Travel to Foz do Iguaçu: How Much It Costs, Best Time of Year

Foz do Iguaçu, one of Brazil's natural wonders, is an incredible tourist destination that attracts visitors from all over the world to witness the majesty of the Iguaçu Falls. Located on the triple border between Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay, this city offers a unique blend of nature, adventure and culture. If you're planning a trip to Foz do Iguaçu, it's important to consider several aspects, from cost to the best time of year to visit. 

All about the trip to Foz do Iguaçu

Located in the heart of Brazil, this city is famous for the majestic Iguaçu Falls, which captivate and inspire visitors from all over the world. However, there is much more to explore than the impressive falls. 

Find the essence of Foz do Iguaçu and discover everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable trip to this unique destination. From accommodation tips to the best places to eat and the must-see attractions, get ready to embark on an exciting journey through the land of water.

How much does it cost?

One of the first questions that comes up when planning a trip is how much it will cost. When it comes to Foz do Iguaçu, costs can vary depending on several factors, including the time of year, the length of stay, the type of accommodation chosen and the activities planned. Here's a basic estimate of the main costs:

Air tickets

Airfare prices to Foz do Iguaçu can vary depending on where you are and how far in advance you buy. You can usually find good deals if you book in advance or are willing to be flexible with your travel dates.

Accommodation

Foz do Iguaçu offers a wide variety of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget hostels. Prices vary according to the type of accommodation and location. During the high season, prices tend to be higher, so booking in advance can help secure better rates.

Food

The gastronomy in Foz do Iguaçu is diverse, with a variety of options to suit all budgets. You can enjoy delicious meals in local restaurants, try typical dishes from the region and also find more economical options in snack bars and street stalls.

Transportation

Transportation costs in Foz do Iguaçu can include cabs, local buses and sightseeing tours. It is advisable to research the options available and consider using public transportation whenever possible to save money.

Activities

One of Foz do Iguaçu's main attractions is the Iguaçu Falls, but there are also a number of other activities to enjoy in the region, such as visits to national parks, boat trips on the Iguaçu River, shopping in Ciudad del Este (in Paraguay) and visits to the ruins of San Ignacio (in Argentina). The costs of these activities vary, so it's important to plan ahead and budget accordingly.

Best time of year

The best time to visit Foz do Iguaçu depends on individual preferences and the type of experience you want to have. Here are some considerations about the different seasons:

Summer (December to February)

Summer in Foz do Iguaçu is hot and humid, with temperatures that can reach 40°C. This is the high season for tourism, as many people take advantage of the end-of-year vacations to travel. The Iguaçu Falls have an impressive volume of water during this time, which can result in spectacular views, but the tours can be more crowded and the prices higher.

Autumn (March to May)

Fall is a pleasant time to visit Foz do Iguaçu, with milder temperatures and less rain than in summer. This is a good time to avoid the crowds and still enjoy spectacular views of the Iguaçu Falls.

Winter (June to August)

Winter in Foz do Iguaçu is mild, with temperatures that can drop to around 10°C at night. This is a popular time to visit, especially for those wishing to avoid the intense heat of summer. The Iguazu Falls may have a slightly lower volume of water during this season, but they still offer impressive scenery.

Spring (September to November)

Spring is a pleasant time to visit Foz do Iguaçu, with pleasant temperatures and lush green landscapes. This is a time of transition, with fewer tourists than in summer, but still good conditions for exploring the region's attractions.

Discover the free places to visit in Foz do Iguaçu

Foz do Iguaçu offers a number of free attractions that allow visitors to explore the city without compromising their budgets. These places offer memorable experiences and reveal the rich cultural and natural diversity of the region. Here are some of the free places to visit in Foz do Iguaçu:

1. Iguazu National Park (Brazilian side)

The Iguaçu National Park, located on the Brazilian side of the famous Iguaçu Falls, is one of the most spectacular natural attractions in the world. This park, which covers an area of approximately 185,000 hectares, is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts millions of visitors every year.

Upon entering the Iguaçu National Park from the Brazilian side, visitors are greeted by a well-organized infrastructure, including parking, a visitor center, souvenir stores, restaurants and toilets. Entry to the park is free for Brazilians on certain days of the week and discounted for local residents.

The park's main attraction is undoubtedly the majestic sight of the Iguazu Falls. With more than 270 waterfalls over a length of almost three kilometers, the falls form an impressive and unforgettable spectacle. The park's well-tended walkways and trails offer different perspectives of the falls, allowing visitors to admire their beauty from a variety of angles.

In addition to the waterfalls, the Iguaçu National Park is home to a rich diversity of fauna and flora. Visitors can spot a variety of birds, butterflies, reptiles and mammals along the trails, making the experience of visiting the park even more enriching. The areas of preserved Atlantic forest provide a natural habitat for an impressive variety of species, some of which are threatened with extinction.

2. Bird Park

The Parque das Aves is an unmissable attraction in Foz do Iguaçu, especially for lovers of nature and exotic birds. Located next to the famous Iguassu Falls, this bird sanctuary is dedicated to conservation, research and environmental education, providing a unique and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

With an area of approximately 16 hectares of preserved Atlantic forest, the Parque das Aves is home to more than 1,400 birds of around 150 different species, as well as a variety of other animals such as reptiles, mammals and butterflies. Many of the birds are rescued from illegal trafficking or mistreatment, and the park offers a safe and suitable environment for their rehabilitation and care.

When exploring the Parque das Aves, visitors have the opportunity to observe birds up close in large aviaries that replicate their natural habitats. You can admire macaws, toucans, flamingos, parrots, emus, among many other species, some of which are endangered. The park also offers photo sessions with macaws and other birds, providing a unique interactive experience.

In addition to its impressive collection of birds, the Parque das Aves also has trails through the Atlantic forest, where visitors can observe the native flora and learn about the importance of environmental conservation. The park also offers educational talks, where visitors can learn about the different species of birds, their habits and the threats they face in the wild.

3. Three Borders Landmark

The Three Borders Landmark is an emblematic site in Foz do Iguaçu, where the borders between Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay meet. Located at the confluence of the Iguazu and Paraná rivers, this geographical point offers a breathtaking view of the natural landscapes and a unique opportunity for visitors to contemplate three countries at once.

The Three Borders Landmark is made up of three different obelisks, each representing a country: Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay. The obelisks are painted in the national colors of each country and display flags, symbols and historical information about the region. In addition, there is a central structure that serves as a lookout point from where visitors can enjoy incredible panoramic views of the rivers and neighboring countries.

As well as enjoying the breathtaking views, visitors can also take part in cultural and interactive activities at the Three Borders Landmark. The venue features folkloric performances, typical dances and live music that celebrate the region's rich cultural diversity. There are also souvenir stores where visitors can buy souvenirs and local products.

One of the most striking features of the Three Borders Landmark is its peaceful and welcoming atmosphere. Despite the political and cultural differences between the countries, the site is a symbol of harmonious coexistence and cooperation between nations. Visitors are welcomed with hospitality and have the opportunity to learn about the history and culture of the neighboring countries.

4. Chen Tien Buddhist Temple

The Chen Tien Buddhist Temple is a hidden gem amidst the lush countryside of Foz do Iguaçu. Located about 4 kilometers from the city center, this Buddhist temple is an oasis of peace and spirituality, offering visitors the opportunity to reconnect with themselves and explore the teachings of Buddhism.

Upon entering the Chen Tien Buddhist Temple, visitors are greeted by a tranquil and serene atmosphere, where the sound of prayer bells and the scent of incense create a sense of calm and contemplation. The temple's architecture is impressive, with its adorned roofs, golden statues and manicured gardens, which reflect Buddhist aesthetics and values.

One of the most striking features of the Chen Tien Buddhist Temple is the statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, which stands out for its grandeur and beauty. Over seven meters high, this statue is one of the largest representations of the Buddha in Latin America and inspires visitors with its majestic presence.

In addition to the Buddha statue, the temple houses a number of other Buddhist statues and symbols, each with its own meaning and symbolism. Visitors are invited to explore the temple gardens, where they can meditate, reflect and appreciate the beauty of the surrounding nature.

5. Itaipu Ecomuseum

The Itaipu Ecomuseum is an institution that stands out as a source of knowledge and preservation of the history and environment related to the Itaipu Hydroelectric Power Plant, one of the largest in the world in terms of energy production. Located in Foz do Iguaçu, the museum offers an educational and interactive experience for visitors, covering various aspects of the construction and operation of the plant, as well as the environmental and social impact associated with it.

Upon entering the Itaipu Ecomuseum, visitors are immersed in a journey through the history and technology behind the plant. The museum features permanent and temporary exhibitions that explore topics such as the construction of the plant, the operation of the turbines, energy generation and the challenges faced during the construction process.

One of the main attractions of the Itaipu Ecomuseum is the exhibition of mock-ups and models representing the plant and its operation. Visitors have the opportunity to understand the scale and magnitude of this impressive engineering feat, as well as learning about the technological advances that made its construction possible.

6. Foz do Iguaçu Market

Located in the city center, the Feirinha de Foz do Iguaçu is a great place to explore the local culture and buy souvenirs without spending too much. Visitors can find a variety of handcrafted products such as clothes, jewelry, decorative items and much more.

Exploring these free places in Foz do Iguaçu not only provides enriching experiences, but also allows visitors to save money while enjoying the best the city has to offer.

See also: 10 cheap places to visit in Fortaleza 

March 30th, 2024