San Ignacio Miní & Wanda Mines Trip

Embark on a journey to explore the intriguing past of the Misiones region in Argentina by visiting the San Ignacio Jesuit Mission ruins and the Wanda Mines, known for their semi-precious stones.

Options

Upon making your reservation, you have the flexibility to choose between two distinct packages. Both options include convenient pickup and drop-off services at hotels situated in Puerto Iguazu.

San Ignacio Miní & Wanda Mines (12 Hours)

Your day begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel, followed by a scenic drive along the Paraná River, which delineates the border between Argentina and Paraguay, as we head southward into Misiones.

Our first destination will be the ruins of the San Ignacio Miní Jesuit Mission. Here, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you will learn about the significant contributions of Roque González de Santa Cruz, a 17th-century missionary who dedicated himself to converting the indigenous people. These remains are remarkable for being the most well-preserved Jesuit mission in Argentina and served as a filming location for the acclaimed movie "The Mission," starring Robert de Niro.

The tour offers a captivating sound and light show that enhances the experience as we marvel at the intricate architecture of the stone structures, many showcasing baroque influences created by local artisans of that era.

After exploring the mission, we will proceed to the Wanda mines, a notable site for the extraction of semi-precious stones by Polish miners. Visitors will encounter various materials such as quartz, amethysts, topaz, and agate, discovering their extraction and processing in the mine workshop. These gems contribute to the local jewelry-making industry in the town of Wanda.

The tour continues with a visit to yerba mate and tea plantations, where we will stop by a yerba mate mill. Should you wish, there will be an opportunity to enjoy lunch at this point.

Finally, we will return to your hotel in Puerto Iguazu.

Wanda Mines (4 Hours)

You will be collected from a designated meeting point and embark on a brief hour-long journey alongside the Paraná River toward the Wanda Mines.

Upon arrival, you can partake in a unique experience as you observe the firsthand process of extracting semi-precious stones directly from the mines.

In addition, we will visit the mine workshop to discover the various stages involved in processing these stones prior to their sale. The mines are currently renowned for providing an array of semi-precious items, including quartz, amethysts, topaz, and agate.

The excursion concludes with a return to your hotel in Puerto Iguazu.

Pickup or Meeting Point

This tour provides pickup from hotels located in the central area of Puerto Iguazu. Alternatively, you can opt for the pickup service at the Meliá Hotel. Should you be staying in a different location or prefer a designated meeting point, please make your way to the ACA petrol station in Puerto Iguazu.

We will reach out to you post-booking to confirm the precise pickup time at your chosen location.