Many nationalities get 90-day visa-free entry. Check with Brazilian consulate.

What currency is used?

Brazilian Real (BRL). US dollars and Argentine pesos are accepted at some border shops.

Can I visit both sides of the falls in one day?

Yes, but it's rushed. Allow two days for a relaxed experience.

Is it safe to cross into Paraguay?

Generally safe by day, but beware of scams and pickpocketing. Use official crossings.

What language is spoken?

Portuguese. Spanish and English are spoken in tourist areas.

Are credit cards widely accepted?

Yes, in hotels and restaurants. Cash is needed for street vendors and small shops.

What is the best way to see the falls?

Walk the trails, take a boat ride, or helicopter tour. The Brazilian side offers panoramic views.

Foz do Iguaçu - Travel destination image

Foz do Iguaçu

CityParaná, Brazil

Foz do Iguaçu is a CITY in Paraná, Brazil.

Foz do Iguaçu, in Brazil's Paraná state, is world-famous for the breathtaking Iguaçu Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The thundering cascades, set within lush subtropical rainforest, offer unforgettable views from both Brazilian and Argentine sides. Beyond the falls, visitors explore the Itaipu Dam, one of the world's largest hydroelectric plants, and enjoy vibrant nightlife with samba and churrascarias. The city's unique tri-border location with Argentina and Paraguay adds cultural flair, with easy access to Ciudad del Este for shopping. Adventure seekers love boat rides under the falls, helicopter tours, and jungle hikes. Foz do Iguaçu blends natural wonder, engineering marvels, and lively local culture, making it a top destination for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.

Best time to visit Foz do Iguaçu

Best months are March to May and August to October for pleasant weather and lower crowds. The falls are most powerful from December to February (rainy season), but it's hot and humid. June to August is cooler and drier, ideal for hiking.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Warm 20-28°C, some rain

Travel notes

Crowds: Moderate
Prices: Moderate

Spring blooms

Know before you go

Getting there

IGU

Foz do Iguaçu International Airport

International

15 km away

AGT

Ciudad del Este Airport (Paraguay)

International

25 km away

IGR

Cataratas del Iguazú Airport (Argentina)

International

30 km away

Getting around

"Local buses connect the city center, falls, and Itaipu Dam. Taxis and ride-sharing apps like Uber are reliable. Many hotels offer shuttle services. Renting a car is convenient for exploring the tri-border area. Walking is easy in the central zone."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

30 Mbps

Mobile data

Excellent

WiFi

Widely available in hotels, cafes, and tourist areas

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport from $5

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Main tourist areas are safe; border zones require caution.

Night safety

7/10

Main tourist areas are safe; border zones require caution.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Foz do Iguaçu is generally safe for tourists, especially around the falls and main attractions. Petty theft and scams can occur in crowded areas and at the border. Avoid walking alone at night in less busy streets. Use registered taxis or ride apps. Keep valuables secure and be cautious at the Paraguayan border."

Police

190

Ambulance

192

Fire

193

Entry and health

Health information

"No mandatory vaccinations, but yellow fever and typhoid are recommended. Tap water is not safe to drink; use bottled water. Dengue and Zika are present; use insect repellent. Medical facilities are adequate in the city; travel insurance with evacuation coverage is advised."

Culture

Local customs

"Brazilians are warm and friendly; a handshake or kiss on the cheek is common. Dress casually but modestly when visiting religious sites. Tipping 10% is customary in restaurants. Portuguese is spoken; English is limited. Learn basic phrases like 'obrigado'."

Portuguese (official)SpanishEnglishItalianGermanPortuguese

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$8-15 | a cheap local meal costs ~$8

Hotels

$40-100 | budget hotels range $40-100/night

Local transport

$1 | local bus ride ~$1

Cost notes

Prices vary by season; entry to falls is about $20.

Timezone

America/Sao_Paulo
Local time 12:51

More facts

Population

258,248

Type

City

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Fos do Iguasu, Fos-du-Iguasu, Foz de Iguassu, Foz de Iguazu, Foz do Iguacu, Foz do Iguassu, Foz do Iguassú, Foz do Iguasu, Foz do Iguaçu, IGU, Iguassu, Iguassú, fwz dw ayghwasw, fwz dw lwachw, phoja do iguraaku, poseudu-iguasu, yi gua su, Фоз до Игуасу, Фос до Игуасу, Фос-ду-Іґуасу, Фос-ду-Игуасу, פאס דו איגוואסו, פוז דו איגואסו, فوز دو إيغواسو, فوز دو لوآچو, ফোজ ডো ইগুৱাকু, フォス・ド・イグアス, 伊瓜苏, 포스두이구아수, Foz de Iguazú, フォスドイグアス, 伊瓜苏河畔福斯, 伊瓜蘇河畔福斯

Major HubNatureAdventureWaterfallsEco-TourismFamily-FriendlyHikingCultural