March is a great time to visit Iguazú: crowds have thinned out after the summertime rush, but the river level is high, making the waterfalls look especially dramatic. Whether you want to go on a boating adventure, spot exotic butterflies, or hike in the park after dark, learn more with this monthly guide on what to expect at this time of year.

Weather

March marks the end of summer and the beginning of autumn in northern Argentina and southern Brazil, where Iguazú is located. You won't experience much of a break from the heat and humidity of summertime, though: temperatures regularly push into the upper 80s, sunshine is intense, and days can feel much hotter when the humidity level skyrockets.

Still, if you stick to shaded paths in the national parks and cool off beside the waterfalls' constant spray, you'll find March to be a pleasant time to visit. You'll also see fewer summer storms (and overall less rainfall) than during the previous weeks, as March typically sees about seven rainy days during the month.

Crowds & Costs

March is a popular time for international visitors, who often visit Iguazú on a larger tour of Argentina and/or Brazil. But apart from school groups, field trips, and weekenders, you'll run into far fewer Argentine and Brazilian tourists in March than in January of February: it's back to school time in the southern hemisphere, and the region sees fewer domestic travelers.

Book ahead of time if you have your heart set on a particular hotel, especially if you're visiting on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday. Otherwise, expect moderate crowds and reasonable rates and availability at hotels and restaurants, plus fewer crowds and congestion in the national parks.

What To Do

Thanks to the high temperatures that persist throughout the month, March is a great time to go on the Gran Aventura excursion that takes you by all-terrain vehicle and boat to the base of the falls. You'll get wet, even drenched, which feels great on a hot day. Be aware that high water levels, which can happen in the post-summer period, can affect tour schedules, even if you reserve well ahead of time. Ask at the Visitors Center at Parque Nacional Iguazú, the departure point for the tour.

March is a lovely time for hiking and wildlife viewing on the parks' jungle trails. With fewer visitors in the parks (especially on weekdays), you'll have an easier time taking photos unobstructed by people. Get an early start to beat the heat, and make sure to use the train system that transports you between the park's entrance and major attractions like La Garganta del Diablo, a dramatic lookout point perched high over the cascades.

Plan your trip to Argentina
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.

What To Look For

Early autumn is a good time for bird-watching in the region. Look for bright green and red hummingbirds and plush-crested jays, striking birds that are amazingly unafraid of human visitors. You'll see monkeys climbing through the branches that frame hiking trails, plus a colorful array of butterflies. If you board a boat for the Gran Aventura tour, look for herons, kingfishers, and birds of prey.

The level of Iguazú River is high in March, but the crowds have lessened, making it an excellent time to take the picture of a lifetime at the base of Bossetti Jump. Usually, visitors can only manage this particular photo op with a crowd, but in March, if you wait your turn, you can pose for a solo photo with the dramatic crash of water behind you. Of course, since the river level is high, use extra caution when navigating the parks' catwalks—especially when hiking with children.

Events & Activities

Walks in the Moonlight: Depending on the lunar calendar, Iguazú National Park offers guided nocturnal tours on five evenings each month. Sign up ahead of time for the chance to see the park’s natural attractions under the moonlight, plus owls and other creatures that only come out at night. Several departures are available (7:45, 8:30, and 9:15pm) and reservations are required. 

Visiting Iguazú Falls in March? Check out these itineraries.

Buenos Aires & Iguazú Falls Experience - 7 Days Begin your journey in Buenos Aires and head to Iguazú Falls to see the jaw-dropping beauty of the largest waterfall system in the world. You'll get to experience the falls from both Argentina and Brazil, and take in a tango show in the capital city.

Ultimate Iguazú Falls Experience - 4 Days This four-day getaway to Iguazú Falls takes you into the heart of one of Argentina’s most prized destinations. Then, you'll experience another side of the falls from Brazil, with expansive, panoramic views. 

More Helpful Information

Ultimate Guide to Iguazú National Park
Argentina in March
Argentina Tours & Itineraries
Iguazú Falls in February
Iguazú Falls in April