Puerto Iguazu is a small, relaxed town of about 80,000 inhabitants that serves as the Argentine gateway to Iguazu Falls. While most visitors rush straight to the falls, the town itself offers a surprisingly enjoyable experience: excellent restaurants serving river fish and Argentine steak, a lively craft market, the iconic Triple Border landmark at sunset, and the unique sensation of being surrounded by subtropical jungle even while walking down the main street.
Things to Do in Town
- Triple Border Landmark (Hito Tres Fronteras): Free to visit, spectacular at sunset. From this viewpoint you can see the landmarks of all three countries (Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay) at the confluence of the Iguazu and Parana rivers. There is also a craft market and light show.
- Craft Market (Feria): On Avenida Brasil near the Triple Border. Guarani handicrafts, regional food, mate and terere (the cold version of mate popular in Misiones). Best visited in the late afternoon.
- La Aripuca: An ecological park built from rescued wood, shaped like a giant Guarani bird trap. Educational and family-friendly.
- Icebar Iguazu: A bar made entirely of ice, kept at -10 C. Drinks served in ice glasses. Fun novelty experience (USD 49).
- Madero Tango Show: Tango and folklore performance. From USD 14.50.
- Mate Workshop: Learn the Argentine mate ceremony. USD 6.
Where to Eat
Puerto Iguazu's food scene punches above its weight for a small town:
- La Rueda 1975: The best Argentine grill in town. Premium cuts, excellent service.
- Aqva Restaurant: Contemporary Misiones cuisine with river fish (surubi, pacu, dorado). Creative cocktails.
- De la Fonte: Brazilian cuisine, perfect for maintaining the binational theme after visiting the Brazilian side.
- Feria del Paseo: Food stalls on the main avenue with empanadas, chipa (cassava and cheese bread), and grilled cassava at very affordable prices.
Getting Around
The town centre is compact and walkable (15 minutes end to end). Public buses run to the National Park every 30 minutes from the bus terminal (20-minute ride, under USD 2). Taxis to the park cost USD 10-15. For crossing to Brazil, most tours include pick-up, or you can take a local bus to the Tancredo Neves Bridge.
Evening plan: After a full day at the falls, head to the Triple Border landmark for sunset (around 17:30-18:30 depending on season), browse the craft market, then walk to Avenida Cordoba for dinner at La Rueda or Aqva. It is the perfect way to unwind.
Experiences in Puerto Iguazu
Night Night jungle walk in Iryapu
Guided nocturnal trek through the Iryapu forest reserve. Bioluminescent insects and jungle sounds.
Night Madero Tango Show
Tango and folklore in Puerto Iguazu. An entertaining evening after a day at the falls.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is there to do in Puerto Iguazu besides the falls?
Puerto Iguazu offers plenty: the Triple Border landmark at sunset, the downtown craft market, the Icebar Iguazu, the La Aripuca ecological park, the Madero Tango show, a mate workshop, and a growing food scene with regional cuisine and grill restaurants.
Where should I eat in Puerto Iguazu?
The Avenida Cordoba and Bompland street area has the best restaurants. For Argentine grill, try La Rueda or Aqva. For regional cuisine with river fish (surubi, dorado, pacu), Color and La Esquina have excellent options. For budget meals, the downtown empanada shops and pizzerias are reliable.
Is Puerto Iguazu safe?
Yes, Puerto Iguazu is a very safe tourist town. It is small (under 100,000 inhabitants), quiet and accustomed to international visitors. Standard precautions with belongings in busy areas are sufficient.
How do I get around Puerto Iguazu?
The town is compact and the centre is walkable. For the National Park (18 km), there are frequent public buses, taxis and hotel transfers. For crossing to Brazil, tours include transport or you can take a local bus to the Tancredo Neves Bridge.
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