Exploring Iguazú by car is one of the best ways to discover the red earth of Misiones and its beautiful landscapes. Having the freedom to move around turns a trip that is often planned by others into exactly what you want it to be. A unique journey, a unique experience. What will you find? Jungle, the breathtaking waterfalls and stunning wildlife.
We always say it: if you dare to go beyond the traditional circuits, everything changes. It might seem like we already know what to do at Iguazú National Park, but there are still hidden corners to discover. All you need is a car and the desire for a different kind of trip.
One of our goals at Rentennials is to help you reach those places where nobody else goes. That is why, in this guide, we share the best way to explore Iguazú by car so you can keep it in mind when planning your trip.
Where are the Iguazú Falls located?
The Iguazú Falls are located within the Iguazú National Park in the province of Misiones, located in northeastern Argentina. The nearest city is Puerto Iguazú, so the first thing to do is to get to this town by car, bus, or plane.
It is easily accessible thanks to its daily flights and the routes that connect this great destination with the rest of the country.
How many days do you need to visit Iguazú Falls?
To visit Iguazú Falls and its closest attractions, you need at least 2 days. However, we recommend that your stay be between 3 and 5 full days. This will allow you to travel at a relaxed pace and without rushing.
First step: fly and rent a car in Iguazú
If you have only a few days, the best way to experience Iguazú Falls is by taking a flight to the city. Aerolíneas Argentinas, Flybondi and JetSmart offer numerous flights from Buenos Aires to Puerto Iguazú. From Córdoba or Mendoza you will most likely need to make a connection at Aeroparque or Ezeiza.
Once there, you will need to go with the option of car rental in Puerto Iguazú, either in the city or at the airport itself. Having the freedom to move wherever you want is the great advantage of exploring Iguazú by car.
Day by day itinerary to explore Iguazú by car
We suggest arriving on one of the first flights of the day to Puerto Iguazú. But since we know that is not always possible, the first day is meant to be taken at a relaxed pace and enjoy some activities that are not essential.
Below we tell you what to do day by day at Iguazú Falls.
Day 1: arrival and a stroll around the Three Borders Landmark and Puerto Iguazú
Whether you arrive in the early morning hours or around noon, it is best to take it easy on this day. Puerto Iguazú invites you to explore it and get a feel for a traditional border town.
The Puerto Iguazú waterfront is truly beautiful. Walking along the riverbanks and enjoying the riverside climate is something we rarely get to do. There, you will find the Three Borders Landmark, the symbolic spot where the borders of Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay meet.
Another option is to take the catamaran ride along the Iguazú River. Something few people do and that gives you a unique perspective of the river landscape.
In the afternoon, visit Güirá Oga, a sanctuary for rescued animals where they are cared for and returned to the jungle once they are ready. This activity is ideal for the little ones.
At night, don't miss a visit to IceBar Iguazú. A totally unique experience and a perfect place to have a drink.
Day 2: Iguazú National Park, one of the most beautiful in the world
Now it's time to visit the Iguazú National Park and its stunning Falls. The first thing you need to do is arrive early to make the most of the day.
You need to split the day in two: the Lower Circuit and the Upper Circuit. Both circuits cover the different waterfalls and offer a breathtaking panoramic view of this wonder of the world. You can explore them at a leisurely pace without rushing.
The other part of the day should be dedicated to the Devil's Throat. This experience makes a huge difference in your visit to the Falls. As soon as you enter the National Park you will see the Ecological Train, which takes you to the Devil's Throat station. From there you walk a few minutes and finally arrive at one of the most impressive waterfalls on the planet.
What to do first? The Devil's Throat. Then spend the rest of the day on the other two circuits.
A recommendation: although there are places to buy food in the park, the ideal is to bring something to eat. It can be some sandwiches or something similar. And don't forget! Do not feed the animals.
- Iguazú National Park hours: 08 am to 6 pm
- Iguazú National Park admission fees:
- General: 45 USD
- Argentine residents: 15 USD
- Children under 5 years old free
- Retirees free
A tip: if you plan to return to the park the next day, stop by the ticket office so that on the second day you receive a great discount on admission.
Day 3: exploring the Macuco trail and taking the Gran Aventura
In general, many recommend crossing to the Brazilian side on this second day. But as you know, at Rentennials we seek to live experiences that are different from the majority of travelers. That is why, on this second day, the best option is to return to Iguazú National Park and discover its hidden side.
Inside the Cataratas National Park there is a little-known trail: the Macuco trail. It is a 3-hour walk through the jungle and, most likely, you will encounter wildlife and hear the sounds of nature without the crowds usually found in the Park. The best time to start the trail is at 8 am, when the Park opens. These are the little secrets of exploring Iguazú by car and making the most of your freedom to travel.
Once you return from the trail, around midday, one of the most amazing activities awaits you: the Gran Aventura, the nautical excursion that takes you to the foot of the Falls. It costs around 80 USD and is for those over 12 years old. It is best to book in advance through this link.
Day 4: reaching the other side of the Misiones jungle
On this day we suggest exploring the Misiones jungle along National Route 101 to Comandante Andresito. And then, heading to the Urugua-í Provincial Park. There you will walk its jungle trails. Once you have explored the Park, it is time to return to Puerto Iguazú via Provincial Route 19 until rejoining National Route 12.
The Urugua-í Provincial Park is an ideal place to encounter the best fauna and flora of the Misiones jungle. There are several trails to explore during the day. The idea is that you enjoy nature without many people around you. The ideal time to visit is early in the morning or during the late afternoon hours.
When we talk about exploring Iguazú by car, this is what we mean: driving and taking a loop through Misiones of 200 km, where only 40 km are unpaved.
How to do the route? As soon as you leave Puerto Iguazú heading toward National Route 101, you will come across a Border Guard checkpoint. We recommend asking about the road conditions there. If it is open (which it usually is during dry seasons) drive slowly. At some point, turn off the engine and listen to what nature has to offer you. You won't regret it.
Here we leave you the map of the route along National Route 101 looping through the north of Misiones.
Day 5: what you still have left to do and return to your city
This last day can be dedicated to visiting the places you haven't seen yet.
If you are leaving at night, a great option is to cross into Brazil or Paraguay for some shopping. Just keep in mind the border crossing time so you don't miss your flight.
When is the best time to explore Iguazú by car
From April to October is the best time to visit Iguazú Falls. Rainfall decreases and temperatures are lower. That said, avoid going during winter holidays and long weekends because the crowds will make your experience much worse.
Can the Iguazú Falls be visited in summer?
Yes, but keep in mind that temperatures are high and it's rainy season.
Where to stay to explore Iguazú
There are two options for sleeping in Iguazú: the city of Puerto Iguazú and the areas a little further away that are in the jungle.
Accommodations in Puerto Iguazú
As you can imagine, there are hundreds of hotels in Puerto Iguazú. Just make sure to choose one with a pool to cool off in the afternoons.
Here are some options we like
Dare to Sleep in a Jungle Lodge in Misiones
For those who want exclusive experiences, jungle lodges are the perfect places. Top-level services and a unique natural setting.
These are our favorites:
Where to eat in Puerto Iguazú
Dishes with a mix of regional and authentic flavors are what you need to try. Always follow the waiters' recommendations, but cassava flour, fish, meats and jungle fruits are the options to choose from.
These are our favorite restaurants:
Bonus track: how to get to Iguazú by car
We know there are many people who want to experience the Argentine roads at their finest. If you're the kind of person who loves to get in the car and start a road trip that takes you to one of the most beautiful places in the world, then your destination is Misiones and exploring Iguazú by car.
Here we tell you the best way to get there by car, whether it's your own or a rental from your city of origin.
From Buenos Aires to Iguazú
Few journeys seem as straightforward as driving to Iguazú from Buenos Aires. You need to take National Route 14 to Posadas, and from there take National Route 12 to Puerto Iguazú.
The total distance is 1,277 km, and a large part of the journey is on highway. While you can do it all in one day, it's best to spend the night in an intermediate city, such as Concordia or Yapeyú (and along the way you can visit the birthplace of General San Martín).
Here we leave you the map with the route from Buenos Aires to Puerto Iguazú.
From Mendoza to Iguazú
Almost 2,000 km separate the city of Mendoza from Puerto Iguazú. It all starts by taking National Route 7 to the city of San Luis, where you will detour onto Provincial Route 10 to Río Cuarto. From there, RN 158 and then RN 19 to Paraná. In the capital of Entre Ríos you will need to take RN 127 until you reach RN 14. You will need to continue to Posadas to, finally, arrive in Puerto Iguazú via RN12.
It's a long journey, but that's no reason to pass up the chance to experience one of the road trips that many travelers dream of doing from Mendoza.
A recommendation: make an intermediate stop in Córdoba or Santa Fe and then continue your journey.
Here we leave you the map with the best route to reach Iguazú from Mendoza.
From Córdoba to Iguazú
1,500 km is the distance you need to cover from the city of Córdoba to Puerto Iguazú. You need to reach Paraná via National Route 19, and then cross the province of Entre Ríos along National Route 127 until you reach National Route 14. Continue to Posadas and, from there, National Route 12 to Puerto Iguazú.
It's a long road, but that's no reason not to do it. A good tip is to set off very early and sleep in Yapeyú, in the province of Corrientes.
Here is the map with the best route to reach Iguazú from Córdoba.
Rent a car in Iguazú and feel the power of the falls
Traveling to Iguazu Falls is something you have to do at least once in your life. You can do it the classic way or dare to go a little further into the Misiones jungle. That's why we recommend exploring Iguazu by car so you can access those secrets that Misiones has in store for you.
Renting a car in Puerto Iguazu is the first step (or driving to the Falls). The second is venturing into the beautiful roads of the province, exploring Iguazu National Park on your own terms and going beyond the beaten path. At Rentennials we make everything simpler so that renting your vehicle is not a concern and you can enjoy your vacation from day one.
The Falls are waiting for you!
