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How to Get to Puerto Iguazu

How to Get to Puerto Iguazu

Puerto Iguazu Northeast Argentina, Argentina Travel Guide

Air Travel

Airports Serving Puerto Iguazú

You have two main airport choices:

Airport Details

  • Puerto Iguazú International Airport (IGR), Argentina: Approx. 20 km (12 miles) from city center, serves domestic flights.
  • Foz do Iguaçu International Airport (IGU), Brazil: Approx. 25 km (15 miles) from Puerto Iguazú, alternative for international flights via Brazil.
  • No direct international flights to IGR. All international travelers connect through Buenos Aires.

Airlines & Transfers

IGR is mainly served by Aerolíneas Argentinas and Flybondi. IGU by LATAM, GOL, Azul.

Transfer Options

  • Taxis/Remises from IGR (fixed rates, ~$15-25 USD). Shared vans (~$8-12 USD/person).
  • From IGU to Puerto Iguazú: Requires border crossing. Taxis/Remises (more expensive, ~$30-50 USD). Public bus (cheapest, multiple transfers, immigration stops).
  • Flight prices increase significantly during Argentine and Brazilian holiday periods. Booking in advance is recommended.

Flight Deals

Find affordable flights with Dollar Flight Club.

Compare Flights

Compare options on Skyscanner for the best routes.

Car Rentals

Book rentals through DiscoverCars.com.

Land Transportation

Border Crossings

  • Argentina-Brazil (Tancredo Neves Bridge): Frequent buses and taxis. Mandatory immigration stops for both sides. Get exit/entry stamps.
  • Argentina-Paraguay (International Friendship Bridge): Via Foz do Iguaçu (Brazil) to Ciudad del Este (Paraguay). Stringent immigration checks.
  • No train connections for public passenger transport to Puerto Iguazú from other parts of Argentina.

Buses & Self-Driving

  • Long-distance buses connect to major Argentine cities (Buenos Aires, Salta). Companies: Cruzero del Norte, Rio Uruguay.
  • Self-driving is possible, but not always needed. An International Driving Permit (IDP) with national license is required.
  • Road conditions outside major routes vary. Driving across international borders with rentals usually needs special permission and insurance.

Departure Information

Exit Fees

Argentina typically does not charge separate exit fees for air travel (usually included in airfare). No specific exit fees for land border crossings.

Departure Timing

For domestic flights from IGR, arrive 1.5-2 hours prior. For international connections via IGU (Brazil), arrive 2.5-3 hours before, allowing 1-2 extra hours for border delays.

Airport/Station Facilities

IGR offers basic waiting areas, shops, and cafes. Puerto Iguazú Bus Terminal also provides waiting areas and small shops.

Local Transport

Public Buses Colectivos

The local bus system (Rio Uruguay) is an affordable and useful way to travel. The Main Bus Terminal is the central hub.

Routes & Fares

  • Routes connect the city to Iguazú National Park (Argentine side) and Foz do Iguaçu (Brazil).
  • Local fares are typically paid in cash directly to the driver (ARS). Exact change is useful.
  • Buses to the National Park run early morning to early evening, every 20-30 minutes during peak hours.

Taxis & Remises

Taxis and remises offer a convenient, often faster alternative.

Hailing & Payment

  • Taxis are yellow and black. Remises are private cars for hire, often pre-booked with fixed rates.
  • Fares for taxis use meters within the city but often fixed rates for trips to the falls or cross-border. Confirm price before starting.
  • Cash (ARS) is preferred. Credit card payment is rare.

Car Rental

Renting a car is possible but not always necessary due to good public transport.

Requirements & Conditions

  • Minimum age: typically 21-23 years. Valid national driver's license and an International Driving Permit (IDP) are legally required.
  • A credit card in the driver's name for deposit.
  • Full coverage insurance is highly recommended.

Walking & Cycling

Puerto Iguazú's downtown is pedestrian-friendly. The national park offers extensive walking trails.

Routes & Safety

  • City center and Iguazú National Park trails are excellent for walking.
  • Dedicated bicycle infrastructure is limited outside the city. Cycling on main roads is not advisable.
  • Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas at night.

Ride-Sharing & Safety

  • Uber availability in Puerto Iguazú can be inconsistent. Drivers may operate covertly.
  • Verify car model, license plate, and driver's name on the app before entering.
  • Always use licensed taxi vehicles. Ask your hotel to call a trusted taxi or remise.
  • Motorcycle and scooter rentals are less common and generally not recommended for tourists.
  • Drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory. Speed limits are enforced.
  • Alcohol limits for drivers are strict.

Specialized Transit

Tour Buses & Water Transport

Tour buses transport visitors from Puerto Iguazú hotels directly to the national park. The park features unique water-based tours.

Options Available

  • Direct tour buses from hotels to Iguazú National Park entrance.
  • "Gran Aventura" boat tours within Iguazú National Park go directly under the falls. These are recreational activities, not general transit.
  • Scenic boat trips on the Iguazú River offer sunset views or views of the Triple Frontier landmark.

Park Internal Transport & Accessibility

Within Iguazú National Park, the "Jungle Train" transports visitors between main circuits.

Features

  • The ecological "Jungle Train" (Tren de la Selva) moves visitors between park circuits.
  • Iguazú National Park has improved accessibility, notably for the upper circuit and certain viewpoints with paved paths and ramps. The Jungle Train is also accessible.
  • Puerto Iguazú does not feature cable cars, funiculars, or similar unique local transport systems.

Pedestrian Access

The city center is compact and walkable. National park trails are well-maintained for pedestrians.

Taxi Service

Taxis and remises are readily available at the airport and bus terminal for fixed-rate travel.

Bus Terminal

The main bus terminal in the city center is a hub for local and long-distance travel.

River Travel Note

Ferry & Cruises

Puerto Iguazú is an inland city. Ferry services and cruise ports for arrival or departure are not applicable.

River Transit

  • Tourist boat tours operate on the Iguazú River (scenic cruises, "Gran Aventura").
  • A small ferry connects Puerto Iguazú (Argentina) to Presidente Franco (Paraguay) across the Paraná River. This is a local crossing.
  • River tours depart from specific docks with land transport access.

Airport Services

Both IGR and IGU airports offer services for travelers.

Amenities

  • Car rental desks are available at both airports.
  • Shops and cafes operate at the airports.
  • ATMs are available at IGR. IGU offers more dining and shopping.

Driving Regulations

Road Quality

Main roads (e.g., Ruta 12) are generally paved and in good condition. Secondary roads can be unpaved.

Driver Conduct

Drivers in Argentina can act aggressively. Defensive driving is advised.

Rural Safety

Roadside assistance may be limited in rural areas. Plan routes and check vehicle condition.

Travel Tip:

Always confirm bus departure times and specific stops at the main bus terminal. Allow extra time for international border crossings during busy periods.