Puerto Iguazú is a small city in Argentina’s Misiones Province, just across the river from Brazil and Paraguay. Known for its proximity to the Argentine side of the Iguazú Falls, it is one of the main bases for exploring this iconic natural wonder. This guide will help you discover the best areas to stay in Puerto Iguazú.
Founded in the early 20th century, Puerto Iguazú has grown into a key stop for travelers visiting Parque Nacional Iguazú. The falls, one of the largest and most powerful waterfall systems in the world, are just a 20-minute drive from town. The area also benefits from its role in the Triple Frontier, where Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay meet. Find accommodation in Puerto Iguazú.
Beyond the waterfalls, the town offers several low-key attractions like the Hito Tres Fronteras, which marks the intersection of the three countries, and La Aripuca, a cultural and ecological center made from salvaged rainforest wood. Wildlife lovers can also visit the Guira Oga sanctuary, dedicated to the rehabilitation of native species.
Air travel is served by Cataratas del Iguazú International Airport (IGR), located about 13 mi (21 km) southeast of town. The airport connects Puerto Iguazú with major Argentine cities. Additionally, the nearby airports in Foz do Iguaçu (IGU) and Ciudad del Este (AGT) offer additional options for international flights.
Transportation within Puerto Iguazú is relatively straightforward. Local buses and taxis are available, and most areas of interest are within a short drive. While the town is smaller and less urbanized than Foz do Iguaçu, it’s walkable and easy to navigate, particularly in the central area.
Read on to find the best areas to stay in Puerto Iguazú and decide which part of town is right for your trip.
What are the best areas to stay in Puerto Iguazú?
The best area to stay in Puerto Iguazú is near Parque Nacional Iguazú, located southeast of the town’s center. This protected area is home to the Argentine side of the Iguazú Falls and offers closer, arguably better views of the cascades than its Brazilian counterpart. It includes several trails leading through the subtropical rainforest to breathtaking viewpoints. Find accommodation near Parque Nacional Iguazú.
Other convenient areas to stay include Puerto Iguazú’s Center, the Brazilian Side of the Falls, and the nearby Foz do Iguaçu and Ciudad del Este.
Keep reading to learn more about these districts and find the best areas to stay in Puerto Iguazú and Iguazu Falls.
1. Iguazú National Park
The best location to enjoy Iguazú Falls
Staying near Iguazú National Park allows early access to the falls and a quieter experience close to nature.
Located southeast of Puerto Iguazú, Iguazú National Park covers over 670 square kilometers (260 square miles) of subtropical rainforest. Established in 1934, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986 for its exceptional biodiversity and the spectacular Iguazú Falls, one of the world’s largest and most powerful waterfall systems. While both the Argentine and Brazilian sides offer impressive views, many consider the Argentine side better for getting up close to the falls.
The park has a well-developed network of trails and boardwalks that allow access to multiple viewpoints. Highlights include the Upper Circuit, Lower Circuit, and the Devil’s Throat walkway, which leads to the most iconic and dramatic section of the falls. The Ecological Jungle Train connects visitors from the entrance to different trailheads within the park. Entry to the national park is ticketed, and it’s best to arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler morning temperatures.
Accommodation in this area consists primarily of eco-lodges and nature resorts, often nestled within dense forests. Although limited in number, the hotels near the park entrance are ideal for travelers who want to explore the falls in depth.
2. Puerto Iguazú Town Center
A quaint location near Iguazú Falls and the Triple Frontier
While not as scenic as the National Park area, Central Puerto Iguazú is ideal for travelers looking for convenience, variety, and easy access to all parts of the region.
Located about 17 km (10.5 mi) northwest of the Iguazú Falls, the Puerto Iguazú Town Center serves as the social and commercial hub of the city. With a walkable grid layout and a relaxed pace, it offers a wide selection of restaurants, small shops, and public plazas. The area is anchored by Plaza San Martín, surrounded by historic buildings and local government offices.
A short walk from the center lies the Hito Tres Fronteras, a riverside viewpoint marking the meeting point of Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay. Other attractions include La Aripuca, a cultural space built with reclaimed rainforest wood, and the Guira Oga Wildlife Rescue Center, which focuses on native species conservation.
The town center is also where you’ll find most of the city’s budget and mid-range accommodations and practical services like bus terminals, pharmacies, and currency exchange offices.
Local buses connect this area with the falls, the airport, and border crossings. Additionally, small ferry services cross the Iguazú River to Paraguay.
Our hand-picked accommodations in Central Puerto Iguazú
Iguazu Jungle Lodge
Boasting an outdoor swimming pool and rooms with spacious balconies and views of the subtropical rain forest, the lodge is a 10-minute walk to downtown Puerto Iguazu. Wi-Fi and private parking are free.
3. Iguaçu National Park & Brazilian Side of the Falls
Explore Iguazú Falls from the Brazilian side
Located across the Brazilian border, south of Foz do Iguaçu, Iguaçu National Park is the Brazilian counterpart to Argentina’s Parque Nacional Iguazú.
Spanning over 1,850 square kilometers (714 square miles), Parque Nacional de Iguaçu was created in 1939 and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986 due to its impressive biodiversity and the grandeur of the Iguaçu Falls. While the Argentine side offers immersive trails, the Brazilian park is known for its panoramic viewpoints and wide-angle vistas of the waterfalls.
The main visitor center is located near the entrance, and shuttle buses transport visitors along a scenic road to various trailheads. The most popular path, the Trilha das Cataratas, leads to the iconic walkway extending over the river, offering a dramatic frontal view of the Devil’s Throat. There’s also a viewing platform with an elevator that brings you up close to the spray and roar of the falls.
In addition to waterfalls, the park houses the Parque das Aves, a large bird sanctuary home to toucans, macaws, and other tropical species. The Brazilian side also has access to boat rides on the Iguaçu River and guided jungle hikes.
Accommodation near the park entrance includes upscale hotels and nature lodges, ideal for travelers who prioritize direct access to the falls. Frequent bus services from downtown Foz serve the park do Iguaçu. They are located just a few minutes from Foz do Iguaçu International Airport (IGU), making it a convenient base for exploring the region.
Our hand-picked accommodations near Iguaçu National Park (Brazilian Side)
Canzi Cataratas Hotel
Canzi Cataratas Hotel in Foz do Iguaçu offers family rooms with air conditioning, private bathrooms, and free WiFi. Each room also includes a dining table, TV, and mini-bar.
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