenic route leads visitors through the history and culture of yerba mate, a traditional Argentine beverage made from the leaves of the yerba mate plant.

Best Things to Do in Puerto Iguazú: Activities and Tours

Aside from the natural and cultural attractions mentioned above, Puerto Iguazú offers a wide variety of activities and tours for visitors of all preferences and budgets. Some of the best options include:

  • Rafting on the Iguazú River: This exciting activity takes visitors on a wild ride down the rapids of the Iguazú River.
  • Helicopter Ride over the Iguazú Falls: For a bird’s-eye view of this natural wonder, this helicopter ride is a must-try.
  • Gastronomic Tour: This tour takes visitors on a culinary journey through the flavors and aromas of Argentine cuisine, with stops at traditional markets, cafes, and restaurants.

Week-Long Itinerary for Puerto Iguazú

If you have a whole week to spare, here’s a sample itinerary that will allow you to explore Puerto Iguazú and its surroundings to the fullest:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Iguazú Falls and the Parque Nacional Iguazú
Day 2 Explore the town of Puerto Iguazú and visit the Museo Imágenes de la Selva and the Jardín de los Picaflores
Day 3 Hike the Sendero Macuco and go on a Gastronomic Tour
Day 4 Cross the border to Brazil and visit the Parque das Aves
Day 5 Enjoy a Helicopter Ride over the Iguazú Falls and go on a Wildlife Safari
Day 6 Bike the Ruta de la Yerba Mate and go on a Rafting Tour
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the local food and drinks, or visit nearby attractions such as the Jesuit Ruins of San Ignacio Mini

Food and Drink Scene of Puerto Iguazú

Argentine cuisine is famous worldwide for its grilled meats, wines, and sweets, among many other delicacies. In Puerto Iguazú, visitors can try a wide variety of traditional dishes and drinks that showcase the region’s unique flavors and aromas.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Asado: This is the quintessential Argentine dish, consisting of grilled meats such as beef, pork, or chicken.
  • Choripán: This is a grilled Argentine sausage served on a french bread roll.
  • Empanadas: These are baked or fried turnovers filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Yerba Mate: This is a traditional Argentine drink made from the leaves of the yerba mate plant, served hot or cold in a gourd with a straw.
  • Malbec Wine: This is a red wine that has become synonymous with Argentine culture, thanks to its bold flavor and unique aroma.
  • Fernet con Coca: This is a popular cocktail made from Fernet, an Italian bitter liqueur, and Coca-Cola.

Where to Stay in Puerto Iguazú: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Puerto Iguazú offers a wide variety of accommodations to suit every traveler’s budget and preferences. From luxury hotels to cozy hostels and guesthouses, here are some of the best options:

  • Gran Meliá Iguazú: This is a luxury hotel located inside the Parque Nacional Iguazú, offering stunning views of the Iguazú Falls.
  • La Aldea de la Selva Lodge: This is an eco-friendly lodge located in the jungle, offering spacious and comfortable rooms and a variety of outdoor activities.
  • Hostel Park Iguazú: This is a budget hostel located in the town center, offering clean and comfortable rooms and a relaxed atmosphere.

What to Buy in Puerto Iguazú: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Puerto Iguazú is home to a wide variety of artisanal products and souvenirs that make for great gifts or mementos of your trip. Some of the best options include:

  • Mate Set: A traditional set of a gourd and straw for drinking yerba mate.
  • Iguana Leather Products: Handmade leather products, such as wallets, purses, and belts.
  • Yerba Mate Tea: High-quality yerba mate leaves and blends, with unique flavors and aromas.

Local Culture and Customs of Puerto Iguazú

Argentine culture is a mix of influences from indigenous people, European immigrants, and African slaves, creating a unique blend that manifests in the food, music, dance, and art of the country. In Puerto Iguazú, visitors can learn about the Guarani people, an indigenous group that has inhabited the region for centuries, and their customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Puerto Iguazú

Puerto Iguazú has a subtropical climate, with temperatures ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 35°C (95°F) during the summer (December to February) and from 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F) during the winter (June to August). The best time to visit Puerto Iguazú is during the fall (March to May) and the spring (September to November), when the weather is mild and pleasant, and the crowds are thinner than in the peak season.

Do’s and Don’ts of Puerto Iguazú

Do:

  • Try the local food and drinks, especially yerba mate, asado, and malbec wine.
  • Respect the local culture and customs, such as the Guarani people’s traditions and language.
  • Protect yourself from mosquitoes and other insects by wearing long-sleeve shirts, long pants, and mosquito repellent.

Don’t:

  • Swim in the river or try to get too close to the falls, as the current can be strong and dangerous.
  • Leave your belongings unattended or walk in dark or deserted areas at night.
  • Be disrespectful or rude to the locals or wildlife.

Safety and Health

Safety in Puerto Iguazú

Puerto Iguazú is a safe destination for travelers, but like any other big city, it’s advisable to take some precautions to avoid pickpocketing, theft, or scams. Always keep an eye on your belongings and avoid walking alone at night or in remote areas.

Health in Puerto Iguazú

Puerto Iguazú is a low-risk area for diseases, but visitors should take some precautions to stay healthy. Make sure to drink bottled water, wear sunscreen and insect repellent, and get vaccinated against diseases such as yellow fever, depending on your country of origin.

Getting to Puerto Iguazú: Transportation Options and Logistics

Puerto Iguazú is located about 18 kilometers (11 miles) from the Triple Frontier, the meeting point of Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay. Here are the main transportation options to get to Puerto Iguazú:

Airports Near Puerto Iguazú

  • Cataratas del Iguazú International Airport (IGR): Located in Puerto Iguazú, it offers domestic and international flights to and from major cities in South America.

Bus Stations Near Puerto Iguazú

  • Puerto Iguazú Bus Station: Located in the town center, it offers bus connections to and from major cities in Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay.

Other Options

  • Private Car or Taxi: You can hire a private car or a taxi to get to Puerto Iguazú from nearby cities, such as Foz do Iguazú in Brazil or Ciudad del Este in Paraguay.

How to Get Around in Puerto Iguazú

The town of Puerto Iguazú is small and easy to explore on foot or by bike. To visit the Iguazú Falls or other distant attractions, it’s advisable to rent a car, hire a taxi or use one of the many tours and transportation services available in the town center.

Where to Go Next from Puerto Iguazú: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Puerto Iguazú is a great starting point for exploring the surrounding areas and neighboring countries. Here are some of the best nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Salto del Moconá: This is a unique natural wonder located about 250 kilometers (155 miles) from Puerto Iguazú, where you can see a series of waterfalls that flow parallel to the Uruguay River.
  • Ciudad del Este: This is a bustling city located on the border with Brazil and known for its shopping malls, flea markets, and electronic products.
  • Asunción: This is the capital of Paraguay, located about 300 kilometers (186 miles) from Puerto Iguazú, and it offers a mix of history, culture, and nightlife.

Conclusion

Puerto Iguazú is a destination that offers something for everyone, from the awe-inspiring Iguazú Falls to the charming town center, the adventurous outdoor activities, and the unique flavors of Argentine cuisine. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll be able to plan your trip to Puerto Iguazú like a pro and make the most of your visit.

Iguaçu Falls near Puerto Iguazú Iguaçu Falls near Puerto Iguazú Confluence of the Iguazú and Paraná Rivers, with the Triple Frontier in the background Confluence of the Iguazú and Paraná Rivers, with the Triple Frontier in the background