6 Surprising Truths About Visiting Iguazu Falls: Insider Tips from Seasoned Travelers
We've shared our firsthand experience exploring Iguazu Falls, one of South America's most breathtaking natural wonders. But what about the realities of the journey itself? Use this comprehensive Iguazu Falls travel guide to prepare for what awaits, drawing from our real trip insights.
Here are six key things rarely mentioned about visiting Iguazu Falls:
Visiting Iguazu Falls Isn't Always Cheap or Easy—But It's a Bargain Now!
Straddling the Brazil-Argentina border, Iguazu Falls requires a detour for most travelers, unless you're overlanding through Paraguay. Our four-day trip cost $1,000 using buses and the cheapest available hostel. Here's the breakdown:
Bus travel is the budget option. From São Paulo or Florianópolis (Brazil), it's nearly 16 hours. From Buenos Aires, expect 24 hours; our Rosario-Puerto Iguazú leg was 20 hours at ARS 480 ($95 USD per ticket then), plus Puerto Iguazú-Salta at ARS 590 ($115 USD).
2021 Update: Exchange Rates Make It Even Cheaper Today
2021 Note: Favorable USD-ARS rates mean you'll pay about 1/4 of our 2018 costs:
- ARS 480 = US$5.47 (vs. $28 in 2018)
- ARS 590 = US$6.73 (vs. $34 in 2018)
A direct airport serves this UNESCO site. Flights from Buenos Aires take 2 hours (~$350 USD one-way).
Accommodations are pricey and book fast—even mediocre spots. We paid ARS 245 ($48 USD) for a basic double in a rundown hostel. Opt for better-reviewed options unless ultra-budgeting.
Park fees add up: ARS 60 ($12 USD) round-trip bus, ARS 170 ($34 USD) entry, ARS 150 ($30 USD) boat tour (highly recommended). Brazilian side: BRL 41.66 ($21 USD) entry + buses (~$4 USD total). Per person total: ~$76 USD (Argentine side only).
Historical Exchange Rate Updates (Illustrating ARS Decline)
2021 Rates:
- ARS 245 = US$2.79
- ARS 60 = US$0.68
- ARS 170 = US$1.94
- ARS 150 = US$1.71
- BRL 41.66 = US$7.77
2019 Rates:
- ARS 245 = US$5.42
- ARS 60 = US$1.33
- ARS 170 = US$3.76
- ARS 150 = US$3.32
- BRL 41.66 = US$10.62
2018 Rates:
- ARS 245 = US$13.29
- ARS 60 = US$3.25
- ARS 170 = US$9.22
- ARS 150 = US$8.13
- BRL 41.66 = US$12.37
2017 Rates:
- ARS 245 = US$14
- ARS 60 = US$3.50
- ARS 170 = US$10
- ARS 150 = US$8.80
- BRL 41.66 = US$13
These historical rates highlight the Argentine peso's ongoing devaluation.
Our falls visit totaled $181 USD ($210 USD if visiting both sides; note U.S. citizens need a $140 USD 90-day Brazilian visa).
Pro Tip: Book flights from Buenos Aires early (~$400 USD round-trip RT, saving days vs. buses). Or snag a pre-booked tour package. Nearby, explore Paraguay's UNESCO-listed Jesuit Missions (4-hour drive/bus from Puerto Iguazú).
Puerto Iguazú Isn't a Tourist Paradise
Despite its fame, Puerto Iguazú feels underdeveloped compared to Argentina's gems like Bariloche or El Calafate. Streets are lined with restaurants and shops; many hotels need updates, and child beggars are common.
Pro Tip: Book top-rated hotels on Booking.com or hostels on Hostelworld early. Dine upscale at La Rueda (Avenida Córdoba 28).
2021 Update: Airbnb Boom
New Airbnbs offer options on both sides. Sign up via referral for up to $30 off your first booking. Choose private rooms or full apartments with strong recent reviews—avoid zero-review listings.
The Real Stars? Not Just the Falls!
The falls dazzle, but cheeky coatis (raccoon-like) steal the show, roaming freely. Tourists snap pics up close—but beware: they bite, steal food, and turn aggressive. Heed graphic warning signs; don't feed or pet them.
Pro Tip: Keep distance and secure food to avoid rabies risks.
Jungle Wildlife Steals the Spotlight
Beyond falls, vibrant butterflies, birds, catfish, crocs, coatis, monkeys, and jaguars thrive here (we spotted most minus the last two).
Pro Tip: Picnic with your own food (park options are pricey/subpar) and soak in the jungle trails.
The Park Is Massive—Plan Accordingly
Brazilian side: 1.2 km walkway. Argentine side: expansive trails (Upper/Lower, San Martín Island, Devil's Throat), plus trains and optional boat. Easily 6+ hours total.
Pro Tip: Allocate at least half a day. Do sides separately.
Weather Is Unpredictable—Tropical Rains Rule
In humid jungle, heavy rain is common. Don't risk a single rushed day.
Pro Tip: Build in buffer days for sunshine, rainbows, and butterflies—it's worth it.
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