Iguazu Falls - Argentina Travel Information
Iguazu Falls, which means "big water" in Guarana language, justify their name. The falls are actually a group of 275 falls up to 70 meters high, with Iguazu river's water (Rio Iguazu) running in them. The falls are located on the border between Argentina and Brazil.
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UNESCO declared Iguazu Falls in 1984 as a World Heritage Site. |
Getting to Iguazu Falls
A bus from Puerto Iguazu's central bus station is leaving for the falls every 45 minutes. It is also possible to take a taxi - the distance to the falls is not long. In order to get to the Brazilian side, you can take a bus going from the central bus station to Foz De Iguazu in Brazil (a bridge connects the two cities) and from there a bus to the falls (leaving every 45 minutes). Remember - the payment for the bus fare in Brazil is only with Brazilian currency, therefore you should exchange some money before crossing. Entrance fee at the Brazilian side can be paid with Argentinean currency.
It is convenient to arrive to Puerto Iguazu from Buenos Aires, where several bus companies operate night buses. The ride is between 16 to 20 hours and it is very comfortable (usually it also includes meals). Another option is flying from Buenos Aires to Puerto Iguazu Airport (YGR), for around $100 (depends on the season).
Hotels in Iguazu Falls
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Book your hotel in Iguazu Falls early to avoid last minute high prices, as hotels in Argentina tend to fill up quickly. Click here to reserve your hotel in Iguazu Falls. (booking.com is our recommendation for the best prices and availability) |
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A Visit to Iguazu Falls
The Argentinean side provides an intimate touch with the falls. Many walking trails were paved throughout the reserve, and a free train brings visitors from the gate to the falls themselves. These facilities allows a close encounter with the falls. Walking through the parks makes it possible to enjoy the rich flora and the huge amount of beautiful birds, butterflies (over 500 types in the area) and other animals.
The most impressive fall in the area is called La Garganta del Diablo, meaning "the Devil's throat".
Excitement lovers can take a speed boat along the Devil's canyon up to the Garganta del Diablo falls.
I find the Brazilian side less impressive. It is much more crowded (since there is only one trail which all travelers are walking through) but it provides beautiful scenery of the falls (as all say - more panoramic views), therefore it shouldn't be missed as well.
You should put aside at lease one day to see the Argentinean side, and an additional half day for the Brazilian side.
 Costs |
The entrance fee at the Brazilian side is 18.9 Rial. At the Argentinean side the fee 30 Peso and it allows 50% discount for an additional entrance on the following day. |
San Ignacio Mini Ruins
San Ignacio is the name of one of several missions that were built by Jesuit monks throughout the Spanish empire in order to convert the natives to Christianity.
15 missions were established in Argentina and this mission was first established in 1696.
In 1773 the Jesuit missioners were expelled from South America for political reasons and their missions were destroyed. Today only part of their ruins is left.
At the site there is a museum that presents the Guarani's life (the natives which the missioners were trying to convert), the Spanish occupation and the missions.
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UNESCO declared San Ignacio Mini Ruins in 1983 as a World Heritage Site. |
 Accommodation |
There are several cheap and comfortable accommodation options in the village of Posadas. |
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Costs |
Entrance fee is 2.5 Peso. |
 Getting there |
The site is located about 240 km south-west from Iguazu Falls, on the road that leads to them from Posadas. It is possible to stop here from or to the falls. |
