One of the largest waterfall systems in the world, and probably also one of the most impressive ones, visiting the Iguazú Falls is an incredible and unforgettable experience. Seeing those ridiculous amounts of water gushing down into the depth of the waterfalls is something truly overwhelming, and the beauty of the panoramic view over the more than 20 falls is unequaled. Although some might have their preference for either of the two sides, in my opinion, each one has its own perks, and both of them are definitely worth visiting.

Iguaçu – The Brazilian Side

Arrival: 45min ride by local bus (Rio Uruguay) from the bus terminal in Puerto Iguazú; leaves every half past; costs €4 round-trip (only cash)

Entry: €16 (credit card or cash)

Duration: 2-3 hours

The Brazilian side can definitely be done within a couple of hours, which doesn’t make it any less impressive. After a 9 km bus ride from the visitors centre to the falls, there’s a 1,7 km trail along the water with several panoramic viewpoints to take pictures. The single trail doesn’t leave many options on where to go, but since the majority of the falls lies on the Argentinian side, the view from Brazil is astonishing. If you want to avoid getting wet on the very last part of the trail that brings you to a platform from which you can look down the waterfall, but you’re also student travellers on a budget, just ask people who are returning from the platform, if you can have their rain coat, since they won’t need it anymore anyway. With a little bit of luck you’ll run into the right people and get your free rain cover. It worked for us on the first try!

Iguazú – The Argentinian Side

Arrival: 30min ride by local bus (Rio Uruguay) from the bus terminal in Puerto Iguazú; leaves every half an hour; costs €7,50 round-trip (only cash)

Entry: €25 (only cash) + boat tour €27 (credit card or cash)

Duration: 6-8 hours (get an early start and spend all day walking the various trails; park closes at 6pm)

The national park of the Argentinian side of Iguazú offers so many different trails, paths and activities, that you can easily spend a whole day – maybe even two – discovering all kinds of different perspectives and views on the waterfalls. Walk the ‘upper trail’ to get a view from on top of the falls, take the ‘lower trail’ and go on the 15 minute boat tour that is well worth getting wet to the bone, look for the hidden lagoon or take the little train up to Garganta del Diablo (“Devil’s Throat) and be blown away by the incredible spectacle that mother nature offers you here. Don’t forget your sunscreen, pack some snacks and lots of water, and get ready for a day of walking, posing and admiring. If these waterfalls don’t take your breath away, I don’t know what will.

MY TIPS & RECOMMENDATIONS

• You’ll have to pay a lot in cash (e.g. hostel, entrance fees, etc.) – make sure to bring enough cash with you, in order to avoid high fees at ATMs
• Nomads Hostel Puerto Iguazú (€11); we stayed here all three days & did both sides with the Argentinian side as our base; the hostel is only 5 minutes walking from the bus terminal & the staff is super friendly; payment only possible in cash
• La Dama Juana dinner recommendation in Puerto Iguazú – you should try the fish with mandioca and corn bread
• NINO Parrilla for dinner in Puerto Iguazú – the shrimp risotto is beyond delicious
• The Airport Shuttle costs €6 one-way; going back to the airport, you should book the shuttle the day before your departure