Welcome to one of the most stunning natural world wonders- Iguazu Falls! But which side should you visit? Is the Brazil side of Iguazu Falls better, or is the Argentina side of Iguazu Falls?
Well, after 4 different visits. we've experienced pretty much everything there is to do inside Iguazu Falls, and in the towns around them. We can say that these waterfalls are one of the best places to visit in South America, and definitely one to be added to the bucket list.
There is so much to know when it comes to visiting the falls, that we've actually created separate guides for you to keep you from being overwhelmed. In this guide we're going to share everything there is to know about visiting the Brazil side of Iguazu Falls, from how to get there, to the best things to do in Foz do Iguazu. Let's jump right in!
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Where are the Iguazu Falls in Brazil?
Iguazu Falls in Brazil are on the north side of the Iguazu River, just across from Iguazu Falls in Argentina. (The falls are all together, but the park is divided in two). Iguazu Falls are located in the south west corner of Brazil, in South America.
Iguazu Falls are located in the south west corner of Brazil.
How do You Get to the Brazilian Side of Iguazu Falls?
There are a number of ways that you can make it to the Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls! Here are all of the different ways to visit:
Flying to Foz do Iguazu
Iguazu Falls actually have two airports- Puerto Iguazu, which serves the Argentina side of Iguazu Falls, and Foz do Iguacu, which serves the Brazil side of Iguazu Falls.
Flying into Foz do Iguaçu is definitely the easiest way to visit the Brazil side of Iguazu Falls, and certainly the best option if you are already inside of Brazil.
Brazilian cities that fly direct to Foz do Iguazu include Brasilia, Campinas, Curitiba, Florianopolis, Porto Alegre, Rio de Janeiro, and Sao Paulo. Two other international cities that fly to Foz do Iguacu are Montevideo and Santiago.
Flight Tip: Using Skyscanner you can put from "Brazil" to "Foz do Iguacu". This way you can see which is the cheapest airport in the area to fly from. Also, you can check the calendar to see which are the cheapest dates for traveling there!
Search for a flight to Foz do Iguacu:
Taking a Bus to Foz do Iguaçu from Argentina
If you're traveling from Argentina, then the best way to get to the Brazil side of Iguazu Falls is to fly to Puerto Iguazu. Then from there, you can either take a taxi to Foz do Iguacu, or you can get a bus to Puerto Iguazu, and then a bus from there to Foz do Iguazu.
We actually use this as a trick of traveling cheaper to Brazil, flying from Buenos Aires to Puerto Iguazu, crossing the land border to Foz do Iguacu, and then taking internal flights from Foz do Iguacu!
Taking a Bus to Foz do Iguaçu from Cities in Brazil
If you are coming from other cities in Brazil and don't want to fly, you can also take overnight buses from either Curitiba, Florianopolis, Rio de Janeiro, or Sao Paulo.
Getting to the Park of Iguazu Falls from Foz do Iguacu
Inside the city of Foz do Iguacu there are plenty of buses that regularly go to Iguazu Falls. Just look for the sign that says "Cataratas". The ride is just 5 BRL (about $1 USD) and is about 45 minutes with stops inside the city. You can also easily go from the main bus station, which is where all of the buses leave from.
Another option for getting to the falls is by taking an Uber or a taxi from Foz do Iguacu, which is about 30-35 minutes, and around 50 BRL ($10 USD).
Can You Cross From Brazil to Argentina at Iguazu Falls?
Unfortunately you cannot go straight from the Brazil side of Iguazu Falls to the Argentina side. In order to do both parks, you'll have to go from one park back to the city center, cross the border, and then go to the other side of the park.
It's important to note that customs take a long time on the Argentina side (sometimes around 1 hour), and it's also difficult to find a taxi driver who is willing to drive you from one park to the other, as it can be very time-consuming.
If you do want to do this, it's definitely possible. However, we suggest setting a ride up in advance, or leaving yourself a few hours to do the different legs of the ride.
Entry Requirements for Brazil
When it comes to Iguazu Falls, it's important to know the different entry requirements, since chances are you'll be crossing from one country to the next. Here is everything you need to know for visiting the Brazil side of Iguazu Falls.
Visa Entry Requirements for Brazil
If you are visiting the Brazil side of Iguazu Falls from Argentina for just one day, you actually won't have to go through customs at all! However, if you plan on staying in Brazil after Argentina, it's very important that you remember to stop at customs.
While you can simply drive through without stopping, you'll end up having problems leaving Brazil if you don't have an entry stamp. Make sure to stop at customs in both Argentina and Brazil if this is your case. Many drivers simply drive right through assuming it's a day trip, so it'll be your job to pay attention, and make sure that they stop (this actually happened to us so we had to learn the hard way).
Brazil no longer requires visas from US citizens to enter, and you can stay for a period of up to 90 days as a tourist.
Covid Entry Requirements for Brazil
While most countries in the world are past this stage, Brazil still actually requires visitors to be vaccinated. Make sure to carry your vaccination card on you so that you can present it when going through customs.
Another thing to note is that if you are flying from Foz do Iguacu, they will still make you wear a mask. You won't need it in any part of the airport except for when padding through security (we know it doesn't make sense, but this was a pattern we noticed in all Brazilian airport). Make sure to carry one on you, or you'll have to purchase one from the shop inside the airport before passing through the security checkpoint.
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Local Adjustments for Foz do Iguacu
Being that Iguazu Falls is shared by two countries, and it borders a third county, there are certain things that will differ from one to the next. Here are the different "local adjustments" to keep in mind when visiting the Brazil side of Iguazu Falls.
Language on the Brazil Side of Iguazu Falls
The official language on the Brazil side of Iguazu Falls in Portuguese. Everything on this side of the park, as well as the city of Foz do Iguacu is Portuguese, but they also many times have translations in Spanish and English.
Currency Used on the Brazil Side of Iguazu Falls
The currency used in Brazil is the Brazilian Real. Currently (October 2023) every 1 USD or Euro is equivalent to 4.95 Brazilian Real. Most things can be paid with credit card, but you should have some local currency to pay for things such as public transportations, tipping, or street vendors.
Outlets Used in Brazil
Brazil uses plug types C & N, which are the same ones that are used in Europe. The country operates on a 127/220V supply voltage and 60Hz.
It's important to note that Brazil and Argentina use different outlets, so if you are coming from Argentina, or another country other than Brazil, you'll need to get a travel adapter.
Can You Drink the Tap Water in Iguazu?
The water in Brazil is not safe to drink, so you should stick to bottled water. We personally like buying large jugs of water, and then continually fill up our vacuum-sealed water bottle which holds the temperature.
Tipping Culture in Brazil
The tipping culture in Brazil is similar to many other countries, and it is expected to leave an extra 10% on top of your bill. Another thing to keep in mind, is that in Brazil many restaurants include a service charge meaning you won't have to tip. Additionally, many add a "cover charge" which is an extra fee for sitting at the table which covers usually bread, music, or any other small service that the restaurant may be providing.
Always check your bill to see if these things have been added, or inquire before sitting down.
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Brazil Side of Iguazu Falls: What to Expect
Now that you know the basics for adjusting to the Brazil side of Iguazu Falls, let's check out what the falls are all about!
Price & Timetable of the Brazil Side of Iguazu Falls
First thing's first, let's get you ready to visit the park! Here are some important things to know for booking your tickets.
When Does the Brazil Side of Iguazu Falls Open?
The Brazil side of Iguazu Falls opens at 9 am on the week days, and at 8 am on the weekends. It closes at 6 pm, and the final entrance is at 4:00.
The way that it works is that you need to purchase your tickets online, and book the time slot in which you'd like to take the bus from the visitors center to the start of the trail. The first bus on the week days goes at 9:10, which the first one on the weekends goes at 8:30.
Even the though the park technically closes at 6, the last bus that you can get is the one at 4:00 pm. When we went the guy told us that the final platform was closing at 5 pm. At 5:15 there were still people on the platform, but we imagine that they weren't able to stay much later, maybe 5:30.
You need to book a time slot in order to get a bus to the trails of Iguazu Falls.
How Much Does it Cost to Visit Iguazu Falls in Brazil?
There are two different ticket prices. There is one price for those from Mercosur, and one for foreigner. Those that are from Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, and Brazil pay 78 BRL, while foreigners pay 86 BRL.
How to Enjoy the Park on the Brazil Side of Iguazu Falls
While the Argentinean side of Iguazu Falls has several trails, the Brazil Side of Iguazu Falls just has a couple of highlights.
Don't have time to read the whole article and want to save it for later? Just pin it!
Walking the Trail of Iguazu Falls
One of the reasons that we love the Brazil side of Iguazu Falls is because of the stunning views that you get of the Argentina side of Iguazu.
As soon as you enter the park of Iguazu you will take a 20 minute bus ride. The second stop is the trail that allows you to admire the different views of Iguazu Falls (the first is the boat ride).
You need to take a bud to get to the trail.
As soon as you get off the bus you'll be rewarded with this incredible view that you see below.
The trail then has several different viewpoints with platforms that jut out and give you panoramas on the waterfalls. The trail is extremely easy, and is even handicap friendly. Just keep in mind that it does get very crowded, so you'll have to have patience since the walkway isn't super wide.
The Final Platform of the Brazil Side of Iguazu Falls
The best part of the Brazil side of Iguazu Falls is a certainly the last part, where there is a giant platform going across the bottom of the falls, and letting you get up close to them. The views are simply fantastic!
Just be prepared to get wet, as the wind will push the mist over the platform. This is why you'll end up seeing a lot of people wearing ponchos. We personally didn't mind getting wet, as it was super refreshing in the summer heat.
The final platform gets you up close to the falls.
The final platform is also accessible by bus stop, if you don't want to do the full trail, or are running short on time. However, we definitely think the walk is worth it, and it took a total of just 45 minutes, stopping many times for photos, and trying to dodge the crowds.
After the final platform you have a set of steps (or elevator) where you can also see a few different platforms that get you up close to the top of the falls. This is also where you'll find bathrooms, another restaurant, and the bus stop for heading back to the front of the park.
The final bus stop has platforms overlooking the falls.
Taking the Macuco Safari
Another one of the main highlights from the Brazil side of Iguazu Falls is the Macuco Safari, which is an epic boat ride that goes through the river up into Iguazu Falls! It is actually quite similar to the one that we experienced on the Argentina side of Iguazu Falls, taking you down the river on a guided tour, and bringing you right next to the falls.
Here are a few tours that include the Macuco boat safari:
Other Things to Do in Foz do Iguacu
Of course the waterfalls are the number one reason to visit the Brazil side of Iguazu Falls! However, there are also quite a few other fun things to do in Foz do Iguacu.
Things to Do in Foz do Iguacu #1: Fly Over the Brazil Side of Iguazu Falls
Want to see the Brazil side of Iguazu Falls at an even more impressive angle? Well, you can actually take a helicopter ride right over the falls! This isn't something we had the time to do, but we heard amazing reviews, and the pictures looked incredible!
Here are a few tours that you can take, including one that goes from the Argentina side of Iguazu Falls:
Things to Do in Foz do Iguacu #2: Visit the Bird Park
Located just down the road from the Brazil side of Iguazu Falls is Parque das Aves, which is a 16 hectares bird park. Tickets are 80 BRL and the sanctuary uses the money to help preserve wildlife in the Atlantic rainforest. Parque das Aves is open 7 days a week from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.
Want an organized tour? Here are a few different options from both Puerto Iguazu and Foz do Iguacu:
Things to Do in Foz do Iguacu #3: Drink at the Ice Bar
We actually visited the ice bar in Puerto Iguazu, but also found out that there is a similar one right in Foz do Iguacu as well!
The bar is completely made of ice, and includes unlimited drinks while visiting. You're allowed to be inside for a time slot of a half hour, and they include a jacket and gloves for you to wear while inside.
Dreams Ice Bar opens daily at 10 am, and closes at 9 pm on Sundays, 9:30 from Monday to Wednesday, and at 10 pm Thursday to Saturday. Tickets cost 94 BRL for adults and 47 BRL for children.
Things to Do in Foz do Iguacu #4: Visit the Itaipu Dam
Itaipu Dam is a giant hydroelectric dam on the Paraná River located between Brazil and Paraguay. It’s actually the world's second largest operational hydroelectric power plant when it comes to installed power, and is just a short ride away from the center of Foz do Iguacu.
Want to take a tour to Itaipu Dam? Here are a few different ones that you can book:
Things to Do in Foz do Iguacu #5: Check Out the Triple Border
Did you know that there is actually a point where Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay all meet? The spot where the Iguazu River and Parana River meet is called the Triple Frontera, otherwise known as the Triple Border. Head over to get a view of all three countries at once.
The spot where the two rivers merge is where all three countries meet.
Things to Do in Foz do Iguacu #6: Ride the Tallest Ferris Wheel in Brazil
Want another great way to enjoy the view of all three countries at once? Well, there has been an 88 meter Ferris wheel built in the center of Foz do Iguazu, which is now the tallest in Brazil!
The Yup Star is the perfect place to enjoy the sunset. They have snacks, drinks, live music, and a gift shop on site as well. Grab a beer and check out some of the best views in Foz do Iguazu.
The Yup Star is Brazil's tallest Ferris wheel.
Things to Do in Foz do Iguacu #7: Take a Day Trip to Paraguay
Right across the river from Foz do Iguacu is the country of Paraguay. The border town of Paraguay, Ciudad del Este, is known for its cheap electronics, and brings tons of tourists that want to stock up.
Money Saving Tip: Bring plenty of cash so that you don't have to pay the 10% credit card fee in the stores there!
While we are personally not impressed with Ciudad Del Este (it's not a particularly beautiful or safe city), we do actually have another reason for crossing over the border to Paraguay, and it's called Saltos de Monday.
Here are some tours you can take to both Ciudad del Este and Saltos de Monday:
Saltos de Monday in Paraguay
This beautiful set of waterfalls is a true hidden gem, as it is extremely less crowded than Iguazu, and has a super delicious (and cheap) restaurant on site. It's just 15-20 minutes from Ciudad Del Este, and is definitely worth a day trip from the Brazil side of Iguazu Falls.
Want to learn more? We have a full guide for Saltos de Monday! Make sure to subscribe to our newsletter so that you can get weekly updates of our new content, and exclusive discounts on our products and services.
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Food & Drink in Foz do Iguacu
When it comes to food & drink options for the Brazil side of Iguazu Falls, there is a restaurant that is at the entrance of the park, as well as a few cafes inside the park. You can find simple things like empanadas or sandwiches, açaí, and a selection of drinks.
As far as things to eat while you're in Brazil, here are some of the things that we suggest:
- Acai: super refreshing frozen treat made from Amazonian berries
- Coxhina: fried teardrop shaped dough with shredded chicken and potato inside
- Pastel: fried pastries which are similar to empanadas, and great for on the go
- Brigadeiro: small and round traditional Brazilian dessert with creamy chocolate inside
- Churrasca: Brazilian Steakhouse where they slice unlimited amounts of meat at the table- this is an absolute must while in Foz do Iguacu! (unless you're a vegetarian of course)
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Getting Around Foz do Iguacu
In order to get around the city of Foz do Iguacu, you have a number of different options to choose from.
Renting a Car in Foz do Iguacu
If you're planning on exploring a lot in a little amount of time, and are planning on starting and finishing your trip on the Brazil side of Iguazu Falls, then renting a car is a great option! The reason we have not done this option yet, is because every time we start on on side, and then leave on the other, and it's not possible to rent the car in Brazil, and leave it in Argentina, or vice versa.
Renting a car is helpful because it allows you more flexibility, and if you are a few people, it can actually be cheaper than getting around any other way. Cars can easily be rented from the airport, but should be booked in advance due to high demand.
Book a rental car in Foz do Iguacu:
Using Public Buses in Foz do Iguacu
Foz do Iguacu has a public bus system that connects the city, the falls, and the airport of Foz do Iguacu. From the main bus station in the city you can also travel to Puerto Iguazu in Argentina, or to Ciudad del Este in Paraguay.
Make sure to have cash on you, as you'll need local currency to ride on these buses.
Taking Ubers in Foz do Iguacu
While Uber is not available on the Argentinian side of Iguazu Falls, it does operate on the Brazil side of Iguazu Falls. You can use Uber to get around the city, to go to the airport, the waterfalls, or to the borders of Argentina or Paraguay. Keep in mind that because Uber does not operate inside Argentina, the app won't let the driver take you across the border.
Taking Taxis in Foz do Iguacu
Taxis are certainly one of the easiest ways to get around, although certainly not the cheapest option when it comes to getting around the Brazil side of Iguazu Falls. Taxis can be found at the airport, as well as inside the city center.