Discovering the Majestic Iguazú Falls on the Argentine Side
Nestled on the border between Argentina and Brazil, the Iguazú Falls are one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in the world. Comprising over 270 individual waterfalls spread across nearly 3 kilometers, the Argentine side—located in Iguazú National Park—is famous for its extensive walking trails, panoramic viewpoints, and the breathtaking Devil’s Throat (“Garganta del Diablo”), where the immense power of nature is on full display.
How to Get There?
Reaching the Argentine side of the falls is relatively straightforward:
• By Air: The nearest airport is Cataratas del Iguazú International Airport (IGR), just 17 kilometers from the park entrance. Daily flights connect from Buenos Aires and other major Argentine cities.
• By Bus: Long-distance buses from Buenos Aires or nearby cities like Posadas and Puerto Iguazú are an economical option, though journeys can last 16+ hours from Buenos Aires.
• By Car: Renting a car allows flexibility, and driving from Puerto Iguazú to the park takes only 20 minutes.
Once inside the park, regular buses take visitors from the entrance to the different trailheads, making it easy to explore the falls without walking too far.
What to Do at Iguazú Falls
The Argentine side offers a more immersive experience compared to the Brazilian side, with trails that bring you closer to the falls:
• Upper Circuit: Walk along elevated pathways for panoramic views of the waterfalls. Perfect for photography.
• Lower Circuit: Explore the base of the waterfalls and feel the mist on your face. The trail passes several smaller waterfalls along the way.
• Devil’s Throat (Garganta del Diablo): Take the ecological train or walk part of the trail to reach this iconic viewpoint. The roaring water and immense spray make it the highlight of any visit.
• Macuco Trail: A longer hike through the jungle leading to more secluded waterfalls and opportunities to spot wildlife like coatis, toucans, and monkeys.
Experiencing the Wonders of Iguazú Falls on the Argentine Side
Arriving at Iguazú National Park feels like stepping into a lush, vibrant world where nature reigns supreme. After passing the park entrance, visitors hop onto the eco-friendly train that winds through the dense subtropical rainforest. This scenic ride not only gives you a glimpse of the jungle and its wildlife but also brings you closer to the main attraction: the waterfalls themselves.
The train drops you off near the starting points of the park’s walking trails. From there, it’s all about exploration on foot. The Upper Circuit offers breathtaking panoramic views from elevated walkways, perfect for photography and soaking in the scale of the falls. The Lower Circuit takes you closer to the water, where you can feel the mist on your face and hear the thunderous roar of cascading water. And of course, no visit is complete without reaching the Devil’s Throat (Garganta del Diablo)—an awe-inspiring viewpoint accessible by a combination of train and boardwalk that makes you feel the raw power of nature up close.
For the adventurous, there are also boat tours that splash right under the waterfalls, helicopter rides for a bird’s-eye view, and jungle trails where wildlife sightings are common. Every step in the park is designed to immerse you in the rainforest, making the journey from train to trail an unforgettable part of the Iguazú experience.
Visiting the Argentine side of Iguazú Falls is more than seeing waterfalls—it’s a full adventure, blending easy access with the thrill of discovery.
Tours and Activities
• Boat Tours: Thrill-seekers can take a high-speed boat ride that goes right under some of the largest falls, getting drenched in the process!
• Helicopter Rides: For a bird’s-eye view of the waterfalls and surrounding rainforest, a helicopter tour offers an unforgettable perspective.
• Jungle Safaris: Guided jeep tours or walking safaris let you discover the lush flora and fauna of the park beyond the waterfalls.
• Photography Tours: Specialized tours focus on capturing the perfect shots of the falls at sunrise, sunset, or from unique vantage points.
Tips for visiting
• Wear comfortable, water-resistant shoes and clothing, as the trails can be slippery and you will get wet near the falls.
• Bring insect repellent and sunscreen—both are essential in the subtropical climate.
• Allow at least a full day to explore the park thoroughly, and consider an overnight stay in Puerto Iguazú to enjoy the area without rushing.
Watch Out for the Coatis!
As you explore the Argentine side of Iguazú Falls, you’ll quickly come across the coatis—small, raccoon-like animals with long striped tails and pointed snouts. They wander freely around the park, often appearing cute and harmless at first glance. But don’t let their friendly look fool you: these little creatures are experts at stealing food.
The coatis have become bold because so many tourists carry snacks. They know exactly where to wait—near restaurants, trash bins, and picnic areas. If you’re holding food, they can approach quickly, jump up, and snatch it straight from your hands.
I found this out myself. After buying a sandwich, I stepped outside planning to enjoy it in the sunshine. Within seconds, a coati rushed forward, grabbed the sandwich right out of my hand, and disappeared into the bushes—leaving me completely surprised and definitely still hungry.
While it makes for a funny memory, the park warns visitors to be careful. Coatis can bite, and feeding them is dangerous for both humans and animals. Always keep your food sealed, avoid carrying it openly, and never try to pet them.
They’re amazing to photograph—just make sure you do it from a safe distance!
Exploring Puerto Iguazú
Before or after visiting the waterfalls, it’s worth spending some time in Puerto Iguazú, the small but charming town that serves as the gateway to the Argentine side of Iguazú Falls. The atmosphere here is relaxed, tropical, and welcoming—perfect for unwinding after a day full of adventure in the national park.
Puerto Iguazú is filled with cozy cafés, local restaurants, and bars where you can try regional dishes such as empanadas, fresh river fish, or an Argentine steak with a glass of Malbec. The town’s central area is easy to explore on foot, and you’ll find plenty of shops selling handmade souvenirs, local crafts, and traditional yerba mate.
A popular spot to visit is the Hito Tres Fronteras, the viewpoint where Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay meet. Here, the Iguazú and Paraná rivers come together, creating a beautiful natural border between the three countries. At sunset, the view is especially stunning.
Puerto Iguazú also offers a range of accommodations—from budget hostels to boutique hotels and jungle lodges—making it a convenient base for travelers visiting the falls. The town has a friendly, laid-back vibe, and its location just a short drive from the park makes it an ideal place to stay during your trip.
