Best things to do in Puerto Iguazú
Find out more about those top places in Puerto Iguazú
Perched at the top of a corridor of Argentinian land sandwiched between Brazil and Paraguay, Puerto Iguazú is one of Argentina’s most northerly towns. Undoubtedly the main reason to visit Puerto Iguazú is to visit the awe-inspiring Iguazú Falls, which are undoubtedly one of the natural wonders of the world. Stretching for more than three kilometers, the falls see the Rio Iguazú hurtle over 250 separate waterfalls before climaxing at the horseshoe shaped Garganta del Diablo, where thousands of cubic meters of water plunge over the precipice every second. While there are towns on the Brazilian and Paraguayan side of the waterfalls, Puerto Iguazú is the area’s most charming town with a host of clapperboard hotels and eateries catering specifically for visitors.
-
Iguazú National Park
Argentina’s Iguazú National Park is simply breathtaking. Home to one of the world’s largest waterfalls, the park is undoubtedly one the best places in the world to see the raw power of nature up close. Boardwalks let you traverse the cliffs to get a close look at the waterfall itself while kilometers of jungle paths offer the chance to see capuchin monkeys.
-
Boat Tour
For an unforgettable view of the Iguazú Falls take a boat tour, which lets you ride through a series of thrilling rapids before reaching the main falls, known as Salto San Martin. More often than not the boat becomes engulfed in the spray making for one of South America’s most memorable experiences.
-
San Ignacio Mission
Located on the banks of the Parana River, the ruins of the San Ignacio Mission are one of the most popular day trips from Iguazú Falls. Built during the 17th century, the mission served the Jesuits and their quest to bring Christianity to the indigenous peoples of Argentina. Today, it is one of the best-preserved early modern buildings in the country and has a dazzling array of carvings that will leave you awestruck.
-
Three Frontiers Landmark
The area around Iguazú Falls is unique, as the borders of Paraguay, Argentina and Brazil converge on the river surrounding the waterfall. Located in Foz do Iguaçu in Brazil, the Three Frontiers Landmark aims to celebrate the diversity of the region and guided tours uncover the intertwined but distinct histories of these three South American nations.
-
Itaipu Dam
Located over the Brazilian border, the vast Itaipu Dam, which is by most measurements the largest in the world, harnesses the immense power of the region’s rivers. To see how this mammoth power plant operates guided tours will take you around its inner-workings and on an open-top bus journey to its most panoramic locations where you will be able to see into Paraguay.
-
Secret Waterfalls
While the Iguazú Falls are the region’s main draw, there are countless other waterfalls hidden in the jungle just waiting to be discovered. Many of these are perfect for cliff jumping and swimming in plunge pools with local guides able to take you to the most enchanting locations.
