The walkways and visitor circuits at Iguazú Falls National Park on the Argentine side were closed on 12 October 2026 after the Iguazú River reached a flow rate exceeding 12,000 cubic metres per second - well above the threshold at which the park suspends access. At its peak, the river level was recorded at 24.30 metres and continuing to rise.
Planning an Iguazu visit? Most Iguazu Falls tours are still running with free cancellation, so you can book flexibly. Compare hotels in Iguazu or read our where to stay in Iguazu guide, see the Iguazu Falls visitor guide, and arrange your Iguazu airport transfer.
Previous updates: Devil’s Throat circuit update, October 2026 and original circuit closure, August 2026.
The Brazilian side of the falls was also affected, with the Garganta do Diabo (Devil’s Gorge) and pedestrian footbridges suspended simultaneously.
What Triggered the Closure
The Iguazú River drains a large catchment extending into southern Brazil. Heavy rainfall events in the upper basin - not necessarily visible at the falls themselves - can cause levels to surge rapidly. At flow rates above approximately 6,000–8,000 m³/s, the park typically restricts or suspends the lower circuits closest to the water. Above 12,000 m³/s, a full closure of walkways is standard practice.
At these levels, the roar of the falls intensifies dramatically and spray reaches hundreds of metres. While the spectacle is extraordinary, the walkways become unsafe.
Current Situation
Argentine park authorities indicated on 12 October that a reopening was possible as early as 13 October depending on how quickly river levels receded. However, no confirmed reopening had been reported as of 15 October. The situation may change quickly - river levels at Iguazú can drop as fast as they rise once rainfall stops in the upper catchment.
What to Do if You’re Visiting Soon
- Before you travel: Contact your accommodation in Puerto Iguazú or check the park authority’s official channels for the latest access status.
- If you arrive and the park is closed: Puerto Iguazú town has hotels, restaurants, and some boat operators who may still be running trips; the Brazilian town of Foz do Iguaçu also has attractions unrelated to the falls themselves.
- Silver lining: Witnessing the falls in flood is genuinely spectacular, and many visitors who have timed their trip to high water consider it a highlight rather than a setback - provided access is permitted at lower circuits.
Our Iguazú Falls visitor guide explains the circuit system and how to plan your visit around seasonal water levels.