Is it worth doing it without going to the Argentina side so maybe just do the Brazil side and the bird park.

Short answer: no!

You don't need a visa for day trips, BTW, if that's the issue...

Short Sweet and Simple always good

Would you mind clarifying which country/countries you are referring to - Paraguay, Argentina or Brasil? Thanks

If you have a visa for Brazil, you do not need a visa to enter Paraguay or Argentina, when you just go there on day trips. As a matter of fact, there is practically no border or immigration control.
The same should be valid if you have a visa for Argentina.

However, this is just based on my experience (and I do not need visa for either country), and what I have read and heard. I am not issuing any guarantees. I suggest you double check with consulates and/or people who has crossed the border recently, and has US/AUS/CAN passports.

The other guy i am travelling with has an Indian Passport. Now in general Indian passport holders require a visa for Brazil and Argentina. Not sure if you already have a Brazil visa can you do the day trip to Argentina without the visa.

Well, I understand that India passport holders needs a visa for Argentina, and even though no real immigration procedure is done (no entry/exit stamps), he might not be able to enter Argentina.
I did say that a visit to the falls are not worth it, if you do not go to both sides. This is still my general opinion. Going to Iguacu and not visiting the Argentinian side, just because you are too lazy, is stupid. Going to Iguacu and not visiting the Argentinian side is like looking a beautiful girl in the eyes, and not kissing her.
However, under these circumstances, I would still recommend going. But make sure you have a whole day at the Brazilian side, and take the boat tour and as many the options you might usually want to do from the Argentinian side.

I am pretty sure you can enter Paraguay without visa, if you want want to. Please be aware that Ciudad del Este is very dodgy after dark!

I went for a day trip to Argentina from Foz do Iguacu in December of 2010. My impression is that border control is very much there. My passport was inspected and stamped by both countries on each way (entry and exit 4 stamps total on this day). I was traveling with a passport that don't require visa for both Brazil and Argentina.

Will find out and let you guys know. I reckon a visa is required.

Experts on tripadvisor claims your friend does not need a visa:

http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic...of_Parana.html

If i read it correctly a US passport does not require a visa but it does not say anything about a non US passport. I checked with the Consulate and they said an Indian passport requires a visa.

I hope you have figured out a basic plan for Rio by now. If not, I'm willing to help as a former resident of Ipanema. But to put your requests in perspective, it's kind of like a Brazilian who says "I want to see Miami Beach, New York City and the Grand Canyon in one week" Of course it's possible. But, you'll need a vacation when it's over.

Let me know if I can help you with specifics in Rio. I'll be there right after you arrive.

Rio Rob

Riorob...not planned out anything yet. All that i have till now is a confirmation for Marriott which my mate is contemplating and wants to consider an apartment. Guess once i know for sure will ask you and the rest for some advice. Thanks.

That is risky advice. Countries that require visa do generally also require one at land crossings, including Fox de iguassu. The Paraguay side is pretty lax but neither the Brazil nor Argentine side are so, IME. I have traveled with people who have been rejected for day trip entry without visa for Brazil. Argentine Visa on arrival can be done and you might even get by without it.

IME, counting on lax enforcement is dangerous. It might work, but might not...

Either way I'd give Ciudad del Este a miss although it's ten years since I was there. I was in Foz de Iguacu and decided to "visit" another country. I strolled over no problem but there was frankly little to see. There were lengthy queues at the PF checkpoint to get back into Brasil and I ended up nearly missing my bus that evening. Not worth the hassle IMO.