ARGENTINA: MISIONES PROVINCE
January 24-February 4, 2011
April 20-May 1, 2011
Argentina is the land of contrasts, and many of these will be on display throughout this journey. While the trip commences and finishes in Buenos Aires, allowing enough time to see one of the grand cities of the world, most of the trip explores the northeastern most part of the country, the only tropical region. Little populated, and mostly by immigrants from northern Europe, it is primarily nature’s bounty that make it so interesting. We will visit the Esteros de Ibera, a vast inland area of marshes and lakes, and home to many species of birds and animals. It is Argentina’s Everglades, with more varied wildlife. As a National Park with hunting prohibited, the animals have little fear of humans and are easily seen. Our visit next takes us to Posadas and one of the country’s most atmospheric Estancias, built by one of the large landowners 100 years ago, and still a working farm with an exquisite house that will be our home for 2 nights. Traveling north from Posadas we stop at the ruins of San Ignacio Mini, the almost 400 year old Jesuit mission churches, now abandoned, yet still beautiful, and a lasting tribute to the craftsmanship of their indigenous makers. Our final stop is Iguazu Falls. While not the tallest waterfall on the planet, it is certainly the most impressive. Set in beautiful rain forest, it is a series of 275 falls that spread out tentacle-like and cascade over 270 foot drops on the Parana River. Iguazu’s undisturbed natural setting has abundant wildlife, eye popping beauty, and lots of adrenalin soaked adventure outings, as well as opportunities to relax by pool or spa, and wander along the many paths that meander over and under the many small water cascades.
The falls straddle the border between Argentina and Brazil. Our hotel, in Argentina, is the only one to face the falls, and we can thoroughly explore this watery realm, by boat and foot, as well as make (an optional) visit to Brazil for another perspective of Iguazu. From Iguazu we fly to Buenos Aires for our last night in Argentina.
The hotels in this trip range from 5-star to 3-star properties. They are chosen for their proximity to the sites we will visit, as well as for their comfort and atmosphere. Some of them are unique and distinctive, grand old homes, owner crafted retreats, and expansive country estates. Transportation is by comfortable Toyota Land Cruisers (or comparable vehicles), maximum 3 people per vehicle. Guides and drivers are all locally licensed and have years of experience. The trip leader, John Leupold has made 10 trips to Argentina.
DAY 1
Arrive Buenos Aires and check into Hotel Etoile in the heart of Recoleta neighborhood, one of the most interesting and centrally located neighborhoods of Buenos Aires. Day at leisure, dinner at Rodizio located alongside the river, where you will be introduced to Brazilian/Argentine style barbecue, and its many side dishes. Overnight at Hotel Etoile.
DAY 2
Morning vehicle tour of Buenos Aires. Afternoon walking tour, or on your own. Overnight at Hotel Etoile.
DAY 3
Morning flight to Posadas, in Misiones Province. Upon arrival transfer to Esteros De Ibera, the vast marshland 2.5 hours’ drive from Posadas. The Esteros are now a national park, home to many species of birds, alligators, monkeys and capybara, the world’s largest rodent. Overnight at Posada Aguape, a luxurious rustic lodge at the edge of the lake.
DAY 4
Spend the day exploring the lake and marsh by boat, with local guide to help spot wildlife. Afternoon hike to see monkeys and birds in the forest. Dinner is a traditional asado, the Argentine barbecue. Overnight at Posada Aguape.
DAY 5
A morning hike in the forest, with the possibility to see wildlife we did not see the previous afternoon. We return to the hotel for lunch. In the afternoon another excursion by boat on the lake and surrounding marshy inlets. Overnight at Posada Aguape.
DAY 6
After breakfast a 2.5-hour drive to Posadas, and then check into the Estancia Santa Ines near Posadas. The Estancia is a working farm, over 100 years old, with beautiful main house full of the owner’s antique furniture and belongings. The main house now functions as an inn, in a lovely garden setting with swimming pool and native forest. Horseback riding is available with the estancia’s horses. Overnight at Estancia Santa Ines.
DAY 7
A full day to explore the grounds of the Estancia. A 2 mile walk (or drive, or horseback ride) from the main house leads to the river where a beautiful natural swimming pool, the size of an Olympic pool has been created. The tropical forest has great bird watching, and interesting plant species. Overnight at Estancia Santa Ines.
DAY 8
After breakfast we drive 5 hours north to Iguazu Falls. En route stop at San Igancio Mini, a city built in the 17th century by the Jesuits whose goal was to Christianize the local Indian population. The Jesuits were long ago expelled, but the buildings they designed and built with Indian labor are still beautiful and fascinating. Another stop at the semi-precious jewel mines at Wanda. Here the mining process can be seen, and the polished and cut stones available for purchase. Late afternoon arrival at Iguazu Falls. Overnight at Sheraton Iguazu Hotel and Spa.
DAY 9
After breakfast we commence exploring the falls with a local guide well versed in the history and nature of the area. This excursion will take us on walkways that traverse the forest under and over the falls, with plenty of opportunity to see local animal and plant life, as well as showcase the falls from many vantage points. Afternoon free to further explore the falls by foot, or by optional boat tours, or relax at the hotel. Overnight at Sheraton Iguazu Hotel and Spa.
DAY 10
After breakfast depart for (optional tour) Brazil, to view falls fro the Brazilian side. While the Argentine side is more interesting, one can have a full panoramic view from the Brazilian side. Return to Argentina early afternoon for further exploration of falls and forest. Or relax at pool, spa or tennis courts. Overnight at Sheraton Iguazu Hotel and Spa.
DAY 11
Midday flight to Buenos Aires, check into Hotel Etoile. Farewell evening dinner and tango show. Overnight at Hotel Etoile.
DAY 12
Day at leisure, checkout of hotel for trip to airport and flight home.
TOTAL COST PER PERSON FOR ELEVEN (11) NIGHTS IN ARGENTINA
(Includes internal airfare from Buenos Aires to Posadas and Iguazu to Buenos Aires, all ground transportation, airport transfers for internal flights only, accommodations, breakfast only in Iguazu, breakfast and 2 dinners in Buenos Aires, all meals elsewhere, services of locally licensed drivers and guides, US based tour leader, all excursions noted in itinerary.)
$4300. (Based on double occupancy)
$5500. (Based on single occupancy)
NOTE: international airfare, transportation to and from Buenos Aires airport to hotel in Buenos Aires, gratuities, drinks, Argentina country entrance fee, Brazil visa, transportation to Brazil, laundry and travel insurance not included.
To reserve space a deposit of $1000. is required. Balance of payment is due 2 months prior to journey.
Please contact me at john@champacajourneys.com with any questions!
