Best time to travel to Argentina

Iguazu Falls in Argentina

Rumor has it that when Lady Roosevelt saw Iguazu for the first time, she said: "Poor Niagara."

Best time: August–September | December–April

Iguazu Falls
Iguazu Falls
Iguazu Falls
Iguazu Falls
Iguazu Falls – Brazil side
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Iguazu Falls straddle the border of Argentina and Brazil, close to the border of Paraguay. This massive natural wonder consists of almost 300 waterfalls and cataracts that disappear and reappear depending on the season. The width of Iguazu is also very impressive—some 8,858 ft (2,700 m). The height of the tallest part—the so-called Devil's Throat—is 269 ft (82 m).

Iguazu is the most powerful waterfall in South America. During the rainy season, its flow rate can reach an impressive number of 13,000 cubic meters per second which is more than enough to fill five Olympic swimming pools. It's perhaps no wonder that in native Guarani Indian language, "Iguazu" which is the name of both the waterfall and the river, means "big water".

The best time to visit Iguazu Falls

Summer, which lasts roughly from December to February, is the best time to see Iguazu Falls with the highest water levels. It's also the best period to explore the falls by boat. However, this is also the most humid and hot time of the year. Shoulder periods from March to April and from August to September are a much more pleasant time to visit the falls in terms of weather. Even considering that the waterfall volume may be smaller. The chances of rain during this time are rather low, and the air is cooler and drier. It's also less crowded as most locals take their vacation during the summer. Just make sure to avoid Easter and Christmas holidays, as this time tends to be very crowded.

Things to do at Iguazu Falls

Boat tours to the falls, helicopter rides over Iguazu, and various trekking options are available both on Brazilian and Argentinian sides. Explore Iguazú National Park on the Brazilian side. The Macuco Trail is a perfect way to see the jungle with its unique flora and fauna. To complete your adventure, you can float down the river on an inflatable raft.

Which side to view Iguazu Falls from

There are two ways to see Iguazu—from the Brazilian side and from the Argentinian side. The first one offers a beautiful panoramic view while the second allows you to experience the waterfall more intimately. It's on the Argentinian side where you can get soaked while walking along the boardwalks in the clouds of mist and where you can even take a speedboat and go right under the falls. So the decision is up to you.

How to get to Iguazu Falls

The fastest way is to fly either to Foz do Iguaçu Airport (IGU) on the Brazilian side or to Cataratas del Iguazú (IGR) in Argentina. There is also a bus leaving for the falls from Buenos Aires, but the trip takes about 18 hours.

Where to stay

There are plenty of lodging options in proximity to Iguazu Falls whether you are on the Brazillian or Argentinian side. For example, you can stay in the national parks surrounding the falls, but it is a really pricey option. There is just one hotel in Iguazú National Park in Argentina, Gran Melia Iguazu, offering stunning views of the falls right from your room window. Similarly, in Belmond Hotel das Cataratas, (located within the reaches of Iguaçu National Park of Brazil) you can marvel at a panoramic view of Iguazu Falls from your room. If you are looking for a more budget-friendly option you can stay in Puerto Iguazú (Argentina) or Foz do Iguaçu (Brazil). Both cities have a variety of hotels in the center. You can pick accommodation close to a bus terminal, from where buses depart to Iguazu Falls.

Practical info

When is the best time to visit Iguazu Falls?

Iguazu Falls is best visited during the summer months, from December to February. Water levels are at their peak during this time. Shoulder months like March to April and August to September provide excellent weather with fewer crowds than the summer months. However, it's recommended to avoid visiting during holidays as it can be crowded. Show more

Which side of Iguazu Falls should I view: Brazilian or Argentinian?

Both Brazilian and Argentinian sides of Iguazu Falls provide unique perspectives. The Brazilian side offers a panoramic view, while the Argentinian side offers a more intimate experience where you can walk on boardwalks amidst the mist and get soaked. There is also a speedboat ride offered on the Argentinian side for a closer view under the falls. Show more

What are some things to do at Iguazu Falls?

Visiting Iguazu Falls offers a range of activities such as boat tours, helicopter rides, and trekking. Exploring Iguazú National Park in Brazil is a great way to see the flora and fauna. The Macuco Trail is also a popular option. For an adventure, you can take an inflatable raft down the river. Show more

How can I get to Iguazu Falls?

The quickest way to reach Iguazu Falls is to fly into Foz do Iguaçu Airport (IGU) in Brazil or Cataratas del Iguazú (IGR) in Argentina. Bus rides from Buenos Aires take approximately 18 hours. Upon arrival at the airport, taxis and buses are readily available to get to the falls. Show more

Where is the best place to stay near Iguazu Falls?

Lodging options around Iguazu Falls include hotels within Iguazú National Park in Argentina or Brazil, which are costly yet unforgettable. For more affordable options, there are hotels in Puerto Iguazú (Argentina) or Foz do Iguaçu (Brazil). Both cities offer a range of options to suit a budget-friendly traveler. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin