Iguazu Falls | From Buenos Aires + Back in 30 Hours

Water thundered below our feet. The rushing river threw itself over the edge with such ferocity that a thick cloud of mist swirled around us. Our utter amazement only interrupted by ponchos flapping wildly in the vortex and the occasional jitters from looking down. We couldn’t feel further from Buenos Aires and the hustle and bustle of the vibrant city we left only 22 hours before.

Days earlier we worried that after four months of travel in South America – from Machu Picchu to Patagonia and back up to Buenos Aires – there wouldn’t be enough time to see the wonder of the world that is Iguazu Falls. We rationalized that we’d come back, that we’d seen Niagara Falls many times before, and were flying to Africa in a few days where we’d make it our mission to see Victoria Falls. But our logical justifications didn’t hold up in our curious hearts. So we set out to find the quickest way to Iguazu without totally breaking the bank.

This post is a step by step guide to visiting Iguazu Falls as a day trip from Buenos Aires. We’ll cover everything from how to get there, the ideal one-day itinerary and what to pack for a one-night stay.

Related // The perfect 4-Day Buenos Aires Itinerary

The Fastest Way to Visit Iguazu Falls, Argentina

Which Side: Puerto Iguazu Argentina vs. Foz do Iguaçu Brazil
Timing: Iguazu Falls Day Trip Itinerary
Accommodations: Where to stay in Iguazu Falls
Packing: Comprehensive list for one night in Iguazu falls
Budget: Sample cost breakdown for a day trip to Iguazu Falls

Puerto Iguazu Argentina vs. Foz do Iguaçu Brazil

You can see Iguazu Falls from both Brazil and Argentina. The Brazil side offers epic panoramic views from a distance and the Argentina side gets you up close and personal with the falls. If you have the time and money, do both. But if you have to choose one we’d 100% recommend the Argentina side. The park has an impressive number of pathways to explore and you’ll see Iguazu Falls from every angle. And the build up of anticipation from the lower levels to the climax at Garganta del Diablo is so worth it. Standing above the violent stream of water was an experience like no other.

Iguazu Falls Day Trip Itinerary

15:55-17:45 – Fly from Buenos Aires to Iguazu Falls

Use Skyscanner and FlyBondi to find flights from Buenos Aires to Puerto Iquazu. Prices change frequently so check back often. We booked last minute and our return flight was cheaper than an overnight bus. FlyBondi was by far the most affordable option. And the timing couldn’t have been better. We enjoyed a lovely morning in San Telmo before flying out, and we landed with enough time to have a relaxing evening in Puerto Iguazu.

Buenos Aires has three airports so be sure to double check your departure airport. Our FlyBondi flight was out of the tiny El Palomar which we didn’t even know existed. The bus from our gate to the plane was a hilarious 50 foot journey. We took an Uber from the city but city buses run there as well.

18:00- 18:30 – Bus to Puerto Iguazu + Enjoy your Evening

When you arrive at Cataratas del Iguazu Airport there are a few options for getting to the city. Taxis are ready and waiting or there’s a budget friendly shuttle which will drop you right at the door of your hotel. They run every half hour and only cost ARS 200 for the 20km journey.

Once you’ve settled into your hotel for the evening take a stroll through Puerto Iguazu for a bite to eat. Or, perhaps, a cocktail + cooking class at The Argentine Experience. Learn about the region’s famous wines and how to mix up some wine-based cocktails while sampling tapas. Then prepare empanadas, Argentine steak and ‘mate’ for a deliciously entertaining and educational evening before your big day at the falls.

Related // Experience the best of Mendoza’s famous wine region without a tour

9:30-11:00 – Walk to town + catch a bus to Iguazu Falls

Iguazu Falls National Park is open from 8am daily so head out early if you want to maximize your time there. We had a late flight that night so opted to enjoy our splurge-worthy hotel’s buffet breakfast before heading out shortly after 930, which gave us plenty of time. Buses from town take you right to the gate. They leave every 20 minutes from the main bus terminal in town and take around 40 minutes, for a cost of ARS 160 per person. Look for signs that read ‘Cataratas’.

11:30 – Hit the trails

Start with the lower trail, Circuito Inferior (1400m), to get the widest view of the falls and San Martin Island from a lower vantage point. The leisurely walk leads you along the river with many places to stop and take it all in. Have your rain jacket ready as you approach the end. The walkway gets spectacularly close to the falls.

There is a free train every half hour that will take you to the start of the lower trail. But unless there’s one waiting opt for the 10-minute walk through the forest instead.

Isla San Martin – Sadly, the epic boat ride and island walk is no longer open. It has been closed for repairs for years with a now indefinitely postponed date of re-opening.

Next, hit up the upper trail, Paseo Superior (1750m). It takes you up and across the river where the calm water is still oblivious to where it’s headed. There are several lookout points from on top of the falls and nice benches for a picnic lunch. Watch out for the Coatis, the racoons of Iguazu Falls. They’re super cute but will be itching to snag your food.

Time Saver: If your return flight to Buenos Aires is early and you need to maximize your time, Paseo Superior can be skipped without compromising your overall experience. 

Once you complete Paseo Superior head back to the train toward Garganta del Diablo Trail (1100m). You can also walk this one but it’s a pretty good distance and the train is a fun experience. Soon you’ll arrive at the most thrilling part of Iguazu Falls. The walkway takes you out over the river, water rushing under your feet. The falls in the distance get louder with each step until you’re standing quite literally over the heart of them. ‘Devil’s Throat’ is an appropriate name for the most wicked waterfalls we’ve ever seen. They’re so powerful, so loud, and so unbelievably awesome. The experience will absolutely take your breath away.

5:30pm – Taxi to Airport

Iguazu Falls stops accepting entries at 430 and closes at 6pm. There are taxis ready and waiting for your fare but it’s best to head out a little before closing to be sure to catch one. The ride to the airport is only about 20 minutes and should run you around ARS 650. The airport is tiny and food options are limited so if you have the time to grab a snack in the park we’d recommend it. 

9:20-11:15 – Fly from Iguazu Falls to Buenos Aires (and go to sleep)

---

Where to Stay in Iguazu Falls

We normally recommend budget accommodations but when you’re only spending one night somewhere it’s a good excuse to splurge. Especially in Puerto Iguazu where spending a little more goes a long way.

Iguazu Jungle Lodge was the perfect place to pamper ourselves. The rooms and beds are large and the bathrooms have luxurious bathtubs. The best part though is the balcony overlooking the jungle, a serene spot to enjoy a glass of wine after dinner or tea in the morning. There’s a wonderful restaurant on site that serves up a massive breakfast buffet and delectable dinners. If you’re there during the warmer months make sure to find time for a dip in the pool.

Related // Another natural wonder in Argentina: Perito Moreno glacier in El Calafate 

Iguazu Falls | One Night Packing List 

One of the best things about doing Iguazu Falls as a day trip is that you can store your luggage with your hotel in Buenos Aires and just bring the essentials. No need to check luggage or haul it around from bus to taxi and back again. If you do decide to bring more there are lockers available for rent at Iguazu Falls but we kept it light and carried ours around with us for the day.

• Rain Jacket – Come prepared to be drenched by the mist of the falls and avoid buying a cheap poncho that will end up in a landfill.
• Walking Shoes – You won’t have any trouble meeting your daily step goals in Iguazu.
• Camera – Obviously.
• Towel – For wiping down said camera. And face. And arms.
• Change of clothes – We were thankful to have a dry set for the flight home. 
• Basic Toiletries – You aren’t checking luggage so no big sunscreens or shampoos, but do bring the essentials.

Budget For One Night in Iguazu Falls

Iguazu Falls was a mini vacation from our RTW trip so we spent more than we typically do which this budget reflects. This should provide a good overview of transportation costs including the flight. Accommodation and food costs are mid-range. There are luxury resorts for more and ample budget accommodations for less if you’re looking to save. 

Flights – ARS 4,500 per person / ARS 9,000 total

Other transportation – ARS 2,340 for two people

Accommodation – ARS 3,500 for a double

Food + Drinks – ARS 5,000 for two dinners, wine and snacks

Entry – ARS 800 per person  / ARS 1,600 total

TOTAL – ARS 20,640 per couple ($346 USD) / ARS 10,320 each ($173 USD)

Money at Iguazu – Transportation is cash only so be sure to bring pesos, or you can use the ATM at the airport or inside the park. The park entry and any of the (overpriced) food or drinks on site can be paid by credit card. 

Get our Complete Buenos Aires City Guide here + be sure to check out some of our other favourite places in Argentina:

• Go wine tasting with an incredible view in Mendoza
• Head to Bariloche to explore the lakes by bike, foot or horse
• Check out our favourite town in Argentina with endless hiking 

We’re so glad we found a way to visit Iguazu Falls from Buenos Aires. They are hands down our favourite falls in the world. Do you have a favourite waterfall?