A Natural Wonder of the World
Iguazu is one of the most incredible places in the world to visit. A bucket list item for sure. Located between Argentina and Brazil, this giant waterfall is not just a quick visit, and includes spending time in two different countries for the optimal experience. This can seem a little daunting, but this ultimate guide to Iguazu on a budget will give you all the information you need to get the most out of your time and money.
Cost
If you prefer everything taken care of there are tours sold online or locally for you to go to both side starting at $100 and up. This is a very expensive option for something that can be done so cheaply on your own, but if you prefer everything taken care of, this option is for you.
The entrance fees for the park is a little less than $20 for the Argentinean side (10 000 ARS) and about the same for the Brazilian side (88 BRL) as of 2024. Transportation from your accommodation can be found in town for a few dollars with local buses going there all day long.
Bring water and snacks so you don’t end up buying overpriced food at the shops and restaurant in the parks. This brings your total to less than $50 dollars for two days on both sides of the border. Can’t beat that!
Day 1 Argentinian Side
The Argentinian side is by far the biggest, and you can easily spend a whole day here. I recommend heading out as early as possible by catching a bus at the terminal in Puerto Iguazu to the waterfalls. Around 8AM is good. That way you will arrive at the park before the majority of people and possible enjoy it a little more.
Lower and Upper Circuit
After getting your ticket and entering, get a free map or ask one of the many workers there for directions. You can walk anywhere in the park or take a train between some of the spots. These trains get super crowded, costs money and sometimes take longer than walking.
Follow the path to Estación Cataratas and ask for directions there, or look on a map. I recommend heading all the way down to the lower circuit first. This will most likely mean you can walk all by yourself! Enjoy the views of the waterfall from below and at a distance, before heading up to the upper circuit. Here you make your way on top of the waterfalls for a magical walk and view!
Garganta del Diablo
After the upper circuit, start walking back to Estación Cataratas. Then either jump on the train or start walking next to the tracks until you arrive at Estacion Garganta. This takes a bout 20-30 minutes. From there head out above the water until you reach Garganta del Diablo to experience the massive power and amount of water passive through here!
Once you’ve enjoyed the devil, head back where you come from and towards the entrance stopping for some souvenirs and eat at one of the restaurants in the park if you like. If not catch the bus back to town.
Boat Ride
If you’d like you can also find the docks and pay for a boat ride on the waters below the waterfalls. The line is big so look at a way to book online beforehand, but this experience will set you back over $100, so it’s up to you if you feel like getting drenched under the giant waterfalls!
Day 2 Brazilian Side
On day two, head over the border to visit the Brazilian side. The park is much smaller and can be seen in a few hours. From the town you can hop on a bus to the park for 5BRL, and it takes about 45 minutes depending on where you get on. When you get your ticket and enter the park you will line up for the bus that takes you into the park and to the waterfalls.
Once you arrive at the start of the trail, follow it all the way down enjoying the view of the waterfalls on the other side of the border. At the bottom of the trail you can follow the walkout onto the waterfalls just below the Devil’s Throat from day 1. Bring a raincoat and protection for your electronics and documents because you will get wet!
Head up the tower as well to get some nice pictures from above. Once you have seen enough, head back up to the parking lot and jump on the first bus back to the entrance. Then get a bus back to the town for another 5BRL. Easy as that!
What are you waiting for?
As you can see, visiting Iguazu Falls can easily be done in two days and super cheap! By bringing water and some snacks, as well as good walking shoes you can make your visit into a good workout, and save some money along the way. Set aside more time for whatever day you will visit the Argentinean side, and less for the Brazilian side. If you are short on time, doing both on the same day is definitely possible. So get your rain coat and enjoy one of the natural wonders of the world!
Resources
So, are you ready for an adventure to Iguazu? Here are some of the resources I personally use when I travel. Great value and support, in addition to the best deals out there!
BOOKING – The best place to book accommodation. In my experience the site with the best prices, deals and selection. Perfect for a budget traveller.
HOSTELWORLD – The best place to find hostels, and also has group chats for all your bookings and places you’re going to make it easier to meet people. Perfect for solo travellers!
SKYSCANNER – When I need to find the cheapest days and ways to fly somewhere, Skyscanner is always the first place I go.
GET YOUR GUIDE – A massive marketplace for inspiration and booking of tours and activities for each place you visit.
AIRALO – What I use to stay connected on the road. A slightly more expensive option than buying local sim cards, but nothing beats having e-sim installed and ready to go as soon as you cross the border.
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