Things To Do in Foz do Iguacu & Foz do Iguacu Airport Layover Ideas

If you have a layover at the IGU Foz do Iguacu Airport, consider taking the opportunity to get out and about to see the local sights. There's plenty to to see and experience, so take advantage of any extra time to see what you can.

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 National Park on the Brazillian side of Iguaçu Falls runs a shuttle bus between the Visitors' Centre, the falls, and numerous outdoor tour operators, including boat rides run by Macuco Safari out to the bottom of the falls.

Parque das Aves

Parque das Aves (Birds Park) is very close to the entrance of Iguaçu Falls. You can take a self-guided tour of the park to come in close contact with all different types of exotic birds. A paved trail leads visitors to the enormous aviaries that blend in with the forest and allow you to an opportunity to see some of the approximately 900 birds from 180 species. The Park also has a butterfly section with 25 species and a reptile section as well. All of these animals can be seen from a distance of only a few meters. Open daily.

Itaipu Dam

Itaipu Dam, or the Itaipu Hydroelectric Plant, is the largest electric power generator in the world. It was considered to be one of the seven wonders of the modern world by the American Society of Civil Engineering. Note that it can only be visited on a tour.  

Three Borders Landmark

The Three Borders Landmark is the place where Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay meet. Each side has its own Marco (landmark). Have a look at Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay, all in the same glimpse of the eye while there are cargo freighters making their way slowly along the water.

 

Tip: It is only a short walk across the Friendship Bridge over the river Parana to Ciudad del Este. But, ironically, it is not considered safe. You can take a taxi as walking across the bridge is not recommended due to pickpocketing. You might have to ask multiple taxi drivers to get a taxi across the bridge. Locals consider the trip dangerous and might refuse it.


As always, make sure you leave plenty of time to get back to IGU Foz do Iguacu 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.