Iguazu Falls from the Argentine Side: A Detailed Guide
Undoubtedly, Iguazu Falls is one of the most famous and truly amazing attractions in both Argentina and Brazil. The waterfalls are located right on the border, which is why there is a dedicated national park on both sides. Tourists usually view the falls from one side on one day and from the other side the next day. Here, I will tell you about the falls from the Argentine side, and here, in a separate article, you can read about the falls from the Brazilian side.
Navigation:
- Park map and trails
- Entrance, opening hours, and costs
- Additional excursions in the park
- How to get to the falls on the Argentine side
- How to get from Argentina to Brazil
- Minimum budget for visiting the falls in Argentina
- Vlog about traveling through Latin America
Park Map and Walking Trails
Iguazu on the Argentine side is a paradise for hikers. There are numerous waterfalls connected by walking trails at different levels: you have to constantly descend and ascend along metal walkways, all while being immersed in the jungle.
Above is the park map. Broadly speaking, there are two main locations that every tourist must visit:
Devil’s Throat (Garganta del Diablo)
Devil’s Throat is marked on the map as number 1.
From the park entrance to the Devil’s Throat, it’s about 3 km on foot along a forest path. This distance can be walked in about 40 minutes. Alternatively, you can take the train (no extra payment required, it is included in the entrance price, you just have to wait in line). Sometimes walking is actually faster than waiting for the train.
The first train departs from the entrance at 8:20 AM and reaches Devil’s Throat in about 20 minutes. This means there is a perfectly legal way to reach the top viewpoint TOTALLY without crowds: arrive at the park at opening (8:00 AM) and walk very quickly to the viewpoint.
And this truly provides indescribable sensations. Because at any other time, it is extremely crowded here.
Circuito Inferior Viewpoint
Marked on the map as number 2.
Located on the opposite side. From this viewpoint, you get a view of the entire Devil’s Throat as well as a hundred other cascades. This viewing area is quite large, so the crowds thin out, and you can enjoy the waterfalls in peace.
Between these points, there are many other paths and trails. Each viewpoint offers views of the falls from a different angle.
We walked over 15 km in the park. And yes, we loved it. The park on the Argentine side is ten times larger than on the Brazilian side.
The Wildlife of Iguazu
Iguazu is home to many animals and insects: a huge number of butterflies, spiders, bugs, colorful birds, snakes, and coatis. Honestly, we enjoyed watching the animals so much. In some ways, it was even more interesting than watching the waterfalls.
Coatis
Coatis are small, carnivorous mammals from the procyonid (raccoon) family. The South American coati is most commonly found near Iguazu Falls. They have long, flexible noses (almost like an anteater’s, but shorter), striped tails that they often hold vertically, and flexible bodies with sharp claws—making them excellent climbers of both trees and food court tables if they smell snacks. Visitors are asked not to feed the animals, primarily because they can scratch severely.
Snakes
I never managed to find out exactly what kind of snake this was or how dangerous it is to humans. A passing guide said it wasn’t venomous, but we hurried away, so I’m not entirely sure. It looked to be about 4 meters long and was quite beautiful, lying on a branch and watching people pass by.
Birds
The park surrounding the falls is a true paradise for birdwatchers: more than 400 species live here, thanks to the tropical rainforests and abundance of water. Shown above is the Plush-crested jay, a South American relative of crows. They love human rest areas because they can often find scraps to eat.
Iguazu National Park in Argentina
The right side is Brazil. There is only one main viewpoint there. The left side is Argentina. There are many trails where you can walk dozens of kilometers a day.
Regular Visit
Opening Hours:
- The park is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- The parking lot is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- Entrance to the waterfall trails closes at 4:45 PM.
Below are the prices for foreigners (valid for 2026):
- Adult entrance ticket: AR$ 45,000 / ~$32.57
- Child ticket (under 6 years): Free (passport required for proof of age)
- Locker rental: AR$ 13,500 / ~$10
Locker rental is a super convenient option. The National Park is located near the airport, so if you arrive in the morning, you can head straight to the park with your suitcases.
Sunset Walk
Available twice a month, on the 2nd and 4th Sunday. The tour starts at 4:30 PM and lasts 2.5 hours. You are taken by train to the Devil’s Throat trail to watch the sunset without the crowds.
Sunset Walk Cost:
- Adults: AR$ 95,000 / ~$70
- Children (6–12 years): AR$ 47,500 / ~$35
Full Moon Walk
Held only 5 days a month during the full moon. Dates vary monthly. The walk lasts approximately 2.5 hours and includes the train ride and time at the Devil’s Throat under the moonlight.
Full Moon Walk Cost:
- Adults: AR$ 95,000 / ~$70
- Children (6–12 years): AR$ 47,500 / ~$35
Additional Ways to Explore the Park
1. By Helicopter
A spectacular 12-minute flight over the falls costs $176.00.
2. By Boat Under the Waterfalls
A thrilling boat tour that takes you close to the cascades. In Argentina, children under 12 are not permitted on this tour.
Boat ticket: AR$ 90,000 / ~$65
Hotels
The hotel located inside the park is the Gran Meliá Iguazú, offering direct views of the falls.
How to Get to the Waterfalls
Iguazu National Park is 20 km from Puerto Iguazú. You can reach Puerto Iguazú from Buenos Aires by plane or bus.
By Plane
Flights are the fastest way, but local low-cost carriers may reschedule last minute.
By Bus
Buses are reliable but cost more than flights. Travel time is 17 hours.
Getting from Argentina to Brazil
A regular bus runs between the border towns every hour for $4. The trip takes about 40 minutes, including the border crossing.
Minimum Budget (Per Person)
- Flight (Round trip): ~$100
- Accommodation (Budget): ~$15 (half of a $30 double room)
- Bus to falls: ~$12
- Park entry: ~$33
Total: Approximately $160 per person.
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