Brazil Vs Argentina: The rivalry between Brazil and Argentina is long-standing. From football teams to natural wonders, tourist attractions to barbeques, both countries compete in almost everything – even who has the most beautiful people. When it comes to Iguazu Falls, Brazil owns 20%, and Argentina owns the other 80%. The Brazilian side offers a bigger view of the falls, while the Argentine side allows for a closer look and a larger area to explore. If you are debating between the two sides of the falls, both are incredible. If you have the time and funds, visiting both is recommended. But if you are forced to pick one side, read on for more information to help you decide which side of Iguazu Falls to visit.

The Argentinian Perspective

Exploring the Argentinian side of Iguazu Falls gives a unique and memorable experience. Two-thirds of the falls are in Argentina, making it easy to spend multiple days exploring and admiring the sights. Catwalks are available to access the ‘Devil’s Throat,’ a horseshoe-shaped collection of fourteen cascades, providing the best view of the strongest section of Iguazu. The loudness of the falling water helps to understand why it is the highest annual flow in the world. It is an awe-inspiring experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

The lower falls trail offers the chance to get close to the water and witness grand views of the falls, which are commonly featured on postcard racks in souvenir shops. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to experience Speedboat rides that take you under the falls and, afterward, a wildlife safari.

You have the option to take a short train ride from the entrance to the park to the Devil’s Throat in Argentina. Once you get off the train, you only need to take a short walk along the steel walkway to get to the central viewing platform.

Visitors to the Argentinean side of the park will find a great selection of nature trails that are less busy than on the Brazilian side. The Argentinian side is the most significant portion of the falls, and the trails offer a range of lengths and difficulty levels. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of viewpoints to take in the cascades of water and smaller falls. There’s so much to see that you can spend an entire day exploring this side of the park and still not see all of it.

The Brazilian Perspective

The Iguazu Falls are spectacularly large, but the Argentinean side doesn’t do them justice. From the Brazilian perspective, though, you get a better understanding of their size since the vantage points are optimally placed and abundant.

The Brazilian side of the Iguazu Falls may not be as large as the Argentinian side, but it offers tremendous observational opportunities that make up for it. From there, visitors can observe the Devil’s Throat and view the falls from both above and below with a glass lift. Moreover, the Brazilian side provides a 360-degree panoramic vista of the entire chasm. The main viewing platform is situated in the middle, allowing visitors to get a good perspective of the full height of the falls. The scenery here is perfect for taking photos. The Brazilian side of Foz do Iguacu is a sight to behold. It is a region that is filled with awe-inspiring beauty, making it a must-visit destination. The area’s landscape is stunning and has a unique charm that draws in visitors from all over the world. The diverse attractions include waterfalls, rainforests, and a wide array of wildlife. With its breathtaking beauty and plethora of activities, it is no wonder that Foz do Iguacu is a popular destination for tourists.

Visitors to Iguazu Falls can take boat trips to different perspectives, but the most thrilling is from Brazil, where they can get up close to the Devil’s Throat. The vessels sail as near as they can to the point where the water cascades down. While on board, you’re bound to get soaked, so don’t bother bringing a rain poncho, as it won’t protect you from getting wet.

The trails and pathways in Brazil are shorter, but visitors still get beautiful views that are more expansive than on the Argentine side, and the scenery is also ideal for taking pictures.

The Parques das Aves, located directly opposite the helicopter pad on the Brazilian side, can be found in a sub-tropical rainforest and is a popular spot to observe a range of wildlife and birds. With over 150 species, the park is home to toucans, flamingos, eagles, and others.

Ultimately, if you are pressed for time, you can visit the Brazilian side of the falls in only a few hours, despite comprising only 20 percent of the total falls.

What are the lodging options?

Two main towns, one on the Argentina side and the other in Brazil, can be used to access the falls. Puerto Iguazu and Foz do Iguacu are both relatively close, and the distance should not be a factor in deciding which side to visit. Nevertheless, the two towns have very different characteristics.

The Argentinian town of Puerto Iguazu is relatively small. Generally, the only people you’ll meet are fellow travelers who have come to witness the magnificent waterfalls. Despite its size, Puerto Iguazu is a tranquil, secure, and peaceful place with plenty of places to eat, sleep, and drink.

Compared to Puerto Iguazu, Foz do Iguacu in Brazil is a bigger town that doesn’t have the feeling of a tourist town that was specially built. It has its own attractions and landmarks, so it may be somewhere to stay for a few days instead of just a one-night stop for the falls. Additionally, there are more accommodation choices, and the airport is easily accessible.

For those who want to stay nearby the falls, the Belmond Das Cataratas is the premier choice and is generally included in luxury Iguazu Falls itineraries. Furthermore, the Melia in Argentina is also a viable option as it is one of the closest hotels, even though it is located outside the city.

Conclusion: Why not Both?

By now, you’re probably thinking that both sides are equally amazing! Exactly! Why not visit both? 

For an even better trip experience, you should cross the border and enjoy the view from both sides.

We have several workshops scheduled for 2024, and Iguazu Falls is on the list. Both Sides, Both Perspectives! Led by Vitor Lindo, this is a well-planned photography workshop for all levels starting on the Brazilian side and then the Argentine one. Check out the details here, and reach out to luanastudiomanager@vitor-lindo.com if you have any questions or to learn how to get $500 OFF your tuition! 

See you at the falls!