Foz do Iguacu International Airport Transfers (IGU)

Welcome to the Land of the Falls! You have just landed at the doorstep of one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Whether you are here to feel the spray of the Devil's Throat or to explore the unique "Triple Frontier" where Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay meet, your journey begins at Foz do Iguaçu/Cataratas International Airport (IGU).

This airport is unique because it is located closer to the waterfalls than to the city center. However, navigating the logistics here can be tricky. You may need to cross an international border to get to your hotel in Puerto Iguazú (Argentina), or you might be heading to a resort on the outskirts of Foz.

This guide from TravelThru navigates the IGU airport and the surrounding region. We'll provide a comprehensive airport walkthrough and highlight the most convenient transportation to your destination.

IGU Airport Overview

Foz do Iguaçu/Cataratas International Airport (IGU) is a modern, efficient airport designed to welcome tourists from all over the globe. It was recently expanded and features a single, easy-to-navigate terminal.

Because the airport is small, you can usually get from the plane to the arrivals hall very quickly. The atmosphere is relaxed, but the arrivals area can get crowded when multiple flights land at once.

Foz do Iguaçu Airport Lounge Options

There are two main lounge options at IGU, both providing a comfortable space to wait for your flight.

• The Lounge Cataratas: Located airside (after security) near Gate 2. It offers a view of the tarmac, comfortable seating, snacks, and drinks. It is open daily from early morning until late evening.

   

• Advantage VIP Lounge: Also located airside near Gate 2. This lounge provides a premium environment with a buffet, beverages, and business facilities. Access is available via Priority Pass, LoungeKey, or for a fee.

Parking at Foz do Iguaçu Airport

Parking at IGU is located directly in front of the terminal building.

• Official parking: The lot is open-air and operates 24/7. It is within walking distance of the check-in counters.

   

• Pricing: Rates are charged hourly or daily. It is a safe and monitored area, but shade is limited.

Hotels near Foz do Iguaçu Airport

Unlike most cities, the best hotels in Foz do Iguaçu are often closer to the airport (and the National Park) than to the downtown area.

• Sanma Hotel: Located just 1.5 km from the airport, right next to the entrance of the National Park. It is a luxury option perfect for those who want to be close to nature.

   

• Hotel das Cataratas, A Belmond Hotel: The only hotel located inside the Iguazu National Park. Guests here have exclusive access to the falls before the park opens to the public. It is about a 15-minute drive from the airport (past the park gate).

   

• Bourbon Cataratas do Iguaçu Thermas Eco Resort: This large, family-friendly resort is conveniently situated approximately 12 km from the airport on the main route leading into the city.

IGU Airport Transportation Options

The most important thing to know about your airport transfer here is the geography. The airport is 13 km (8 miles) from downtown Foz do Iguaçu, but only 3 km (2 miles) from the National Park entrance. If you are staying in Argentina (Puerto Iguazú), you must cross a border, which involves stopping at both Brazilian and Argentine immigration.

TravelThru Transfer Service

Our private airport transfer service is the smartest way to handle the Triple Frontier. Your professional driver will greet you inside the arrivals hall, holding a sign with your name. They will assist with your luggage and escort you to your vehicle.

We specialize in:

• Resort transfers: We provide direct transport to the major resorts along the Rodovia das Cataratas.
• City center: We take you directly to downtown hotels like the Ibis or Viale Tower.

Other Transportation Alternatives

• Public bus (Line 120): This bus runs a loop between the National Park, the Airport, and the City Center (TTU). It is very cheap (approx. R$5) but often extremely crowded with tourists and locals. It is difficult to manage with large suitcases.

   

• Airport taxis: Taxis are available at the curb. They use a meter or fixed rates. Note: Not all Brazilian taxis are authorized or willing to cross the border into Argentina.

   

• Ride-hailing apps: Uber and 99 operate in Foz do Iguaçu. Drivers are generally not allowed to cross international borders, so they can only take you to destinations within Brazil.

Things to Do in Foz do Iguaçu

• Iguazu Falls (Brazilian Side): Enjoy the most stunning panoramic views of the falls and embark on a walk along the trail that leads directly to the immersive "Devil's Throat" walkway.

   

• Parque das Aves (Bird Park): Located right next to the National Park entrance. It is an incredible sanctuary where you can walk into aviaries with macaws and toucans.

   

• Iguazu Falls (Argentinian Side): Requires a border crossing. This side offers more extensive walking trails and a closer look at the water.

   

• Itaipu Dam: One of the largest hydroelectric dams in the world. The panoramic tour is impressive.

   

• Marco das Três Fronteiras: The landmark where the Iguaçu and Paraná rivers meet, marking the border of Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay.

How to Get Around Foz do Iguaçu

TravelThru Chauffeur Service

The attractions in this region are spread out. The dam is on one side of the city, the falls are on the other, and the best dining might be in another country (Argentina). Our A-to-B transfer service gives you the freedom to explore without boundaries.

• Two Sides in Two Days: Book us to take you to the Brazilian side one day and the Argentinian side the next. We handle the border wait times in comfort.

   

• Shopping in Paraguay: Ciudad del Este is a chaotic but fascinating shopping hub. A private driver can drop you at the Friendship Bridge or navigate the traffic for you (restrictions may apply depending on current border traffic rules).

Other Options

• Tourist shuttles: Many hotels offer shuttles to the falls, but they run on fixed schedules.

   

• Rental cars: Available at the airport. Be aware that you need special insurance ("Carta Verde") to cross borders, and parking at the falls can be scarce during peak season.