All you need to know before you visit the Iguazu Falls

Made up of 275 separate waterfalls on the Iguazu River, The UNESCO recognised Iguazu Falls attracts tourists and visitors from every corner of the globe. It was declared one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World in 2011 and it’s not hard to see why… Over 1,700 cubic metres of water cascades between Argentina and Brazil at up to 80 metres every second! A trip to Argentina would not be complete without a visit to the Iguazu falls, so here are some helpful tips to planning your trip there.

Don’t underestimate the Iguazu Falls experience

If you think that a trip to Iguazu just involves watching the thundering waterfalls, you are sorely mistaken. The falls are undoubtedly breathtaking, however you can also partake in plenty of other activities in the beautiful area surrounding the spectacle. Wander through the forest and peer through the canopy to spot spectacular birds and wildlife, hike one of the many trails, or take a boat ride out to the base of the falls to see them from a whole new angle.

Wildlife of Iguazu

The Iguazu Falls and the surrounding forest are beautiful in more ways than one. As you peer down over the awe-inspiring waterfalls, you should take care to note the diversity of the flora and fauna around you. In fact, if you are lucky, you may even get to see some of the most endangered animals in the world. Keep your eyes peeled for the dappled coats of jaguars, anteaters, harpy eagles, ocelots, and yacare caimans, to name just a few. You are also likely to see unique species of butterflies fluttering by as you wander, or rare birds soaring above you in the sky.

What to bring to the Iguazu falls

You are bound to get hungry on your adventure-packed day, particularly if you are hiking, so make sure to take plenty of food and drink with you as prices can be steep inside the park. Packing waterproof clothes for your trip to the falls is also a must. Some people prefer to bring a bathing suit as the enormous waterfalls will drench you from top to bottom – very refreshing! Ensure your camera is waterproof, and it is also highly advisable to bring along some plastic ziploc/sandwich bags to keep all your valuables safe and dry.

The Argentine / Brazilian border

The waterfalls of Iguazu are situated on the border of Argentina and Brazil and many people wish to see the waterfalls from both countries as the sight does vary between the two. If you would like to explore the falls from both countries, you’ll need a valid visa for each of them and will have to travel to the actual border crossing in order to enter Brazil. Unfortunately you cannot just cross the border from within the park – as tempting as it might seem. If this appeals to you then we, TravelLocal’s partner company, can organise it for you so just let us know when you enquire.

Allow a full day to experience the Iguazu Falls

Many people underestimate the time it will take them to visit and truly explore the Iguazu Falls in full. In Argentina, we highly recommend dedicating one whole day of your schedule to visiting the falls. The park is huge and offers you three different locations for marvelling at the cascading waters – the Upper trail, Lower trail, and the Devil’s Throat.

Best time to see the Iguazu Falls in Argentina

The falls are situated in a tropical climate, so it’s best to visit during spring (September to mid-December) when it isn’t too hot and the weather is perfect for such a picturesque sight as the Iguazu Falls.

Make it happen

If you have been inspired to witness first-hand the awe-inspiring Iguazu Falls, then don’t hesitate to get in touch. Just pop in a few details and we, TravelLocal’s Argentinian partner, can begin planning a perfect tailor-made holiday just for you.