IGUAZU FALLS TRAVEL GUIDE
Iguazu Falls Brazil: A Quick Look
Looking to plan the perfect vacation to Iguazu Falls (Foz do Iguaçu)?
Iguaçu Falls isn’t just a postcard-perfect sight—it’s a full sensory explosion. Beyond the iconic Devil’s Throat, travelers are now rafting under rainbow-mist cascades, spotting rare jaguars on nearby jungle trails, and dining at eco-lodges with waterfall views. The latest buzz? Sunset boat rides that get you dangerously close to the thunderous drops (prepare to get soaked!). Nature doesn’t get more dramatic than this.
In this Iguazu Falls travel guide, you will find out from a local’s perspective how to pre-plan, where to stay, things to do, available activities such as tours, and how to stay safe as you travel the country.
Iguazu has two popular sides to visit. One is on the Argentine side, and the other is on the Brazil side.
A little background. Iguazu Falls is actually the official “popular tourist destination.” But that is not where people stay.
It is accessible mainly from the city of Foz do Iguaçu. Most people stay here as a base for their trip. This is because there is only ONE hotel inside the park itself, and it’s really expensive.
The locals call Iguazu Falls “Cataratas do Iguaçu”, and it is one of Brazil’s most visited travel destinations.
It is located in the west of the state of Paraná, in the South Region of Brazil. It is near the borders of Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay, making it an accessible destination from all three countries. If you are traveling to more than one spot in Brazil, don’t forget to checkout our Brazil travel guide.
Iguazu Falls Brazil: Quick Travel Tips Before You Go
🛫 Airport: The airport in Iguazu Falls, Brazil, is called Foz do Iguaçu International Airport. Its airport code is IGU.
🤑 Currency: Brazilian Real, denoted by the symbol R$
🗣️ Language: Portuguese, but because the tourist industry is so big around here, many locals working in this sector speak English.
🕰️ Time Zone: Brasilia Standard Time (GMT-3). One hour ahead of EST and 4 hours ahead of PST. This region has no daylight savings time, so it remains the same all year.
💵 Cost: Affordable when coming from a stronger currency such as the US dollar, Euro or Yen.
🛜 Internet: Not as fast as being in the heart of Rio, but not terrible either. It is average.
📄 Brazil Visa: As of now, If you are traveling from the United States, Canada, Australia, or Japan, then NO. This could change as of October 1, 2023. Track the status and details here. For EU Nationals, you do NOT need a visa, and you may not be affected by the Oct 1, 2023 change. You can see the details here.
🔌 Power Outlets: In Brazil, there are two associated plug types, Types C and N. Plug type C is the one that has two round pins. Plug type N is the plug that has two round pins and a larger grounding pin. Consider bringing a universal travel adapter to ensure compatibility with these outlets during your travels.
🔋 Power Grid: Great, Brazil operates on a 127/220V supply voltage and 60 Hz. Some of the newer hotels operate at 220V but do not count on this everywhere.
📳 SIM Card: If you are thinking, do I need a SIM card for Brazil? The answer is for sure, yes. They are inexpensive, and having one in any country you travel to is safer.
🚘 Car Rentals: Renting a car in Brazil can get overwhelming, and some people are nervous about driving abroad. It could be the best way to get around to see more sites.
Iguazu Falls Brazil: Safety Travel Tips (Use Common Sense)
🍏 Food safety: Food is safe. Use common sense, though, and avoid certain things like grilled shrimp on the beach.
💧Water safety: Avoid tap water except to brush your teeth. Filtered water and ice are safe. Restaurants usually have filters too. Stick with filtering your water or buying bottled water. Consider using a Water-To-Go Filterable Bottle for convenient access to clean and safe drinking water during your travels.
👷♀️ Daytime safety: Most common thing in any tourist area is petty theft. Here are some tips. Ditch designer clothes, purses, and jewelry (including expensive watches. Don’t bury your head in your phone. Only have your phone out when absolutely necessary.
🦺 Nighttime safety: Use common sense like in any big city you visit. Don’t put valuables in your pocket, don’t walk alone at night, don’t pull your phone out on the street, don’t wear jewelry or watches or expensive purses, and don’t use the metro at night.
👺 Avoiding scams: In this area, the things to watch out for are pickpocketing (like any tourist spot), so keep valuables close. Others are overpriced tours (buy online, not from street vendors), counterfeit money when receiving change (especially from street vendors), and taxi overcharges (make sure the meter is on).
Iguazu Falls Brazil Travel Tips: A Locals Perspective
🏨 Best neighborhoods for tourists: Centro (downtown), lots of accommodations, and well-policed. Vila Yolanda: Close to attractions and a good selection of hotels. Jardim Festival: Area is known for its safety. Vila Parauaia: Close to the city center, popular due to its convenient location.
🎄 Top Brazilian holidays and traditions: Carnival, Festa Junina (June Festival), Independence Day (Sete de Setembro), Dia de Finados (Day of the Dead), Christmas
🎄 Top local Brazilian traditions: Festival of Nations (Fenart) in July and Iguazu Falls Day on November 11th.
🍜 Local food to try: Churrasco (Brazilian BBQ), piranha soup, pao de quejo (chees bread balls), feijoda (black bean stew), acai, pastel de belém (popular Portuguese custard tart)
🍹 Local drinks to try (alcoholic): Cachaca, Caipirinha, Catuaba, and local beer for the state of Paraná (Bodebrown). The south of Brazil is more known for its wines, so try some Cabs and Merlots as well.
🧉 Local drinks to try (non-alcoholic): Cajuina, chimarrao (hot) and terere (cold), coconut water, guarana, acai juice, garapa or caldo de cana, xiboquinha.
🚶♂️Walkability: Inside the Iguazu National Park it is good. In the city of Foz do Iguacu, the city center is walkable. Other than that, use other means of transport.
🎉 Nightlife: It is not as lively as bigger cities. This spot is more for nature-type activities.
😀 Friendly to foreigners: Yes, very welcoming.
🏥 Hospitals: Not as good as it is a tourist area with a surrounding smaller city.
🇺🇸 English speaking: It is a popular tourist spot, so many locals that work in the industry will speak English.
IGUAZU FALLS TRAVEL GUIDE
Where is Iguazu Falls Brazil Located?
Iguazu Falls Map
Iguazu Falls is near the city of Foz do Iguaçu, where many people stay when visiting. This is the primary base on the Brazilian side. It is about 17 kilometers or 10 miles away. Depending on traffic, it is about 30 minutes from the city to the start of the park by car.
It is on the border of Argentina and Paraguay, making it a destination where you can see multiple countries.
What State is Iguazu Falls In?
Iguazu Falls, on the Brazil side is in the state of Paraná, which is in the southern region of Brazil. Because it is so close to Argentina and Paraguay, you will get an awesome mix of these types of food influences.
What’s the Closest Airport to Iguazu Falls Brazil?
The airport for Iguazu Falls, Brazil, is called Foz do Iguaçu International Airport. Its airport code is IGU. It is in the city of Foz do Iguaçu. This is about 15-20 min by car.
The airport is about 12 kilometers or 7 miles from the city center of Foz do Iguaçu. Which then is 17 km or 10 miles from the falls. About 20 min by car, depending on traffic.
When you are flying in, the typical connections are through Rio de Janeiro (GIG), Sao Paulo (GRU or CGH), and Brasilia (BSB).
What is the Best Way to Get to Your Iguazu Falls Hotel?
Once you’ve arrived at Foz do Iguaçu International Airport (IGU), there are a few different options for getting to your hotel.
The simplest, best way to have a hassle-free start to your trip is to organize a private shuttle to your hotel so you do not have to think about it upon landing. If you are more adventurous, then you can do the following.
💡 Pro Tip: If you are planning to take an Uber, make sure that you have a Brazil SIM card so that you phone works properly. You don’t want to depend on free public WIFI when ordering an Uber.
Rental Car: Renting a car in Iguazu Falls is a great option. Rental car places are at the airport so it is an easy pickup. This is a solid way to go if you plan to see more than just the falls.
Ride-Sharing Apps: Uber operates well in Foz do Iguaçu. If you are deciding between this and a taxi, this may be more hassle-free and cheaper.
Private Transfer: If you want to not think at all and get a more personalized experience, booking a private transfer may be the way to go. It is for sure a solid way if you have a bigger group with lots of luggage.
Taxi: You can take a taxi, but MAKE SURE the meter is on to avoid getting scammed. This is something you have to do in every country abroad, and it is no different here.
Hotel Shuttle: Some hotels in Foz do Iguaçu offer shuttle service. Check with your hotel to see if they do.
How to Get Around Iguazu Falls?
Ride Sharing (top choice): For an easy direct trip, Uber is a great choice to get around the city, and they take you right to the park entrance.
Rent a Car (top choice): Renting a car is easy and gives you flexibility. The falls are great, but there are other areas as well that are less popular spots where it makes way more sense to rent the car. Places such as Itaipu Dam, the city of Puerto Iguazú in Argentina, and Ciudad del Este in Paraguay. Just remember to bring your valid driver’s license and be prepared for right-side driving.
Tour Operators: Many companies offer guided tours of Iguazu Falls, so even if you rent a car to see the whole area, this is a good option to get to and from your hotel to the falls. This may be better if you want more structure in your itinerary.
Inside the Park: Once in the Iguaçu National Park, there are walkways and a park bus system that is good. It transports visitors from the entrance to various viewpoints and trails in the falls.
Take a Taxi: In Foz do Iguaçu, they are abundant and provide a hassle-free way to get around. Always make sure the meter is on to prevent getting overcharged.
When to Go to Iguazu Falls?
Deciding when to visit Iguazu Falls depends on what you want out of your trip. Remember, the seasons are opposite of US and Europe so plan accordingly.
Overall Weather: The weather is pretty much warm all year round.
Iguazu Falls Winter & Dry Season (June to August): The falls may be slightly less powerful, but you will have a little cooler temperature and less rain.
Iguazu Falls Summer & Wet Season (December to February): You will have heavier rain here, but keep in mind that the falls will then be more powerful. Again though, you will have the heat and humidity.
Crowds: Peak tourist season is in the Brazilian summer which is late December to Late February. Not only is it more crowded, but it is hot and humid. That said, if you want less people and it not to be so hot, then hit the shoulder seasons (April/May and September/October)
Wildlife viewing: If you want to see the most animals or are a “birder,” you want to come when during the dry season (June to August), as the animals will gather around the water sources.
Remember, regardless of when you decide to visit, you just can’t go wrong with Iguazu Falls!
Where to Stay in Iguazu Falls Brazil?
There are a few different areas to stay in Iguazu Falls, Brazil. The choice will depend on what kind of trip you are planning and your budget.
If you are looking to get the experience of staying inside the Iguazu National Park on the Brazil side, it will be a bit more expensive, BUT an incredible experience.
There is only one hotel inside the park and its location is RIGHT next to the Igauzu Falls. This gives you access to the falls when the park is closed to the public.
The hotel is called Belmond Hotel das Cataratas and remember to book well in advance. If you choose not to stay inside the park, look at the below recommendations for the city most people stay in when visiting the Iguazu Falls, which is Foz do Iguaçu.
Where to Stay in Foz do Iguacu?
If you choose instead to stay in the city on the Brazil side, the best area is Centro downtown or near it. This is an area that is safer, and there are lots of restaurants and shops.
Recommended hotel stays:
- Wyndham Golden Foz Suites
- DoubleTree by Hilton
- JL Hotel by Burbon
- Wish Foz do Iguaçu
- Hotel Bella Italia
Best Things to Do in Iguazu Falls Brazil
- Visit the Iguazu Falls: This is an obvious but must-do activity. The Brazilian side offers a panoramic view of the falls, and the walking trail leads you to a close-up experience with the Devil’s Throat, the most powerful part of the falls.
- Explore the Parque das Aves (Bird Park): Located near the entrance to Iguazu National Park, this place has many exotic type birds, butterflies, and reptiles from the local region.
- Check out the Itaipu Dam: As one of the world’s largest hydroelectric dams, Itaipu is worth a visit. They offer guided tours that explain the dam’s history, construction, and operation.
- Visit Marco das Três Fronteiras (Three Borders Landmark): This spot offers a unique view of where the borders of Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay meet. Each country has a monument there painted in its national colors.
- Enjoy a boat tour: Multiple companies offer boat tours on the Paraná and Iguazu rivers, some of which take you right up to the base of the falls, which is highly recommended.
- Take a helicopter ride: If you are an adventure kind of person, consider a helicopter tour for the wild aerial views of the falls and surrounding jungle.
- Visit the Ecomuseum: This museum gives an overview of the Itaipu Dam and the local ecology and culture.
- Take a day trip to Argentina or Paraguay: If you have some extra time and the necessary visas, consider a day trip to the Argentinian side of Iguazu Falls or to Ciudad Del Este in Paraguay for shopping. Plan ahead and hit THREE countries at once!
Best Iguazu Falls Tours
Tours in Iguazu Falls are a great way to see the sites and the surrounding areas. Unless you intend to rent a car in Iguazu Falls, taking a tour is the easiest, most cost-effective option. You don’t want to be taking Uber or taxis to see all this stuff as it adds up.
💡 Pro tip: If having a car in Iguazu Falls seems like a good fit for you, don’t forget another great option is renting a car.
Below, you’ll find the best tours for Iguazu Falls and its surrounding regions. These are good if you want a more structured experience where you do not have to think about much but being on time. It can get as crazy as riding a helicopter to as mild as bird watching.
💡Pro Tip: Do not book tours from anyone on the streets. Book them online. It is better to do it online as it is cheaper than doing it in the hotels. The hotels are the middleman that will take a cut for no reason.
Tours are a streamlined way to dive into the culture, history, and fun Floripa has to offer without having to plan too much.
Here are the top tours for Iguazu Falls:
- Private Full Day Tour of Both Sides of Iguaçu Falls
- Full-Day Trip to Iguazú National Park with Small-Group
- Brazilian Falls, Bird Park, and Itaipu Dam from Foz do Iguaçu
- Exclusive Bike Experience at Iguazu Falls
Is Iguazu Falls Safe for Tourists?
Yes, Iguazu Falls is considered one of the safest destinations in Brazil. The city of Foz do Iguaçu is the base city, and because of the tourism, it has a good infrastructure for it. This is not to say crime does not happen like in any tourist spot you have to use common sense.
You’re biggest concern here is the typical petty crime (like pickpocketing theft) in the busy season and around the more popular landmarks. You could be in Paris or the south of Brazil, and the risk of this type of thing is the same.
The more pre-planning you do, the less of a target you are.
💡Pro Safety Tips (For any city you travel to) :
- Keep valuables in two different spots on your person. Keep most of your small valuable stuff in a small thin fanny pack that you can hide underneath your shorts around your waist. Keep what you are willing to lose in another spot on your body. This way if you do get pickpocketed or ever confronted, you only lose a portion that didn’t matter as much.
- In tourist spots, do not continuously check your pockets where you have your valuables. Petty thieves look for that.
- Watch out for chaotic situations, like someone spilling a drink on you as a distraction.
- Ask your hotel what areas to avoid completely and what areas to avoid only on late nights.
- Zero flash like watches, purses, and jewelry.
Personal Safety: Keeping an eye on your stuff and avoiding poorly lit or deserted areas. It’s always a good idea to check with locals or your hotel staff about any areas to avoid.
Service Scams: These are targeted for tourists and are the standard unofficial tour guides or inflated taxi fares. To avoid this, make sure the meter is on and book your tours online.
Wildlife Safety: When you are in the park, do not get close to wildlife you see and NEVER feed the animals.
Walking Trails: Stick to the designated paths so you do not get lost or turned around.
Remember, your safety largely depends on being aware of your surroundings and making smart, preplanned decisions.
What is the Best Travel Insurance for Brazil?
This is a question that I get a lot, as travel insurance can get confusing. This is a critical part of your trip though so that you do not have to worry when visiting Iguazu Falls or any other part of the world.
Figuring out travel insurance can be overwhelming. However, having the right travel insurance coverage is essential for a stress-free trip to Iguazu Falls, Brazil. The key is to make sure it is simple and flexible.
To streamline this, we have broken down the best travel insurance companies out there in the industry that are all great but also serve different needs.
Let’s explore what each of them brings to the table:
✅ World Nomads: Best for comprehensive coverage, flexibility, AND adventure sports. Covers trip cancellation, emergency medical costs, and emergency medical transportation and protects your travel gear.
✅ SafetyWing: This is for general travelers, frequent travelers, and long-term digital nomads in Brazil. Provides lots of flexibility as far as start date, coverage extension, and automatic renewals. It also has limited home-country coverage.
✅ Travel Insurance Master: Brazil travel insurance search tool, this is for people who really want to compare policies.
Iguazu Falls Travel: Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Drink the Water in Iguazu Falls Brazil?
The short answer is NO.
In Iguazu Falls, Brazil, It is better to avoid unfiltered water. Even though it is treated and typically safe to drink as a visitor, why even take the risk.
Brushing your teeth is fine, but otherwise, I would either get bottled water or bring your own filtered water bottle.
That being said, many restaurants in the Iguazu Falls area use purified water for customers and also to prepare ice, so your cold drinks are usually good to go. Be sure to ask the restaurant, and if not, go back to the bottled water option.
Also, keep in mind, the Brazilian sun is hot and strong so you want to stay hydrated. The last thing you want to do is get sick and ruin your trip because of dehydration. If you are hiking in the summer, you want to pay special attention to this.
So your steps to stay Safe with the water are:
- In an AirBnb, boil the water if you do not have bottled water.
- In a hotel, buy bottled water, but this can get expensive.
- Get a filtered water bottle that you can refill, and it is free, so you don’t have to worry about something so simple to solve while in Iguazu Falls, Brazil. Consider bringing along a Water-To-Go Filterable Bottle for convenient access to clean and safe drinking water during your travels.
What’s the Iguazu Falls Weather Like?
Iguazu Falls, Brazil, is a subtropical climate, which means it has warmer humid conditions year-round and milder winters.
During the summer, which is from December to March, temperatures can be over 30°C ( 86°F). It is humid, so be prepared for that. This is the time period when it may rain a bit more.
In the winter which is from June to September, the temperatures are much more mild. They are about 22°C (71°F). There is less rain in the winter, but it still happens.
The shoulder seasons are fall (April and May) and spring (October and November). The temps are much more moderate, and this can be a time to avoid the super hot, humid weather and a touch cooler temperatures, even though it still is a bit humid.
It really doesn’t matter the season, though. It depends on the type of experience you want. Iguazu Falls’s weather, keep in mind, though, changes quickly as the area around it is the Atlantic Rainforest, so it is always good to travel with a light rain jacket or a poncho and an umbrella.
Is Iguazu Falls Expensive?
For tourists from the US, Japan, and Europe, or any area with that strong of a currency, Iguazu Falls can seem much cheaper due to the exchange rates. Things like accommodations, food, and transportation can be cheaper compared to what you’d typically pay back home.
Eating out, especially at local spots, will usually cost much less than what you’d expect to pay in a major city in the US or Europe, just due to the favorable exchange rates.
Keep in mind though, if you want to go to super high-end hotels like the one in the middle of the Iguazu Falls Park, it won’t be cheap. However, it still is relative and will be cheaper if you compare high-end to high-end.
For instance, the most expensive per-night hotel in NYC will be far more expensive than staying in the best hotel in the area which is the Das Cataratas a Belmond Hotel.
You can also find well-priced local goods and services, including artisanal crafts and guided tours. However, imported goods, upscale dining, and luxury accommodations can be expensive if your goal is to experience the best.
It’s worth mentioning that prices will increase during the peak tourist season, especially when looking at the high-demand areas. So, if you’re traveling on a strict budget, avoiding the summer months will help make your money go further.
Is Iguazu Falls Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Iguazu Falls is a unique Brazil destination that all types of travelers go to. It is such a unique attraction, and depending on your goal, you will want to visit it at different times.
It has something for everyone: hiking, nature, bird watching, and adventure.
The locals call the area “Iguaçu,“and it is PACKED with stuff to do. The scenery is on point, the wildlife is crazy, there is a ton of adventure activities, and it is a hiker’s dream.
The tours are phenomenal and can be tailored to the exact trip you want to experience. If you want more structure, it is there. If you want more freedom, you can plan your trip that way too.
If you are a foodie, then there is piranha soup, local Brazilian barbeque, and pao de quejo (cheese bread balls) to be had.
Not to mention this place is on the “Three Boarders Landmark” (Marco das Tres Fronteiras), which means it’s on the border of Argentina and Paraguay. You can literally plan a THREE country vacation if you had enough time and money, that is.
The locals are warm and hospitable, and the city is relatively safe as much of the livelihood in this area depends on the tourists.
However, If you are not a fan of crowds, then you will want to visit in the shoulder seasons.
How Many Days Do I Need in Iguazu Falls Brazil?
I do not like to rush, so I would say 1. Decide what type of trip you want to do 2. Decide how long you think that would take you to do based on the research, and 3. Add another day onto that just in case so that you are not in a rush.
If you just want to check the box and ONLY see the brazil side that maybe you just need 2 days. Most people would get their fill if that was their goal.
You would want to stay at least four days if you wanted to see the Brazil side and the Argentine sides of the falls. This would give you time to take tours and do all the activities you would want to do, such as riverboat rides on the Parana River or bird watching in Parque das Aves.
If you really want to take your time and you are a hiker/nature person, I would recommend seven days. There is nothing worse than going that far from home in a spot you most likely will never see again and then running out of time.
I always think of the number of days I will need and then add another day or two to that. This way, you are not rushed in and out of cool places like Iguazu Falls.
General Florianopolis, Brazil Travel Info & FAQ
🌞 Iguazu Falls Weather
In Iguazu Falls, remember it is a subtropical climate, so the weather changes quickly.
Depending on the time of year you come, you will experience hot, humid weather in the summer and more mild weather in the winter. Like any climate like this, it can rain one minute and then be sunny and clear to hit the hiking trails the next. Shoulder seasons might not be a bad play as the heat would be lighter, as well as the rain.
It really is a year-round destination, so pay attention to the season you are going in and if you like rain or not. With the rain comes better falls, but with less rain comes better wildlife sightings.
💰 Brazil Currency
Brazil’s official currency is the Brazilian Real, symbolized as BRL or R$. Although cards are widely accepted in popular areas and hotels, you still want to have some cash on hand. This is in case you really want to hit a street vendor for food or a painting. The worst thing is getting caught with no cash and missing that unique opportunity.
🗣️ Brazil Language
Brazil’s official language is Portuguese, so in Iguazu Falls and throughout the country, this is what you’ll most likely hear.
As this is a heavy tourist destination, English is spoken in many of the tours and hotels, but learning a few basic Portuguese phrases will get you a long way from an experience standpoint and a local perception standpoint.
If you want to learn a bit of Portuguese prior to going, DuoLingo and Pimsleur are great tools to use.
🛫 Iguazu Falls Brazil Busy Season & Slow Season
Iguazu Falls Busy Season: This is the summer in Brazil and runs from December to March. It is when the popular festival of Carnival takes place. As this is the “busy” season, remember that there will be bigger crowds of tourists, and the prices will be higher across the board. The falls will have more water, but with that comes more rain and fewer animals.
Iguazu Falls Slow Season: This the winter time and goes from June to September. It is much more relaxed, and there will be far fewer tourists. If you are looking to go to Brazil and get travel deals while doing it, then this is your time to plan the trip. This is also a time to enjoy the falls without crowds, but with that and less rain comes a lower water volume for the falls. An upside is that it is better for outdoor activities, and being that it is “drier,” the animals are more easily seen. This is due to the fact that they all gather near the available water.
Iguazu Falls Shoulder Season: The shoulder seasons in Brazil are considered Fall and Spring. The months transitioning between the busy and slow seasons can offer a middle ground of decent weather, fewer crowds, and reasonable prices. Keep in mind that the seasons are opposite, so for instance, in the US, the Fall would be their Spring and vice versa.
Do I Need a Visa for Brazil?
The Short Answer: If you are traveling from the US, Canada, Australia, and Japan, the answer is no, UNTIL October 1, 2023, then the answer is yes. Currently, no visa is necessary from European Union (EU) countries. This looks like it will be the case even after October 1, 2023.
The Longer Answer: Traveling to Brazil is a great experience, but it is important to make sure you have all your ducks in a row so to speak. That means having the proper documentation needed to enter the country.
Here’s what you need to know about securing a visa for Brazil, specifically for citizens of the US, Canada, Australia, Japan, and European Union (EU) countries.
Section 1: US, Canada, Australia, and Japan
Citizens of the US, Canada, Australia, and Japan can currently enter visa-free travel to Brazil for tourism or business purposes.
This applies to stays of up to 90 days within a 12-month period. All you need is a valid passport with an expiry date at least six months beyond your intended departure from Brazil.
Brazil is looking to implement the visa requirement again for these four countries as of October 1, 2023, so plan in advance for this.
Section 2: European Union (EU) Nationals
For most European Union citizens, including those from the UK, Germany, France, and Italy, also benefit from visa-free entry to Brazil.
This policy permits EU nationals to stay in Brazil for tourism or business purposes for up to 90 days within a 12-month period. Like others, they will need a passport that is valid for at least six months past the date of entry into Brazil.
Visa and immigration requirements can and do change. It is always advised to check the latest information from the official government websites of Brazil or your home country’s foreign travel advisory services before making travel plans.
For the most recent and comprehensive information about visa requirements for all nationalities, consult the Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or a Brazilian embassy or consulate near you during your pre-planning phase of your trip.
The October 1st, 2023 update does not look like it will affect EU Nationals, but research accordingly here.
What Do I Need on My Brazil Packing List?
The worst thing is to overpack and bring unnecessary things all around the world with you. Equally as bad is not packing the correct things and throwing a wrench in your whole trip by having to spend half of a day in a mall in Brazil shopping for a travel adapter.
Packing for Brazil should be done in advance, just like any other major trip abroad.
Here’s a curated list focusing on your primary needs:
🔌 Power Adaptors: Brazil uses types C and N outlets. Make sure you have the correct adapters for your devices so you don’t have to scramble around wasting time buying one there. Consider bringing a universal travel adapter to ensure compatibility with various outlets during your travels.
📳 Brazil and Florianopolis SIM Card: Staying connected is important, especially when traveling abroad. Get a Brazil or Florianopolis-specific SIM card for easy communication and online access. This helps a ton when dealing with things like Maps and Uber.
💧 Filterable Water Bottle: The tap water in Iguazu Falls is generally safe, but I still would not drink water from the tap. Carrying a filterable water bottle can come in super handy and avoid you from having to always stay hydrated with bottled water. Consider bringing a “Water-To-Go Filterable Bottle” for convenient access to clean and safe drinking water during your travels.
💊 Anti-Hangover Meds: If you are one that likes to toss more than a few back, it’s for sure worth carrying anti-hangover medications to make sure your trip runs smoother. The last thing you want to do is waste an entire day out of a seven-day trip in bed with a hangover.
👒 Sun Protection: Brazil’s sun can be intense, so don’t try to tough it out. Pack a high-SPF sunscreen and a sun hat to protect your skin and face. Just a short time in the sun-exposed can make it an unpleasant rest of the trip.
🦟 Bug Repellent: Brazil is in a subtropical climate, and with that comes a fair amount of mosquitoes. Whether you’re hiking in the forest or enjoying a nice evening dinner, having bug repellent is a must. Itching uncontrollably for days because you were unprepared is just not the move. Consider using an eco-friendly bug repellent to protect yourself from mosquito bites while minimizing environmental impact.
👗 Lightweight, breathable clothing: The subtropical climate means it is hot, so pack light stuff that breathes well, NO cotton.
👙 Swimwear: If you want to visit the natural pools or do a riverboat tour you will need this.
☔️ Raincoat or poncho: There is no way around this; the rain is unpredictable and unforgiving.
🧥 Light Jacket: At night, after it rains, sometimes it can get a bit cold, so bring a light jacket.
🩴 Comfortable Footwear: Remember, there are many different terrains here. You will definitely need comfortable walking shoes and also sandals or flip-flops.
💡 Other Accessories: Waterproof bag, reusable water bottle, insect repellent, camera or smartphone, binoculars (bird watchers), sunglasses (protect your eyes).
📄 Travel Documents: Don’t forget your passport, visa (if required), and travel insurance documents. Travel insurance is good to have a few printouts in case you need it for any reason. It is also good to have a photocopy of these important documents separately in case of loss or theft. Without photocopies, this would be a nightmare to deal with.
The rest of your packing list should include clothing geared to the season you plan to travel to Floripa in. Tailor this list according to your needs and planned activities.
Is it Safe to Rent a Car and Drive in Iguazu Falls Brazil?
Absolutely, it is safe and perfectly fine to rent a car and drive around in Iguazu Falls, Brazil. The city has a more laid-back driving atmosphere compared to other Brazilian cities, making it a more comfortable experience for visitors.
While Brazilian traffic rules may seem a little busy, navigating Iguazu Falls is generally hassle-free. Key road signs are also in Portuguese but don’t worry, the rental car GPS or Google Maps on your phone will give you directions in your language.
Remember, in Brazil, driving is on the right-hand side. You’ll need to make sure to have good car rental insurance for peace of mind, and you’re all set to go. You can get this through the same place you rent the car from, no problem.
When you are parking, make sure to lock your car and double-check that none of your personal stuff is in plain sight.
Overall, driving around Iguazu Falls is not just safe, and it’s also a cool experience. It gives you way more freedom and flexibility to see stuff. I feel like renting a car in Iguazu Falls is more than just a way to get around; it’s part of the adventure!
Remember, while it is a cool experience, it is not necessary. There are plenty of solid run, guided, organized tours if that is more your speed.
Do I Need to Speak Portuguese to Visit Brazil?
No, not at all. You don’t necessarily need to speak Portuguese to visit Brazil. In tourist-heavy areas like Iguazu Falls, you’ll find many locals, particularly in the hospitality industry, who can communicate in English.
However, learning a few basic phrases in Portuguese can enrich your travel experience, help you engage more with the local culture, and can be very useful in situations where English isn’t widely spoken. Tools like DuoLingo are great, user-friendly language apps that can help you pick up the basics before your trip.
Even without Portuguese fluently, you’ll be able to navigate Brazil just fine. I always like to use apps to learn some basic phrases prior to going to another country. So if you are like me, then for sure dig into learning the language a little.
Here are some great language preparation options for your trip to Brazil:
Learn Basic Portuguese: Use language-learning platforms like DuoLingo or Pimsleur. They offer interactive courses that can help you become more confident and conversational in Portuguese before your trip.
Use Google Translate App: This app is a lifesaver when you’re navigating language barriers. Remember, you’ll need a Brazil SIM card with data for the app to work without WiFi.
Get a Portuguese Phrasebook: Consider packing a Portuguese phrasebook, such as the Lonely Planet Portuguese Phrasebook. It’s a fantastic non-digital assistant that can help you communicate and understand the local language better.
Even if you don’t become fluent, having some very basic knowledge of the local language will definitely enhance your travel experience in Florianopolis, Brazil. It will be much appreciated if the locals see you have tried to make an effort, even if it is small.
Is Brazil Safe for Solo Female Travel?
Yes, Brazil can be safe for solo female travelers, but like anywhere in the world, it’s important to take precautions.
Common sense safety includes researching and staying in well-reviewed accommodations, booking all your tours online and not with someone on the street, avoiding isolated areas at night, and maintaining awareness of your surroundings.
In addition, do not bring anything flashy. Leave that at home.
Using trusted transportation services can help ensure safety when traveling from place to place. So ride-share apps such as Uber or your own rental car are highly recommended.
It’s also recommended to dress modestly, share your itinerary, trust your instincts, and stay in well-lit populated areas.
Always stay connected with friends or family and keep them informed about your plans and when you will be returning home to your hotel.
Solo travel in Brazil, specifically in Iguazu Falls, can be super rewarding with the right planning.
