A Stay at Brazil’s Only Hotel Within Iguazu Falls: Belmond das Cataratas

After landing at Foz do Iguaçu Airport, we were at the park entrance in less than five minutes. From there, it was another 15-minute drive to the hotel, with speed limits kept at 40kph to protect the local wildlife. The hotel offers a complimentary shuttle to and from the park entrance, which is a great way to save on transportation costs. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option, you can take a taxi from the airport to the park entrance. Hop on the free shuttle from there — super easy and convenient!

Now, picture yourself surrounded by the lush greenery and thunderous beauty of Iguazu Falls. Right in the heart of this natural wonder sits Belmond Hotel das Cataratas, a dreamy retreat that combines luxury with the wild beauty of the jungle. Its signature pink facade, lovingly nicknamed The Pink Palace, stands out beautifully against the tropical backdrop — perfect for those postcard-worthy photos!

One of the biggest perks of staying here? Exclusive access to Iguazu Falls. While most visitors are limited to park hours (9 am – 5 pm), hotel guests can enjoy the trails before and after the crowds roll in. It’s a game-changer, especially if you want to soak in the beauty of the falls in peace. The hotel also offers guided tours for an extra charge, but they’re totally worth it to skip the daytime crowds.

One experience I’d absolutely recommend? The full moon tour. On nights when the moon is full, the hotel arranges special tours where you can see the falls bathed in nothing but moonlight. There are no artificial lights, just nature putting on a spectacular show. It’s pure magic.

Just a tip: If you decide to walk the trails on your own after dark, be mindful of the wildlife (snakes and other creatures might appear!). I’d stick to daylight or guided tours for a safer experience.

The Belmond Hotel das Cataratas has 193 beautifully designed rooms and suites, blending colonial Portuguese charm with modern comforts. Whether you're looking for a cozy space with views of the falls or a spacious suite with rainforest panoramas, the hotel delivers on both luxury and relaxation. Our kids shared a standard room — not huge, but it had a lovely window view, a roomy closet and a spacious bathroom. My husband and I stayed in a junior suite, which had a super comfy bed and a cozy seating area — perfect for unwinding after a long day in the sun.

The pool & dining scene

The pool was definitely a highlight! Every afternoon, they serve complimentary coconut ice cream, champagne and water — such a nice touch! Plus, from 4 pm onwards, a soft music DJ set the perfect laid-back vibe all three days we were there.

When it comes to food, Ipe Restaurant is the go-to spot for breakfast, offering both a delicious buffet and an à la carte menu. It also serves lunch poolside, along with all-day snacks.

For a more upscale dining experience, Itaipu Restaurant is the hotel’s fine dining option, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Iguazu Falls. The best time to book a table? Right before sunset. Dining on the outdoor terrace with a view of the falls as the sky changes colors is pure magic. The menu is all about Brazilian flavors, featuring fresh seafood, succulent meats and tropical fruits. Whether it’s a romantic dinner or a special celebration, this spot delivers on both food and ambiance.

Spa & relaxation

Of course, no stay here is complete without a trip to the spa! After visiting Parque das Aves (a nearby bird park), my husband and I treated ourselves to much-needed massages. The moment you walk in, the scent of essential oils and soothing music set the tone for total relaxation. The spa menu includes treatments inspired by Brazilian healing traditions. This includes massages with local ingredients like açai and cupuaçu, rejuvenating facials and luxurious body scrubs. They also offer curated wellness packages, which include multiple treatments and access to the spa’s relaxation areas.

The iconic clock tower & that view

And let’s talk about the clock tower — it’s an absolute showstopper! Painted in the hotel’s signature pink and surrounded by tropical flowers, it’s already a stunning sight. But climbing to the top? That’s where the real magic happens.

From the tower, you get a breathtaking, panoramic view of Iguazu Falls in all its glory. The sheer power of the cascading water, the mist rising in the distance and the lush rainforest stretching as far as the eye can see — it’s a sight that leaves you speechless. Sunrise and sunset are especially stunning, as the sky lights up in golden hues, making everything feel almost surreal.

Our stay at Belmond Hotel das Cataratas exceeded all expectations. Between its unbeatable location, gorgeous accommodations, exclusive access to Iguazu Falls and five-star service, it truly delivers a one-of-a-kind experience. If you’re looking for a luxurious and immersive getaway in the heart of one of the world’s most stunning natural wonders, this hotel is it.

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