Most people rush to the Falls, snap a selfie, and leave. Big mistake. Staying in the right place lets you catch the misty dawn before the crowds, the deep green of the jungle all to yourself, and the eerie, satisfying roar of the falls at night. Your choice of neighbourhood will shape your Iguazu Falls experience profoundly.

## Where to stay

**Parque Nacional do Iguaçu, not Foz do Iguaçu.** Foz is where most tourists end up, a serviceable hub of tour offices and souvenir shops. But if you want the magic of the falls to spill into your mornings, stay inside the national park itself. The Hotel das Cataratas is the only hotel there, and it’s worth it for the after-hours access and waking up to the falls' thunder.

**Av. das Cataratas for convenience.** If splurging on a park stay isn't viable, settle on Avenida das Cataratas. It’s the main drag leading to the park entrance with decent mid-range hotels, local eateries like Restaurante Naipi, and the all-important bus stop that'll get you to the falls in no time.

**Stay in Puerto Iguazú for a different vibe.** Cross the border into Argentina for Puerto Iguazú, where the pace is slower, the vibes are more relaxed, and the Milka chocolate is a sweet bonus. Littoral Hotel offers a quiet base with easy access to both the Argentine and Brazilian sides of the falls.

## When to go

March to May offer the sweet spot of fewer crowds and pleasant weather. December to February is high season and sees both tourists and humidity levels soaring.

Wherever you land, ask the concierge for tips on under-the-radar spots or browse online for guesthouse recommendations. Iguazu is best when you’re a little off the beaten path, even if just for a coffee at a local café.