Things to do in Puerto Iguazú, Argentina: a hub guide beyond the falls

Quick answer: Puerto Iguazú offers Iguazú National Park with its iconic Devil's Throat walkways as the main attraction, plus the Hito Tres Fronteras landmark overlooking three countries, wildlife refuges like Güira Oga and La Aripuca, duty-free shopping at the border, Casino Iguazú for gaming and shows, and local dining at the Feirinha market. Buses connect downtown to the Falls every 20 minutes.

The Falls (Argentine side)

The star outing is still Iguazú National Park, with its walkways and the unmissable balcony over the Garganta del Diablo (Devil's Throat). Set aside a full day for the Upper and Lower circuits and the ecological train to the Throat. It's a different experience from the Brazilian side, so many travellers do both. Bring water, insect repellent and comfortable shoes, as the trails are long.

Hito Tres Fronteras

A few minutes from downtown, the Hito Tres Fronteras (Three Borders Landmark) is a renovated lookout with a plaza, fountains and a crafts fair where you can see Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay at once, plus the meeting of the Iguazú and Paraná rivers. There's often a light-and-sound show at dusk — sunset is the prettiest time.

Nature (Güira Oga, La Aripuca)

To meet the jungle without going far, Güira Oga ("the house of birds" in Guaraní) is a rescued-wildlife refuge where a guided visit shows toucans, monkeys, birds of prey and recovering caimans. Right nearby, La Aripuca is a family-run project that teaches about the Misiones rainforest. Bird lovers can add the Jardín de los Picaflores, a garden where hummingbirds come close to the feeders.

Shopping and Duty Free

The Duty Free Shop, at the border crossing, is a large shopping centre with tax-free perfume, electronics, clothing and drinks. It sits on the way out towards Brazil, so carry your ID and follow the border officers' instructions. Across the region sits Ciudad del Este (Paraguay), another Triple Frontier shopping classic. Confirm opening hours and border rules before crossing.

Casino and nightlife

Casino Iguazú, next to the Iguazú Grand, opens daily until the early hours and is the go-to for gaming tables and shows. Downtown has plenty of restaurants, and the gathers Argentine and Brazilian flavours at open-air stalls.