Things To Do in Puerto Iguazu & Cataratas del Iguazú Airport Layover Ideas

If you have a layover at the IGR Cataratas del Iguazú Airport, consider taking the opportunity to get out and about to see the local sights. There are some one-of-a-kind things to see and experience here, so take advantage of any extra time you can manage.

Iguaçu Falls

One of the great natural wonders of the world, the Iguaçu Falls (Portuguese: Cataratas do Iguaçu, Spanish: Cataratas del Iguazú, Tupi: Y Ûasu "big water") are situated near the border of Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina. The area a UNESCO World Heritage site. The falls are the reason many people travel to the area, and you need a day or two to do them justice.

The Argentine access to the falls is by a Rainforest Ecological Train very similar to the one in Disney's Animal Kingdom. The train brings visitors to the entrance of Devil's Throat as well as the upper and lower trails. The Paseo Garganta del Diablo is a one-kilometer-long trail that brings the visitor directly over the falls of the Devil's Throat, the highest and deepest of the falls. Also on the Argentinian side there are inflatable boats service that takes visitors right under the falls.

Güira Oga Wildlife Refuge

Güira Oga means “House of the Birds” so expect to see mainly birds in this wildlife refuge. Good opportunity to get a picture of a Toucan though. The guides on the 1.5 hour long tour are bilingual, speaking both English and Spanish. The tour is onboard a tractor-pulled trailer that takes you into the jungle where the animals are kept. Your ARS 175 contribution keeps the refuge going. Güira Oga is easily reached by a 10 minute bus ride from the centre of Puerto Iguazu.

Three Frontiers Landmark

Walk down Av. Tres Fronteras to the Three Frontiers Landmark. Have a look at Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay, all in the same glimpse of the eye. You will also have a good view of the cargo freighters making their way slowly along the water.

As always, make sure you leave plenty of time to get back to IGR Cataratas del Iguazú Airport and clear security in time for your connecting flight. Enjoy your transit city rather than whiling away the time leaning up against your luggage in the departures lounge.