2-Day Friends Adventure: Exploring Iguazu Falls, Cuisine & Wine
Iguazu Falls, Argentina
2 days
About Iguazu Falls, Argentina
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Iguazu Falls, Argentina, one of the world's most spectacular natural wonders. This UNESCO World Heritage site, nestled in the heart of the Iguazu National Park, boasts a stunning array of 275 individual falls, including the awe-inspiring Devil's Throat. Embark on an adventure through lush rainforests, home to diverse wildlife, or enjoy a thrilling boat ride to the base of the falls. Marvel at the vibrant rainbows created by the mist, especially under the moonlight. With options for hiking, bird-watching, and exploring indigenous culture, Iguazu Falls offers a unique blend of nature, adventure, and culture. Don't miss this unforgettable Argentinian gem.
2-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Discovering the Surroundings of Iguazu Falls
Morning
Begin your second day with a visit to the Itaipu Dam, one of the largest hydroelectric dams in the world. The dam straddles the border between Argentina and Brazil, offering stunning views of the Parana River.
Lunch
Have lunch at a riverside restaurant, where you can enjoy fresh fish caught from the Parana River, accompanied by a glass of Torrontes, Argentina's signature white wine.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the Parque das Aves, a bird park located on the Brazilian side of the falls. Here, you can see a variety of colorful tropical birds, including toucans and macaws.
Dinner
Dine at a local restaurant, where you can try regional dishes such as locro (a hearty stew) and pastel de mandioca (a cassava pie). Pair your meal with a glass of Bonarda, a lesser-known Argentine red wine.
Evening
Wrap up your trip with a visit to the Three Borders Landmark, where Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay meet. The landmark is illuminated at night, creating a beautiful spectacle.
Attractions in Itinerary (4)
1Iguazu Falls
One of the world's most stunning natural wonders, Iguazu Falls is a series of magnificent waterfalls located on the Iguazu River, straddling the border between Brazil and Argentina.
2Itaipu Dam
One of the world's largest hydroelectric dams, offering guided tours that explain its history and operation.
3Parque das Aves
A beautiful bird park located near the Iguazu Falls. Home to more than 150 species of birds, it's a must-visit for nature and bird lovers.
4Three Borders Landmark
A monument that marks the point where the borders of Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay meet. It offers a panoramic view of the three countries.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Empanadas
A popular Argentine snack, Empanadas are baked or fried pastries filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables. They are a must-try when visiting Iguazu Falls.
Asado
Asado is a traditional Argentine barbecue, often featuring beef ribs, sausages, and sometimes offal. It's a social event as much as a meal, perfect for experiencing the local culture around Iguazu Falls.
Choripan
Choripan is a popular street food in Argentina. It's a sandwich made with chorizo (pork sausage) and crusty bread, typically served with chimichurri sauce. It's a quick, delicious bite to enjoy while exploring Iguazu Falls.
Provoleta
Provoleta is a traditional Argentine dish made with provolone cheese. The cheese is melted until it becomes bubbly and slightly crispy, then topped with oregano and served hot. It's a delicious start to any meal in the Iguazu Falls area.
Milanesa
Milanesa is a breaded meat fillet, similar to a schnitzel. It's a common main course in Argentina, often served with mashed potatoes or a salad. It's a hearty meal to enjoy after a day of sightseeing at Iguazu Falls.
Dulce de Leche
Dulce de Leche is a sweet, caramel-like sauce that's a staple in Argentine desserts. It's often used as a filling for cakes and cookies, or simply spread on toast. It's a sweet treat to enjoy while visiting Iguazu Falls.
Alfajores
Alfajores are traditional Argentine cookies, typically filled with Dulce de Leche and covered in powdered sugar or chocolate. They're a delightful dessert to try when visiting Iguazu Falls.
Matambre
Matambre is a rolled meat dish, typically made with beef or pork and filled with vegetables, eggs, and herbs. It's a flavorful, filling dish to enjoy in the Iguazu Falls region.
Malbec Wine
Malbec is a type of red wine that Argentina is famous for. It's a full-bodied wine with a rich, dark fruit flavor. It's a perfect accompaniment to a meal after a day of exploring Iguazu Falls.
Fernet and Coke
Fernet and Coke is a popular Argentine cocktail, made with Fernet Branca (a bitter, aromatic spirit) and Coca-Cola. It's a unique, refreshing drink to try while visiting Iguazu Falls.
Yerba Mate
Yerba Mate is a traditional Argentine drink, made by steeping dried leaves from the Yerba Mate plant in hot water. It's a social drink, often shared among friends, and a great way to experience the local culture around Iguazu Falls.
Helado
Helado is Argentine ice cream, known for its creamy texture and variety of flavors. It's a delightful treat to enjoy on a warm day while visiting Iguazu Falls.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Iguazu Falls, Argentina is during the spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) seasons. During these periods, the weather is generally pleasant and the falls are at their most spectacular. The temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C, making it comfortable for sightseeing. Additionally, these seasons are less crowded compared to the summer holidays, providing a more peaceful experience.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
February 12 | Mon | Carnival / Shrove Monday |
February 13 | Tue | Carnival / Shrove Tuesday / Pancake Day |
March 24 | Sun | Memorial Day |
March 28 | Thu | Maundy Thursday |
March 29 | Fri | Good Friday |
April 2 | Tue | Day of the Veterans |
May 1 | Wed | Labor Day / May Day |
May 25 | Sat | National Day/May 1810 Revolution |
June 17 | Mon | Commemoration of General Don Martín Miguel de Güemes |
June 20 | Thu | Flag Day |
July 9 | Tue | Independence day |
August 19 | Mon | San Martín Day |
October 14 | Mon | Day of Respect for Cultural Diversity |
November 18 | Mon | National Sovereignty Day |
December 8 | Sun | Immaculate Conception |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
How to get around
Flight
The most convenient way to reach Iguazu Falls is by air. The nearest airport is Cataratas del Iguazu International Airport, located just outside the city of Puerto Iguazu. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach the city center or the falls.
Bus
There are regular bus services from Puerto Iguazu to the Iguazu National Park where the falls are located. The bus ride takes about 30 minutes. The buses are comfortable and air-conditioned.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Puerto Iguazu and can be used for getting to the falls or for local sightseeing. They are metered and relatively affordable.
Car Rental
Renting a car can be a good option if you prefer to explore at your own pace. There are several car rental agencies in Puerto Iguazu. Remember to drive on the right side of the road in Argentina.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services like Uber are available in Puerto Iguazu. They can be a convenient and cost-effective way to get around, especially if you're traveling in a group.
Foot
The Iguazu National Park is well laid out with walking trails that allow you to explore the falls and the surrounding rainforest on foot. It's a great way to experience the natural beauty of the area.
Bicycle
Bicycles can be rented in Puerto Iguazu. Cycling can be a fun and eco-friendly way to get around, especially in the cooler early morning or late afternoon hours.
Boat
There are boat tours available that take you up close to the falls. This can be a thrilling way to experience the power and beauty of Iguazu Falls.
Important information
Currency$ ARS
Time zoneUTC-3
Driving sideRight
Emergency phoneAmbulance: 101; Fire: 107; Police: 101
Drinking waterOpt for bottled water
Power sockets
Voltage220 V
Things to know about Iguazu Falls, Argentina as a first time visitor
1
Iguazu Falls is located in the Iguazu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
2
The best time to visit Iguazu Falls is from August to November, when the weather is pleasant and the water flow is at its peak.
3
The park is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day.
4
The local currency is the Argentine Peso (ARS), and it's recommended to have some cash on hand for small purchases.
5
Spanish is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
6
Argentina operates on Argentina Time Zone (ART), which is GMT-3.
7
The climate is subtropical, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 104°F (10°C to 40°C).
8
It's recommended to wear comfortable shoes as there's a lot of walking involved in exploring the park.
9
Insect repellent is a must due to the tropical climate.
10
The park offers free guided tours in Spanish and English.
11
There are restaurants and cafes within the park where you can have meals.
12
There's a train service within the park that takes visitors to different viewpoints.
13
The park is wheelchair accessible, and wheelchairs can be rented at the visitor center.
14
There are several ATMs within the park, but they may not always be operational, so it's best to have cash on hand.
15
There's a first aid station within the park, and the nearest hospital is in Puerto Iguazu, about 10 miles away.
16
There are lockers available for rent to store your belongings.
17
Photography is allowed, but drones are not permitted in the park.
18
There's a souvenir shop within the park where you can buy gifts and memorabilia.
19
Pets are not allowed in the park.
20
The park offers a variety of activities including hiking, bird watching, and boat tours.
Basic Spanish to know as a first time visitor
English phrase | Native phrase | Pronunciation | When to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
Hello | Hola | O-la | Greeting someone |
Goodbye | Adiós | A-dee-os | Leaving someone |
Please | Por favor | Por fa-vor | Making a request |
Thank you | Gracias | Gra-see-as | Expressing gratitude |
Yes | Sí | See | Agreeing or confirming |
No | No | No | Disagreeing or denying |
Excuse me | Perdón | Per-don | Getting someone's attention or apologizing |
I don't understand | No entiendo | No en-tee-en-do | When you don't understand something |
Do you speak English? | ¿Hablas inglés? | Ab-las in-gles | When you need to communicate in English |
Where is...? | ¿Dónde está...? | Don-de es-ta | Asking for directions |
Bathroom | Baño | Ban-yo | Looking for a bathroom |
Help | Ayuda | A-yu-da | In case of emergency |
I'm lost | Estoy perdido | Es-toy per-di-do | When you're lost |
Water | Agua | A-gua | When you're thirsty |
Food | Comida | Co-mi-da | When you're hungry |
Hotel | Hotel | O-tel | Looking for a place to stay |
Taxi | Taxi | Taxi | Looking for transportation |
How much does it cost? | ¿Cuánto cuesta? | Cuan-to cues-ta | Asking for the price |
I would like... | Me gustaría... | Me gus-ta-ria | Making a request |
Good night | Buenas noches | Bwe-nas no-ches | Saying goodbye in the evening |
Packing List
Clothing
Lightweight clothing
Waterproof jacket
Swimwear
Comfortable walking shoes
Hat
Sunglasses
Extra socks and underwear
Toiletries
Travel-sized toiletries
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
First aid kit
Prescription medications
Hand sanitizer
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Visa (if required)
Travel insurance documents
Flight tickets
Hotel booking confirmation
Credit and debit cards
Cash in local currency
Emergency contact information
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger
Power bank
Camera
Memory cards
Travel adapter
Miscellaneous items
Travel guidebook
Snacks
Water bottle
Backpack
Travel pillow
Earplugs
Eye mask
Weather Conditions
When planning a trip to the breathtaking Iguazu Falls in Argentina, it's important to consider the weather as it can greatly impact your experience. The region experiences a tropical climate, with significant rainfall throughout the year. The warmest months are typically January and February, with average temperatures reaching up to 90°F (32°C). During these months, the falls are at their most powerful due to heavy rainfall. However, the high temperatures and humidity can make exploring the falls uncomfortable for some. The cooler months, from June to August, see average temperatures drop to around 60°F (15°C). While the falls might not be as powerful during this period, the cooler weather makes for more comfortable exploration. Rainfall is a constant at Iguazu Falls, so regardless of when you visit, it's advisable to pack a waterproof jacket or poncho. The mist from the falls can also make the surrounding paths slippery, so sturdy, waterproof footwear is recommended. Remember, the weather can change quickly in this region, so it's always a good idea to check the local forecast before heading out for the day. Regardless of the weather, the Iguazu Falls are a spectacular sight and well worth a visit.
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 32° / 20° | January is the hottest month in Iguazu Falls, with temperatures reaching up to 32°C. It's also the rainiest month, so pack your rain gear. |
February | 31° / 20° | February is still quite hot, with temperatures similar to January. Rainfall is less than January but still significant. |
March | 30° / 19° | March sees a slight decrease in temperature and rainfall. It's a good time to visit if you prefer less heat. |
April | 28° / 17° | April is the start of the fall season in Argentina, with temperatures dropping a bit. Rainfall is less, making it a good time for outdoor activities. |
May | 25° / 14° | May is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures and less rainfall. It's a great time to enjoy the natural beauty of the falls. |
June | 23° / 12° | June is the start of winter in Argentina, with cooler temperatures. However, it's still a good time to visit as the falls are less crowded. |
July | 22° / 12° | July is the coolest month in Iguazu Falls, with temperatures dropping to 12°C. Despite the cooler weather, it's a good time to visit due to less rainfall. |
August | 25° / 13° | August sees a slight increase in temperature. It's a good time to visit as the weather is pleasant and there's less rainfall. |
September | 26° / 14° | September marks the start of spring in Argentina. The weather is pleasant, and it's a great time to visit the falls. |
October | 28° / 16° | October sees a further increase in temperature. It's a good time to visit as the weather is still pleasant and the falls are less crowded. |
November | 30° / 18° | November is the start of summer in Argentina, with temperatures rising. It's a good time to visit if you prefer warmer weather. |
December | 31° / 19° | December is a hot month in Iguazu Falls, with temperatures reaching up to 31°C. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy hot weather. |
Did you know?
Places near by Iguazu Falls, Argentina
Itaipu Dam
One of the world's largest hydroelectric plants, offering guided tours.
Parque das Aves
A private zoo with a focus on bird conservation. Home to more than 1300 birds from about 143 different species.
Marco das Três Fronteiras
A landmark where the borders of Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay meet. Offers a panoramic view of the three countries.
Templo Budista
A serene Buddhist temple with a large statue of Buddha and beautiful gardens.
Ecomuseum
A museum dedicated to the history and culture of the Itaipu region, including the construction of the Itaipu Dam.
Parque Nacional do Iguaçu
A national park on the Brazilian side of the falls, offering trails, wildlife viewing, and boat tours.
San Ignacio Mini
A mission ruins site that was once home to the Guarani people during the Jesuit Mission era in the 17th century.
Posadas
A city known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and the Parana River.
