Argentina: Gran Meliá Iguazú
A trip to Iguazú Falls is a bucket list worthy trip all on its own. However, if you really want to level up…book your Iguazú luxury stay at the Gran Meliá Iguazú. You’ll be surrounded by beautifully designed spaces, an infinity pool, delicious food, and views of the iconic falls that will leave you breathless.
The Property
I stayed at the Gran Meliá in September 2021. This is the only hotel inside Iguazú National Park, making it the most convenient spot from which to base your exploring.
The Room
You can choose between a Jungle View room or a Falls View. The Jungle View will save you some money (and there are plenty of places on the property where you will get fantastic views of the falls!).
However, if you are able, I definitely recommend splurging for a Falls View room. I spent a lot of time sitting on our private balcony, drinking a glass of wine, and enjoying watching the falls from the privacy of my room.
Additionally, you can upgrade further to the Red Level room category. These rooms have guaranteed falls views, private check-in/check-out service, and access to the Red Level Lounge, where you will find food and drink all afternoon and into the evening. (I won’t admit how many champagne bottles we enjoyed during our 4 night stay…)
I would also recommend starting each day with sunrise. The views from your balcony, especially when looking over the falls, are pretty magical. Grab a cup of coffee from your in-room Nespresso machine, enjoy the birdsong, and watch for toucans, as they are quite active at this quiet time of day.
Common Spaces & Dining
The Gran Meliá has beautiful common spaces, and you’ll notice them from the minute you step through the greenery filled front door and catch your first glimpse of the iconic horseshoe waterfall of Devil’s Throat.
As for food, you’ll find a full service restaurant on-site. Breakfast is included in your rate and you can choose from indoor and outdoor seating. You can also order food from the pool area to have delivered to you. If you’re in the Red Level rooms, enjoy complimentary food and drink in the lounge everyday from 12-8pm.
Don’t skip sunset at the rooftop bar while enjoying caipirinhas. You might not be in Brazil, but you can certainly enjoy this delicious Brazilian drink!
Amenities & Activities
While it would be easy to spend your trip relaxing by the stunning infinity pool all day, if you’re staying at the Gran Meliá it’s because you’re here to see Iguazú Falls. From the hotel, there is an easy and convenient trail that leads you directly into the park.
We spent our mornings exploring the trails inside the national park and our afternoons enjoying the hotel. The on-site Yasi Spa is a perfect way to spend one of your final afternoons at the hotel. (I highly recommend the facials!)
The Location
The fact that this hotel is inside the national park is simply unbeatable. In addition to the proximity to the falls, the airport is only a 15 minute drive away. The town of Puerto Iguazú is 30 minutes away, where you’ll find more restaurants and activities to enjoy.
Price
The currency used in Argentina is the peso.
As you might imagine, you’re not staying at the Gran Meliá on a budget. Prices vary based on season and room category, but I would plan to spend a minimum of about $500USD a night.
Tips for saving money: book directly through the hotel (they often offer discounts) and be flexible with your dates. If you can plan a mid-week trip, you’re likely to find better deals…and fewer crowds!
Regardless of where you stay during your visit to Iguazú Falls, you are going to have an incredible experience. But if you want to pack as much magic as possible into your trip, don’t skip the Gran Meliá!
