Foz do Iguaçu: Secret Waterfalls Hike & River Swim Day Tour

Summary

Hidden waterfalls hiking adventure with river swims and local stories

You’ll hike through lush trails outside Foz do Iguaçu with an expert guide, swim beneath secret waterfalls (up to ten!), and soak up stories about local plants and wildlife. Expect candid group photos, river swims that wake you up inside, and those small moments you can’t plan—just feel.

What’s the experience like?

We’d barely started down the first trail when our guide, Pedro, stopped to show us a tiny orchid clinging to the bark. He called it “flor do mato” — wildflower — and I could smell wet earth and leaves all around. There was this quiet, except for birds and someone’s laugh echoing ahead. Pedro switched between Spanish and English without missing a beat, which made everyone relax (my Portuguese is… let’s just say not great). He kept pointing out things I’d have missed: a toucan overhead, some weirdly shaped stones he said were older than the city itself.

I lost count after waterfall number four. Each one had its own sound — some like applause, others more like a hush. The water was cold but not shocking, if that makes sense? We took turns slipping into the pools, letting the falls thump against our backs. It felt like nature’s own massage, way better than anything at a spa. Lunch was just snacks we’d packed ourselves (no fancy spread here), but honestly I didn’t care; I was too busy watching sunlight flicker through the trees and wondering how many people ever see these places on a day trip from Foz do Iguaçu.

Pedro took photos for us along the way — some candid, some where we tried (and mostly failed) to look cool standing under the spray. By mid-afternoon my shoes were muddy and my hair had turned into a frizz ball from all the river mist. No one seemed to mind. There was this moment near the last waterfall where we all just sat on rocks in silence for a bit, listening to water and wind moving through the forest. I still think about that pause sometimes, you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Full day hike to secret waterfalls

• Hike two morning trails
• Visit up to five waterfalls
• Bathe in Iguaçu River
• Hike two afternoon trails
• Visit up to five more waterfalls
• Learn about local nature and history

Top questions

How many waterfalls do you visit on this hike?

The tour covers up to 10 waterfalls throughout four trails during the day.

Is lunch included on this Foz do Iguaçu waterfall hike?

No lunch is provided; participants should bring their own snacks or meals.

Are guides bilingual on this day trip?

Yes, guides speak both English and Spanish fluently during the tour.

Is swimming allowed at the waterfalls?

Yes, swimming in natural pools under several waterfalls is part of the experience.

What’s included in this secret waterfalls tour?

The tour includes group photos taken by your guide, bottled water, accident insurance, and safety equipment.

How difficult are the hiking trails?

The trekking is rated easy to moderate difficulty; suitable for most fitness levels but not recommended for those with mobility issues.

Are there options for public transportation nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available close to the meeting point.

What’s included

Your day includes expert bilingual guiding throughout four scenic trails near Foz do Iguaçu with all safety equipment provided, bottled water along the way, full accident insurance coverage for peace of mind—and your guide will snap plenty of group photos to share after your adventure ends.