Sure, the world-famous waterfall is the big attraction at Iguazú. But there’s lots more to do in northeast Argentina.
Mission San Ignacio Miní
Founded by Jesuit missionaries in 1610 and constructed by the local Guaraní people, the mission was the primary hub of Spanish colonial influence in the region for more than 200 years. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is considered a masterpiece of the “Guaraní baroque” architecture. And although the mission was largely destroyed during Argentina’s early 19th century war of independence from Spain, the massive red-rock ruins reflect its onetime splendor.
Guirá-Oga Wildlife Rescue Center
Orphaned, abused and injured rainforest animals are housed, treated, and released back into the wild if possible, at this rescue center near Puerto Iguazú. The 90-minute multilingual guided tour includes the veterinarian center and habitats for toucans, macaws, eagles, anteaters, ocelots, monkeys and many other creatures.
Jardin de los Picaflores
This family-owned botanical garden and hummingbird refuge attracts both serious birdwatchers and ornithologists and families with children who want to get a glimpse a species like the Swallow-tailed, White-throated, Versicoloured Emerald and Glittering-bellied Emerald hummingbirds.
La Aripuca
Built with giant rainforest logs purchased from sawmills or recovered from farms expanding into the jungle, this massive wooden structure houses a nature and cultural center that create awareness about the region’s natural resources, encourage actions to preserve and promote care for the environment, and interprets local beliefs and traditions. The gargantuan structure is a super-sized version of a Guaraní “aripuca” or trap once used to hunt animals.
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