The Iguazu National Park protects one of the world's most extensive waterfalls systems, straddling the border between Brasil and Argentina. On the Brazilian side, it spans 169,695 hectares in the state of Paraná, about fifteen kilometers from the city of Foz do Iguaçu. Founded in 1939 and inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1986, it shelters 275 falls, a dense subtropical forest, and protected wildlife that can be observed along well-maintained trails.

Why visit the park

The main attraction of the park is the Iguazu waterfalls: 275 cascades spread over nearly 3 kilometers, including the famous Garganta do Diabo (Devil's Throat), a horseshoe-shaped gorge 80 meters high where the largest volume of water converges. But the site offers far more than waterfalls. The surrounding Atlantic forest is home to rare species — giant otters, tapirs, giant anteaters, and elusive jaguars — and remarkable endemic flora. The park can be explored on foot, by panoramic bus, by boat, or by bicycle, allowing different levels of discovery depending on available time.

History of the park

The region's topography stems from volcanic activity on the Paraná plateau, which deposited thick basalt layers approximately 130 million years ago. The Iguazu River then carved its course through this rock, forming the spectacular precipice visible today.

Facing increasing exploitation of the forest and riverbanks, the Brazilian government established the national park in 1939. Its area was expanded through two successive programs in 1944 and 1981. Since its inception, the site has been managed by the Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation (ICMBio). In 1986, UNESCO inscribed the park on the World Heritage List, complementing the neighboring Argentine park designated in 1984.

What to see and do

Caminho das Cataratas

This is the flagship route on the Brazilian side. This pedestrian trail of 1,200 meters follows the canyon with a frontal view of the Argentine falls, before leading to a walkway extending over Garganta do Diabo. The spray is constant: a raincoat is essential. The walk ends at the Porto Canoas station, where you can dine overlooking the river.

Poço Preto trail

Stretching about 9 kilometers, this path winds through the forest away from the crowds at major viewpoints. You'll encounter black lapacho trees, towering specimens reaching 40 meters with pale pink flowers, and yellow lapacho with gray bark and yellow blooms. The trail is excellent for hiking and biking.

Macuco Safari

This trail leads to a boat dock on the Iguazu River where you can take a boat that approaches the base of the falls. The path offers good chances to observe wildlife: giant otters, tapirs, giant anteaters, birds, and butterflies. It can be traversed on foot or by electric cart.

Additional activities

• Boat trips to the base of the waterfalls (thrills guaranteed, you'll exit soaked)
• Cycling on designated trails
• Helicopter tours from outside the park
• Birdwatching at the nearby Parque das Aves

Practical information

Entry is through the visitor center, where you must take the panoramic bus that serves different access points (Poço Preto, Macuco Safari, Caminho das Cataratas, Porto Canoas). Allow a minimum of half a day to walk the Caminho das Cataratas and enjoy the viewpoints, and a full day if you wish to add a longer trail or a boat tour.

Recommended equipment:

• Closed hiking shoes
• Raincoat or lightweight poncho
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat
• Insect repellent
• Waterproof bag to protect camera and phone

The park is open year-round. Entry fees and panoramic bus services are managed by the concessionaire; check the official website before your visit, as conditions change regularly.

When to visit

The park welcomes visitors throughout the year. Visitor numbers drop in June and July, corresponding to the Southern Hemisphere winter: cooler temperatures but pleasant conditions for hiking. Summer months (December-February) are hot and humid, with water flow often spectacular after rains. Southern Hemisphere spring (September-November) offers a good balance between moderate crowds and excellent water volume. Note: very high flow can temporarily close the Garganta do Diabo walkways for safety reasons.

How to get there

The park is located approximately 14 kilometers south of Foz do Iguaçu. Several options:

• Public bus line 120 from the Terminal de Transporte Urbano in Foz do Iguaçu, heading toward the BR-469 highway. Affordable fare, pay on board.
• Taxi or ride-sharing from the city center or Foz do Iguaçu airport (the airport is actually on the route to the park).
• Rental car: parking available at the visitor center.
• Organized tour including transport, entry, and sometimes additional activities.

The Argentine side of the park, offering different and more immersive viewpoints, can be reached from Puerto Iguazú via the Tancredo Neves international bridge. Plan for border formalities.

Nearby attractions

• Foz do Iguaçu: the base city for exploring the park, with hotels, restaurants, and quick access to the site.
• Itaipu Dam: one of the world's largest hydroelectric facilities, about twenty kilometers to the north, open for tours.
• Iguazú National Park (Argentina): the other side of the waterfalls, with walkways bringing you closest to the Garganta del Diablo.
• Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park: another major UNESCO-listed Brazilian park in Goiás.
• Anavilhanas National Park: to extend your nature experience in the Amazon.

Frequently asked questions

Prepare your trip

Iguazu National Park fits naturally into a broader circuit across Brasil, between the Amazon, the coast, and major cities. To build a customized itinerary including the falls, speak with our Brasil travel specialists.