Iguazu National Park contains semicircular Iguazu Falls spanning the border between Argentina and Brazil (80% of the falls are on the Argentinean side and 20% on the Brazilian side). Iguazu has 20 large waterfalls and 255 smaller ones that fall from a height of 70-80 meters. The surrounding subtropical rainforest is home to giant anteaters, howler monkeys and jaguars.
How I Booked the Flights to Argentina
I used 35K Virgin Atlantic miles per passenger to book the Delta flight from Atlanta to Buenos Aires (EZE). The same flight can also be booked using the Flying Blue miles. It is difficult to find Delta One award space from Atlanta to EZE, but economy flights are easily available in shoulder months.
Flights from Buenos Aires to Aeropuerto Puerto Iguazu (IGR)
Aerolineas Argentinas has several daily nonstop flights from Buenos Aires (AEP) to IGR airport and can be booked using the Flying Blue miles as needed.
Accommodation in Iguazu
There are some expensive hotel options to stay very close to Iguazu Falls (e.g., Gran Meliá Iguazú). We stayed at Iguazu Jungle Lodge, which was wonderful with an excellent breakfast and dinner. We arranged for a taxi to take us to Iguazu Falls (9 miles away). You just need one full day to explore the Iguazu Falls area and depending on your flight arrival time, I recommend staying 1-2 nights.
Exploring Iguazu Falls
- Falls are open from 8 am to 6 pm; Entrance ticket costs approximately USD $ 23 per person.
- Upper circuit: The upper circuit extends to the Salto Mbigua waterfall, where there is a viewing platform.
- Lower circuit: Boardwalk path will lead you along the lower ravine to the falls.
- The Devil’s Throat: I recommend taking the train ride, which is included in your entrance fees. Approximately half of the Iguazu river’s total flow channels through the Devil’s Throat, which is made up of 14 powerful waterfalls.
- Two boat tours (Nautical Adventure and the Great Adventure) are offered at the national park.
Iguazu Falls Scenery
Summary
The 275 individual falls of Iguazu comprise the largest waterfall system in the world, and must be visited by all nature lovers. Argentina flights are easy to book with credit card points which can save a significant amount of money.