Choose from 5 Fun Things to Do in Foz Do Iguacu
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Three Borders Landmark
Iguassu Falls are famously shared between three nations: Brazil, Argentina and tiny Paraguay (which doesn't actually claim any part of the primary falls, only the rivers). Though the actual Tripitarte, or triple border, lies unmarked at the deepest part of the confluence of the Iguazu and Parana rivers, all three nations have erected monuments—built around obelisks painted patriotically with the colors of their respective flags—overlooking the spot.
Originally erected in 1903, the memorials are built around three simple cement obelisks, painted in the patriotic colors of the three respective flags. The view is nice, and all three monuments are surrounded with vendors selling snacks and souvenirs. The Argentine landmark has the distinction of being the easiest to visit, a pleasant walk from the city center along the riverfront.
Brazil's Hito Tres Fronteras (Three Borders Landmark) was originally erected on July 20, 1903, overlooking the pretty scene and international bridges. Though it sits on the outskirts of Foz de Iguacu city, it does bring in tourists, as well as vendors selling souvenirs and snacks. Next door, the Space of the Americas tourist complex offers meals and views in more relaxed environs.
Brazil's Hito Tres Fronteras (Three Borders Landmark) was originally erected on July 20, 1903, overlooking the pretty scene and international bridges. Though it sits on the outskirts of Foz de Iguacu city, it does bring in tourists, as well as vendors selling souvenirs and snacks. Next door, the Space of the Americas tourist complex offers meals and views in more relaxed environs.
Practical Info
The Brazilian monument is located 6km (4mi) from the city center; you can catch colectivos, but it's safer and easier to take a taxi or tour. While most operators recommend visiting landmark around sunset, be aware that this neighborhood can be a bit sketchy after dark. The obelisk on the Argentine side is much more accessible.
Address: Av General Meira, Porto Meira, Foz do Iguacu, Brazil
Hours: Open daily 8am - 6pm
From $ 8
Parque das Aves (Birds Park)
The most famous residents of Iguacu's humid subtropical forests—the parrots, toucans, lorikeets, flamingos and other brightly colored tropical birds—can be difficult for the casual traveler to spot in the rain forest. Since 1994, however, those of us without a birder's patience or cunning have been able to enjoy the airy aviaries of Birds Park, Latin America's largest.
Around 150 species enjoy spacious 26-foot (8-meter) enclosures in this heavily wooded, 12-acre (5-hectare) park, all thoughtfully designed by naturalists and the owners. It's a lovely stroll, and photographers will find ample opportunity for the perfect shot. Other denizens from around Brazil include caimans, anacondas, boa constrictors, marmosets and scores of gorgeous butterflies. Other biomes, such as the African savannah and Australian outback, are also displayed, housing ostriches, curassows and other exotics.
Around 150 species enjoy spacious 26-foot (8-meter) enclosures in this heavily wooded, 12-acre (5-hectare) park, all thoughtfully designed by naturalists and the owners. It's a lovely stroll, and photographers will find ample opportunity for the perfect shot. Other denizens from around Brazil include caimans, anacondas, boa constrictors, marmosets and scores of gorgeous butterflies. Other biomes, such as the African savannah and Australian outback, are also displayed, housing ostriches, curassows and other exotics.
Practical Info
The Birds Park is conveniently located next to the national park entrance; visit the falls in the morning and Birds Park in the afternoon. Allow two hours to properly explore the park, longer if you plan to take photos. The site features wheelchair-accessible paths. Some guides speak English. Bring sunscreen, insect repellent and an umbrella if the forecast calls for rain.
Photo courtesy of Jorge Andrade via Wikimedia Commons
Address: Foz Tropicana, Parque das Aves–Av Das Cataratas, km 17.1, Foz do Iguacu, Brazil
Hours: Open daily 8am - 5:30pm
Admission: US$15
From $ 12
Iguacu Falls
Iguacu (Iguaçu) Falls, the largest waterfalls system in the world, are truly awe-inspiring to behold. Though Argentina boasts better trails around the falls, Brazil is blessed with the best views of this natural marvel’s 275 separate cascades, which span the border between the two countries. Take in full-frontal views of Devil’s Throat (Garganta del Diablo), San Martin Island, and more from the short-but-sweet catwalks that wind their way around the Brazilian side of Iguacu Falls.
The Basics
The best way to experience the Brazilian side of Iguacu Falls is by hiking the catwalks. Though less forested and natural than the Argentinean trails, you’ll find significantly better panoramic views of Iguacu Falls in all its unforgettable glory—and they even offer an elevator to a postcard-perfect viewpoint over Devil’s Throat, considered the most spectacular scene in the park. Ensure sight of the best vistas by joining a guided tour of Iguacu National Park; opt for a small-group tour that fills you in on the fall’s folklore and geologic history, or take a cruise right beneath the cascades. And only on the Brazilian side can you take a helicopter ride for aerial views over the falls or an above-the-falls rafting trip on the Parana River.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Plan to spend a half day walking the catwalks on this side of the falls.
- Although the Brazilian side is generally drier than the Argentinean side, it is still wise to pack rain gear and to put your valuables and electronics in waterproof bags.
- Many tours begin on one side of the falls and then cross the border, making it easy to see both sides on a single trip (if not in a single day).
- If crossing the border without joining a guided tour, be sure to check visa requirements for your country.
How to Get There
The closest Brazilian town to Iguacu National Park is Foz do Iguaçu. Catch a bus from town to the park for only a few dollars; buses and taxis also run directly from the airport. Foz do Iguaçu is a two-hour flight from Rio de Janeiro. Note that Foz do Iguaçu has more lodging, restaurants, and other traveler amenities than Argentina’s gateway-to-the-falls town, Puerto Iguazu. This side of the falls also offers guided tours to nearby sights such as Bird Park, Itaipu Dam, and the Brazil-Paraguay border.
When to Get There
Iguacu Falls is accessible year-round. For the best weather and the smallest crowds, plan to go between July and October or February and April. Morning visits reward with rainbows in the ever-present mist of Devil’s Throat.
Big Water
Iguacu translates to “big water” in the Tupi or Guarani language—a fitting name considering that water tumbles over the cascades at a rate of 5,300 cubic feet (1,500 cubic meters) per second. That’s enough water to fill an Olympic-sized swimming pool in under two seconds!
Address: Brazil
From $ 18
Catedral Sao Joao Batista
This elegant example of neo-Gothic architecture, easily Brazil's finest, might seem more at home in Medieval France than the rainforests of the New World. But the graceful symphony of peaked arches and delicately rendered 82m (169ft) towers, built between 1928 and 1932, is right here in Santa Cruz do Sul.
Sao Joao Batista, which overlooks the pretty parks and fountains of popular Getúlio Vargas Square, offers a pale pastel interpretation of classic Gothic aesthetics; the interior murals and lovely stained glass seem to invite light and cheer into the imposing structure. It is considered one of the most beautiful cathedrals in South America.
The cathedral is only one of this mid-sized city's attractions. The Autodromo Internacional de Santa Cruz do Sul hosts popular racing events year-round. The crowds multiply in late September, when Santa Cruz, founded in the 1840s by German settlers, begins its outrageous and world-famous Octoberfest celebration.
Photo courtesy of Klaus with a K via Wikimedia Commons
Sao Joao Batista, which overlooks the pretty parks and fountains of popular Getúlio Vargas Square, offers a pale pastel interpretation of classic Gothic aesthetics; the interior murals and lovely stained glass seem to invite light and cheer into the imposing structure. It is considered one of the most beautiful cathedrals in South America.
The cathedral is only one of this mid-sized city's attractions. The Autodromo Internacional de Santa Cruz do Sul hosts popular racing events year-round. The crowds multiply in late September, when Santa Cruz, founded in the 1840s by German settlers, begins its outrageous and world-famous Octoberfest celebration.
Photo courtesy of Klaus with a K via Wikimedia Commons
Practical Info
While it's possible to visit Catedral Sao Joao Batista on a daytrip from Foz do Iguacu on a tour with speedy private transport, it's a solid five-hour haul on public buses. Consider spending the night, or continuing on to the city of Porto Alegre, a festive hub for some of southern Brazil's best beaches.
Address: Getulio Vargas Square, Santa Cruz do Sul, Brazil
Hours: Open daily; Mass Saturday 5pm, Sunday 7am, 9am, 10:15am, and 7pm
From $ 32
Itaipu Dam
Set near the convergence of Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay, Itaipu Dam is considered one of the World’s Seven Modern Wonders, clocking in at 4.5 miles (7.2 kilometers) long and 65 stories high. With a maximum flow up to 40 times more powerful than nearby Iguassu (Iguaçu) Falls, the dam’s hydroelectric power plant produces roughly 20 percent of Brazil’s electricity.
The Basics
Most tours of Itaipu Dam include a catamaran ride on Itaipu Lake and allow you to take in views from the observation deck and spillway, while some options also include a technical tour of the hydroelectric power plant. Don’t miss the Bela Vista Biological Sanctuary, which features a 2-mile (3.2-kilometer) walk around the Piracema Canal and harbors animal species such as jaguars, quati, alligators, king vultures, and snakes. Nearby, the Casimiro Montenegro Filho Astronomical Pole features a planetarium, observatory, and an observation platform that allow travelers to view the night sky. Itaipu Dam tours typically leave from Puerto Iguazú or Foz do Iguaçu, and are frequently combined with excursions to the Brazilian side of Iguassu Falls.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Itaipu Dam is a must-see for first-time visitors to the Iguassu Falls area.
- Be sure to dress appropriately; sandals, high heels, miniskirts, and shorts are not allowed.
- The visitor complex at the dam is fully wheelchair accessible and has a tactile floor to aid travelers with decreased vision.
How to Get There
Most visitors arrive at Itaipu Dam via prearranged tour. Cabs are available from downtown Foz do Iguaçu, and car parking is available for independent travelers. To get there via public transportation, take the Conjunto C Norte or Conjunto C Sul bus lines, which depart from the central Foz do Iguaçu terminal.
When to Get There
You can visit Itaipu Dam year-round. Twice a week, there is a nighttime light show from the Central Lookout, which features music and views of the dam illuminated by nearly 1,000 spotlights and light fixtures.
Itaipu Dam History
The Itaipu hydroelectric plant marks the spot where an epic cascade was once the centerpiece of Guaira Falls National Park. The Seven Falls of Guaira (actually 18 cascades on the Parana River, gushing twice as much water as Niagara Falls) were drowned in 1982 when the dam was under construction. The national park was dissolved and the cliffs were destroyed with dynamite to ensure safer navigation on the new Itaipu Lake.
Address: Avenida Tancredo Neves 6702, Foz de Iguacu, Brazil
Admission: Varies
From $ 32