Things to do in Iguazu

2026 Global 100 - Best Things to Do

Iguazu Falls

Iguazu Falls is located on the Iguazu River at the border between Argentina and Brazil. The word "Iguazu" comes from the language of the Guarani, an indigenous people of South America, and means "huge water." The falls consist of hundreds of waterfalls of varying sizes, cascading down a nearly 3,000 m wide arc-shaped cliff, creating a magnificent sight. In 1984, Iguazu National Park was inscribed on the UNESCO World Natural Heritage List. The falls' iconic view is the "Devil's Throat"—a U-shaped chasm where nearly half of the river's water converges, plunging from a height of over 80 m with a roar like muffled thunder, sending mist dozens of meters into the air, and on clear days rainbows often hang above the curtain of mist. The formation of the falls is closely related to ancient basalt geology; basalt layers formed by volcanic eruptions approx. 100 million years ago were carved and eroded by the Iguazu River over the long ages, creating the layered scenery. In the 1540s, Spanish explorer Cabeza de Vaca crossed the rainforest and recorded the falls, introducing them to Europe. The falls are distributed on both sides of the gorge, with Argentina and Brazil each occupying one side, offering distinct viewing experiences. The Argentine side has two routes, upper and lower: the upper route looks down from above at the tumbling, cascading falls, while the lower route winds through dense forest, allowing visitors to experience each section of the falls up close, with a new view at every step; the Brazilian side is ideal for panoramic views, where the main falls on the Argentine side can be seen as a whole, and the park is also home to many wild animals. Visitors can also take speedboats into the mist below the falls to feel the thrill of the water up close. The falls are located in a subtropical region with abundant water year-round, and the water views are even better during the rainy season.

No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Argentina

Iguazu National Park

Iguazu National Park was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1984. The park centers on Iguazu Falls, which spread out in a semicircle, spanning the border between Argentina and Brazil. Among them, the U-shaped gorge known as Devil's Throat features water cascading down from a great height, with rising mist covering almost the entire field of view. The Argentina side features two walking trails, the Upper Circuit and the Lower Circuit: the Upper Circuit offers a panoramic view of the falls from above with an expansive vista; the Lower Circuit stays close to the water, allowing you to feel the impact of the water up close, and you can see named waterfalls such as San Martin Falls along the way. To reach Devil's Throat, you need to take the park's ecological train and then walk along the boardwalk to the viewing platform. The park is surrounded by subtropical rainforest, which is home to wildlife such as jaguars, anteaters, howler monkeys, and South American tapirs. Groups of South American coatis are often seen near the trails, and there is also a rich variety of bird species.

No. 8 of Best Things to Do in Argentina

Devil's Throat

Devil's Throat is one of the core sections of Iguazu Falls, located on the Argentina side. Multiple river channels converge at the edge of a semicircular basalt formation, forming a U-shaped abyss where approx. 14 waterfalls cascade down simultaneously, with a drop of over 80m, creating a concentrated and fierce volume of water. The massive water curtain plunges into a narrow rift, with mist rising and filling the air. To reach the viewing platform, you need to take the park's sightseeing train through the tropical rainforest, then walk along the steel walkway built over the upper reaches of the Iguazu River. Along the walkway, the river surface is wide and calm, occasionally dotted with flocks of birds and small islands, contrasting with the sudden drop of the waterfall at the end. The viewing platform is suspended above the main waterfall, allowing you to watch the water cascading down and feel the mist hitting your face up close.

Hito Tres Fronteras (Argentina)

Hito Tres Fronteras (Argentina) is located at the confluence of the Iguazu and Parana rivers. The Iguazu River flows from the jungle and merges here into the wide Parana River. The T-shaped waterway divides the surrounding land into three parts, naturally marking the borders between Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay. Standing on the observation deck on this side, you can see all three countries with the naked eye. Each of the three countries has erected an obelisk on its respective bank. The obelisk on the Argentina side is decorated in blue and white, and the flag often flies on the flagpole next to it, symbolizing the peaceful coexistence of the three nations. On clear days, you can even make out the silhouettes of the obelisks in Brazil and Paraguay across the river. The plaza below the observation deck features a craft market with stalls selling local specialties such as mate tea, wood carvings, and macaw-shaped dolls. The two rivers have different water colors, and a clear dividing line is often visible at the confluence. At dusk, the sunset dyes the river surface in warm colors, making it a popular time for photos. After nightfall, the obelisk lights up, the plaza fountain dances to music, and children can often be seen running and playing through the water jets.

La Aripuca

is a cultural eco-tourism attraction located in Misiones, Argentina, that integrates wooden structures with local culture, embodying the concepts of nature conservation and cultural heritage. The main landmark is a wooden sculpture approx. 17 m high and weighing approx. 500 tons, made from trees in the forest that were destroyed or about to be felled, covering approx. 30 native tree species from the Misiones rainforest. Its symbolic significance lies in educating and awakening public awareness of forest ecology and cultural heritage. The attraction includes several distinct areas, such as the Las Termitas restaurant, built with local wood and serving regional cuisine; the El Cucurucho snack area, offering ice cream and local fruit juices; and the Guaraní exhibition area, showcasing traditional crafts and cultural life. Visitors can learn about the rainforest ecosystem through guided tours and understand the dangers of deforestation and ecological degradation.

Guiraoga

Located adjacent to Iguazu National Park (Parque Nacional Iguazú). The center is dedicated to protecting and rehabilitating local wildlife, while also promoting ecological awareness and showcasing the rich tropical biodiversity of the Misiones region.Its name means "house of birds" in the local Guaraní language, reflecting its original purpose: to provide shelter and care for birds that have been injured, captured, or lost their habitat. The center was established through a collaboration between ecologists and environmental organizations and covers approx. 19 hectares, with an environment that closely resembles a natural rainforest ecosystem. Visitors can explore via walking trails and observe rescued and rehabilitated animals, including toucans, parrots, jaguars, monkeys, sloths, and various reptiles. Staff will introduce the animals' habits, the reasons they are threatened, and conservation measures during the visit, making it both an educational and natural experience. Some animals are released back into the wild after rehabilitation, while others that cannot survive in the natural environment receive long-term care.

Cataratas do Iguaçu - Brasil

Cataratas do Iguaçu - Brasil attracts visitors from around the world with its majestic presence and magnificent natural views. Quedas Do Iguacu spans the Iguazu River, with a total width of 2.7 km, forming a massive horseshoe shape. The volume of water is astonishing, creating a deafening roar and massive clouds of mist that are truly breathtaking. The park offers multiple viewing platforms where visitors can enjoy magnificent views of the waterfall up close. Visitors can also walk to the edge of the falls via wooden boardwalks to experience the thrill of the mist. The park features multiple hiking trails, where visitors can explore the mysteries of the rainforest with professional guides. In addition to hiking, visitors can choose to take a helicopter ride for a panoramic view of the waterfall, or participate in rafting to experience the power and charm of the waterfall up close.

Garganta Station

Minas de Wanda

This attraction is a local mine where visitors can learn a lot about mining, see gems excavated from the mine, and experience the hardships of mining.

City Center Iguazú

City Center Iguazú is located in the heart of Puerto Iguazú, Argentina, close to the borders of Brazil and Paraguay. It is a comprehensive leisure and commercial center integrating entertainment, dining and shopping. As a popular gathering place for locals and tourists, it also serves as an important rest stop for visitors heading to the magnificent Iguazú Falls. The center is equipped with complete leisure facilities, distinctive restaurants and comfortable spaces, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere with both local charm and international-standard services. With its prime location and rich recreational experiences, it has become a popular and practical destination in the Iguazú region, loved by travelers from all over the world.