Things To Do
in Foz do Iguaçu
Foz do Iguaçu is a vibrant city located in southern Brazil, known for its proximity to the breathtaking Iguaçu Falls. The city's diverse culture is influenced by its borders with Argentina and Paraguay, creating a unique blend of customs and cuisines. Visitors can explore the lush national parks surrounding the falls, take boat rides to experience the powerful cascades up close, and even venture into the nearby Itaipu Dam for a fascinating engineering marvel.
Foz do Iguaçu offers a perfect mix of nature, adventure, and culture for travelers seeking an unforgettable experience.
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Obrigado" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Desculpe" - Sorry
- "Tudo bem?" - Are you okay?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $80
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the breathtaking Iguaçu Falls. Enjoy the panoramic views and feel the mist on your face as you hike the trails.
Head to the Parque das Aves to discover the vibrant bird species native to Brazil. Get up close with toucans and macaws in this stunning sanctuary.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Brazilian dishes. Take a stroll along the illuminated riverfront for a relaxing end to your day.
Kick off your day with a boat tour that goes right up to the falls. Experience the power of the water from a boat for an unforgettable thrill.
Visit the Itaipu Dam, one of the world's largest hydroelectric plants. Take a guided tour to learn about its construction and importance to Brazil.
Dine at a restaurant on the Brazilian side of the border, trying out some local specialties. Enjoy a nightcap while overlooking the Paraná River.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with one of the largest and most impressive waterfalls in the world, Iguazu Falls.
- Rich biodiversity in the surrounding national parks, providing opportunities for wildlife observation and eco-tourism.
- Cultural attractions, including indigenous communities and local gastronomy.
- Various adventure activities such as hiking, boat tours, and sightseeing helicopter flights.
- Well-developed tourism infrastructure with a range of accommodations and services.
- Can be crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons, leading to long wait times and less serene experiences.
- Weather can be unpredictable, with heavy rains possible, which may affect outdoor plans.
- Cost of activities and accommodations can be high compared to other destinations in Brazil.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger Brazilian cities.
- Access to some areas may require guided tours, which can add to overall costs.
Best Activities in Foz do Iguaçu
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the breathtaking Iguaçu Falls, take scenic walks, and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings.
Discover a variety of exotic birds in their natural habitat at Parque das Aves, a bird park near Iguaçu Falls.
Embark on an exhilarating boat ride to experience the powerful force of the falls up close and enjoy the breathtaking views.
Take a scenic helicopter tour to witness the majestic beauty of Iguaçu Falls from a unique aerial perspective.
Tours
Uncover the best of Foz do Iguaçu with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Foz do Iguaçu
Visit one of these nice places.
A series of 275 beautiful waterfalls and a breathtaking sight to behold from various viewpoints.
Offers panoramic views of the Iguaçu and Paraná rivers meeting, as well as the borders of Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay.
Not only a bird sanctuary, but also provides stunning forest and waterfall landscapes for photography.
Food in Foz do Iguaçu
Foz do Iguaçu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try is the Brazilian barbecue known as Churrasco. Savor the juicy, tender cuts of meat prepared in traditional Gaucho style at Churrascarias like Bufalo Branco or Churrascaria do Gaucho.
Must-Try!
Indulge in Brazil's national dish, Feijoada, a hearty black bean and pork stew served with rice, collard greens, and farofa. Visit Restaurante Noiva da Colina for an authentic taste of this flavorful dish.
Treat yourself to Pão de Queijo, delightful cheese bread balls that are popular throughout Brazil. Sample some of the best at Casa do Pão de Queijo.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Foz do Iguaçu better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the Mercosul Market where you can find a wide array of street food such as pastel, coxinha, and empanadas. These savory pastries are perfect for a quick, tasty bite while exploring the city.
Largo da Avenida Brasil is a hub for street food vendors offering a variety of local treats like tapioca, acarajé, and churros. Don't miss the chance to savor these delicious snacks in an open-air setting.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Foz do Iguaçu, it is important to be mindful of personal space and avoid standing too close when interacting with locals. Maintaining a comfortable distance during conversations is considered polite.
Greetings are an important part of Brazilian culture, so it is customary to greet people with a handshake or a light kiss on the cheek. Politeness and respect towards others, especially elders, is highly valued.
Foz do Iguaçu is a diverse city with inhabitants from various cultural backgrounds. It is essential to show respect for this diversity and be open-minded towards different customs, languages, and traditions.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Foz do Iguaçu with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Foz do Iguaçu
Ensure a smooth experience
In Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil, tipping is not commonly expected or practiced. However, in upscale restaurants and hotels, a service charge of 10% may be included in the bill. It is not obligatory to leave an additional tip, but if you received exceptional service, it is appreciated.
In Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil, cash is widely used for transactions, especially in smaller establishments. Credit and debit cards are also accepted in most restaurants, hotels, and shops. It is common to carry a mix of cash and card for payment convenience.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Foz do Iguaçu.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Foz do Iguaçu is during the summer when the weather is hot and the water levels at Iguazu Falls are at their highest. Expect large crowds and higher prices during this peak tourist season.
Fall is a good time to visit Foz do Iguaçu as the weather is still warm, and the water levels at the falls are high. It's also less crowded compared to the summer season.
Winter is the off-peak season, but it's still a good time to visit Foz do Iguaçu for those who prefer milder temperatures. The crowds are smaller, and hotel rates are lower.
Spring is another good time to visit as the weather begins to warm up, and the natural surroundings are lush and green. The water levels at the falls are still good, and the crowds are moderate.
Foz do Iguaçu at Night
Hiking in Foz do Iguaçu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, this park features picturesque trails with stunning views of the Iguazu Falls and diverse wildlife. Multiple hiking routes are available for different skill levels.
Offering various walking trails, this park allows visitors to explore trails leading to viewpoints of the falls or through lush forest ecosystems. The well-maintained paths cater to novice and seasoned hikers alike.
A popular hiking trail within Iguazu National Park, this 8 km round trip offers an incredible experience through the rainforest, culminating in views of the falls as well as the chance to see local flora and fauna.
This trail takes you close to the falls with various viewpoints along the way, perfect for capturing stunning photographs and enjoying the sounds of the cascading waters.
An off-the-beaten-path trail that provides a deeper experience with nature, this route leads to a beautiful hidden lagoon and allows hikers to observe the local wildlife in a serene environment.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Foz do Iguaçu through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Foz do Iguaçu by plane.
Located approximately 15 kilometers from Foz do Iguaçu, it serves as the main airport for the area, primarily handling domestic flights.
Located in São Paulo, about 1,000 kilometers from Foz do Iguaçu, it is the largest international airport in Brazil, serving many international flights.
Located in Porto Alegre, around 700 kilometers from Foz do Iguaçu, it serves various regional and international flights.
Located in Campinas, approximately 1,200 kilometers from Foz do Iguaçu, it handles both domestic and international flights.
Located in Asunción, Paraguay, approximately 220 kilometers from Foz do Iguaçu, it serves several international destinations.
Located in Curitiba, about 600 kilometers from Foz do Iguaçu, it serves both domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Foz do Iguaçu, primarily of European descent.
This group includes individuals of mixed European, African, and Indigenous ancestry.
A significant demographic group with African ancestry.
Includes descendants of Japanese, Chinese, and other Asians, representing a smaller population.
Consists of the original inhabitants of the region, constituting a minority.
The Soul of Foz do Iguaçu
Discover the essence of Foz do Iguaçu through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football, or soccer, is the most popular sport in Brazil, including Foz do Iguaçu, where local teams and community leagues thrive.
Volleyball is widely played in Foz do Iguaçu, both on the beach and indoors, with many clubs and recreational matches.
Basketball enjoys popularity among the youth and in schools, with a number of local clubs promoting the sport.
Handball is practiced in schools and local clubs, gaining a following through community tournaments.
Various forms of martial arts, including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Capoeira, are practiced in Foz do Iguaçu, reflecting the city's cultural diversity.
Running events and athletics competitions are popular, with local races and marathons attracting participants.
Tennis has a solid following, with several courts and clubs where enthusiasts of all ages can play.
Cycling is popular in Foz do Iguaçu, with scenic routes available for both recreational and competitive cyclists.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Foz do Iguaçu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Foz do Iguaçu offer vegetarian and vegan choices, including Emporio com Arte, Tempero da Bahia, and numerous others that cater to plant-based diets.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can find suitable options at several establishments such as Emporio com Arte, which provides gluten-free dishes and takes dietary requirements into account.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Foz do Iguaçu with these cultural adventures.
