Iguazú
Iguazú Falls
A unique-in-the-world rainforest, born from the Misiones characteristically reddish soil, boasts a landscape of stunning beauty, declared world natural heritage site by UNESCO, and is home to the breathtaking Iguazú Falls. The entire waterfall system, comprised of 275 falls reaching over 80 meters in height, offers a unique show. The trails and bridges over the edge of the waterfalls and an ecological train provide visitors with the opportunity to tour around in direct contact with the landscape. Only the National Park, encompassing 67 hectares of native forest, is inhabited by over 13 varieties of hummingbirds, colorful toucans and curious overos lizards, as well as the metallic blue Morpho butterfly and the orange or black Heliconius. There are over 2 thousand plant species between leafy ferns and giant trees surrounded by vines where monkeys, coati monkeys and deer hide. But in addition to its natural attributes, Misiones boasts the infrastructure to enjoy natural beauty without causing a negative impact on the falls. Visitors may enjoy their stay by quietly observing nature hiking along the authorized trails or practicing risky sports such as water rides on boats and kayak, 4 x 4 trips and photographic safaris.
The "great waters", as called by the Guarani, Misiones original inhabitants of Misiones, comprise a unique natural setting. Recognized worldwide for its beauty, the Iguazú Falls were selected as one of the new Seven Wonders of the World.
For useful information on Iguazú, visit: http://www.iguazuargentina.com/espanol/
Misiones Province
Misiones is one of the most important provinces of Argentina, both for its natural wonders and its historical significance. On its reddish soil, and in addition to the Iguazú Falls, the Jesuits erected the Reduction of San Ignacio Miní, the best-preserved complex of the thirty missions that functioned between the 17th and mid-18th centuries, in what are today the Argentine, Paraguayan and Brazilian territories. Visiting the place is an unforgettable experience: Walking through the walls of Guarani dwellings, crossing the large square, admiring the facade of the temple built thousands of years ago. In addition, the complex has a modern information center that allows visitors to discover the sophistication achieved by this community. There are other three reductions close to San Ignacio where visitors may learn more about the experience that joined Jesuits and Guaraníes: Our Lady of Loreto, Santa María La Mayor and Santa Ana. The three other ruins are nestled within 200 kilometers, tucked away in the jungle, among the reddish walls of what were once temples, rooms, and ramparts...
There is much more to learn about the beautiful province of Misiones. Falls and ruins are the top attractions; however, it is worth discovering the rest. Only 150 kilometers from Posadas, Misiones capital city, Salto Encantado valley is an animal reserve that boasts unique viewpoints towards the Salto Encantado provincial park, beside the Cuña Pirú stream, whose waters plummet from almost seventy meters.
We must not forget that this is also the land of Yerba Mate, Argentina’s most characteristic infusion. Throughout the province, one can learn the secrets of its production in countless farms located alongside the roads. Precisely, yerba mate joined Che Guevara to the province of Misiones. His family owned an important plantation; therefore, the mythical character spent much of his childhood on these reddish lands. Today, there is an interesting museum in the house that belonged to the Guevaras.
Writer Horacio Quiroga also lived in Misiones, in a house located amidst a green paradise with a unique view that undoubtedly must have inspired his famous stories of the jungle. An amusing tour takes visitors through the bocayá palms garden described in “El Peón” story. Also, some objects and his collection of butterflies and bugs are on display.
For useful information about the province of Misiones visit: http://www.turismo.misiones.gov.ar/
