Is it worth visiting Ciudad del Este during my visit to Iguazu Falls?

It depends on your interests, but in general, Ciudad del Este can be worth a visit if you’re interested in shopping or exploring something different during your visit to Iguazu Falls.

Reasons to Visit Ciudad del Este:

Duty-free shopping:

• It’s one of the main shopping hubs in South America, offering electronics, clothing, perfumes, and alcoholic beverages at low prices.
• The best places for shopping include Shopping Paris, Shopping China, and Monalisa.

A different culture and atmosphere:

• It’s a very active and chaotic city with a blend of Paraguayan, Brazilian, and Asian influences.
• You can try Paraguayan food, such as sopa paraguaya and chipa.

Nearby attractions:

• Itaipú Dam: One of the largest hydroelectric plants in the world, with interesting guided tours.
• Monday Falls: A beautiful waterfall in Paraguay, though smaller than Iguazu.

Reasons Not to Visit:

Traffic and chaos:

• It’s a commercial city with heavy traffic, street vendors, and crowds.
• Crossing the Friendship Bridge can be slow, especially during peak hours.

Fewer tourist attractions:

• It doesn’t have the natural beauty of Iguazu or as many cultural tourism options.
• If you have limited time, it’s better to focus on the Falls.

Is it worth visiting Ciudad del Este from Iguazu Falls? Conclusion

• If you want to shop or visit Itaipú, it could be worth a half-day trip.
• If you prefer nature and landscapes, it’s better to dedicate your time to Iguazu Falls and its surroundings.