Weather
February is summertime in the southern hemisphere. Expect hot, humid weather and significant rainfall in northern Argentina and southern Brazil, where the waterfalls are located. Temperatures hover in the low 80s through the upper 90s; generally speaking, it stays warm and sticky after nightfall, as well, due to the high humidity.
Though February is technically one of the region's wettest months, you're unlikely to experience rainy days—most precipitation at this time of the year comes in the form of summer storms that pass through the jungle fairly quickly. Luckily for visitors, most of the national parks' hiking trails are shaded by the forest, so you won't be trekking under the strong sun.
Crowds & Costs
You'll see the waterfalls with crowds from all over the world if you visit Iguazú in February. It's vacation time for many Brazilians and Argentinians: kids are out of school, and lots of families travel domestically. Meanwhile, travelers from the northern hemisphere come to this part of the world to escape the cold in their home countries.
On both sides of the border, Iguazú is a popular destination, and summertime hotel rates reflect that. There's a wider range of accommodation options on the Argentine side, but you'll want to book ahead of time, regardless of your budget and taste. Expect lines at the airport and the bus station, lots of visitors in the parks; at restaurants in town, you may want to reserve a table in advance.
What To Do
It's hot in Iguazú in February: the perfect time to take an exhilarating Gran Aventura boat ride that takes you close to the base of the falls. You'll get drenched from the spray of the falls—a refreshing respite from the steamy weather. Book online or get more information at the Visitors Center, which is also the departure point for the tour (which involves transportation in an all-terrain vehicle to the riverside point where the boats are docked).
When hiking, get an early start to beat the heat and the crowds, stick to shaded paths instead of lingering in direct sun on the viewing platforms, bring plenty of water, and take advantage of the train system that transports visitors between the park's key attractions.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
What To Look For
The powerful Iguazú River is at its highest level in summer, so the falls' cascades look particularly dramatic at this time of year, including sections tucked away in the forest, like the impressive San Martin Jump. Use caution when walking on the parks' catwalks, which can get slippery from the falls' spray, and hold on tight to small children.
While on a boat, keep an eye out for herons, kingfishers, black-collared swallows, and birds of prey. On the hiking trail, you'll spot colorful butterflies and monkeys in the forest. If you're able to join a night tour, you'll have the chance to see a wide variety of owls, including the tropical screech-owl, as well as nighthawks and other creatures that only come out at night.
Events & Activities
Walks in the Moonlight: Five nights a month, depending on the lunar calendar, Iguazú National Park offers guided nocturnal tours where you can see the park’s best attractions under the moonlight. Several departures are available (7:45, 8:30, and 9:15pm) and reservations are required.
Visiting Iguazú Falls in February? Check out these itineraries.
Buenos Aires & Iguazú Falls - 6 Days This is the perfect short trip for active travelers who are short on time. Start with the eclectic neighborhoods of the capital city, and spend the second half of your trip admiring the falls.
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 February
Argentina Tours & Itineraries
Iguazú Falls in January
Iguazú Falls in March