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Iguazu River
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The Iguazu River is a roughly 1,320-kilometer-long river in southern Brazil, world-renowned primarily for the Iguazu Falls. It rises in the Serra do Mar coastal range near Curitiba and flows westward through the state of Paraná. Just before its confluence with the Paraná River, it plunges over a basalt edge more than two miles wide, forming up to 275 individual waterfalls. These falls are a UNESCO World Heritage site and attract millions of visitors annually. The river's flow is regulated by several hydroelectric dams upstream, which can impact the natural water levels at the falls. The surrounding national parks in both Brazil and Argentina protect some of the last remains of the Atlantic Forest, hosting an enormous variety of species. Jaguars, coatis, and rare orchid species thrive in this humid, mist-shrouded environment. The name 'Iguazu' comes from the Guaraní language, meaning 'big water,' a fitting tribute to the immense power displayed at the falls.
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Aug, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 26 | 26 | 25 | 22 | 18 | 16 | 16 | 18 | 20 | 23 | 24 | 25 |
| Rain mm | 149 | 133 | 121 | 122 | 161 | 113 | 90 | 77 | 114 | 212 | 155 | 171 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The river is mainly accessed via the Iguaçu National Park near Foz do Iguaçu. Paved walkways and organized boat tours provide structured ways to experience the river and majestic falls up close.
Best season
Spring and autumn are typically the best times to visit, offering an excellent balance of very pleasant temperatures and an impressive water volume cascading down the massive, expansive waterfall system.
Terrain & paths
The areas around the falls feature well-maintained paved walkways and metal boardwalks spanning over the river. The surrounding jungle trails are relatively flat, smooth, and very easy to navigate.
What to bring
A waterproof jacket or poncho is highly recommended due to the heavy mist consistently rising from the falls. Secure, non-slip footwear is absolutely important for walking safely on the wet boardwalks.
Parking
Extensive paid parking facilities are readily available right at the national park visitor centers, making it very convenient for those arriving by private car, taxi, or local rental vehicle.
Safety
Visitors must strictly stay on the designated walkways and never attempt to swim in the rushing river. Organized boat tours always follow strict safety protocols and provide required life vests to everyone.
Time needed
Exploring the river and the main comprehensive waterfall circuits usually takes a full day. Many excited visitors choose to spend two whole days to see both the Brazilian and Argentine sides properly.
Geography
Facts
- The river's total length is approximately 1,320 km.
- The falls have a maximum drop of about 82 meters.
- The average water discharge is 1,746 cubic meters per second.
- The Brazilian Iguazu National Park was established in 1939.
- The Devil's Throat (Garganta del Diablo) is the tallest waterfall section.
- The river forms the border between Brazil and Argentina.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
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Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the main attraction of the Rio Iguaçu?
The world-famous Iguaçu Falls on the border with Argentina.
Where does the Rio Iguaçu empty?
It empties into the Rio Paraná at the triple border of Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay.
Can you take boat trips on the river?
Yes, there are exciting speedboat tours that go right under the falls.
What does the name 'Iguaçu' mean?
In the Guarani language, it means 'Great Water'.
Is there a national park by the river?
Yes, the Iguaçu National Park protects the falls and the surrounding rainforest.
Iguazu River: where is it located?
Iguazu River is located in Brazil.
Iguazu River: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Aug, Sep.
Iguazu River: why is it worth visiting?
The Iguazu River is a roughly 1,320-kilometer-long river in southern Brazil, world-renowned primarily for the Iguazu Falls.
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Nearby cities
Curitiba
The capital of Paraná, globally recognized for its innovative urban and ecological solutions.
Londrina
A thriving university city in northern Paraná, originally planned by British investors for coffee cultivation.
Bonito
A premier ecotourism destination in Mato Grosso do Sul.
Maringá
A very green, planned city in the interior of Paraná, known for its quality of life and its conical cathedral.
Puerto Iguazú
The gateway to the world-famous Iguazu Falls, located on the border with Brazil and Paraguay.
Ciudad del Este
Paraguay's second-largest city at the tri-border area is a massive free-trade hub attracting shoppers from across South America.
Presidente Franco
Located at the confluence of the Paraná and Iguazú rivers, it is home to the stunning Saltos del Monday waterfalls.
Hernandarias
Proudly called the 'Latin American Capital of Energy' since much of the Itaipu Dam is located here.
History & landmarks
Nature
More places
Bird Park Foz do Iguaçu
An ecological park focusing on the conservation of Atlantic Rainforest bird species.
Itaipu Dam
A monumental hydroelectric dam on the Paraná River, supplying a massive amount of electricity to both Brazil and Paraguay.
Curitiba Zoo
An extensive zoo in southern Brazil that is part of a large regional park and houses many endangered species.
Morretes
A charming historic town in Paraná, famous for its traditional Barreado dish and the train ride through the Atlantic Forest.
Antonina
A historic port city in the state of Paraná, surrounded by the lush nature of the Serra do Mar.
Port of Paranaguá
Paranaguá is one of the most important ports in Brazil for agricultural exports.
Urugua-í Wildlife Reserve
A dense jungle corridor providing shelter for jaguars and tapirs while conserving the Atlantic Rainforest.
Misiones Rainforest
A subtropical rainforest in northeastern Argentina with enormous biodiversity.