Visitors to Iguazu Falls are spoiled for choice when it comes to finding a good hotel or hostel.
Because Iguazu Falls is shared between Argentina and Brazil, the first choice to make is whether to stay on the Argentinean side or in Foz de Iguazu in Brazil.
Most visitors decide to stay on the Argentinean side of the falls for a few reasons:
- There is more to see and do on the Argentina side of Iguazu Falls. Most of the activities and excursions are in Iguazu Falls National Park in Argentina. Most two o three-day travelers only visit the Brazilian side to check out the panoramic view for a half a day.
- It’s also far cheaper to stay on the Argentinian side at the moment — visitors only need to read up on to Argentina’s parallel currency market to make sure they figure out why.
- Puerto Iguazu is a mellow small town, while Foz de Iguazu is a larger city that may not feel as relaxing, but it does have more nightlife. Visitors can always hop over the border to visit Foz de Iguaçu at night though.
Top-range lodging near Iguazú Falls
Among the top of the line lodgings in Puerto Iguazú there are really only two obvious choices, especially if you’re here for only a night or two.
Below are the only two hotels located in the actual national parks, so they have a corner on the market for those who want to experience the magic of Iguazu Falls at night.
Staying within the Iguazú National Park offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the mesmerizing beauty of the Iguazú Falls beyond the typical visiting hours.
The exclusive access to the park when the crowds have dissipated allows for serene, crowd-free moments with nature and its truly magical.
It’s a splurge that pays off with the rare privilege of witnessing the falls and jungle critters under the soft glow of dawn or the quiet of dusk, times when nature comes alive and the sounds of the jungle are mesmerizing.
Melia Hotel (Ex-Sheraton)
The renovated old Sheraton is now the sleek ‘Gran Melia Hotel’.
After with 20 million-dollar renovations, it’s a huge improvement on the outdated Sheraton.
This is the number one pick due to the distinction of being located within Iguazu National Park in Argentina.
An exclusive retreat, with unparalleled proximity to the majestic Iguazú Falls, it offers an immersive jungle experience while enjoying luxury.
Ideal for both romantic getaways and enriching family adventures, the hotel boasts panoramic vistas that give unprecedented views of the animals outside.
Dining Options at Melia Hotel
Gran Meliá Iguazú’s offers a few different cocktail and dining options.
Alter Rooftop Bar is the place to be in the evenings with cocktails, sushi, a live DJ, and incredible Iguazú vistas.
Melia’s restaurant, Merkado brings Mediterranean fare and karge Argentine steaks.
Don’t overlook Amaro Restaurant, Bar & Lounge, where Spanish tapas meet live tunes, making it a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring, with the falls as your backdrop.
Guest amenities include a rejuvenating spa and an infinity pool that seems to merge with the falls. Visitors can wet their whistles by the pool at the Gala Pool Bar where you can sip on cocktails infused with local fruits and nibble on wholesome appetizers.
Despite its premium pricing, Melia’s location, comfort, and once-in-a-lifetime chance to sleep in luxury while inside Iguazu Falls National Park make it a compelling choice for those seeking to weave the magic of the falls into their stay.
The hotel chain is also rated the third most eco-friendly in the world.
This link is configured to make payment in Argentine pesos, which is favorable for foreigners, but your mileage may vary.
Melia Resort & Spa Iguazú-$$$$
Parque Nacional Iguazú
Tel: (54) (3757) 491800
Hotel das Cataratas, A Belmond Hotel, Iguassu Falls
Belmond Hotel das Cataratas is located in Iguaçu National Park on the Brazilian side.
A five-star Belmond Hotel, it catapults visitors into the heart of Iguassu National Park, with the majestic falls almost at your doorstep.
Even though most people prefer to stay in Puerto Iguazu on the Argentine side for access to the hiking trails of the national park and Argentina’s lower price tag, Hotel das Cataratas may tempt visitors to stay in Brazil when visiting Iguazu Falls.
The thunderous spectacle of the falls is an ever-present companion while staying here, whether you’re sipping cocktails by the pool or acing serves on the tennis court.
The rooms here are elegant and understated with, dark wood accents, and soothing natural tones.
Book a room with a balcony for the full jungle effect.
In addition to incredible sunsets, you may see monkeys, tucans, and other exotic animals.
Dining at Hotel das Cataratas-Belmont
Ipê Grill describes its food as Brazilian-Fusion and Gourmet Barbecue. Even if you can’t stay at the hotel, the restaurants are worth checking out.
Itaipu Restaurant dishes out an eclectic mix of international flavors offering everything from schnitzel to tuna steaks. The lunch buffet is easier on the budget but the restaurant often features live music in the evening.
This hotel is highly rated almost everywhere for its impeccable service, think concierge at the ready and the barman who remembers your favorite drink.
The lush grounds add layers to an already exceptional stay, and the privilege of having the park almost to yourself after the crowds leave is amazing.
Belmond Hotel das Cataratas-$$$$$
Rodovia Br 469 km 32
Parque National de Iguaçu
Tel: (55) 45 2102-7000
Toll Free: 0800 726 4545
⇒ Search Tours in Iguazu
Since the hotel is in the national park itself, provides the ability to observe capuchin monkeys up close, as they can be found hanging all around the property.
The new dining facilities include a casual restaurant with a majestic view of the Devil’s Throat and a rooftop tapas bar with more great views.
Other Premium Lodging
Those looking for luxury but to spend a little less than a stay at the Melia will find a good range of four-star options.
Those who book a full-package Iguazu tour with Wander Argentina receive a range of options to choose from, which include the following hotels:
La Aldea de La Selva Lodge, a short way out of Puerto Iguazu offers a chic, high-end cottage-country feel with natural wood units set among the jungle. The beautiful pool provides a respite after a hot day at the falls. Guests enjoy the hammocks on the balcony and the big breakfast.
The 159-room Loi Suites features bright, wood paneled rooms popular with couples, including honeymooners. A kids club with toys and a ping pong table make it a hit with young families too. There are two on-site restaurants, a fitness center, sauna, and sizable outdoor pool.
Similar to Loi Suites, but a bit smaller with 102 rooms and a tad bit less chic, the American Portal Iguazu as welcomes lots of families and couples. Onsite are tennis courts, a fitness center, an indoor and an outdoor pool, a restaurant and a kids club and babysitting services.
Mid Range Lodging in Puerto Iguazú
Hotel Posada La Sorgente — A nice little Posada that with a friendly staff and a pool, which is essential in the summer. It’s located within walking distance to town and has rooms starting at US$100 per night in the low season.
Av Cordoba 454
Tel: +54 (3757) 422756 / 424252
$$-$$$
Hotel Saint George — Hotel Saint George is a classic 100-room three-star hotel in the center of Puerto Iguazu town. It has a celebrated, historic restaurant, a nice pool, Jacuzzi and attractive rooms starting at around $US130/night
Av. Córdoba 148
Downtown Puerto Iguazú
Tel: +54 (3757) 420633
$$$
Hostels/ B&Bs in Puerto Iguazú
For backpackers and those on a budget, Iguazu has a nice range of hostels.
The majority of them are clustered around the town center and the bus station tend to be smaller but convenient.
Note that in Argentina, the word ‘hostel’ doesn’t necessarily mean sleeping in a dorm. Many have nice private rooms available.
Those further from downtown and towards the falls often feature more amenities such as swimming pools and large outdoor lounge areas.
Hostel Bambú — Good location, clean, nice atmosphere — a good bet if you can live without a pool.
Av. San Martin 4, 3370
Tel: +54 0357 425864
$-$$
Marcopolo Inn — The more low-key partner to the Hostel Inn, located downtown.
Av. Cordoba 158, 3370
Tel: (54 3757) 425-559
$-$$
The Hostel Inn — Young travelers looking to socialize are fans of this one, the only caveat is the location, which is a bit far from downtown.
Ruta 12 – km 5
Tel: (54 3757) 421-823
$-$$
Stop Hostel — A newer hostel with a nice breakfast spread but somewhat mixed reviews.
Av. Victoria Aguirre 304, 3370
Tel: (54 3757) 15-547-709
$-$$
Read More:
→ Iguazu Falls: The Fury of Nature