Refugio Tingazú5-day itinerary: Iguazú Falls and the Misiones rainforest
A good 5-day plan is to spend 2 days at Iguazú Falls and then drive about 2 hours along Route 12 to central Misiones for 3 nights in the rainforest, with birds, trails and streams.
The route
- Puerto Iguazú: 2 days at Iguazú Falls
- National Route 12 south: about a 2-hour drive
- Refugio Tingazú: 3 nights: birds, trails and the Paranay stream
What to do on your 3 forest nights
- Birding mornings on the refuge trails.
- A day trip to the Paranay stream, Cueva del Yaguareté and Gruta India.
- An afternoon at a nearby waterfall such as Piedras Blancas or Salto Alegre.
- Sunset at the quincho with reviro and ember-cooked mate cocido (by arrangement).
Variations
If you are driving up from the south, do Route 12 end to end: Posadas, the San Ignacio ruins, 2 or 3 nights in the forest and the falls to finish.
Stay in the forest
Refugio Tingazú is a private wildlife reserve with a single wooden cabin for 3 people in El Alcázar, Misiones, about 2 hours from Iguazú Falls.
Ask on WhatsAppSee the cabinFAQ
How many days do I need for Iguazú Falls?
Two days cover both sides well; add 2 or 3 nights to see the rainforest of central Misiones.
Should I rent a car in Misiones?
Yes, to travel Route 12 and reach streams, waterfalls and caves freely.
Can I do the route the other way round?
Yes: forest first, falls at the end.