Things To Do
in Eldorado

Eldorado is a riverfront city in Misiones Province, Argentina, perched along the Paraná River near the Brazilian border. The town blends Guarani heritage with Argentine regional culture, with an economy anchored in agriculture, river fishing, and citrus. Lush subtropical forests, easy river access, and a welcoming local spirit make it a relaxed base for exploring Misiones and northern Argentina.

Visitors come for outdoor adventures, colorful markets, and a borderland vibe that’s approachable and easy to navigate.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Argentine pastries like medialunas. Afterward, stroll through the picturesque streets of Eldorado, taking in the charming architecture and vibrant murals that depict the city's history. Visit the Plaza Central, where you can enjoy the lively atmosphere and perhaps catch a glimpse of local artisans at work.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon at the Museo de la Ciudad, where you can delve into the rich cultural heritage of Eldorado through engaging exhibits and artifacts. After exploring the museum, enjoy a delicious lunch at a nearby parrilla, indulging in classic Argentine barbecue. Cap off your afternoon with a visit to the local market, where you can shop for handmade crafts and fresh produce.

evening
:

As evening falls, head to a local restaurant known for its traditional Argentine cuisine, where you can feast on a delicious steak dinner. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the riverbank, enjoying the peaceful ambiance and perhaps catching a glimpse of the sunset over the water. Conclude your day by experiencing a live tango show at a nearby venue, immersing yourself in the passionate rhythms of Argentine culture.

day 2
Nature Retreat at Iguazú National Park
morning
:

Set off early for a day trip to the breathtaking Iguazú National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Upon arrival, take a guided tour of the park, marveling at the stunning waterfalls that cascade into the lush rainforest. Make sure to capture photos of the iconic Devil's Throat, where you can feel the mist and hear the roar of the falls nearby.

afternoon
:

After a morning filled with awe-inspiring views, enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature, listening to the sounds of the jungle. Spend the afternoon exploring the various trails, where you may encounter diverse wildlife, including colorful birds and playful monkeys. Consider taking a boat ride to get up close to the falls, an exhilarating experience that will leave you soaked and exhilarated.

evening
:

Return to Eldorado in the evening, where you can unwind at a cozy bistro, reflecting on the day's adventures over a glass of Argentine wine. Enjoy a light dinner featuring local specialties, perhaps trying some fresh fish from the Paraná River. As night falls, take a moment to relax at your accommodation, listening to the sounds of nature surrounding you.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$8-15
🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant$25-40
🚕Short taxi ride within Eldorado$4-8
🏨Mid-range hotel room per night$40-70
Coffee and pastry at a café$2-6

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Relaxed riverfront setting with easy access to Misiones nature
  • Budget-friendly food and lodging compared to larger cities
  • Friendly locals and a strong sense of regional culture
  • Good base for exploring the Paraná basin and nearby border towns
  • Limited nightlife and fewer high-end dining options
  • Smaller transportation network; some distances require car rental
  • Heat and humidity in summer; plan for outdoor activities accordingly
  • Border-area logistics can be slower around peak travel periods
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Me gustaría una mesa para dos" - I’d like a table for two
  • "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
  • "¿Puede recomendar un plato vegetariano?" - Can you recommend a vegetarian dish?
  • "Estoy perdido" - I am lost

Places to Visit in Eldorado

Visit one of these nice places.

Paraná River Costanera

Wide river views with sunset colors, calm water, and a scenic promenade ideal for long exposure and landscape photography.

Plaza San Martín and Cathedral

Historic square surrounding a colonial-era cathedral; captures of architecture, daily life, and soft evening light.

Riverside market mornings

Colorful stalls and locals in action provide vibrant street photography opportunities with a documentary feel.

Bridge and riverbank viewpoints

Views of the Paraná from river crossings and elevated viewpoints—great for panoramic shots of the borderlands.

Culinary Guide

Food in Eldorado

Eldorado’s cuisine blends traditional Argentine grilling with river fish and Paraguayan-influenced staples. Expect plenty of citrus, corn, cassava (mandioca), and herbs, with yerba mate and tereré as social cornerstones.

Eldorado Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pira (river fish) a la parrilla

Grilled river fish such as pacú or surubí, simply seasoned and served with mandioca or rice; a staple at riverside eateries.

Must-Try!

Chipá Guazú

Cheese corn cake popular in the region, commonly found in bakeries and street stalls.

Mandioca frita

Cassava fries with a spicy pebre or dip; a popular snack or side dish.

Asado a la parrilla

Traditional Argentine grill with sausages, beef cuts, and sometimes river fish; widely available at local parrillas.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Eldorado

A bustling market for fresh produce, yerba mate, cassava, cheeses, and regional snacks; great for tasting local flavors.

Parilla stands along the Costanera

Casual riverfront grills offering chorizos, empanadas, and grilled fish—perfect for a quick bite.

Tapioca stalls

Stalls selling tapioca crepes and small bites with savory fillings, common near the waterfront.

Climate Guide

Weather

The region has a humid subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild winters. Rain is common in warmer months, contributing to lush vegetation year-round. Real seasonal differences exist, but heat and humidity are the defining features most of the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and politeness

Handshake is common in formal settings; friends may greet with a kiss on the cheek. Use polite language and a calm tone in public spaces; sharing mate or tereré is a social ritual in many households.

Dressing and behavior

Casual but neat attire is typical for most venues; avoid loud behavior in quiet areas or churches. Always ask before taking photos of people.

Safety Guide

Safety

Petty crime can occur in busy areas; keep valuables secure, especially in markets and on crowded streets. River currents can be dangerous—stay off unstable banks and heed local advice. Use reputable transport, keep health precautions for mosquitoes, and carry travel insurance.

Tipping in Eldorado

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

A standard 10% tip at restaurants if service is not included; rounding up cab fares is common. In hotels, a small tip to housekeeping and porters is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash in Argentine pesos is widely accepted; many places also accept credit/debit cards. Some shops and markets may accept USD or rely on mobile payments in larger towns. ATMs are common in Eldorado; small vendors may prefer cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and very humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Keep hydrated, wear light clothing, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late evenings.

Autumn

Milder temperatures and comfortable humidity. A pleasant time for outdoor walks, markets, and riverfront photography.

Winter

Cooler mornings and evenings, with mild daytime warmth. Pack a light jacket and enjoy fewer crowds at popular sites.

Spring

Warm and increasingly rainy; lush greenery and blooming flora make it a great season for hiking and nature photography.

Nightlife Guide

Eldorado at Night

Eldorado offers a laid-back nightlife with riverfront bars, pubs, and small live-music venues. Expect casual, friendly crowds with local musicians, often starting after 9 PM and winding down before a late-night coffee or pastry run. Dining late is common, and you’ll find family-friendly spots earlier in the evening as well.

Hiking in Eldorado

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Paraná riverbank trails

Easy to moderate riverside hikes along the coast with opportunities to spot birds and enjoy water views.

Forest trails near Eldorado outskirts

Gentle forest walks offering lush vegetation and chances to observe local wildlife and plants.

Cross-border viewpoints near Bernardo de Irigoyen

Hikes that provide views of the border region and river landscapes, suitable for day trips.

Airports

How to reach Eldorado by plane.

Cataratas del Iguazú International Airport (IGU)

Major international airport serving the Iguazú region; accessible by road from Eldorado with a longer drive and potential connections through Posadas or Foz do Iguaçu.

Libertador General San Martín Airport (PSS) – Posadas

Regional airport serving Posadas and Misiones; convenient for domestic flights and connections to Buenos Aires and other Argentinian hubs.

Foz do Iguaçu International Airport (IGU) – Brazil

Cross-border option with road transfer to Eldorado; useful for travelers combining Iguazú Falls with Misiones exploration.

Getting Around

Walkability

The city center is reasonably walkable with a pleasant riverfront path and compact downtown. Sidewalks are generally decent in the core, but some streets can have uneven surfaces. Beyond the center, a car or taxi is often more convenient for reaching markets, parks, and nearby attractions.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local residents

A mix of people with Argentine, Guarani, Paraguayan, and Brazilian influences; a welcoming border-town culture with strong family and community ties.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

The most popular sport regionally, with local clubs and informal play throughout the year.

Basketball

Common in schools and community centers; enjoyed by families and young players.

River fishing and water-based activities

Fishing and paddling are popular leisure activities along the Paraná River.

Transportation

Traffic

Roads around Eldorado are generally well-maintained, with bus routes serving the city and nearby towns. Traffic can be light to moderate, with occasional congestion near markets and border crossings. Border-area travel to Brazil may involve longer wait times during holiday periods; plan accordingly.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Eldorado.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants can accommodate vegetarians by offering salads, grilled vegetables, pasta, or vegetarian versions of common dishes. It’s best to ask for 'vegetariano' and to specify avoiding meat stock or sauces. If you crave variety, opt for dairy- and vegetable-forward dishes or vegetarian-friendly cafes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare facilities are available in Eldorado, with private clinics and pharmacies. For more advanced care and emergencies, hospitals in Posadas or Iguazú are commonly used by residents and visitors. Carry travel insurance and know local emergency numbers.

Discover Argentina

Read more in our Argentina 2025 Travel Guide.

Argentina Travel Guide