Iguazu Falls, Brazil & Argentina

The Iguazu Falls are located between the boarders of Brazil and Argentina, and are also very close to the Paraguayan boarder [allowing for day trips to the Ciudad del Este, which is famous for Electronics]. The falls can be accessed from both countries, and I would highly recommend visiting both sides as it gives you two different perspectives. 

The Brazilian side can be accessed from the IGU airport which has many flights connecting to other cities. The Argentinian side can be similarly accessed from the equivalent airport IGR. It is advisable to take domestic flights from these airports, since you can avoid a lot of international airfare tax. There is an easy route to travel between the two countries over land, however you must pass through an informal passport check.

Brazilian Side

For me, the Brazilian side had more to offer. The viewing platforms gave a much bigger impact, showing the true scale of the falls. There are many ways to experience the falls, including boat trips, helicopters, and the walk. The helicopter tour was spectacular, and gave wonderful views over the surrounding jungle and river. You can begin the tour from outside the park gates. The boat trip however was unpleasant. I read the negative reviews on trip advisor before booking the boat trip, but decided to do it anyway. The time consisted of being thrown under the path of these waterfalls, being absolutely drenched and frozen. There were certainly no photo opportunities! I don't think many people on the boat enjoyed it. 

I highly recommend visiting the Parque das Aves, a bird park for creatures no longer able to live in the wild. The birds are so colourful and very friendly. I fell in love with the Toucans as pictured above!

I stayed inside the park, at the Belmond Hotel das Cataratas which is a truly outstanding hotel. The bar is lovely, the pool is luxurious and the rooms are clean and well decorated. In addition they offered complementary Havana flip-flops to take home!

It is cheaper to stay outside the park in the town 

Cataratas do Iguazu, and this is where the majority of

visitors stay since tours begin here.

Argentinian Side

Unfortunately for my visit, the Garganta del Diablo was closed due to floods. I think this is what reduced my fondness for the Argentinian side, since you can get a less immersive view of the falls. When this platform is reopened, Im sure the Argentinian side will become more favourable. 

I stayed in the Sheraton which was once again within the boarders of the park. This hotel was not as enjoyable as the Belmond, the building felt old and tired.

General Tips

1) Remember to get strong insect repellant! One evening I went to the pool bar and forgot to wear any repellant. Within five minutes I had a couple of hefty bites!

2) Don't rush your trip here! I would recommend spending 2 full days on the Brazilian side, and 1 full day on the Argentinian side.

Happy travelling <3