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Cataratas del Iguazu International Airport

About the Airport

Cataratas del Iguazu International Airport. Source: Kupi.com Binoculars

Cataratas del Iguazu International Airport is not merely a transport hub, but your first introduction to the majestic nature of the Misiones province. The air gateway is unique in its location: it is situated practically in the heart of the national park, even closer to the famous waterfalls than to the city itself. The terminal building is designed to harmonize with the surrounding subtropical forest, immersing travellers in a jungle atmosphere immediately upon landing. Thanks to panoramic glazing and spacious halls, waiting for a flight here becomes part of an exciting journey.

IATA Code IGR
ICAO Code SARI
City Puerto Iguazú
Distance to centre ~20 km
Status International
Annual Passengers ~1.6 million

Airport Features and Advantages

The airport offers travellers a modern level of comfort and intuitive navigation, which is particularly important for such a popular tourist destination.

  • Strategic Location: The airport is located just a few minutes' drive from the entrance to the Iguazú National Park. This allows many tourists to head to the waterfalls immediately upon arrival, saving time on transfers from the city.
  • Updated Infrastructure: Following recent modernization, the terminal has become significantly more convenient: jet bridges, spacious check-in areas, and comfortable waiting lounges with views of the greenery have been added.
  • Transport and Logistics: At the exit from the arrivals area, you can easily find an official taxi ("remis") or book a transfer to your hotel. Buses running between the airport, the city, and the park are also available.
  • Atmosphere and Service: Inside the terminal, there are shops selling local souvenirs and delicacies where you can buy, for example, the famous Argentine mate tea or handicrafts from regional artisans.

Contact Information

If you need to contact representatives of Cataratas del Iguazu International Airport, please use the following contact information. Note that the airport is managed by Aeropuertos Argentina 2000, so many contacts may lead to their centralized services.

  • Official Website: You can find flight schedules, service information, and news on the operator's official website: www.aa2000.com.ar/iguazu.
  • Information Desk Phone: For information by phone, you can call: (+54 3757) 422013.
  • Airport Address: Ruta Provincial 101, N3370, Puerto Iguazú, Misiones Province, Argentina.
  • Email: For general inquiries and requests, you can use the email address of the Aeropuertos Argentina 2000 central support service: atencionalcliente@aa2000.com.ar.
  • Social Media: Follow updates on the official social media pages of the operator Aeropuertos Argentina 2000 (e.g., Facebook, X, Instagram) under the handle @aa2000oficial.
  • Lost Luggage Information: If your belongings were lost on board the aircraft, you should first contact your airline's representative. If items were lost within the terminal building, contact the Airport Security Police (PSA) at (+54 3757) 421992.
  • Customer Support Contacts: For most questions related to your stay at the airport, use the main phone number or email address listed above.

Getting to the Airport

Getting to Cataratas del Iguazu International Airport (IGR), located approximately 20 km from the centre of Puerto Iguazú, is quite simple. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can choose one of several convenient methods. The journey from the city centre to the terminal usually takes 20 to 30 minutes.

Public Transport

The most economical way to get to the airport is by public bus. The company Río Uruguay operates regular services between the main bus terminal in Puerto Iguazú and the airport. Buses run on a schedule that is often coordinated with flight arrivals and departures. Ticket prices are very low, making this the best choice for budget travellers. However, it is worth checking the current schedule in advance, especially if you have an early departure or late arrival.

Taxi and Transfer

A taxi or a pre-booked transfer (known in Argentina as a "remis") is a more comfortable and faster option. Unlike standard taxis, remis cars have a fixed trip cost which you can confirm when booking. You can order a car at your hotel reception, at a company office, or simply find one at a stand in the city. This is an ideal option for travellers with a lot of luggage or those who value comfort. The cost of the trip will be significantly higher than the bus — approximately 8-10 times more — but it provides door-to-door convenience.

Car Rental and Parking

If you plan to actively explore the region, renting a car might be the best solution. Many international and local rental companies have counters both at the airport and in the city. This gives maximum freedom of movement. For those arriving at the airport in their own or a rented vehicle, there is paid parking on the terminal grounds where you can leave the car for a short or long period.

Other Nearby Airports

When planning your trip, it is worth considering that airports in neighbouring countries are located in immediate proximity. The largest in the region is Cataratas International Airport (IGU) in the Brazilian city of Foz do Iguaçu, just 16 km away. Also nearby is Guaraní International Airport (AGT) in Ciudad del Este, Paraguay. Depending on your route, they may serve as convenient alternatives for arrival or departure.

Terminals and Map

Cataratas del Iguazu International Airport (IGR) is a modern and compact aviation hub that has been completely reconstructed in recent years. Its key feature is the presence of just one passenger terminal, which makes navigation extremely simple and convenient for travellers. This single terminal serves both domestic flights within Argentina and international routes, primarily from neighbouring countries.

The airport layout is intuitive. The building has two main levels. On the ground floor is the Arrivals Area, where baggage claim belts, customs control counters for international flights, car rental offices, and exits to taxis and buses are located. On the first floor is a spacious check-in hall with electronic boards, followed by the Departures Area. Since there is only one terminal, no transfers between terminals or shuttles are required — everything is within walking distance.

After completing check-in, passengers proceed to pre-flight security screening, which leads to the secure departures area. Here you will find boarding gates, a small Duty-Free shop, several souvenir stalls, and cafés where you can have a snack while waiting for your flight. Despite its modest size, the airport offers all necessary amenities, and thanks to recent modernization, it has become significantly more comfortable and spacious.

Completing all formalities at Iguazú Airport usually takes significantly less time than at major capital city airports. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive 2 hours before departure for a domestic flight and 2.5-3 hours before an international one, to check in luggage and pass security control without rushing. Small queues are possible during peak hours, but overall, processes are organized very efficiently.

Navigation Tips: Orienting yourself in the airport is very easy thanks to clear signage in Spanish and English. All key zones — check-in, security, boarding gates — are located logically and sequentially. The main advantage of IGR is its compactness: you will not spend much time moving from the building entrance to your gate, making the journey less stressful.

Airport History

The history of Cataratas del Iguazu International Airport (IGR) is inextricably linked with the growing popularity of the famous waterfalls, for which it serves as the main aerial gateway. Although air connections in the region existed earlier, the modern airport, capable of receiving large passenger aircraft, was inaugurated in 1985. Its construction was a key step for the development of tourism infrastructure in Puerto Iguazú and the entire Misiones province.

A key stage in the airport's development was the late 1990s, when it came under the management of Aeropuertos Argentina 2000. This marked the beginning of a period of gradual modernization and service quality improvement. Throughout its history, the airport has received numerous charter and scheduled flights, delivering tourists from all over the world eager to see one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World — the Iguazú Falls. Its capacity has constantly grown alongside the popularity of this destination.

The most significant transformation in the airport's history occurred between 2017 and 2020. As part of a massive reconstruction, a completely new passenger terminal was built, with an area significantly exceeding the old one. The project also included the construction of a new control tower, expansion of the parking area, and renovation of the runway. This modernization not only increased comfort for passengers but also boosted capacity, preparing the airport for future growth in tourist flow.

Interesting fact: the name of the airport, "Cataratas del Iguazú", translates directly as "Iguazú Falls", highlighting its primary purpose. Today, it is one of the busiest tourist airports in Argentina, offering travellers a modern and convenient start for exploring the incredible nature of the region thanks to its latest reconstruction.

Services and Amenities

Cataratas del Iguazu International Airport (IGR) is a modern and convenient terminal focused on serving tourists arriving to visit the famous waterfalls. Despite its relatively small size, it offers all the necessary services for a comfortable wait. Passengers can have a snack in one of the cafés or snack bars, enjoy a coffee, and purchase souvenirs, local delicacies, and goods in shops, including a Duty Free zone.

For those who value enhanced comfort, the airport operates a VIP Lounge where you can relax in a quiet atmosphere while enjoying beverages and snacks. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and charging stations for electronic devices are provided in the waiting halls to ensure you stay connected.

ATMs and currency exchange points operate at the airport, allowing you to easily resolve financial matters upon arrival or before departure. For emergencies, there is a medical point where first aid can be provided.

The airport is equipped for the convenience of all categories of passengers. There are nursing rooms for travellers with small children. Passengers with reduced mobility can use ramps and specially equipped restrooms, and request assistance from airline staff for boarding by notifying the carrier in advance.

There are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, but many accommodation options are located a few minutes' drive away in the city of Puerto Iguazú. Specialized conference rooms or business centres are absent within the terminal, as the airport is primarily focused on tourist flow, but basic conditions for work can be found in the VIP lounge.

Dining

Cataratas del Iguazu International Airport (IGR) is a compact airport primarily focused on the tourist flow to the famous waterfalls. Dining options here correspond to its size: they are few in number but allow for a comfortable snack before departure or while waiting for arrivals. The main establishments are concentrated in the public area before security control.

In the main hall of the airport, accessible to all visitors (landside), several cafés usually operate. The most notable is an establishment from a well-known Argentine chain where you can have a full breakfast or lunch. They serve quality coffee, sandwiches, salads, and, of course, traditional Argentine pastries. This is the best place if you have plenty of time before your flight or are meeting someone. After passing security (airside), in the departures area, the selection is more modest — typically a small beverage counter or kiosk where you can buy drinks, snacks, and light bites.

Once at the airport, be sure to try some local classics. Look out for empanadas — famous Argentine pastries with various fillings (most often meat, chicken, or cheese). For a sweet snack, an alfajor is ideal — a cookie filled with dulce de leche (caramelized milk), covered in chocolate or powdered sugar. This makes for an excellent gastronomic souvenir to take with you.

For a quick snack, the aforementioned empanadas or a "de miga" sandwich (thin crustless sandwich) are perfect. If you wish to have a full lunch, it is better to do so at the café in the public zone, where you can order a hot dish, such as a "milanesa" — a thin breaded schnitzel. Regarding special dietary needs, choices may be limited. Vegetarians will easily find options like cheese and onion empanadas or vegetable salads. However, please note that finding certified gluten-free, vegan, or Halal dishes may be difficult.

Prices in airport establishments are expectedly higher than in the city of Puerto Iguazú, which is standard practice for airports worldwide. The opening hours of cafés and counters are generally tied to the flight schedule: they open early in the morning and operate until the last plane departs, so you will always be able to have a cup of coffee or a snack before your flight.

Travel Tips

To ensure your trip to Puerto Iguazú goes smoothly from start to finish, it is important to plan airport-related details in advance. Here are a few useful tips to help you navigate Cataratas del Iguazu International Airport (IGR) and make your journey more comfortable.

Arrival Time and Check-in. The airport is not very large, but it can get crowded during peak hours. We recommend arriving at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights. To avoid queues, use online check-in if your airline provides this option. Check-in counters usually close 45-60 minutes before departure.

Seat Selection. A small hack for travellers: when flying out of Puerto Iguazú or landing here, try to get a window seat. Depending on the flight path and weather conditions, you might get lucky and see a breathtaking panoramic view of the Iguazú Falls from above!

Hand Luggage and Security. The screening procedure is standard. Remember the restrictions on carrying liquids: all containers must be no more than 100 ml and packed in a single transparent bag. Electronics, such as laptops and tablets, must be taken out of your bag separately. If you bought local delicacies as souvenirs, such as jams or sauces in large jars, do not forget to pack them in your checked luggage.

Customs Control. When arriving in Argentina from another country, you will need to pass customs control. Fill out the customs declaration (usually handed out on the plane) and be ready to present your luggage for inspection. The import of certain products, especially fresh fruit, vegetables, and meat products, is strictly restricted, so it is better to familiarize yourself with current rules in advance.

Saving Time and Money. To save money, book your transfer from the airport to the city and back online — this is often cheaper than taking a taxi on the spot. Prices for food and drinks at the airport can be inflated, so it makes sense to have a snack before arriving or bring an empty water bottle to fill after passing security control.

Connecting Passengers and Flight Delays. Iguazú Airport mainly serves direct flights and is not a major transfer hub. If you do have a connection planned, be sure to check with your airline whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage. In case of a flight delay, contact your airline representative for information. There are cafés and souvenir shops in the departures area, but the selection is limited, so it is useful to have a book, headphones, and a portable charger with you in case of a long wait.

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