Paraguay Past and Present: Jesuit Missions & Iguazu Falls (3 days)

Begin your adventure with a visit to the historic town of San Ignacio Guazu, the site of the first Jesuit reduction in the region, established in 1609. Though architectural remnants may be sparse, the significance of this location is immeasurable. The museum, situated in an original Casa de Indios, showcases a remarkable collection of artifacts and intricately carved objects, narrating the story of the Jesuit influence in the region and providing context for the Jesuits' global missions during that time period. We may make a few stops at sites of cultural interest along the way, such as in San Miguel the “capital of wool”, and Carmen del Parana to see the beach created by the Yacyreta Dam.  Hotel near the Jesuit ruins.

We start the day with a guided tour through a yerba mate plantation, uncovering the intricate cultivation and production processes integral to this cherished local beverage. Indulge in a tasting session to discover the flavors of yerba mate and various herbal additions that provide health benefits or are simply refreshing. Later, we venture to the UNESCO heritage sites of Santísima Trinidad del Paraná and Jesus de Tavarangue, two architectural marvels that stand as poignant remnants of Jesuit missions. Typically there are few people at the Jesuit ruins which fosters an atmosphere conducive to contemplation and a deep connection with the historical resonance of the site. Hotel near Iguazu Falls.

After enjoying a wonderful breakfast at your hotel in Brazil, we will visit the world-famous Iguazu Falls where you can witness the sheer power and beauty of the cascading waterfalls that continue for as far as the eye can see. There are several viewpoints along the well-groomed trails to the base of the river, where your visit culminates in a catwalk over the river to the base of Devil’s Throat. After lunch at one of the eateries at the national park, we will continue our journey with a visit to Parque das Aves, a recovery and conservation center, where you will be able to have direct contact with around 1,500 birds (150 different species). Developed on 16 hectares of Atlantic Forest, the birds and wildlife live in an environment representative of their natural habitat; trails through the aviaries allows visitors to see the birds up close, not through a cage. Iguazu Falls and Parque das Aves make for an enchanting conclusion to your three-day exploration.

In the early afternoon, we will depart for the return trip to Asuncion. As an alternative, we can drop you off at the airport or at a hotel in Foz do Iguazu to continue your journey.