MileHacker Logo
Where to Stay in Iguazu Falls

Where to Stay in Iguazu Falls

Iguazu Falls Argentina Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

Full Spectrum of Lodging Options

  • Hostels

    Budget-friendly dorm beds and private rooms, with communal kitchens and social areas. Many include breakfast and pools.

  • Guesthouses (Posadas)

    Often family-run, these provide a personal experience, from basic to comfortable, for mid-range budgets.

  • Mid-range Hotels

    Numerous options with standard amenities like private bathrooms, air conditioning, swimming pools, and often breakfast.

  • Luxury Hotels/Resorts

    High-comfort options with spas, multiple dining choices, and prime locations, including one inside the National Park.

Unique Local Accommodation

  • Selva Lodges

    Eco-lodges outside town offering an immersive nature experience with rustic charm and direct rainforest access.

  • Vacation Rentals & Apartments

    Platforms like Vrbo or Airbnb offer more space, privacy, and kitchen facilities, ideal for families or longer stays.

  • Camping

    Official camping within the Argentine National Park is limited. Some private campsites might be available further from town.

  • Homestay/Community Tourism

    Formal homestay programs for general tourists are less common, but some smaller guesthouses offer a personal, local hospitality experience.

Neighborhood Guide

A breakdown of Puerto Iguazú areas and their characteristics.

Puerto Iguazú City Center

Benefits
  • Easy public transport access to falls and airport.
  • Wide selection of dining options.
  • Walking distance to amenities.
  • Lively atmosphere.
Drawbacks
  • Can be noisy from restaurants and bars.
  • Less tranquility compared to other areas.

Outskirts of Puerto Iguazú / Near the Jungle

Benefits
  • Quiet and lush, green surroundings.
  • Closer connection to nature.
  • Often larger properties with spacious gardens and pools.
Drawbacks
  • Needs taxis, shuttles, or buses for city center/park.
  • Dining options may be limited nearby.

Within Iguazu National Park Argentine side

Benefits
  • Unparalleled proximity to the falls.
  • Direct falls views from rooms/common areas.
  • Early/late park access, avoiding main crowds.
  • Exclusive experience.
Drawbacks
  • Very expensive.
  • Isolated from town amenities.
  • Requires transport for outside dining or shopping.

Additional Considerations

Safety by Area:

All areas mentioned are generally safe. Take standard precautions in the city center, especially at night, and watch your belongings in crowded places.

Noise Levels and Ambiance:

Outskirts/Jungle areas offer low noise, peaceful, with nature sounds. Within the park, the constant roar of the falls dominates, with jungle sounds.

Booking Strategies

Smart booking helps secure the best accommodation at the right price.

Advance Booking Recommendations

  • High Season (Dec-Feb, July, Easter): Book several months in advance. Prices are highest.
  • Shoulder Season (Mar-May, Sep-Nov): Book 1-2 months in advance for good options and competitive prices.
  • Low Season (June, August, excluding holidays): Good deals weeks before, but booking ahead still secures best selection.
  • Use reputable platforms like Booking.com, Agoda, IHG Hotels, Hostelworld.

Trusted Booking Platforms

  • Compare prices across platforms and direct hotel websites. Direct booking can offer better rates or perks.
  • For vacation rentals, Airbnb is popular.
  • Consider TrustedHousesitters for unique stays.
  • Negotiating walk-in rates is less common in larger hotels but possible in smaller guesthouses during low season, especially for cash payments.

Important Considerations

Deposit and Cancellation Policies
  • Policies vary by property and platform.
  • Always review specific deposit and cancellation terms before confirming.
  • Many platforms offer free cancellation up to a certain date.
  • Non-refundable rates are often cheaper but offer no flexibility.
Seasonal Price Fluctuations
  • Prices are highest during Argentine/Brazilian summer holidays (Dec-Feb), July (winter school holidays), Easter, and long weekends.
  • Prices are generally lower in June and August (outside July holidays), good for value.

Tips

Compare Rates

Always check both booking platforms and the hotel's direct website for the best price or special packages.

Cash Payments

For smaller establishments, cash payments may offer a slight discount, especially during low season.

Flexibility

Consider flexible cancellation policies if your travel plans are not yet firm.

Accommodation Recommendations

Examples of reputable accommodation options by budget and traveler type.

Budget & Mid-Range Stays

Selva Hostel / Tangoinn Downtown Hostel & Hotel

Social atmosphere, dorms and private rooms, often centrally located with pools and communal kitchens.

  • Average Price: $20 - $50 USD/Night
  • Good for meeting other travelers.
  • Central location with good amenities.
Hotel Esturion Iguazu / Hotel Raices Esturion

Comfortable accommodations with good facilities, often featuring a pool and on-site restaurant. A balance of tranquility and accessibility.

  • Average Price: $70 - $130 USD/Night
  • River views (Esturion Iguazu).
  • Modern with good service.

Luxury & Family-Friendly Choices

Gran Meliá Iguazú Inside Park

The only hotel inside the Argentine National Park, with unparalleled falls views and premium amenities like a spa and multiple restaurants.

  • Average Price: $400 - $800+ USD/Night
  • Exclusive park access.
  • Isolated from town amenities.
Loi Suites Iguazú Hotel / Mercure Iguazu Hotel Iru

Loi Suites offers serene, luxurious jungle setting with pools. Mercure has spacious rooms, large pool, and kid facilities, often in a quieter area.

  • Average Price: $100 - $300 USD/Night
  • Good for relaxation amidst nature (Loi Suites).
  • Suitable for families (Mercure).

Solo Traveler & Long-Stay Options

  • Solo Traveler: Selva Hostel & Tangoinn Downtown Hostel

    Both are excellent for meeting other travelers due to their social atmosphere and central location, making it easy to connect and access attractions.

  • Long-Stay: Airbnb Apartments

    Offers kitchens and more space, making them a practical and cost-effective option for extended stays with laundry facilities.

  • Consider varied options

    Choosing accommodation based on your travel style and preferences can greatly enhance your trip.

  • Price Points

    Prices are averages and fluctuate based on season and demand. Always check current rates.

Other Options

  • Cultural/Historical Focus: N/A

    Iguazu is mainly nature-focused. Most hotels are modern or nature-themed, reflecting the region's main attraction rather than historical architecture.

  • Location Considerations

    Choose between the bustling city center, tranquil jungle outskirts, or the exclusive national park location based on your priorities.

  • Ambiance Preferences

    Whether you seek lively nightlife or serene natural sounds, Puerto Iguazú has options to match your desired atmosphere.

  • Amenities and Services

    Many accommodations offer swimming pools, on-site dining, and shuttle services, enhancing your stay.

Planning Your Stay

Consider Travel Companions

Your group size and composition (family, solo, couple) can influence the most suitable accommodation type.

  • Families: look for spacious rooms, kids' facilities.
  • Solo: hostels for social interaction.
  • Couples: quiet hotels or luxury resorts.
Factor in Transportation

Staying outside the city center or within the park will mean relying on taxis or shuttles more frequently.

  • City center: walk to many spots.
  • Outskirts: shuttle availability is helpful.
  • Inside park: hotel provides transport options.

General Advice

Read Reviews

Check recent reviews on booking platforms to get insights into specific properties.

Book Early for Peak Times

Especially if you have specific hotels or room types in mind, secure your booking well in advance.

Consider Direct Bookings

Sometimes hotels offer loyalty programs or special rates only available through their official websites.