How best to experience the Iguazú Falls

The Iguazú Falls are one of the world’s most jaw-dropping sights. Set deep in the rainforest and straddling the borders of Argentina and Brazil, the famous cascades can be visited from either country – although in our opinion, the views are better from Brazil. There are fantastic lodges on both sides and we will carefully select the best one for you, depending on your tastes and interests. Whatever you decide, it is easy to cross the border temporarily with just a stamp in your passport.

Personally, I would recommend spending two nights at Belmond Hotel das Cataratas. The property itself is impressive, but its location is what makes it remarkable. It is the only place to stay in the Brazilian part of Iguazú National Park, which is closed between the hours of 6pm and 9am. Therefore, during this time, Belmond guests are the only people with access to the falls. Imagine that: the Iguazú Falls all to yourself.

On my first morning there, I rose early and met with my wonderful private guide, Grace. We wandered down to a platform with the most unbelievable view of the waterfall. My breath was instantly taken away. I couldn’t believe we were so close to the falls and yet just moments away from the hotel. We then pottered along what is known as the Trilha das Cataratas, or ‘Waterfall Trail’, and to my disbelief, the vistas just kept getting better.

Nothing can compare you for the spectacle of three million litres of water falling per second. With the park still being shut, and few other guests awake yet, there was no one else in sight. I was much more blown away by Iguazú Falls than I ever thought I would be, but then again, I never imagined I would have almost private access to them.

A very different, yet equally rewarding, way to visit the Iguazú Falls would be to stay at Awasi on the Argentinian side. We would recommend four nights here to make the most of this amazing jungle retreat. Its wide array of activities allows guests not only to experience the cascades themselves but also to get to know the flora and fauna of the surrounding rainforest. We always ensure that all our clients have their own private guide and 4WD, giving them the flexibility to wake up each morning and choose what they would like to do. From kayaking down the Paraná River to hiking in the Yacu-I Reserve, Awasi has it all.