
Best Backpacking Destinations in Iguaçu, Brazil
1. Iguaçu National Park
Explore the largest waterfall system in the world, offering a variety of trails and panoramic views.
- Accessible Trails: Easy to moderate difficulty trails suitable for backpackers
- Wildlife Viewing: Opportunity to observe diverse wildlife such as jaguars, caimans and numerous bird species
- Unparalleled Scenery: Breathtaking views of over 275 waterfalls along the Iguaçu River
2. Iguazu Falls - Argentine Side
Experience the Devil's Throat, one of the most spectacular viewpoints of Iguaçu Falls.
- Devil's Throat View: Access to the heart of the falls, offering awe-inspiring views
- Rainforest Trails: Explore trails within the subtropical rainforest surrounding the falls
- Gorge Walkway: Walk along a catwalk over the Iguaçu River, providing unique perspectives of the falls
3. Itaipú Dam
Visit the world's largest hydropower plant and witness its engineering marvel.
- Educational Experience: Learn about renewable energy generation at the dam visitor center
- Guided Tours: Take a guided tour to access restricted areas and understand the dam's operations
- Nighttime Viewing: Stunning nighttime illumination of the dam and surrounding landscape
4. Parque das Aves
Discover a vast aviary featuring over a thousand birds from South and Central America.
- Rare Species: Opportunity to see rare species such as hyacinth macaws, harpy eagles, and jabiru storks
- Interactive Exhibits: Learn about the conservation efforts for these birds through interactive displays
- Flight Shows: Daily flight shows demonstrate the incredible flying abilities of various bird species
5. Macuco Trail
Hike through lush rainforest and navigate the Iguaçu River by boat to reach San Martin Island.
- Rainforest Exploration: Explore a dense section of the Atlantic Forest on the Macuco Trail
- Boat Tour: Navigate the Iguaçu River and view the falls from a unique perspective
- San Martin Island: Discover wildlife such as tapirs, caimans, and anacondas on San Martin Island
6. Pocona Falls
Hike to a secluded area where you can swim beneath a small section of Iguaçu Falls.
- Swimming Opportunity: Unique chance to swim in the pools formed by the falls
- Hiking Challenge: Moderate to challenging hike through the rainforest to reach Pocona Falls
- Secluded Area: A less crowded and peaceful experience compared to other viewing points
7. Iguaçu Bird Park
Explore a large bird sanctuary showcasing over 150 species of birds native to the region.
- Rare and Endangered Species: Opportunity to see rare and endangered bird species such as toucans, macaws, and eagles
- Flight Shows: Daily flight shows demonstrating the birds' natural abilities
- Conservation Efforts: Support conservation efforts for these incredible species through admission fees
8. Ponte da Amizade (Friendship Bridge)
Cross the border between Brazil and Argentina on this scenic pedestrian bridge.
- Scenic Views: Stunning views of Iguaçu Falls from both the Brazilian and Argentine sides
- Photography Opportunities: Unique photo opportunities with the falls in the background
- Cultural Exchange: Experience a sense of camaraderie and shared admiration for the natural wonder
9. Iguaçu Jungle Safari
Embark on an open-top jeep tour through the rainforest, spotting wildlife and learning about the local ecosystem.
- Wildlife Viewing: Opportunity to observe jaguars, caimans, and tapirs in their natural habitat
- Local Ecosystem Education: Gain insights into the local ecosystem and conservation efforts
- Adventure Experience: A thrilling adventure through the dense, verdant rainforest
10. Parque das Cataratas Campground
Stay overnight in a campground within Iguaçu National Park for easy access to the falls.
- Convenient Location: Ideal base for exploring the park and its various waterfalls
- Nature Immersion: Experience the sights, sounds, and smells of the subtropical rainforest
- Budget-Friendly Accommodation: Cost-effective accommodation option for backpackers
11. San Rafael Bar-Torkalo Waterfall
Visit the second largest waterfall in Iguaçu National Park and enjoy its tranquil surroundings.
- Tranquility and Solitude: Less crowded than other viewing points, offering a peaceful experience
- Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: Opportunity to observe wildlife such as coatis and toucans in the surrounding forest
- Hiking Challenge: Moderate hike through the dense, verdant rainforest
12. Yacaré-Mirim River Boat Tour
Cruise down the Yacaré-Mirim River and spot caimans, capybaras, and other wildlife.
- Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: Opportunity to observe a variety of wildlife such as caimans, capybaras, and birds
- Peaceful Setting: Relaxing boat tour through the pristine waters of the Yacaré-Mirim River
- Cultural Experience: Learn about the local Guarani culture and their relationship with the river
13. Piraí-Mirim Waterfall
Hike through the rainforest to reach this smaller, less crowded waterfall and enjoy its refreshing pools.
- Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: Opportunity to observe wildlife such as coatis, toucans, and birds in the surrounding forest
- Hiking Challenge: Moderate hike through the dense, verdant rainforest
- Refreshing Swimming Opportunities: Swim in the refreshing pools formed by the waterfall
14. Iguaçu Butterfly Farm
Discover a beautiful butterfly conservatory filled with over 150 species of butterflies.
- Rare and Colorful Species: Opportunity to observe colorful and rare butterfly species up close
- Conservation Efforts: Support conservation efforts for these delicate creatures through admission fees
- Photography Opportunities: Capture stunning photos of the colorful butterflies and vibrant plant life
15. Bird's Eye View Tour (Helicopter Ride)
Experience an unforgettable bird's-eye view of Iguaçu Falls on a helicopter tour.
- Unique Perspective: A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the falls from above
- Photo Opportunities: Stunning photo opportunities with a breathtaking backdrop
- Adventure Experience: An exhilarating adventure and unforgettable memory of Iguaçu Falls