Buenos Aires to Iguazu Falls via the Ibera Wetlands
9 Days - Departs daily
This 9-day trip combines the impressive cultural sights of Buenos Aires with the abundant wildlife of the Ibera Wetlands and spectacular Iguazu Falls. Located in the province of Corrientes, the Esteros del Ibera is the second largest freshwater wetland on the planet and are home to over 350 different bird species and some of South America’s most iconic wildlife such as the capybara and the caiman. Operated in either direction, this is the perfect way to extend your trip beyond Argentina’s most well-known destinations
Home » Buenos Aires to Iguazu Falls via the Ibera Wetlands
Itinerary Highlights
- Explore Buenos Aires and experience one of Argentina’s best known contributions to culture – the Tango.
- Suspend yourself over the highest of Iguazu Falls at the inspiring Devil’s Throat.
- The Iberá Wetlands is one of the largest natural reserves in Argentina, with beautiful landscapes and a stunning variety of wildlife.
Tailor-made suggestions for this itinerary
- Add on a few extra days to further explore the Ibera wetlands or even the surrounding countryside with an overnight stop in a traditional estancia or even a side trip into Paraguay to see its Jesuit ruins (Trinidad and Jesus) which are the most spectacular in South America.
- Another nice overnight stop between Posadas and Iguazu is the underrated 3km long Mocona Falls that divide the Uruguay River.
- Take a day trip or an overnight stay in an estancia in the legendary Pampas region just outside of Buenos Aires .
- Extend your trip into Brazil and visit its fantastic beaches, impressive Rio de Janeiro or even the Amazon rainforest.
Arrive in Buenos Aires
On arrival at the airport you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel.
Buenos Aires, capital of the Republic of Argentina and the country's largest city, is undeniably one of Latin America's hottest destinations. Located on the shores of the Rio de la Plata, the city's combination of European architecture and the passion of its people – the porteños (people of the port) – work together to create a colourful and dynamic modern city.
San Telmo and La Boca City Tour
This morning's excursion will introduce you to the magic of the Argentine capital. After being picked up from your hotel we start with a visit of 'San Telmo', the oldest barrio (neighbourhood) of Buenos Aires which is famous for its historic architecture, tango parlours and antique shops. We take our time and wander through the cobblestone streets learning about the history of the area and seeing its sights including its impressive old churches and its abundance of colourful street art.
We leave San Telmo and the tour continues past the many architectural highlights of Buenos Aires including the Palace of Justice, the Argentine National Congress building, the 'Cabildo (old town hall) and the presidential palace 'Casa Rosada' (pink house).
Next we visit ‘La Boca', the most picturesque of all neighbourhoods of Buenos Aires. This extravagant zone is completely different to the old and to the modern Buenos Aires and romantic stories tell us that tango was born in this working class area. We wander its famous street “Caminito” where you will have the chance to view the spectacle of impromptu tango dancing, street performers and have the chance to buy some local handicrafts.
On our way back to your hotel we pass through the newly restored Puerto Madero area where you can choose to be dropped off at for a nice meal by the waterfront. The remainder of the afternoon is at your leisure with the chance to visit some of Buenos Aires' many great museums or do some shopping.
Dinner & Tango Show
Tango expresses the heart and spirit of Argentina and no visit to Buenos Aires would be complete without it. This evening you will be picked up from your hotel and taken to La Ventana where you will experience the intimacy of this dance in equally intimate surrounds while you indulge in delicious Argentinean cuisine. At the end of the show you will be taken back to your hotel.
*Before the show you have the option of arriving before the others and taking a short tango lesson with a professional dancer or a wine tasting. This comes at an additional cost but if you would like to book either of these please let your consultant know.
You will be picked up from your hotel and taken back at the end of the tour along other passengers. We suggest to upgrade to a private transfer as the pick ups and drop offs could take a considerable time.
Breakfast and Dinner included.
Recoleta & Palermo City Tour
This morning you will further discover what makes Buenos Aires great as we explore its better known and sophisticated districts; Palermo and Recoleta. We start with a drive through Recoleta with its open green spaces mixed in with elegant boutique shopping, cafés, embassies and impressive architecture. We visit such landmarks as the Pilar Church and Evita Monument before taking a short walk through the Recoleta cemetery where Evita's tomb can be found.
We continue on to Palermo which is Buenos Aires' largest neighbourhood, and also its trendiest. Here you will walk the streets which are full of beautiful parks, hip boutique hotels, chic restaurants and bars, and high fashion stores. Throughout the morning your knowledgeable guide will give you an insight into local life and excellent local cuisine and on completion of the tour you will have the option of being dropped off at an excellent restaurant for lunch or being taken back to your hotel.
* Please note entry to Recoleta Cemetery is an additional cost for foreign visitors. Entry during the tour is optional.
Breakfast included.
Overnight Bus from Buenos Aires to Mercedes
Late in the evening you will be transferred from your hotel to the bus station for your late evening departure on the luxury overnight bus to Mercedes. Included is a 'cama' seat which a fully reclining seat similar to flying business class.
Breakfast included.
3 Day Irupe Lodge
The Ibera Lake and marshlands are among the last natural paradises on earth. During your stay at Irupe Lodge you will get the chance to come face to face with caimans, capybaras, swamp deer, pampas deer, howler monkeys, giant otters, anacondas, greater rheas and hundreds of birds!
Irupe Lodge Arrival
Today you will be met in Mercedes and transferred by 4WD to the Irupé Lodge located in the heart of the Ibera wetlands. The marshes and lagoons of these relatively unexplored wetlands offer remarkable biodiversity and are one of the most remarkable ecosystems in Argentina.
After check-in at your lodge you will take a short trek to the monkey jungle and visit to the park museum. Later you will take a boat safari into the wetlands to observe wildlife and the sunset over Lake Iberá. Dinner is included at your lodge.
Dinner included.
Irupe Lodge Activities
Today you will enjoy a full day of activities exploring the region. In the morning we leave Irupé Lodge by boat, investigating the channels in the south of the wetlands and keeping our eyes peeled for he abundant wildlife. After getting off the boat at a remote wooden bridge you will explore a private nature reserve on horseback. The ride takes you along the lake past Caranday palm tree forests, reeds and natural jungles. After the ride you will enjoy a gourmet picnic at a cattle and buffalo estancia followed by free time. We return back to the lodge by 4WD and dinner is included at your lodge.
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Irupe Lodge Departure
Today marks the final day of your stay at Irupe Lodge in the Ibera Wetlands. You will be transferred by 4WD out from the lodge.
Breakfast included.
Irupe Lodge to Iguazu via Misiones Jesuit Ruins (Private)
Transfer from Irupé Lodge to Posadas by 4WD where we meet our connecting transfer with English speaking guide for the trip to Iguazu falls. Along the way we include the option of stops along the way at either the Misiones Jesuit Ruins, a 'yerba mate' plantation or a gemstone mine (entrance fees are payable direct for the option you choose).
After a long journey we arrive into the town of Puerto Iguazu in the evening where the night is spent at your leisure.
Breakfast included.
Breakfast included.
Argentinean Falls Tour
In the morning you'll be picked up from your hotel and transferred to Iguazu National Park. From the entrance, a small train will take you on a tour of the park. On the first of two stops you'll follow pathways to the top of the Cataratas (“The Falls”) where you'll have a spectacular view of the falls and their surrounding scenery including an abundance of orchids, colourful birds and other native wildlife. The second stop occurs at La Garganta del Diablo (“The Devil's Throat”), the largest fall in the park and also the highlight of the tour. A suspended platform at the brink of the fall allows for a startlingly close view of this breathtaking natural wonder.
At the end of the tour you will be taken back to your hotel.
*For those who want a little more adventure, we recommend the Great Adventure Boat Tour, which enables you to gain a different perspective as you cruise on a motorboat underneath the falls.
Breakfast included.
Brazilian Falls Tour & Transfer to Airport
On the way to the airport, you will enjoy a tour of the Brazilian side of the falls. Here, you'll watch as 14 separate waterfalls drop with such force that a tall cloud of mist stays permanently suspended overhead. Great photo opportunities abound, however, raincoats are highly advisable!
Breakfast included.
Comfort
Buenos Aires, Argentina - Kenton Palace
Ibera Wetlands, Argentina - Irupe Lodge
Puerto Iguazú, Argentina - Jardin Del Iguazu
Superior
Buenos Aires, Argentina - Eurobuilding Hotel
Ibera Wetlands, Argentina - Irupe Lodge
Puerto Iguazú, Argentina - Falls Iguazu Hotel & Spa
Deluxe
Buenos Aires, Argentina - Hotel Madero
Ibera Wetlands, Argentina - Irupe Lodge
Puerto Iguazú, Argentina - Melia Iguazu Falls
Whats included?
- Accommodation
- English Speaking Guides
- Private transfers
- Meals as specified
What’s not included?
- Airfares
- Airport entrance/departure taxes/hotel taxes
- Gratuities
- Travel insurance
- Any items not mentioned as included