What to do at Iguazu Falls: Complete 2025 Guide

Planning a trip and not sure what to do at Iguazu Falls?

This incredible destination, recognized as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, offers far more than breathtaking waterfalls. From walkways that take you right to the edge of the majestic Devil’s Throat to thrilling boat rides that’ll leave you soaked and buzzing with adrenaline, Iguazu promises unforgettable experiences. On both the Argentine and Brazilian sides, you’ll find panoramic viewpoints, lush nature trails, boat tours, adventure activities, and jaw-dropping scenery around every corner.

In this complete guide, you’ll discover the best things to do at Iguazu Falls, plus practical tips to help you plan your visit, choose the best time to go, and make the most of your experience on both sides of the park. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure at one of the most spectacular places in South America: Iguazu Falls.

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Quick Guide to Iguazu Falls tourist attractions

Iguaçu National Park (Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls) — The Brazilian side has fewer trails and attractions compared to the Argentine side, so you can easily explore the entire park in a single day.

Foz do Iguaçu — The closest Brazilian city to Iguaçu National Park, known for its strong tourist infrastructure and wide selection of hotels, resorts, and activities.

Iguazu National Park (Argentine side) — The Argentine side offers more walking trails, viewpoints, and routes to explore, and you may need up to two days to see everything. If you’re looking for things to do at Iguazu Falls, this is where you’ll find the largest variety of experiences.

Puerto Iguazú — The closest Argentine city to Iguazu National Park. It’s a small, charming town with simple accommodations, great restaurants, and a friendly local vibe.

Puerto Iguazú vs. Foz do Iguaçu — These two cities are very close—only about 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) apart—and well connected by public transportation. This makes it easy to stay in one city and take a day trip to the other side of Iguazu Falls. You can also split your stay between both cities to experience the best of each side of the park.

Iguazu Falls — One of the best ways to fully enjoy the parks is to stay at one of the hotels located inside the protected areas. These properties not only offer some of the most exclusive lodging in the region but also provide unique access and unforgettable experiences right inside the parks. (See hotel on the Brazilian side | see hotel on the Argentine side).

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How to Get to Iguazu Falls?

Getting to Iguazu Falls is easier than you might think, with several transportation options depending on your starting point and budget. I’ve visited the park from both cities mentioned below, and in both cases the trip was quick and hassle-free.

• From Buenos Aires (Argentina) — The fastest way to get there is by taking a direct flight to Cataratas del Iguazú International Airport (IGR) in Puerto Iguazú. The flight takes about two hours, and from the airport you can reach the falls by taxi, bus, ride-share apps like Uber, or a private transfer to Iguazu National Park. You can also travel by long-distance bus from Buenos Aires’ Retiro terminal, but the journey is very long—around 18 hours.
• From Foz do Iguaçu (Brazil) — Foz do Iguaçu International Airport (IGU) offers direct flights from major Brazilian cities such as São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Curitiba. From the airport, getting to the Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls is quick and easy—about 20 minutes by taxi, ride-share apps like Uber, or a private transfer.
• By car (own or rental) — If you’re driving from nearby cities like Posadas (Argentina) or Ciudad del Este (Paraguay), you’ll find that the main roads are well-marked and generally in good condition. Just keep in mind that border crossings can have wait times, and you’ll need the proper documents to move between countries.

Best Time to Visit Iguazu Falls

Iguazu Falls is a year-round destination, but your experience can vary depending on the season.

• High Season — Includes summer (December to early March), school holidays (January and July), and major public holidays.
• Low Season — From March to June and August to November, when there are fewer tourists and prices tend to be lower.
• Rainy Season — October is typically the rainiest month in both Foz do Iguaçu and Puerto Iguazú. Summer (December through February) also brings frequent showers on both sides of the falls.
• Best Time to Visit Iguazu Falls — Between March and May, when the weather is mild, the water volume is high, and the crowds are smaller.

Check out the full guide to the best time to visit Iguazu Falls.

What to do at Iguazu Falls? Argentine side

Devil’s Throat Trail (Sendero Garganta del Diablo)

This is the star attraction on the Argentine side—and easily one of the top things to do at Iguazu Falls. From here, you get an incredible overhead view of the Devil’s Throat and can get remarkably close to the waterfalls.

An eco-friendly train takes you to the start of the trail, and from there you’ll follow elevated walkways above the river until you reach the jaw-dropping viewing platform. Along the way, you’ll find several lookout points with amazing views, and you might even spot local wildlife like birds, coatis, and other small mammals. The entire experience usually takes about two hours.

• What to See at the Devil’s Throat — Iguazu’s most iconic waterfall, featuring a dramatic drop of over 80 meters (260 feet).

Upper Circuit Trail (Sendero Circuito Superior)

This trail offers sweeping panoramic views of the waterfalls from above. The Upper Circuit at Iguazu starts just after Cataratas Station and stretches for about 1,750 meters (just over a mile), featuring several lookout points where you can admire the falls and cascades from elevated walkways.

What to See on the Upper Circuit — Stunning overhead views of the Dos Hermanas, Bossetti, and San Martín waterfalls—one of the best ways to appreciate the sheer scale and beauty of Iguazu Falls.

Lower Circuit Trail (Sendero Circuito Inferior)

This trail takes you through the lower section of Iguazu Falls, bringing you up close to the power of the water. The Lower Circuit is about 1,700 meters (just over a mile) long and includes flat sections, stairs, and ramps. Along the way, you’ll pass several viewpoints that offer unique perspectives of the park’s major waterfalls and cascades.

What to See on the Lower Circuit — Up-close views of the main falls, plus the chance to feel the mist from the waterfalls—it’s a more immersive and refreshing experience!

Boat Ride at Iguazu Falls (Gran Aventura)

This is the most popular adventure tour at Iguazu Falls on the Argentine side. It’s a high-speed boat ride along the Iguazu River that takes you as close as possible to the crashing waterfalls. The experience is intense and thrilling—the boat cuts through the river at full speed and gets so close to the falls that getting completely soaked is guaranteed.

What to Expect from Gran Aventura — A serious adrenaline rush, getting absolutely drenched, and seeing the falls from a one-of-a-kind perspective. Be sure to bring a change of clothes and protect your valuables in waterproof bags!

Full Moon Walk

This is one of the best things to do at Iguazu Falls at night. The Full Moon Walk takes place on nights with a full moon and gives you the chance to see the park and waterfalls illuminated only by moonlight. It’s a truly unique experience—the views become even more dramatic and breathtaking after dark. The night tour at Iguazu Falls is fully guided and lasts approximately three hours.

Traveler Tip – The Argentine side of Iguazu Falls takes a full day to explore at a relaxed pace and enjoy all the activities it offers. If you’re visiting during peak season, it’s a smart idea to buy your tickets in advance and arrive early so you can make the most of your day.

Book your Iguazu Falls tours in advance to ensure availability and get the best prices.

What to do at Iguazu Falls? Brazilian side

Devil’s Throat Trail (Sendero Garganta del Diablo)

This is the only trail on the Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls that lets you see the waterfalls up close. The path to the Devil’s Throat is short and includes a quick bus ride followed by a short walk. There’s also an elevator that provides access to the walkway for visitors with limited mobility.

The view of the Devil’s Throat from the Brazilian side is far more panoramic, since you face the waterfalls head-on. The walkway to the main viewpoint is also shorter than the one on the Argentine side, making this visit quicker and more accessible.

Boat Tour At Iguazu Falls (Macuco Safari)

The boat tour at Iguazu Falls on the Brazilian side is very similar to the Gran Aventura on the Argentine side, but it’s a bit less intense. On the Macuco Safari, the boat moves at a slower speed and doesn’t get quite as close to the waterfalls—yet it’s still an exciting and highly recommended experience.

Sunrise at Iguazu Falls

If you want to experience the park while it’s still almost completely empty, this exclusive activity gives you early access—before the official opening—to watch the sunrise over Iguazu Falls. The experience includes breakfast at the park’s restaurant, which you can enjoy after taking in the views from the lookout point. That’s why it’s one of the best things to do in Iguazu Falls if you’re looking for a truly unique, once-in-a-lifetime moment.

At sunrise, the scenery at Iguazu Falls is absolutely breathtaking, and in summer the temperatures are much more pleasant at that hour—no crowds and no intense sun. After breakfast, you’re free to stay in the park as long as you like and continue enjoying the views.

Sunset at the Falls

This special ticket gives you access to one of the most exclusive experiences at Iguazu Falls: watching the sunset from inside the park. With this ticket, you’ll receive a wristband that allows you to remain in the park after regular closing hours. You can either take the last bus to the main lookout at 4:00 or 4:30 PM or enter earlier and stay until the designated end time.

The experience also includes a small reception with sparkling wine, water, and fresh juices. As the sun sets, the waterfalls glow in a stunning display of color—perfect for capturing unforgettable photos.

Bike Poço Preto

This 9 km (5.6 mi) bike ride through Iguaçu National Park is perfect for travelers looking for a different kind of experience at Iguazu Falls. The route winds through the rainforest all the way to the Iguaçu River, giving you the chance to discover the region’s native flora and fauna at your own pace.

It’s a fun and unique way to explore the park and take in a variety of landscapes. With a bit of luck, you might even spot some wildlife along the way. Keep in mind that the tour does not include entrance to Iguaçu National Park—you’ll need to purchase that separately.

Traveler Tip: For the full experience, it’s best to visit both sides of Iguazu Falls—the Argentine side to feel the power of the water up close, and the Brazilian side to take in the entire panorama at a glance.

Book your tickets and Iguazu Falls tours in advance to secure the best prices:

What to do in Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil?

Parque das Aves (Bird Park)

Located just 500 meters (about 0.3 miles) from the Iguazu Falls visitor center, the Bird Park is a favorite among both adults and kids—and it’s one of the top places to visit in Iguazu. With exotic species and active conservation projects, the experience offers a true immersion into the region’s biodiversity.

That said, the birds are housed in large aviaries—designed for their well-being and protection—but the experience can still feel a bit like a zoo. So if you’re not comfortable seeing animals in enclosed environments, this activity in Foz do Iguaçu may not be the best fit for you.

Helicopter Ride

Among the most spectacular experiences you can have at Iguazu Falls, the helicopter ride stands out for offering a panoramic, bird’s-eye view of both the Argentine and Brazilian sides. The flight lasts around ten minutes—just enough time to take in an unforgettable, one-of-a-kind perspective of the falls. For the best views, it’s recommended to go on a clear day.

You can book the helicopter tour in Foz do Iguaçu through online platforms or go directly to the helipad, located right across from the Bird Park, where the company Helisul operates.

Itaipu Binational Dam

The Itaipu Hydroelectric Power Plant is a massive dam located on the Paraná River, between Brazil and Paraguay. It’s the second-largest hydroelectric plant in the world and ranks first in energy production.

Visiting the Itaipu Dam is one of the most impressive experiences you can have while exploring the Iguazu Falls area. Considered one of the greatest engineering feats on the planet, it offers tours that blend tourism, technology, and sustainability—all in one place.

At Itaipu, you can choose from five types of tours: Refuge, Special, Panoramic, By Bike, and Illuminated—each providing a unique perspective of the complex. There’s also a free-entry eco-museum on site that adds even more depth to your visit.

Itaipu Panoramic Tour

A panoramic bus tour with an audio guide. The bus takes you through the dam area while sharing the history, construction details, and fun facts about the Itaipu Hydroelectric Plant along the way.

• Duration: 1 hour and 10 minutes
• Price: From R$60 (approx. USD 11)

Itaipu Special Tour

This in-depth tour from Foz do Iguaçu lets you explore both the exterior and interior of the Itaipu Hydroelectric Plant—including the control room, turbines, and pressure pipelines. It also includes a stop at the top of the dam, offering a privileged view of the entire complex.

• Duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes
• Price: From R$175 (approx. USD 33)

Itaipu Biological Refuge

This tour takes you through a protected area of the Atlantic Forest, preserved since the construction of the hydroelectric plant. Accompanied by a biologist, you’ll learn about the reforestation of native species and observe rescued animals that cannot be returned to the wild.

• Duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes
• Price: R$45 (approx. USD 8)

Itaipu Illuminated

For something a bit different during your visit to Iguazu Falls, the Itaipu Illuminated night tour offers a unique and atmospheric experience. This bus tour with an audio guide lets you see the Itaipu Hydroelectric Plant fully lit up after dark. There’s also a special version that includes access to the pressure pipelines and a dinner at the Dos Barrageiros restaurant.

• Duration: 2 hours
• Price: From R$50 (approx. USD 9)

Three Borders Landmark (Marco das Três Fronteiras)

The Three Borders Landmark is one of the most iconic tourist attractions in Foz do Iguaçu, marking the exact point where Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay meet. Here, you’ll find an obelisk painted in green and yellow, and traditional music and dance performances are held in the area.

The Brazilian side of the landmark offers excellent facilities, including a restaurant, restrooms, and live shows. It’s best to visit in the late afternoon and stay into the evening, when the atmosphere becomes even more enjoyable.

Each country has its own version of the landmark, but Brazil’s is the most developed in terms of tourist services and activities—although it’s also the only one that charges an entrance fee. Visiting this spot is definitely one of the most unique and memorable experiences in the Iguazu Falls area.

Muslim Mosque

Inaugurated in 1983, the Omar Ibn Al-Khattab Mosque is one of the must-see cultural attractions in Foz do Iguaçu. With its Islamic architecture and two 31-meter-high (approx. 102 ft) minarets, the mosque stands out for both its beauty and the peaceful atmosphere that surrounds it.

Guided tours are offered every 30 minutes. Women are required to cover their heads with a scarf or hijab to enter. It’s also recommended to wear a dress, long skirt, or long pants without rips—skirts are available at the entrance if needed.

Chen Tien Buddhist Temple

Visiting the Chen Tien Buddhist Temple is one of the most unique and peaceful experiences near Iguazu Falls. Perched on top of a hill, it offers stunning views of both downtown Foz do Iguaçu and Ciudad del Este in Paraguay.

Built in 1996, the temple is home to more than 120 statues, spacious gardens, and a 7-meter-high (approx. 23 ft) Buddha. While you can enter the temple itself, the real highlight is the outdoor area—with its beautifully maintained gardens and open-air sculptures.

Dreams Park Show

Dreams Park Show is an entertainment complex in Foz do Iguaçu featuring several themed attractions. Tickets can be purchased individually or as part of a combo pass that gives you access to multiple experiences. It’s one of the top recommendations for a family trip and definitely one of the most fun things to do around Iguazu Falls.

• Dreams Ice Bar — A bar carved entirely out of ice, kept at subzero temperatures. Admission includes thermal clothing, drinks, and up to 30 minutes inside the bar. It’s a cool (literally!) and fun experience in Foz do Iguaçu.
• Dreamland Wax Museum — One of the most entertaining family-friendly activities in Iguazu, the museum features life-size replicas of celebrities from film, music, and sports. Not all of the figures are spot-on, but many are impressively done—and great for photos!
• Valley of the Dinosaurs (Vale dos Dinossauros) — An open-air park with life-size dinosaur replicas, walking trails, a zip line, and an adventure course through the trees. It’s one of the most entertaining activities in Iguazu—especially great for families with kids.
• Dreams Motor Show — A museum designed for motorcycle enthusiasts. It showcases an extensive collection of bikes, including rare models. The venue also features a bar, restaurant, and live rock music performances—making it a fun stop even if you’re not a hardcore biker.
• Wonders of the World — An exhibition featuring scale models of iconic landmarks from around the globe, including the Eiffel Tower, Leaning Tower of Pisa, Taj Mahal, and Big Ben. A fun and educational visit for all ages!

Blue Park Water Park

Even though it’s part of the resort, Blue Park is open to the public and offers a wide range of attractions: an artificial beach with a wave pool, waterslides, a lazy river, a kids’ area, a zip line, and even a beach tennis court. It’s one of the best ways to enjoy summer in Foz do Iguaçu.

Blue Park is a thermal water park that belongs to the Mabu Thermas resort. The park is open to the public and features an artificial beach with waves, water slides, beach tennis sand, a lazy river, a children’s area, a zip line, and other attractions. It’s a great place to visit in Foz do Iguaçu, especially in the summer when the city gets very hot.

FlyFoz Skydiving

A tandem skydive with FlyFoz is one of the most extreme and unforgettable experiences you can have in Iguazu. It offers breathtaking views of the city, the Itaipu Hydroelectric Dam, and even the falls themselves.

The jump takes place from an altitude of around 10,000 meters (approx. 3,000 feet), and the full experience lasts about three hours. You can book directly through the official FlyFoz website.

Yup Star Ferris Wheel

Standing 88 meters tall (approx. 289 feet) with 26 cabins, the Yup Star Ferris wheel is visible from several points around Foz do Iguaçu. It’s located right next to the Three Borders Landmark, making it a great idea to visit both attractions on the same day.

The ride lasts about 20 minutes. While the views may not be as dramatic as in other spots around the region, the experience is relaxing and definitely worth adding to your Iguazu itinerary.

Ciudad del Este

Located right on the border with Brazil, Ciudad del Este is one of the most popular shopping destinations for Brazilians. It’s well known for its stores selling perfumes, electronics, makeup, and a wide variety of other goods.

Taking a day trip to Ciudad del Este is a solid option if you enjoy shopping while visiting Iguazu. That said, the city isn’t particularly known for its beauty, and it can feel quite chaotic. If you decide to shop there, be cautious about counterfeit products and stick to trusted shopping centers.

Rafain Churrascaria

Rafain Churrascaria is a Brazilian rodizio-style restaurant that combines great food with live cultural entertainment. It offers dinner shows along with a diverse buffet featuring Brazilian, Arabic, Italian, and seafood dishes—plus, of course, plenty of churrasco (Brazilian barbecue).

The live show lasts around 90 minutes and showcases traditional dances and folklore from various Latin American countries, making it a fun and flavorful cultural experience.

Book your Iguazu Falls tours in advance to ensure availability and get the best prices.

What to do in Puerto Iguazú, Argentina?

Three Borders Landmark

The Three Borders Landmark on the Argentine side is a simpler version compared to the one in Brazil, with fewer attractions and no live shows. Still, it offers a lovely view, a small market, a restaurant, and an obelisk painted in Argentina’s national colors.

While it’s a modest visit, it’s free and definitely worth stopping by if you’re in the area.

Wanda Mines

The Wanda Mines, located about 40 kilometers (25 miles) from Puerto Iguazú, are famous for their wide variety of precious stones such as quartz, amethyst, and topaz. Here, you can take a 45-minute guided tour through tunnels carved into the rock, where you’ll see the gems up close and learn how the extracted stones are processed. The tour offers a clear and accessible explanation of the mining and extraction process, making it one of the most interesting excursions to do while in Iguazú.

San Ignacio Miní

San Ignacio Miní is one of the best-preserved Jesuit missions in Argentina and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a bit farther from Puerto Iguazú, but it’s a fascinating historical site that’s well worth visiting if you have the time.

The visit gives you the chance to dive into the history of the Jesuit missions in the region and admire the architecture and remaining structures of this ancient settlement.

Guira Oga

Guirá Oga is located on the outskirts of Puerto Iguazú and is a wildlife rescue and rehabilitation center focused on reintroducing animals back into their natural habitat. The center is dedicated to the conservation and recovery of local wildlife, caring for injured or orphaned animals with the goal of returning them to the wild.

It’s an educational and enriching visit that offers a close-up look at the native fauna of Misiones and the ongoing conservation efforts. A different—and highly recommended—experience among the many things to do in Iguazú.

Duty Free Shop Puerto Iguazú

The Duty Free Shop Puerto Iguazú is located right next to the border between Argentina and Brazil. While it’s not very large, it does offer a solid selection of stores and competitive prices. You’ll find brands like NYX, Victoria’s Secret, and Apple, as well as shops selling wine, electronics, and sweets.

This spot is especially appealing for travelers from countries where these brands aren’t available—or where prices tend to be higher.

Now that you know the best things to do at Iguazu Falls, choose the activities that best match your interests. And to make your trip complete, don’t miss the guide on where to stay when visiting Iguazu Falls.

Book your Iguazu Falls tours in advance to ensure availability and get the best prices.