Awasi Iguazú, our 14-villa Relais & Chateaux lodge, is located in the Atlantic Rainforest in Argentina’s Misiones Province.
One of the 14 villas at Awasi Iguazu, Relais & Chateaux
A boutique hotel surrounded by forest, we are just 20 minutes from the world’s largest waterfall system, the Iguazú Falls.
Recognised as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the area is humid and subtropical, making it an appealing year-round destination.
Devil’s Throat, Iguazu Falls, Argentina. Photo by Luciano Bacchi
What should I pack?
Be prepared to get wet! There’s always a chance of rain in this part of the world and you’re likely to get damp during a trip to Iguazú Falls.
Trail walking shoes/ hiking boots
Make comfortable, sturdy and supportive shoes a priority. Consider investing in some cushioned hiking socks that will keep your feet as cool and dry as possible.
Walking sandals
A pair of comfortable walking sandals will provide you with good grip and traction when hiking through jungle paths which can become slippery.
Jacket
Unless you’re travelling in the heat of the summer months, it’s worth packing a lightweight jacket for the evenings and a raincoat if you want to minimise the chance of getting damp during excursions.
Poncho
A poncho can be handy as a barrier against mist from the Falls or to cover your shoulders on cooler evenings. Your private guide will have extra rain ponchos available.
Breathable/ functional tops
Choose comfortable, breathable tops that absorb sweat quickly and keep you cool in a climate that can feel stifling during the summer months. Lightweight UV protective tops that cover up vulnerable areas will protect you from the sun’s powerful rays, while long sleeved tops will stop any mosquito munching.
Hiking pants/ trousers
Opt for a cool, lightweight bottom half for maximum comfort – leggings, pants or quick drying shorts all work well.
Rucksack/ daysack
You’ll definitely need a lightweight canvas rucksack for daytime excursions.
Refillable water bottle
Hydration in a subtropical climate is key. Awasi Iguazu is all-inclusive, so we provide water bottles (and have refills stations) as well as plenty of energy-boosting snacks during excursions.
Electronics
It’s definitely worth bringing a camera to capture the almost incomprehensible sight of the Iguazú Falls. Don’t forget chargers and adapters.
Swimming kit
Do remember to pack a couple of pairs of swimmers. We provide towels.
Hat, sunscreen and sunglasses
A sunhat or cap, waterproof, high SPF sunscreen and good quality sunglasses are vital additions to your luggage.
Insect repellent
One of the downsides can be the mosquitos, so ward them off from the get-go with insect repellent.
First aid kit
The Awasi private guides always carry first aid kits with them. It’s a good idea to bring insect repellent.
Kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding at Awais Iguazu, Argentina
What should I wear for which activity?
The Iguazú Falls have no less than 275 individual cascades that run along a 4km/2.5 mile long crescent-shaped cliff.
Some waterfalls plunge up to 82m/269ft into the gorge below.
There is lush rainforest, rolling fields and plantations and a mass of interesting wildlife to spot, from toucans and yellow-eyed bluebirds to monkeys and even jaguars.
With your own personal private guide by your side, you can pick and choose the activities that appeal to you to get the most out of your trip.
Iguazu Falls by Luciano Bacchi
Hiking/ trekking
There are numerous fantastic trails to explore in the Iguazu National Park, including the Devil’s Throat, Lower Circuit and Superior Circuit.
You’ll need the full range of hiking gear, including comfortable, breathable tops and bottoms, sturdy boots with cushioned socks and a backpack containing all the necessary supplies you’ll need to keep yourself hydrated, fed and protected from the sun and biting insects.
On more remote hikes you will have a strong chance of seeing rare birds and native animals. Our guides always bring binoculars, but you may want to pack your own.
An adventurous bike ride through the lesser-known parts of the Argentine Iguazu National Park.
Exploring the Falls
Lightweight, quick-dry clothing, waterproof boots or shoes or even a pair of walking sandals. Take a change of clothes and a microfiber towel to be safe.
Boat rides, kayaking and water sports
There’s nothing quite like the thrill of taking an exhilarating boat ride under the cascades to feel the full force of the Falls. Wear swimming kit and a lifejacket for boat trips. The same goes for rafting or kayaking trips.
Kayaking on the Yacuí river with Awasi Iguazu
Swimming
Bring at least two bathing suits on this trip – you’re likely to spend more time wet than you are dry. One thing’s for certain – you’ll definitely want to savour a dip back at the lodge in your own private plunge pool after a long day of exploring.
Immersion in nature at Awasi Iguazu, where each room has a private guide and 4×4
The Seasons
Open year-round, visitors to Awasi Iguazú can expect fairly distinct seasons:
Spring (September to November)
Spring brings warmth and the first hot weather, a low possibility of rainfall, clear skies and fewer crowds. It’s a great time of year to visit as water levels at the Iguazu Falls tend to be good and foliage flourishes.
Summer (December to March)
This is the hottest, most humid season, during which temperatures can reach 30-35 degrees Celsius (86-95 degrees Fahrenheit). Water flow at the Falls is highest during the summer months, attracting huge crowds so it’s worth arriving at the crack of dawn if you want to beat those bodies.
Autumn (March to May)
By March the crowds recede, the water is high, it’s warm and sunny and there are blue skies and less rainfall. Avoid Easter Week though as this is when the Falls become overrun with tourists.
Winter (June to August)
Drier and fresher but still fairly warm, when daytime temperatures average around 28 degrees Celcius. There is a little less daylight, occasional grey skies and the odd shower and it’s cooler with fewer mosquitos.
We hope that this has given you a taste of what to expect in the incredible Atlantic Rainforest in Norther Argentina.
Do contact us with any questions – we hope to welcome you soon at Awasi Iguazu, Relais & Chateaux.