Iguazu Falls Tours

Traveling to Iguazu Falls, you’ll find a host of ways to experience this tropical landmark. Here are the main ways of taking in this amazing natural wonder:

Elevated Platforms: Like all visitors to Iguazu falls, you’ll want to witness these mighty marvels from the safety of elevated observation platforms along the feet of the waterfalls, feeling the spray wash across your face and taking some truly fantastic photos. These numerous catwalks allow visitors to walk out along the entire base of the falls, some leading right to the middle of the central Devil’s Throat Waterfall for a spectacular vantage point.

Boat Rides: For thrill-seeking travelers who don’t mind getting wet, travelers can hop on board boats on either the Brazilian or the Argentine side of these gushing torrents. Both sides offer similar experiences, taking you almost directly underneath the falls in a way that allows you to palpably experience the full power and beauty of one of the seven New Natural Wonders of the World.

Helicopter flights: The ultimate way to witness the immense power of the Iguassu Falls is from above. Travelers can soar over the cascading water in a helicopter for a bird’s-eye view of this astounding sight. Carrying from one to seven passengers, these comfortable helicopters are flown by experienced pilots, first over the never-ending rivers and jungle that expands deep into Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay. You’ll then make your way to the falls themselves. Flying as close as safely possible to the tumbling falls, you can capture amazing photos and videos throughout the flight as your pilot circles the falls several times for shots from every possible angle.

Hiking: The surrounding Iguazu National Park is also well worth visiting; so why not strap on your walking boots for some active birding and wildlife watching on a nature hike? Both the Brazilian and the Argentine national parks surrounding the falls have decent trails and walkways, with tourist facilities readily accessible.

4×4 Jungle Safari: Or, for those looking to get completely off the beaten track, experience the thrills of a 4×4 off-road expedition through the tropical forest. You won’t be disappointed!

When visiting Iguazu Falls, you’ll stay in or around the small town of Foz do Iguacu (on the Brazilian side of the border) or Puerto Iguazu (on the Argentine side). Neither town experiences particularly high rates of crime, though common sense travel precautions should be respected and the advice of your Surtrek guide heeded.

Your primary safety concerns will more like be those related to the need for sun-block protection, insect repellant, and staying hydrated. As the area around the falls can get quite hot and sunny, make sure you have sun protection, including sunscreen (at least 30 SPF), wear a hat, and drink plenty of water. In addition, so don’t forget to bring lip balm with SPF protection.

If you’re prone to mosquito bites, take the usual precautions like wearing pants and long sleeves, especially at night. If you prefer insect repellant that’s high in DEET, bring it from home.

Also, on both sides of the falls, you’ll encounter raccoon-like coatis wandering free. Though these clownish omnivores seem tame, they become aggressive around food, scratching, and occasionally even biting to steal whatever you have. Therefore, it’s advised that you keep any food well away from them. Both parks have medical points in case of coati incidents.

Visiting Iguazú Falls from Buenos Aires is a popular excursion, offering the chance to witness one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in the world. Here’s how you can plan a tour from Buenos Aires to Iguazú Falls:

• Travel Options: There are several ways to travel from Buenos Aires to Iguazú Falls:
  • Flight: The fastest and most convenient option is to fly from Buenos Aires to either Cataratas del Iguazú International Airport (IGR) on the Argentine side or Foz do Iguaçu International Airport (IGU) on the Brazilian side. Several airlines operate daily flights between these cities.
  • Bus: If you prefer a more budget-friendly option, you can take a long-distance bus from Buenos Aires to Puerto Iguazú, the town nearest to the Argentine side of the falls. The journey takes around 18-20 hours, so consider opting for a comfortable sleeper bus.
• Tour Packages: Many tour operators in Buenos Aires offer organized tour packages to Iguazú Falls, taking care of transportation, accommodation, and guided tours. These packages often include options for visiting both the Argentine and Brazilian sides of the falls, as well as additional activities like boat rides under the falls or jungle treks.
• Duration: Depending on your preference and available time, you can choose between day trips or multi-day tours. While it’s possible to visit Iguazú Falls in a day trip from Buenos Aires by plane, spending at least two or three days allows you to explore the falls more thoroughly and enjoy additional activities in the area.
• Visa Requirements: If you plan to visit both the Argentine and Brazilian sides of Iguazú Falls, make sure to check visa requirements for your nationality. While citizens of many countries can enter Argentina and Brazil visa-free or with a visa on arrival, some nationalities may require visas in advance.
• Accommodation: There are various accommodation options in Puerto Iguazú, ranging from budget hostels to luxury resorts. It’s advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
• Guided Tours: Once you arrive at Iguazú Falls, consider joining guided tours offered by the national parks on both the Argentine and Brazilian sides. These tours provide valuable insights into the flora, fauna, and geological features of the falls, enhancing your overall experience.
• Additional Activities: In addition to admiring the waterfalls, you can also enjoy other activities in the area, such as birdwatching, jungle treks, and boat rides. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the surrounding rainforest and spot diverse wildlife.

By planning ahead and choosing the right tour package, you can make the most of your trip from Buenos Aires to Iguazú Falls and create unforgettable memories of this natural wonder.

First and foremost, pack a raincoat. Even if it’s not raining, you’ll need if you plan to walk along the catwalks that lead you up close to the water on the Argentinian side, where you’re sure to get splashed and sprayed. It’s also recommended to use waterproof covers to protect any belongings (particularly your phone and electronics) that you use on excursions.

Good mosquito repellent is also advised, especially if you want to watch the sunset in peace!

Do not forget to bring your passport when/if you are crossing the border between the Argentinian side of the falls and the Brazilian side!

For visiting Iguazu, other items that you should be sure to include or add to your general packing list include the following:

CLOTHES (recommended for visiting Iguazu)

• Sports sandals, for the falls and lodge lounging
• Socks – A pair of clean long socks for each day (un-cushioned, wool &/or polyester)
• Pants – Long, loose-fitting lighter-colored (no slow-drying jeans)
• Long-sleeve shirts & t-shirts (fast-dry, loose-fitting Dry-Fit shirts [preferable] or thin cotton)
• Wide-brimmed hat
• A light sweater (it gets surprisingly chilly at night and on boat trips)
• Headband or hair elastics (“scrunchies”) for those with long hair
• Rain poncho, a cheap plastic one that fits over you and your pack (lodges should provide these too)
• Clothes changes and a towel for visiting the falls
• Warm nightwear

PERSONAL CARE

• Sunscreen – High SPF, waterproof and fragrance-free
• Mosquito repellent (50% DEET minimum)
• Anti-malaria medication (consult your doctor if traveling to areas where you need it)

GEAR

• Personal first aid kit (hydrocortisone cream, etc.)
• Binoculars (8 x 40 are excellent for dim lighting beneath the forest canopy)
• LED Flashlight or headlamp for nighttime jungle excursions
• Wide-angle lens and telephoto lens for expansive landscape photos, especially for a waterfall as wide as Iguazu Falls, and telephoto lens to take photos of wild animals
• Waterproof bag/dry sack for your electronics. Also, have a waterproof bag if you´re taking any of the Iguazu boat rides

Flying into Buenos Aires, Argentina, you’ll land at the Ezeiza International Airport on the outskirts of the city, where Surtrek representatives will welcome you and accompany you on a private one-hour drive in-town to the city’s domestic Jorge Newbery airport.

Following a 90-minute flight from Buenos Aires’ Newbery Airport to the Puerto Iguazu airport, you will again be met by Surtrek representatives and privately driven to your upmarket Iguazu hotel accommodations near the falls themselves.

Similarly, if you fly in to a city in Brazil, Surtrek partners will be there to assist you in making your connecting flight to Puerto Iguazu and accompany you to your world-class Iguazu hotel.

The best time to visit Iguazu Falls depends on whether you’re after a tremendous volume of water crashing over the rocks during wetter weather, or easier access to the trails and islands during drier spells with less water.

For somewhat dryer, more accommodating weather conditions — yet with still impressive views — a good compromise is to visit the falls from August to November, which is what we recommend.

If you’re willing to deal with all the rain, heat, and humidity, you’ll witness the greatest volume of water tumbling down during December–mid-March “wetter” season (Iguazu is always rainy).

During the less-rainy months of June and July, the falls dwindle; however, the weather is warmer and you’ll have easier access to the park’s trails and islands.