Iguassu National Park, located in the state of Paraná in southern Brazil, is one of the most spectacular and biodiverse areas in South America. Home to the world-renowned Iguassu Falls (or Iguaçu Falls), the park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and draws millions of visitors each year. The national park covers over 185,000 hectares of preserved Atlantic Forest, offering not only stunning waterfalls but also an incredible range of wildlife, scenic trails, and ecological importance.
The park is part of a larger conservation area that includes Argentina’s Iguazú National Park. Together, they protect one of the largest remnants of the Atlantic rainforest and provide a vital habitat for endangered species like jaguars, pumas, toucans, and tapirs. Iguassu National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to witness one of nature’s greatest spectacles—the Iguassu Falls.
Iguassu National Park is easily accessible from the city of Foz do Iguaçu, which is just 18 km (about 11 miles) from the park entrance. The city is well-connected by air, with Foz do Iguaçu International Airport (IGU) receiving flights from major Brazilian cities such as São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Brasília.
From the airport or city center, you can take a taxi, ride-share, rental car, or public bus to the park. Bus number 120, operated by the local transit system, runs frequently between the city and the park entrance. Organized tours are also available, offering transportation and guided experiences.
Iguassu National Park has a humid subtropical climate, meaning it experiences warm temperatures and high humidity throughout the year. Summer (December to March) can be hot, with daytime temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), and it's also the rainiest season, which makes the waterfalls even more impressive.
Winter (June to August) is milder, with temperatures averaging between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The dry season, from April to October, is the best time to visit if you want to avoid heavy rain, although the water flow in the falls may be slightly lower. Always bring light, breathable clothes, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and rain gear.
Iguassu National Park is open daily, including weekends and public holidays. The park generally opens at 9:00 AM and closes at 5:00 PM, with the last admission at 4:00 PM.
It is advisable to arrive early to enjoy a full day of exploration and to beat the crowds. Some tours and activities, like full moon walks and boat rides, may have separate timings.
Iguassu National Park is most famous for being home to the stunning Iguassu Falls, one of the largest and most powerful waterfall systems in the world. With 275 individual drops spread out over nearly 3 kilometers, the falls offer a dramatic and awe-inspiring experience. The most iconic section is the “Devil’s Throat,” where several waterfalls merge into a thunderous cascade.
Beyond the waterfalls, the park is celebrated for its ecological richness. It supports over 2,000 plant species and countless birds, mammals, reptiles, and insects. The park’s well-maintained infrastructure and accessibility also make it a favorite destination for both casual tourists and serious nature enthusiasts.
Tickets to Iguassu National Park can be purchased online or at the entrance. As of 2025, the general admission for foreign visitors is approximately R$84 (Brazilian Reais). Discounts are available for Brazilian residents, children, students, and seniors.
The ticket includes a shuttle bus that transports visitors from the entrance to various points inside the park. From the main visitor center, you can access trails, lookout points, the main falls walkway, and services like cafés and gift shops. Additional attractions such as the Macuco Safari (boat ride), helicopter tours, and bird park (Parque das Aves) have separate pricing.
Iguassu National Park was created in 1939 as part of Brazil’s effort to preserve its natural heritage. It became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986 due to its outstanding natural beauty and ecological importance. The park was designed to balance conservation with public access, and it stands as a model for environmental preservation in Latin America.
Architectural elements in the park are minimal and eco-sensitive. The visitor center, shuttle system, and walkways are all built with sustainability in mind. Elevated paths and boardwalks help protect the forest floor while allowing visitors to enjoy panoramic views. Observation platforms are strategically placed to provide the best views of the waterfalls with minimal environmental disruption.
- Panoramic Trail: Walk along the main trail to see sweeping views of the falls.
- Devil’s Throat Walkway: Get up close to the most powerful section of the falls via a metal walkway.
- Macuco Safari: Take an adventurous jeep and boat ride that gets you very close to the waterfalls.
- Bird Park: Located near the entrance, it’s home to hundreds of bird species in natural enclosures.
- Helicopter Tour: For a bird’s-eye view of the park and falls.
- Eco-trails and Hiking: Enjoy guided hikes through the Atlantic rainforest.
- Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for toucans, coatis, butterflies, monkeys, and more.
- The park contains over 275 waterfalls in total, depending on the season.
- The name “Iguassu” means “big water” in the Guarani language.
- The park is a vital part of the largest remaining block of Atlantic Forest in the world.
- It is one of the most visited national parks in South America.
- The area inspired scenes in movies like "Indiana Jones" and "The Mission."
- Visit early in the day to avoid large crowds and take better photos.
- Bring waterproof gear; you will likely get wet, especially near Devil’s Throat.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes and breathable clothes.
- Stay hydrated and bring snacks if you plan a long visit.
- Book extra activities like boat rides or helicopter tours in advance.
- Respect wildlife—do not feed animals, especially coatis.
- Don’t forget sunscreen and insect repellent.