The Ultimate Brazil Travel Guide: Iguazu Falls & Foz do Iguaçu

Things to Know Before You Go to Iguazu Falls

• Best Time to Visit Iguazu Falls: Iguazu Falls can be visited year-round, but the best time depends on what you want to experience. December to February is the rainy season, when the falls are at their most powerful. However, it can also be very humid and crowded. For a balance of more mild weather and strong water flow, consider visiting during March to May.

• Tickets to Iguazu Falls (Brazil Side): The entrance to the Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls is through Iguaçu National Park. The park charges an entrance fee, and tickets must be purchased in advance online. It is recommended to book in advance during the high season as tickets do sell out.

• Prepare to get wet: You will likely get wet, even if you’re not taking a boat ride. The sheer force of the falls creates a mist, especially if you walk out on the boardwalks that get closer to the falls. Bring a rain jacket or poncho, and a waterproof bag for your phone and valuables.

• Wildlife in the Park: Iguaçu National Park is not just about waterfalls; it’s also home to incredible wildlife. Keep an eye out for coatis, cute mammals that roam the park. While they are cute, don’t feed them as they can become aggressive. You may also spot colorful birds, butterflies, and other wildlife.

• Boat Rides: Tour companies offer an up-close experience with the falls. The boat tour takes you right into the Iguazu River and under some of the smaller falls. It’s an optional extra, but is a unique way to feel the raw power of Iguazu up close. Just be sure to bring a waterproof bag.

Is Foz do Iguazu safe for tourists

The majority of tourists who stay in the main tourist areas and take some simple precautions will not have problems. Sticking to well-known areas, planning your movements in advance, and being aware of your surroundings will go a long way in avoiding trouble.

In Foz do Iguacu, the city centre (Centro), Avenida das Cataratas, and areas close to Iguazu Falls are considered safer and are popular among tourists. Avoid staying in outlying neighbourhoods outside of the main tourist centre.

These are my personal recommendations for ways you can stay safe in Foz do Iguazu:

• Book accommodation in the recommended areas for visitors

• Use Uber or other reputable rideshare services with a credit card linked to your account, as it avoids handling cash and provides a digital record of your trip

• Avoid walking alone at night in quiet neighbourhoods or streets with little lighting

• Keep your phone, jewelry, and other valuables out of sight when in public or travelling on public transport

• Be cautious when withdrawing cash, choose ATMs located inside banks or shopping centres

• If in doubt, ask your hotel or host for up-to-date local advice

Travel insurance for Foz do Iguazu

Travel insurance is not just a nice-to-have, it is an important safety-net that can prevent a stressful incident from turning into an expensive disaster. The reality is that unexpected events can happen on any trip. Even something as simple as missing a connecting flight can lead to unexpected accommodation and transport costs. If you become unwell, medical bills in another country can quickly become expensive. Without insurance, you have to handle all of this on your own in an unfamiliar environment, possibly in a language you do not speak.

I have personally relied on travel insurance multiple times, including when I had belongings stolen in Europe, fell sick while travelling in Asia, and had flights cancelled. In each case, the support I received meant I could focus on solving the problem instead of worrying about costs.

For a small daily cost, you can be covered for a wide range of scenarios, from theft to delayed flights and medical emergencies. Having one phone number to call and a company that deals with the problem for you is worth far more than the price of the policy. I personally use Safety Wing, and I recommend them to friends, family, and anyone travelling internationally. You can get a quote here.