Around the world, there are seven man-made things considered wonders of the world. We have the Great Wall of China, Chichรฉn Itzรก, Christ the Redeemer, and other great things humans created. I like to think they speak of the greatness inside all of us! However, on November 11th, 2011, a committee chose the seven natural wonders of the world. This list includes places in the USA, like the Grand Canyon, and many others abroad.
Beyond the majestic waterfalls, the surrounding national park offers rich biodiversity, with opportunities for boat tours and jungle trails that bring you closer to nature’s wonders.โ
In Brazil we have the Amazon forest and the Iguaรงu Falls, the latter is probably why you have reached this article. You might be wondering what things to do in Iguazu Falls Brazil.
If you want more, we also put together a complete Iguazu Falls travel guide to this fantastic city! Now, back to it!
Well, the Iguazu Falls may seem like one giant waterfall but is actually two hundred and seventy-five different falls coming together to create a breathtaking view. They spread over such a large area that it is divided between National Iguaรงu Park in Paranรก, Brazil, and National Iguazรบ Park in Misiones, Argentina.
So let’s think beyond a simple boat ride or going over to Puerto Iguazu and Buenos Aires because there is much to do in this corner of South America! So let me tell you what I think are the top ten things to do in Iguazu Falls, Brazil!
You don’t need to treat this article as a bucket list, but doing at least a couple of them will help you have the best time!
things to do in iguazu falls brazil
1. Visit the Iguazu Falls:
There is no better way to start our list of things to do in Iguazu Falls, Brazil, than with the main attraction: the Iguaรงu Falls themselves. Many people like to compare South America’s iconic destination with the Niagara Falls. And yes, there are a few things in common between them, like the fact they span two countries. But while the Niagara Falls are three massive falls, the Iguazu Falls are much bigger.
Two hundred and seventy-five falls spread over Foz do Iguaรงu and Puerto Iguazu, in Argentina. So what is the best way to visit the Iguazu Falls?
Well, unless you feel like crossing into Puerto Iguazu to visit the Argentine side, your best bet will be sticking to Iguaรงu National Park in Paranรก. This place is perfect for a respite from exploring more urban settings. It is super close to both the city center and the airport, so you should have no problems accessing it. Once you are there, the park is laid out almost in a straight line, you will be fine even if you don’t speak a single word of Portuguese.
And to make it even better, Iguazu National Park is incredibly complete! Porto Canoas Restaurant and an additional food court have dining options for everyone. You also have different admission options! From sunrise to sunset tours, even a dining experience is available sometimes.
Can I give you a bit of advice? The Belmond Hotel das Cataratas, from the same chain as the Copacabana Palace, is probably the best hotel in town and it is inside Iguazu National Park, giving travelers time to explore leisurely instead of rushing through everything in a single day.
2. Explore the Parque das Aves (Bird Park):
Another one of the best things to do in Iguazu Falls Brazil, is take a day out of your itinerary to explore one more park in town. The Bird Park is the only institution in our whole world dedicated to preserving the Atlantic Forest’s tropical birds. It offers every visitor the opportunity to have an immersive experience, connecting with the birds and nature around them.
These unique chances made Parque das Aves the most visited attraction in Foz do Iguaรงu just after the Brazilian side of the Falls. I think it is a perfect thing to do on your last days here since it is a more relaxed activity.
Much like the Iguazu National Park, the Bird Park has a linear layout. Once we walk through the park entrance, there are five different vivariums lined up to visit. In each of them, we get to have a different perspective on wildlife. You may be thinking about these animals if it is good for them to be here.
Yes, each bird that you see has been rescued from dire circumstances and lost its ability to survive in the wilderness. Between each vivarium, there will be a chance to interact with other animals such as owls, wild snakes, and lizards. As for dining options, there are a few cafes plus some restaurants spread throughout the park’s extension.
I will tell you this, exploring parks can be even more tiring without the appropriate footwear. So make sure to pack a few pairs of comfy shoes to wear on days when you will be walking a lot.
things to do in iguazu falls brazil
3. Check out the Itaipu Dam:
One thing everyone adds to their list of things to do in Iguazu Falls, Brazil, is visiting the Itaipu Dam. Located right where the borders of Brazil and Paraguay meet, the Itaipu Dam was born out of something called the Itaipu Treaty. That document was a vow to take full advantage of the hydroelectric potential in the Paranรก River.
By nineteen seventy-four, there already was construction equipment working away. It would take ten more years for thousands of workers to finish the Itaipu Dam. Ever since then, visitors have flocked from the Iguazรบ River Falls near Puerto Iguazรบ to here.
The best thing about going to the Itaipu Dam is that there are different itineraries you can follow, with different entrance fees for each. You can take a panoramic guided tour, which goes over the Itaipu Dam’s outside area, or you can take a special tour. I think it is one of the best options since it will take you all the way to the top of the Itaipu Dam. Another great way to explore is booking a time slot for the BioPark, it takes you around in a dedicated vehicle before stopping so visitors can plant a tree.
Other than that, you can take a night tour of the hydroelectric dam. Your tour guide will take a group all around before stopping at the main viewing platform. There, you will enjoy live music which can seem like nothing special, but you will do that standing where three countries come together. How cool is that?
4. Visit Marco das Trรชs Fronteiras (Three Borders Landmark):
Did you know that Brazil is the fifth largest country in the world? Because of that, most countries in South America share a border with us. Only Chile and Ecuador don’t share any length of land with Brazil! But Paranรก is part of a strange phenomenon where three countries come together.
To celebrate that, they decided to come together and create the ‘Marco das Trรชs Fronteiras’ in 1903. It is a bit far from the Iguazรบ Falls but it still has a wonderful view, with one of the best sunsets I have ever seen.
Before the sun sets, you can take your time to see the park. There is a century-old monument celebrating peace between these three countries, and occasionally there are cultural presentations around it too! Coming here is a great opportunity to interact with these other cultures without having to actually travel any further.
You will be able to travel in time by walking through a scenic village! It was built to emulate how cities would look like during our colonial past when Jesuit priests and natives shared this land.
Much like Iguazu National Park and the Bird Park, there is a small admission fee. My advice? Purchase the ticket from their website in advance so you’re not stuck in long lines.
Also pay attention to the visiting hours, since they start during the early afternoon, it might be nice to take some time to plan your time here. You won’t miss out on anything like that since some things look wonderful in the evening.
things to do in iguazu falls brazil
5. Go on a Boat Ride:
I bet that when you started thinking about a trip to the Brazil side of Iguazu Falls, a boat ride was something that you put in a metaphorical itinerary. After all, whether you want to travel the lower circuit or go up the Iguazu River, it is an opportunity you can’t miss.
The key to spending your time meaningfully will be doing a bit of research beforehand, there are way too many options so you need to know a few details. I’d say you need to figure out mainly how much time you want to spend aboard. Maybe you want to spend a morning chasing waterfalls or being immersed for a whole day.
One of my favorite things to do in Iguazu Falls, Brazil, was to see this Unesco World Heritage site up close. The best way to do that is to book a private boat tour that takes you to both sides of Iguazu Falls. Private because no one wants to deal with annoying strangers while seeing something amazing.
And going to both the Argentinian and Brazilian side of the falls because you’re already there, so why not see it all? Another way you can see the Iguazu Falls without spending a full day is by booking a lunch or dinner experience aboard a boat.
My one advice is to do research on more than your itinerary, do it on your service providers. A sure way to avoid being scammed is by asking for recommendations from your hotel’s front desk. They will give you trustworthy contacts and your only job will be to enjoy.
6. Fly Over a Natural Wonder of the World:
By this point in our list of things to do in Iguazu Falls, Brazil, you have probably realized that there are some activities we can consider cliches. Visiting the Iguazu National Park, walking through the Bird Park, or going on a boat ride are things everyone does.
And maybe you are like me, a traveler who looks for what is different, activities that are unique. If you are one of those people, then consider booking a helicopter flight for panoramic views of the falls. Helicopter tours are an amazing way to get a new perspective.
I have yet to take this helicopter ride over the top of the falls but I’ve had a similar experience in other places so here are some tips! First tie your hair up, especially if it is a flight done with doors open. It seems silly but when you don’t have to spend an hour detangling your hair, you will definitely be glad to have used a hair tie.
Another thing you should do is try to sit up front with the pilot for the best views, they usually sit five people in the back and someone will end up not being able to see much.
Also, it gets really cold up there so dress appropriately. And I don’t have to tell you to be careful of who you pay to take you up in the air. You need to be sure they can be trusted, and look for their reputation online on sites like Viator or Trip Advisor. Sometimes hotels even have partnerships with providers, don’t be afraid to ask around!
things to do in iguazu falls brazil
7. Expand Your Trip by Going over the Border:
From our previous items on this list of things to do in Iguazu Falls, Brazil, it is easy to have a mental image of Southern Brazil. The Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls is in a town aptly called Foz do Iguaรงu.
You have Ciudad del Este across the Paranรก River, a major Paraguay City that is famous for its culinary scene and shopping center. A little way down south, we can find Puerto Iguazรบ. The Argentinian town is home to a part of our falls, with the Iguazรบ National Park around them.
Going to Ciudad del Este from Foz takes less than an hour with traffic. I recommend going in the month of August, the temperatures will be wonderful to explore. And no matter when you go, take umbrellas or raincoats with you because this town is famous for late afternoon rain.
Ciudad Del Este is South America’s largest free commerce zone, making it one of my favorite places to go shopping. We just need to be careful with dishonest sellers! One way to avoid them is booking a guided shopping tour or asking your front desk for help.
Another great place for a day trip during your Brazilian adventure is Puerto Iguazรบ. This Argentinian town has the air of a quaint place, with plenty to do besides seeing the Falls. There are street fairs, wine bars, and, my favorite, barbecue places. Argentinians are famous in South America for their barbecue so don’t miss out on your chance to try it.
8. Ride a Bike Through the Foz do Iguaรงu:
In this article talking about things to do in Iguazu Falls, Brazil, more than a few items were tours. I am a huge advocate for guided tours, they help us make the most of what usually is a short time in new places. There are many ways we can explore Foz do Iguaรงu!
We talked about boat rides under the Iguazu Falls, helicopter tours over them and even walking tours through National Parks. If you are a more physically active person and want to add something unique to your itinerary, consider going on a bike tour.
Like every other kind of tour, there are a few different itineraries to choose from. Your first option is a traditional path through the Iguazu National Park, it starts at the visitor center and there is a gorgeous view of the falls at the end of the path. Depending on the company you book with, they will even return the bikes for you.
Another way to explore the Atlantic Forest is to go chasing waterfalls! Leaving from the National Park, you will bike through the ‘Contorno do Conde’ and walk on foot for a little bit. This itinerary ends with an amazing chance to bathe in chilly waterfall waters.
In case you opt for bike tours, or any other kind of radical activities, there are two things you need to have. First comes appropriate equipment like clothing, shoes, and even insect repellent. Don’t forget a sturdy water bottle too! And the second, arguably the most important, good travel insurance. Nature exploring can be quite unpredictable so you need to be prepared in case anything happens.
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9. Tour the Historical City Center:
Over a hundred years ago, in nineteen fourteen, Foz do Iguaรงu was officially declared a city. Ever since then, it has become a mandatory stop for every person visiting southern Brazil. Coming into town and not visiting the downtown area?
That is almost considered a felony by locals. Whenever they need something, people say they are ‘going into town’. That means they’re going to the city center! These blocks are a beating heart, they will have some of the best hotels, traditional cafeterias, and even a shopping mall.
In case you end up forgetting anything back home, this is where you have to come! But besides shopping, what else is there to do at the Historical City Center? First, you can visit Saint John the Baptist Cathedral, which will give you an amazing insight into the Jesuit past Southern Brazil has. Or maybe you are the kind of person who likes to bring back cheesy souvenirs.
The best place to get them is at Cataratas Avenue, there are a few little shops to browse! You should only get stuff from street vendors if you have paper money.
The last one of our things to do in Iguazu Falls, Brazil, is visit one of Brazil’s twenty most beautiful streets. Although Pedro Basso Street isn’t exactly in the city center, it is still considered part of Foz do Iguaรงu’s downtown area. This street is full of pink Ipรช trees on both sides, looking like something out of a romance novel. There have even been weddings here when trees are in full bloom.
Everyone you know expects you to explore the Iguazu National Park, with either a boat ride or going on a walking trail. And while the Brazilian side of the falls is so popular, why don’t you try getting to know a little more of South America? Puerto Iguazu in the Misiones province is home to the Argentinian side of this large waterfall system.
If you are a little like me and prefer to travel in a practical way, you can take a plane to Buenos Aires. The Argentinian capital will show you a different side of South America! With two or three days, you can have a great Argentine experience, with plenty of music, food and culture.
Another way to enrich your adventure in South America beyond our typical boat ride is going over to Paraguay. Yes, you can take a flight to Asunciรณn but part of the adventure is driving there! It is a short ride from the Brazilian side of the falls. Paraguay is famous for having great prices on imported and national goods!
Going there might be a great option for those who want to get unique souvenirs or try new things. Since most people end up border crossing into our neighbors, there are plenty of one-day itineraries you can follow for a short trip.
I think what makes this little corner of South America a great place is exactly this, the chance of doing more without much more trouble.
What can give you some trouble, though, is which documents you may need to get into different countries. As you prepare for this trip, don’t forget research has to be one of your steps.
Even if you want to be the spontaneous kind of traveler, just go there if you have the chance, look ahead for what you will need besides your passport. It would suck to miss out on something as amazing as the Argentina side of the falls in Puerto Iguazu because you’re not prepared.
I think one of the most important factors to have a great trip is avoiding the rainy season, from January to March. April, May, and September will have a great combo of temperature and weather for you to go chasing waterfalls.
But the secret to having the best time isn’t to just follow an article of things to do in Iguazu Falls, Brazil. You will always have the best time when you’re doing things that work for you! The largest waterfall system in the world is just waiting for you!
