Places to Visit Near Iguazu Falls
Places near Iguazu Falls are typically in or around Puerto Iguazu (Argentina), Foz do Iguaçu (Brazil), or Ciudad del Este (Paraguay). The "Triple Frontier" where three countries all meet is at the confluence of the Paraguay and Parana Rivers - each country has a monument in its national colors at the closes point on confluence.
Attractions near Ciudad del Este, Paraguay
Ciudad del Este, Paraguay
Ciudad del Este is mainly a shopping destination for Brazilians and Argentinians. During business hours, traffic can become so backed up that it can take three hours to cross the "friendship bridge" between Brazil and Paraguay. Near the border crossing, the town is like a big street bazaar with inexpensive items, as well as counterfeit and pirated products, and is typically regarded as unsafe. It is much more safe outside the main commerical area.
Itaipu Binacional Dam, Paraguay
Explore the world’s largest hydroelectric power plant while listening to informative commentary from the guide. Learn about the modern architecture associated with the dam and its environmental and culture impact on the surrounding areas. The Monumental Illumination show with lights and sounds can been seen Friday and Saturday evenings. The 1:100 scale model which includes a replica of the Hydroelectric Power Plant, part of the reservoir, as well as part of the course of the river and its closest tributary rivers, was used to understand the impacts before the dam was built.
Monday Falls (Ciudad del Este/Pres Franco, Paraguay)
Monday Falls tend to get lost in the shadows of nearby Iguazu Falls, however these beautiful cascades deserve a visit in their own right. Saltos Monday hasn’t made its mark on the international tourist trail yet, so you may be one of a few visitors exploring the falls and trails through the 22-acre subtropical park.
Attractions near Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil
Foz do Iguazu, Brazil
Foz do Iguazu has a variety of attractions, hotels, casinos, and shows. With seven times the size of Puerto Iguazu and has the feeling of a larger city. If staying in Foz, don't miss one of the many Brazilian Churrasquerias!
Macuco Safari Jungle Tour and Boat Adventure
Located inside the national parks, both Brazil and Argentina offers a jungle tour in vehicles through the forest to the base of the river and then an adventurous boat ride up the river to right beneath Iguazu Falls.
It is very exciting! You will get wet!
Parque das Aves – Bird Sanctuary (Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil)
Across the road from the entrance to Iguazu Falls, this outstanding bird park features more than 900 rare and colorful birds (150 species) which fly freely in huge aviaries built to blend naturally with the humid subtropical forest. Visitors are able to enter the aviaries and view the birds at close quarters. You will also see alligators, anacondas, pythons, marmosets and 25 species of butterflies. In addition to being a tourist attraction, this bird park is an important conservation center for birds of the Atlantic Forest and is one of the most respected bird parks in the world.
Itaipu Binacional Dam, Brazil
Explore the world’s largest hydroelectric power plant while listening to informative commentary from the guide. Learn about the modern architecture associated with the dam and its environmental and culture impact on the surrounding areas. The Monumental Illumination show with lights and sounds can been seen Friday and Saturday evenings. The 1:100 scale model which includes a replica of the Hydroelectric Power Plant, part of the reservoir, as well as part of the course of the river and its closest tributary rivers, was used to understand the impacts before the dam was built.
Rafain Churrascaria Show
Vegas-style entertainment featuring 45 artists in colorful costumes performing songs and dances from South America, including Paraguay, Chile, Argentina, Uruguay, Colombia, Mexico and Brazil. What the show lacks in authenticity, it makes up for in flair. The show is combined with a buffet dinner that includes churrascaria-style meat sand over 200 accompanying dishes. The restaurant, which has capacity for 1,200 visitors, is nearly always busy or sold-out so advance tickets are recommended. (2.5-3 hours)
Photo: Casper K
Buddhist Temple
Slow down, relax and reflect in this peaceful environment. Chen Tien Buddhist Temple was founded in 1996 by monks and immigrants mainly from Taiwan. This peaceful temple features 120+ statues, space for reflection, and panoramic city views.
Attractions near Puerto Iguazu, Argentina
Puerto Iguazu, Argentina
Puerto Iguazu is a charming and safe town with lots of sleeping, eating and drinking options, as well as a boutique shops with all sorts of gems and treasures. The center of town is primarily frequented by travelers visiting Iguazu Falls. While I typically try to avoid "touristy" towns, Puerto Iguazu is quiet and has a pleasant vibe.
Gran Aventura Jungle Tour and Boat Adventure
Located inside the national park, the Gran Aventura offers a 5km jungle tour in 4x4 vehicles, through the forest with a bilingual guide describing the natural and cultural landscape. Upon reaching the pier, you will board a boats which will take you up the Lower Iguazú River canyon and through mighty rapids towards the waterfall area. You will reach maximum emotion when facing the incomparable Salto San Martín, second in terms of dimension and the largest that a boat can approach.
It is very exciting! You will get wet!
GüiráOga Wild Animal Refuge
The refuge is not a zoo, rather a center where you will meet animals who are recuperating and will soon return to their jungle home or whose injuries will not allow them to survive in the wild. The focus of the tour is to explore the stories that each animal has to tell and to reflect on the need to protect wildlife and their natural environment.
Hummingbird Garden
This tourist attraction is located on the private property of a family who loves hummingbirds. This beautiful oasis, filled with flowers, trees and lots of bird feeders, allows you to sit amongst the lush garden surroundings, watch several species of tiny hummingbirds feeding, and take amazing hummingbird photos.
Minas de Wanda
Located 40km south of Puerto Iguazu the rainforest mines are where some of the best semi-precious stones – such as amethyst, agate, quartz, and topaz – are found in Argentina. You’ll head down into the actual mines and learn how gemstones and geodes are formed, plus you’ll see the workshops where the stones are polished and cut.
Why travel with Trico Tours?
Authentic Cultural Experiences
We have a deep respect for local people, communities and cultures. In addition to must-see sites, we can also recommend unique and boutique sites that allow you to experience the true heart and soul of the culture.
Personal Attention
We treat all our guests like friends. We start with a conversation and create thoroughly-planned, custom itineraries tailored to your interests, pace, and travel styles.
Peace of Mind
Our travel specialists and guides are knowledgeable and highly engaged. We handle all the details and provide 24/7 support offer peace of mind that everything is taken care of and your trip runs smoothly.
We would love to hear from you.
Whether you are just exploring possibilities or are in the process of planning your travel, we are happy to have a conversation. (We are actually quite friendly.)