Our blog already has a guide to the Iguassu Falls Argentine side, the landmark three borders with all the information you need to plan your family vacation.
But many readers ask us for a summary with the main tips, the best Foz do Iguaçu tours and the places worth visiting on the Brazilian side.
Here is our «what to do in Foz do Iguaçu» with tips format!
Because of its natural beauty, the city of Foz automatically attracts people from all over the world. It is quite common to see foreign tourists everywhere.
The best tours in Foz do Iguaçu Brazil
This city has a great number of attractions, for the whole family or exclusively for adults. If your question is Foz do Iguaçu what to see… this is your article.
Foz do Iguaçu Airport map and main hotels: Brooking Foz do Iguaçu
1 – Visit the Iguazu National Park
Once you have your accommodation in Foz do Iguaçu, a good starting point to begin our Foz do Iguaçu tour is to visit the Foz do Iguaçu Park, which borders the Argentine territory and is located in the extreme west of Paraná.
There are approximately 185 thousand hectares on the Brazilian side. Known for being home to the Iguazu River Basin Waterfalls, it is considered a Natural World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
The predominant type of vegetation is rainforest and araucaria forest, with the presence of palm trees, imbuía, caviúna, yerba mate, and much more.
The area also offers attractions such as trails and eco-adventure activities such as rafting, rappel, rock climbing and boat rides between the falls.
What to see in foz, Iguassu Falls
They are formed by the Iguassu River, which runs 1320 km to its mouth, in the city of Foz do Iguaçu, on the border with Argentina.
With 18 km to join the Paraná River, the Iguazu Falls overcome an unevenness that precipitates in approximately 275 jumps of 65 meters high on average, an average flow of 1500 m³ per second, in a width of 2,780 meters.
On the Brazilian side there is a trail that goes through several viewpoints and a panoramic elevator that connects the base of the falls with the upper level of the river.
There are also footbridges, trails that were built to take tourists to various viewpoints, thus enjoying everything more closely.
Consult the entrance fee to the Iguazu Falls on the Brazilian side.
2 – Iguazú National Park – Argentina
Brazil and Argentina have incredible park reserves for tourists from all over the world to get to know the different angles of the famous Iguazu Falls.
It is important for the traveler to visit both sides, the Brazilian and the Argentinean, so as not to miss any detail. Not to mention that each has its own characteristics.
The visit to the Iguazu Park adds up to a total of about 6 km of walking, divided into three major trails. It is interesting to start with the lower trail (1400m), then the upper trail (650m) and, finally, the trail that leads to the Devil’s Throat (1100m), where tourists see from above the largest and most voluminous waterfall in the parks.
On the Argentinean side, the footbridges over the forest and waterfalls stand out and even function as bridges.
You don’t have to be by car to get there. There are buses leaving from Foz do Iguaçu to the center of Porto Iguazu, where you will have to go to the Falls.
Ask about what to do in Iguazu, prices and hotels in Porto Iguazu.
3 – What to do in Foz do Iguaçu, Bird Park
The park is very young: it was created in 1994 with the proposal of offering conditions for the preservation of the environment and animal reproduction.
It has an area of 17 hectares of native forest, where it is possible to see the nurseries of rare and colorful tropical birds such as parakeets, macaws, flamingos and toucans.
The Iguazú Bird Park also has a butterfly garden, a hummingbird nursery and a reptile area with snakes and caimans.
The park currently has approximately 1,100 birds of 140 species.
Brazilian birds predominate, but species from Africa, Asia and Australia are also represented.
It is possible to take a picture with a macaw on your arm, you just have to wait and wait in line, which is usually long. But it is worth the wait!
4 – Safari Macuco Tour
Inside the Iguazu National Park, Macuco Safari receives visitors from all over the world to show the power of nature through water.
This takes place on a boat trip on the falls meters away from the waterfalls, combining adventure and excitement.
Rest assured that the company in charge has all the necessary safety certifications and your experience has everything to be positive.
Macuco safari price a little high: adults pay a little more than R$ 230 for the entrance fee, while children between 7 and 11 years old and those over 60 pay half the entrance fee.
From the Argentine side of the Foz de Iguazu Falls it is possible to take a very similar adventure tour.
The price is a little more: Something like R$160. Remember that payment is only accepted in Argentinean currency for the macuco trail.
All these prices for the Foz do Iguaçu Falls are estimates, as both Argentina and Brazil are constantly undergoing adjustments for inflation.
5 – Helicopter ride over the Falls
An alternative to further explore all the details of the Falls is to observe from above.
To make it easier, there is a helicopter ride outside the Iguassu National Park.
It costs around R$ 200, for a 10 minute ride. It is not so cheap, but certainly the satisfaction for the scenery is guaranteed.
6 – Tour of Itaipu Binacional
The Itaipu Hydroelectric Power Plant is the largest generator of clean and renewable energy on the planet.
Offers tourist attractions in the site, receiving visitors from all over the world.
The project is bi-national and was developed by Brazil and Paraguay, with the objective of taking advantage of the hydraulic potential of the waters of the Paraná River.
There is a very nice panoramic tour, which gives an overview of all the main points of the plant and the reservoir that supplies Itaipu.
It has viewpoints, in addition to the gigantic dam of approximately 8 km long and 196 meters high.
Foz do Iguaçu Excursions In addition, there is a reservoir of 1,350 km². This excursion is done in a double-decker bus, accompanied by tour guides.
It is also possible to take the boat ride called «Puerto Kattamaram», which passes through the entire lake of Itaipu. A very pleasant experience.
The trip lasts about 1h45 and costs R$ 80 per person. If you prefer the conventional tour, by bus, you will only pay about R$ 36 for about two hours.
7 – Landmark of the 3 Borders
At the point where they share a common border, Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay established their territorial limits and sealed an integration through the construction of obelisks that became known as the Framework of the Three Borders.
Each has a different format and is painted in the colors of the respective country.
The Brazilian monument is shaped like a pyramid and its viewpoint offers one of the most beautiful views of the region, with a panoramic view of the three countries, being able to observe the meeting of the Iguazu and Parana rivers.
8 – Visit to Puerto Iguazú
The city of Puerto Iguazu stands out for its nightlife, which is a great option for those who enjoy a quieter schedule.
What to do at night in Foz do Iguaçu During the night it is possible to find a variety of restaurants, bars and cafes, which serve excellent meals at a more affordable price than in Brazil.
Among the points of interest in the city are the Feirinha, where you can buy good cheeses and olives, and the new shopping in Foz do Iguaçu «Punto Iguaçu».
As Argentina is a neighbor, be sure to try some delicious meat, and buy alfajores with dulce de leche.
9 – Dreamland Wax Museum of Foz Iguazú
The Foz Dreamland wax museum was the first wax museum in Latin America.
It has two units in Brazil, one in Gramado, inaugurated in 2009 and another in Foz do Iguaçu, inaugurated in 2014.
The Dreamland Wax Museum in Foz do Iguaçu is considered the largest museum of its kind in South America. Its collection includes more than 100 pieces.
There are other great attractions: the Wonders of the World Exhibition and the Valley of the Dinosaurs.
They are part of the Foz do Iguaçu Park Show, an entertainment complex for people of all ages.
10 – Foz do Iguaçu and the Muslim Mosque
In Foz do Iguaçu it is possible to learn more about religions that are not very widespread in Brazil.
The Sunni Muslim Mosque Omar Ibn Al-Khattab, built in 1981, offers guided tours.
As they are Sunni, prayers are held 5 times a day – no tours are allowed at this time.
As in the Catholic religion, where churches have a bell, the mosque has a call, which is made by the human voice itself.
Guided by the Koran, the religion has customs different from those to which Brazilians are accustomed, such as the fact that men and women pray in separate spaces.
Before the guided tour, everyone must remove their shoes and women must cover their hair with a veil provided by the mosque itself.
11 – Buddhist Temple foz do iguazu Brazil
Not so well known by the inhabitants of Foz and tourists, the Buddhist temple is near the Paraná River, which divides Brazil and Paraguay.
The space where the temple is located is, at the same time, a place of prayer and also a sculpture park.
When visiting the site, it is possible to find a great variety of sculptures, including that of a Buddha, 7 meters high.
The temple is ideal for those who want to understand Buddhism a little better or just visit a quiet place.
Its access by bus is not the easiest, so it is better to go by car or cab.
Restaurants in Foz do Iguaçu
Foz do Iguaçu what to do at lunch time. Places full of attractions, fos de iguazu mixes shows, dancing and tasty typical food in many restaurants and bars.
12 – Canoas Port
The restaurant is inside the Iguazu National Park and the buffet offered is very varied, with several dessert options.
Despite the quality and options of the dishes, the great highlight is the restaurant’s balcony, from where it is possible to see the waterfalls, besides listening to the sound of its cascades. Sensational to have a meal in such an environment!
13 – Rafain Churrascaria Show
In this barbecue restaurant, the system is also a self-service buffet, with options for salads, hot dishes, desserts, Arabic food, Japanese food foz and barbecue.
In the latter, there are several options, including steak, tenderloin, breast, loin, pork rib, sausage, chicken, thermite, rib and sun-dried beef. The place operates daily serving lunch and dinner. All very tasty!
14 – El Quincho del Tío Querido (Uncle Querido’s Quincho)
If you want to cross the border and enjoy a good Argentine asado, this is an excellent option. Impeccable service, super attentive waiters (some even speak Portuguese) and a beautiful structure.
The highlight of the place, of course, is the asado. The menu offers many options. In addition, there are tango performances during dinner. It is very nice!
Shopping in Foz do Iguaçu
15 – Shopping in Ciudad del Este
The proximity to Paraguay makes you want to buy a product that is usually cheaper abroad.
Therefore, it is enough to cross the borders to neighboring countries to realize the great business opportunities.
The low taxes charged in Paraguay in relation to Brazil make many people travel to Foz and continue to Ciudad del Este in search of good deals.
Of course, the values are not as advantageous as in Miami, for example, but as long as the dollar exchange rate cooperates, they are certainly better than in Brazil.
The origin, however, can be doubtful, so it is important to choose well where to buy.
It is recommended to cross the bridge by bus, car or cab, so plan your way around.
If you prefer, you can take a bus to Ciudad del Este, in the center of Foz, and get off just after Paraguayan customs.
Payments in stores can be made in dollars, reals, guaraníes or Argentine pesos, but of course it all depends on the establishment.
The best option is to pay in dollars or reals, when the exchange rate is not too unfavorable.
Credit cards are also accepted, but make sure the store is reliable.
16 – Duty Free Puerto Iguazú
The Duty Free in Puerto Iguazú, Argentina, is very nice. To make the prices even more attractive, it is necessary that the dollar is not too high.
Even so, there are always a lot of people spending money.
The place offers good prices on chocolates, alcoholic beverages, perfumes, cosmetics, glasses, clothes, among others. A tip is to avoid visiting the place at night, when it is crowded!
Although the free store is before customs, it is necessary to be with ID or passport to make purchases.
The place has free transportation from some hotels in Foz, which guarantees a good facility for Brazilians.
Hotels in Foz do Iguaçu
The hotel offer in Foz is very wide:
- Hotel foz de iguazu 5 stars.
- Hotel in foz de iguazu 4 stars
- Foz do Iguaçu Hostel
- Hotels in Foz do Iguaçu 3 stars
17 – Belmond: Hotel das Cataratas
The Belmond hotel das cataratas booking is located right in front of the spectacular Iguazu Falls, inside the Iguazu National Park.
It has a tennis court and a beautiful outdoor swimming pool. The coolest thing is the proximity to the beautiful waterfalls – try to catch the sunset!
- Check prices for the Belmond Hotel Foz do Iguaçu here
18 – Wish Golf Resort
This hotel is close to the entrance and the Argentine side of the Iguassu Park, as well as being 3 km from Parque das Aves.
The rooms are very sophisticated, with classic wooden furniture and a more neutral decor.
The resort offers a leisure program for children. If you want to take a stroll around the city, in this case, there is a great recreation team that can play for your little one while you get to know the places with more tranquility.
The hotel Golf Resort capacity is important, you can find hotels in Foz do Iguaçu near the airport, accommodation in Foz do Iguaçu in the downtown area, or if you prefer, interesting hotels in the Argentinean side of the falls.
What to do in Iguazu Argentinean side… Hotel & Casino
The casino of Iguazu Grand Resort & Casino is one of the most popular places of the night.
Site is located in Foz de Iguazu Argentina, however, the proximity to Foz is so close that it doesn’t stop anyone from checking it out and betting a few chips.
Iguassu Casino also offers free transportation, favoring even more those who do not have a car and stay in Foz do Iguaçu.
19 – Foz do Iguaçu Accommodation
Staying in a hotel is not the only option for tourists in Foz. Renting an apartment for your vacation in iguazu is quite common and can be economically advantageous, especially for families.
The experience is very pleasant because you live like a local resident, you can make your own food or go to the supermarket to do your shopping.
Among the sites used to rent an apartment, even for a short period of time, are Booking and AlugueTemporada.
Tips for Your Family Vacation in Foz do Iguaçu
Before providing these tips to enjoy tourism in Foz do Iguaçu, we believe it would be very important to have a link that allows us to know the weather in Foz do Iguaçu and the extended forecast in Iguaçu.
There are several means of transportation. Cabs foz do iguaçu can be a good option if you know how to bargain, because if you are a tourist you can be overcharged.
Among the tips for traveling to Iguazu, rent a car and enjoy every place that the city has to offer.
20 – Sunscreen and repellent
Remember that you will be, most of the time, surrounded by wooded areas. Therefore, many insects appear naturally.
In each of the places to visit in Iguazu, repellents are very useful in these cases, even on cold days.
Also, if you are traveling in a warm period, do not forget the sunscreen. The temperature tends to rise a lot in Foz.
Check here the weather in Foz do Iguaçu.
21 – Always wear comfortable clothes
Understand that in most tourist spots you will always need to walk, whether inside the Bird Park or to visit the Falls, for example.
To enjoy all the areas without problems, it is very important to wear clothes that make you feel comfortable. Tennis shoes and shorts are always good options.
22 – Don’t forget your documents
If you want to get to know a little bit of Argentina and/or Paraguay, do not forget to bring your original identity card or valid passport.
These documents are requested to all persons wishing to cross the border. A check-in is made at customs and, after a few minutes of waiting, access is usually released.
23 – Argentine Pesos
If your trip extends to any city in Argentina or Paraguay, consider buying pesos in Foz do Iguaçu, which is much better priced than the land of tango.
24 – Raincoats can come in handy
While it’s an awesome experience, not everyone is willing to get wet in the wind drops from the falls.
So if you want to stay dry, buy a raincoat or light coat from home. Be careful with the cell phone in your pocket, as it can get wet!
25 – Study the dates
The first thing to do before planning a trip to the world of Foz do Iguaçu tourism, is to also think about how you prefer the Falls.
If the idea is to see the waterfalls at their full potential and with a lot of volume, go in summer; if, on the contrary, you prefer to see the beauty of more defined waterfalls, it is best to go in winter.
If you can’t choose the date of your trip, don’t worry: Foz do Iguaçu Waterfalls are an incredible spectacle all year round.
What to do in Foz do Iguaçu in the rain?
No way, summer and spring in Foz always promise a little rain, even if it’s that late afternoon passenger, but don’t worry, you’ll still be able to enjoy the city!
The good thing about Foz in these seasons is that even with the rain the heat is intense, which can make the tour even more enjoyable! So if it rains, get wet!
Here the tips to enjoy Foz in the rain:
Dreamland Resort – Foz do Iguaçu.
When the temperature in Foz do Iguaçu is low and the rains appear, the options for rides decrease considerably, but you can still have a lot of fun.
Even more so when you have a complex with several activities, such as the Land of Dreams.
Shopping Paris – Paraguay
Shopping Paris in Paraguay is a new sensation for those who visit Foz do Iguaçu and want to know the best of the triple border.
A modern mall, well decorated, with a surprise in every corner, fantastic stores.
Shopping in Foz do Iguaçu Shopping Catuaí Palladium
The biggest shopping mall in Foz do Iguaçu, with a lot of variety to do!
To admire the stores with great diversity of products, it has a lot of variety.
Cataratas JL Shopping – Foz do Iguaçu
The sweet little mall in Foz do Iguaçu! Lots of stores, a food court with lots of variety.
Cataratas JL Shopping is located in the center of Foz do Iguaçu, so it’s the closest, no need to go too far away.
Cafes in Foz do Iguaçu
The Iguaçu people love coffee! That’s why Foz do Iguaçu is full of them. There are options for all tastes, vegan, vegetarian, breakfast, lactose and gluten free, popular, delicatessen, among others.
The good number of domestic flights is also an extra incentive for the city to enter the wish list of many Brazilian travelers.
Foz do Iguaçu Airport
In total, there are currently 44 Foz do Iguaçu flights at Foz do Iguaçu Airport. And in Misiones Argentina, Iguazu airport although smaller, receives daily flights to Brazil from several Argentine cities, with leading companies such as Latam, Aerolineas Argentinas, Austral, Flybondi, etc..
If you are looking for cheap flights to Iguazu, we recommend you read this article to find low cost flights.
As welcoming as it is, Foz do Iguaçu has everything to captivate your heart from the very beginning.
Nature lovers need to divide their attention between unforgettable landscapes, rare species of animals and lots of greenery!
Besides the beautiful waterfalls, the city also offers radical activities, parks, a variety of restaurants, tours, sophisticated hotels in Iguaçu and much more!
Not to mention the possibility of shopping in Paraguay, which can be worthwhile.
How to get from Puerto Iguazu to Foz do Iguaçu by public transportation?
There are at least 2 companies that make this trip. One is the Argentinean company Crucero del Norte and the other is the Brazilian company Easy Autobús. Both fly almost the same route and cost 150 Argentine pesos/3 US dollars (see new prices).
The best thing is that you can pay with pesos directly to the driver. They are easy to recognize because they have the flags of Argentina and Brazil on the front.
One option is to go directly to the Foz do Iguaçu bus station and take the bus right on the side street. Then there are stops all over the city.
Most of the route runs along Av. Juscelino Kubitscheck, the main street of the region. The buses are modern and all are air-conditioned.
Distances:
- Foz do Iguaçu to Rio de Janeiro: 19 h 9 min (1,469.0 km) by BR-116.
- Foz do Iguaçu to Florianópolis: 12 h 30 min (939.6 km) by BR-277
Flights from Foz do Iguaçu to Florianopolis:
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