Puerto Iguazu is a gateway to the iconic Iguazu Falls and its wildlife-rich rainforest. It also boasts a historic Three Borders Landmark overlooking the rivers where Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay meet.
The area isn’t all about the natural wonders, though. In addition to a vibrant nightlife, there are plenty of things to do in the city center as well!
Virgen del Carmen Cathedral
The Virgen del Carmen, also known as the Mother of the Sea or Saint of the Fishermen, is the patron saint of sailors and fishermen. She is believed to have been born from a cloud of water that appeared at Mount Carmel, where the prophet Elijah was praying for rain to save Israel from drought.
Today, the Virgen del Carmen is celebrated in Peru on July 16, and in many places around the world. It’s a lively, vibrant festival full of dancers dressed in colourful Inca and colonial costumes.
At the beginning of the Festival, the statue of the Virgen is carried through the streets. Her image is accompanied by bands of straining devotees.
As the procession winds its way through the streets, the Virgen is adorned with rose petals and flowers. The faithful crowd around her, singing and dancing in celebration of her. Afterwards, she is placed on a boat for a trip around the town’s shores.
Hummingbird Garden
The Hummingbird Garden is a charming garden that has been created on the private property of a family who loves hummingbirds. The owners have made a hobby out of caring for these birds, and they are able to attract more than 150 species.
You can also see a wide variety of wildlife in the nearby Iguacu National Park, which is the largest protected area in the world with over 400 different species of plants. It’s a great place to see some of the most stunning flora in all of Argentina, plus you’ll be able to see exotic animals like quatis (South American raccoons), toucans, and monkeys.
Another must-see is the Bird Park, which is just a few kilometers from the falls and features over 900 rare and colorful birds. These include 150 species ranging from Brazil to Southwest Asia and Africa. There are plenty of opportunities to get close to these beautiful creatures, plus you’ll have the chance to spot alligators and reptiles as well.
Parque Nacional Iguazu
There are plenty of things to see and do in Puerto Iguazu, but if you're looking for the most spectacular attractions, you'll want to head to the Parque Nacional Iguazu. Located on the Argentinean side of the Iguazu River, this national park protects one of the world's most iconic natural wonders, the Iguazu Falls.
From here, you can get up close and personal with the Iguazu Falls on several different types of tours. Some of these are fast zodiac rides that blast you up as close as possible to the mighty falls.
You can also try the more romantic Moonlight Tour on nights with a full moon, which includes a scenic walk and a ride on a panoramic elevator that gives you a different view of the falls.
The park is also home to a huge array of wildlife, including rare and endangered species like jaguars, tapirs, ocelots, anteaters, and howler monkeys. If you're looking to get out and explore some of the surrounding rainforest, consider taking a four-hour eco-adventure trek.
Argentine Experience
When you're traveling to Argentina, don't miss out on the opportunity to eat delicious argentine cuisine. In Puerto Iguazu, you can experience a cooking class in Argentine style while learning how to make typical dishes such as empanadas, alfajores and mate.
The Argentine Experience is a great way to learn more about Argentine cuisine, and it's an interactive cooking class that you can book online. You'll make these typical Argentine dishes as you're taught by a local argentine chef.
The Argentine Experience is a fantastic way to spend a day while in Puerto Iguazu, and it's a good idea to book ahead as they fill up quickly. There are also a lot of tours that are offered to the falls and nearby jungle, so it's worth doing your research and checking which one is best for you.
