Hotels in Hotel das Cataratas, A Belmond Hotel, Iguassu Falls

Iguassu Falls: Where the Paraná Plateau Meets 275 Cascades

Foz do Iguaçu, in the far west of Paraná state, sits at the triple border of Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay. The Iguassu Falls — 275 individual cascades stretching 2.7 km across the Iguaçu River — were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986. The Brazilian side of Parque Nacional do Iguaçu offers the widest panoramic views from elevated walkways; the Argentine side allows visitors to stand directly above the Garganta del Diablo (Devil's Throat). Both parks remain open year-round, though water volume peaks between November and March.

Where to Stay Near the Falls

Accommodation ranges from budget hostels along Avenida Brasil in the city centre to mid-range hotels on Rua Almirante Barroso, the main hotel corridor 12 km from the park entrance. The sole property inside the Brazilian national park boundary is the Hotel das Cataratas, a 1958 colonial-style building that grants guests after-hours access to the walkways. Most visitors base themselves in Foz do Iguaçu city, relying on park shuttle buses or taxis for the 20-minute transfer.

Practical Tips

• Getting there: Foz do Iguaçu/Cataratas International Airport (IGU) receives direct flights from São Paulo (1h 45m) and Rio de Janeiro (2h 10m).
• Park entry: The Brazilian park charges a timed-entry fee; book the slot online before arrival, especially December–February.
• Currency: Argentine pesos and Paraguayan guaraníes are needed for cross-border day trips — ATMs in Foz do Iguaçu dispense Brazilian reais only.
• Pack: Light rain gear for the lower walkway circuit, where mist from the falls is constant.