Things To Do
in Foz do Iguaçu
Foz do Iguaçu sits at Brazil's southern border where Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay meet. The city serves as the gateway to the Iguazu Falls, one of the world's most spectacular natural wonders, set in a lush Atlantic rainforest. Visitors can combine incredible natural scenery with cross-border culture and cuisine influenced by three countries.
The town itself blends modern resorts with colonial charm and easy access to the falls, Itaipu Dam, and nearby national parks.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with an early morning hike through the lush trails of Iguaçu National Park, where the sounds of exotic birds fill the air. As you walk, marvel at the stunning flora and fauna that thrive in this UNESCO World Heritage site. Arrive at the iconic viewpoints to catch your first glimpse of the majestic Iguaçu Falls, creating a breathtaking backdrop for your adventure.
After a leisurely lunch at one of the park's restaurants, embark on a thrilling boat ride that takes you close to the base of the falls. Feel the refreshing spray of water as the boat navigates the powerful currents, offering a unique perspective of the cascading waterfalls. Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the various trails and lookout points, capturing unforgettable photos of this natural wonder.
As the sun sets, enjoy a serene dinner at a nearby restaurant that offers local Brazilian cuisine, indulging in traditional dishes like feijoada. Take a moment to reflect on the awe-inspiring beauty of the falls as the sky transitions to dusk. Conclude your day with a peaceful stroll along the park's trails, listening to the soothing sounds of nature.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to the Brazilian side of Iguaçu Falls, where the panoramic views will take your breath away. Walk along the extensive catwalks that lead to various viewpoints, providing a spectacular vantage point of the falls. Capture stunning photographs of the thundering waters as they tumble down into the lush rainforest below.
After your exploration, enjoy lunch at a local eatery, savoring traditional Brazilian dishes made with fresh ingredients. Spend the afternoon visiting the Bird Park, where you can see vibrant tropical birds, butterflies, and reptiles up close in a beautiful natural setting. Engage with exotic species, and take in the beauty of the surrounding gardens.
As evening approaches, return to your accommodation to relax and refresh. For dinner, treat yourself to a delightful meal at a restaurant with a view of the falls, allowing the sound of cascading water to accompany your dining experience. End your day by watching the sunset over the falls, a truly magical sight.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🛏️1 night in a mid-range hotel | $40-90 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short trip within city) | $3-7 |
| ☕Coffee or snack | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- World-class natural wonders (Iguazu Falls)
- Cross-border culinary and cultural experiences
- Good value for money
- Wide range of nature-based activities
- Touristy at peak seasons
- Border crossings can involve queues and time
- Some sights depend on weather and river levels
- Nightlife may be quieter than larger cities
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Onde fica..." - Where is...
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Não falo Português" - I don’t speak Portuguese
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Foz do Iguaçu
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide, sweeping viewpoints along the upper and lower circuits provide dramatic panoramas of the cascades.
Iconic close-up boardwalks lead to the powerful Garganta del Diablo columns of water.
A vantage point where the Paraná and Iguazú rivers meet, with markers from three countries and sunset views.
Colorful rainforest birds in naturalistic aviaries—great for close portraits and macro shots.
Engineering scale and river reflections offer striking compositions, especially at sunset.
Food in Foz do Iguaçu
Foz do Iguaçu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Brazilian barbecue featuring various cuts grilled to perfection; widely available at churrascarias.
Must-Try!
A rich black bean stew with pork and sausages, commonly served with rice, farofa, and orange slices.
Paraguayan starch-based cheese bread baked to a crisp edge, often enjoyed fresh from street stalls.
Paraguayan cheese bread similar to small bagels, perfect for a quick bite on the go.
Brazilian cheese bread that’s fluffy on the inside and savory on the outside; great snack option.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market with fresh produce, regional snacks, and casual eateries.
Night market near the Itaipu Dam offering a mix of Brazilian and Paraguayan street foods.
Cross-border market area where you can sample a range of street foods from Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings such as Bom dia/Tarde and friendly inquiries are customary; use titles when addressing older locals.
Be respectful at border zones; carry passport when crossing; photography of security facilities is discouraged.
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; good service should be acknowledged with a small tip.
Safety
Tipping in Foz do Iguaçu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; 5-10% is common in casual spots, 10-15% in higher-end venues if service is good.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; some smaller vendors prefer cash; contactless payments are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with regular afternoon showers; carry light clothing, sunscreen, and a rain shell; longer days mean more photo opportunities.
Milder temperatures and lower humidity; comfortable for long walks and outdoor exploration.
Cooler and drier conditions; pleasant for hiking though mornings can be chilly; mist from falls remains dramatic.
Warm days and rising humidity; lush vegetation and abundant wildlife activity make wildlife photography rewarding.
Foz do Iguaçu at Night
Hiking in Foz do Iguaçu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A rainforest hike in Iguaçu National Park leading to animal sightings and scenic viewpoints.
Boardwalk trail that takes you to several viewpoints of the waterfalls, including the lower circuit.
Airports
How to reach Foz do Iguaçu by plane.
Main gateway for international and domestic flights; quick access to the city center and falls.
Located in Puerto Iguazú, Argentina; convenient for visits to the Argentine side of the falls and border crossing.
Serves Ciudad del Este, Paraguay; convenient for quick cross-border day trips and shopping.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents from Paraná and other states; a mix of urban and suburban communities.
Cross-border residents and shoppers who live in the Tri-border area; diverse cultural influences.
Domestic and international travelers from across South America and beyond.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region; local clubs and pickup games are common.
Kayaking, stand-up paddle, and boat trips on the Iguazú River.
Popular among visitors exploring the national park and nearby reserves.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Foz do Iguaçu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many spots offer hearty salads, grilled vegetables, legumes, and dairy-based dishes; ask for substitutes or vegetable sides; communicate dietary needs clearly to staff.