Belmond Hotel das Cataratas: My Personal Luxury Escape to Iguassu Falls

The Belmond Legacy: A Global Standard in Luxury Hospitality

This was my first time staying at a Belmond hotel, apart from my unforgettable journey on the Andean Explorer, which tempted me to book this stay. Given my experience with their legendary hospitality on a luxury train, I was eager to see how they delivered at a world-class hotel.

Belmond is now part of LVMH (Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy), having been acquired in 2019. LVMH, the global leader in luxury, also owns Cheval Blanc, Bulgari Hotels, and other ultra-premium hospitality brands. This acquisition only solidified Belmond’s reputation as a pioneer in refined, experiential travel.

Top Belmond Hotels Around the World

• Copacabana Palace (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) – A legendary beachfront hotel known for its Art Deco charm and celebrity clientele.
• Hotel Cipriani (Venice, Italy) – A Venetian masterpiece on the island of Giudecca, known for its spectacular lagoon views and Michelin-starred dining.
• Belmond La Résidence d’Angkor (Siem Reap, Cambodia) – A serene retreat in the heart of Angkor, blending Khmer architecture with contemporary luxury.
• Belmond Mount Nelson (Cape Town, South Africa) – A colonial-era landmark surrounded by lush gardens, offering breathtaking views of Table Mountain.
• Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo (Sicily, Italy) – A historic retreat in Taormina with panoramic views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea.

Belmond properties are synonymous with exclusivity, often located in historically significant or naturally stunning destinations, where luxury meets culture and authenticity.

Getting Here from Dubai

Getting to Iguassu Falls from Dubai is a bit of a journey, but trust me, it’s worth every moment. The most efficient way is to fly from Dubai (DXB) to Rio de Janiero (RIO) with Emirates, a 15-hour direct flight. From Rio, you’ll need to take a 2-hour domestic flight to Foz do Iguaçu (IGU). The airport is small and efficient, and from there, it’s just a 25-minute drive to Belmond Hotel das Cataratas. The hotel can arrange a private transfer, or you can easily get a taxi.

For those who want to extend their trip, a stopover in Rio de Janeiro is a great option—visit Copacabana Palace, another iconic Belmond hotel, before heading to the falls!

Iguassu Falls: One of the Greatest Natural Wonders

Iguassu Falls is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world, boasting 275 individual waterfalls that stretch across nearly 3 kilometers between Brazil and Argentina. The falls are taller than Niagara Falls and nearly twice as wide, making them one of the most significant waterfalls on the planet. They are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and considered one of the New Seven Natural Wonders of the World.

If you’re wondering how Iguassu compares to others:

• Niagara Falls (USA/Canada): 51 meters tall, famous for its sheer volume of water.
• Victoria Falls (Zambia/Zimbabwe): One of the largest curtain waterfalls in the world.
• Angel Falls (Venezuela): The world’s tallest waterfall at 979 meters.

An Exclusive Retreat Inside Iguassu National Park

Tucked away inside Brazil’s Iguassu National Park, Belmond Hotel das Cataratasis the only hotel within the park’s boundaries. This means exclusive early morning and late evening access to the falls—before the crowds arrive. Imagine sipping coffee at sunrise while gazing at one of the most breathtaking waterfalls on Earth, all in serene solitude.

The first morning I woke up here, I grabbed my coffee and sat outside, letting the roar of the falls set the tone for the day. No chaos, no tourists—just me and the power of nature.

The Ultimate Iguassu Experience: Private Walks & Nighttime Serenity

A private sunrise walk to the falls is a must—you can opt for a guided tour or explore alone. We opted to go alone, and it was truly magical. The mist rising, the golden sunlight breaking through the jungle, and no one else around—it was an experience I’ll never forget.

But while I love adventure, I have to admit—it was a bit intimidating at night. The hotel is perched right on the edge of the falls, and the deep rumble of the water at night reminds you just how powerful nature can be.

Best Time to Visit & Climate in August

August is prime time. The dry season means cool mornings (10°C), warm afternoons (25°C), and low humidity—ideal for exploring without the discomfort of extreme heat or rain. Want the most powerful waterfall views? Visit during the wet season (December-March), but expect heavier crowds and intense humidity.

Hidden Tips & Insider Tricks

• Secret Sunrise Spot: Head to the observation deck by the pool before sunrise. You’ll see the first light hit the falls before anyone else.
• Exclusive Park Access: As a guest, you can enter the park before and after public hours. Take full advantage of this.
• Try the Jungle Trail: A lesser-known, shaded path leads you to quieter viewpoints of the falls—perfect for photography.
• Order a Caipirinha at the Pool Bar: The bartender makes one of the best in Brazil, using fresh Amazonian fruits.

Architecture & Design: A Colonial Masterpiece

Belmond Hotel das Cataratas is an architectural gem, showcasing Portuguese colonial elegance. The hotel’s pink façade, terracotta roof, and blue shutters make it instantly recognizable. The interior boasts polished wooden floors, handcrafted furniture, and traditional Portuguese tiles, creating a warm and refined atmosphere. It feels like stepping back in time but with every modern luxury you could want.

Rooms & Suites: Unparalleled Comfort & Luxury

Every corner of this hotel screams super luxury and comfort, just as you’d expect at this price point.

• Superior Rooms (30 sqm) – The most affordable, cozy with garden or courtyard views.
• Deluxe Rooms (35 sqm) – Slightly larger, with jungle or pool views.
• Junior Suites (42 sqm) – More space, separate living areas, and added perks.
• Cataratas Suites (50 sqm) – The crown jewel—private balconies with direct falls views.

Pro Tip: If you can, book a Cataratas Suite—it’s worth every penny for the balcony view alone.

Food & Drinks: A Culinary Dream

The food? Absolutely incredible.

• Breakfast Buffet: One of the best I’ve had—an incredible spread of fresh tropical fruits, Amazonian juices, Brazilian pastries, cheeses, and made-to-order omelets.
• Itaipu Restaurant: High-end Brazilian cuisine with a focus on locally sourced meats and seafood.
• Ipe Grill: Perfect for a casual poolside meal—grilled specialties and fresh salads.
• The Bar: Cocktails here are next-level—especially the signature caipirinha.

Belmond’s Expansion in the Middle East

Belmond has yet to establish a major presence in the Middle East, but given its LVMH ownership, it’s only a matter of time. With the rise of ultra-luxury tourism in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, industry insiders speculate that Belmond could bring its heritage luxury hotels to destinations like AlUla, Dubai, or Abu Dhabi.

Potential Future Developments

• Rumors of a boutique desert retreat in Saudi Arabia
• Possible collaboration with ultra-luxury brands in the UAE
• Interest in historic preservation projects in Oman

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Final Verdict: Is It Worth the Splurge?

Without a doubt, this is one of the most spectacular places I’ve ever stayedin South America. If you’re looking for a bucket-list-worthy escape, this is it.

Overall, I really hope LVMH decides to open a Belmond hotel in the Middle East, bringing something truly unique to the region. A property set in a historical area—such as Old Dubai, Jeddah’s Al-Balad, or even parts of Oman or Saudi Arabia—would add a level of authenticity and cultural depth that aligns with Belmond’s heritage-focused luxury. Given LVMH’s expertise in craftsmanship and ultra-luxury brands like Four Seasons, Aman, and Janu, they could create a destination that seamlessly blends history, architecture, and high-end hospitality, offering an experience that stands out from the traditional luxury hotels in the region.

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