Arthur Fromer ranks Argentina at the top of the world destinations to visit and these diverse vacations did not disappoint with their passion and scenic wonders. We started with several days in Buenos Aires, a vibrant capital with a European flair and a Latin flavor similar to Madrid. Our hotel was right in the center of the city and our guide Marcello was the best I have had with my groups here. The dollar is strong here, so after the tours, the group did some shopping. Here are the best braided rawhide items on the planet. Terry bought 3 tailored jackets for his “small” build. I got a unique pair of boots made from capybara, which is the largest rodent in the world – couture rat boots.
Our group of 35 was the perfect size. Most attended one of the best tango shows in the city to enjoy a delicious dinner and world-class tango. This melancholic dance born of the poor classes attracts everyone today with timeless entertainment. For the kitchen, this is the world of beef. With 57 million cows, it is a carnivore’s dream and a vegan’s nightmare. At Las Linas restaurant we share the 800 gram (2 pound) steak. I asked Marcello why no one is fat here. He said they live on an Atlkins diet of beef and salad and walk every day.
We spent a day with the gauchos (cowboys) in an authentic estancia (ranch) in the pompas (field). We ride horses and enjoy a sizzling barbecue of more endless meats. There are 800 ranches in the region. Argentines love their horses. A top polo horse can cost $ 400,000 and its embryo $ 40,000.
We flew to Iguazú, “land of great waters” and stayed at the beautiful Hotel Panarama that dominates the borders of Paraguay and Brazil. The highlight was a full day tour of the famous falls. It’s my fourth visit here, but the omnipotence of it all still amazes me. And the Devil’s Throat area is surprisingly powerful; creates a feeling of fear in me. The locals here say, “Niagara is just a trickle into the mind of God.” These 2 mile long falls have twice the flow! Here it rains 321 days a year. We were blessed with sunshine and rainbows. It was impressive walking 6 miles of platforms both above and below the 275 falls. It ended with an exciting boat safari. After putting on the rubber ponchos, the Indian drivers propelled us at full speed towards the falls. We didn’t want it to end.
Later we head towards the lush terrain of the Misiones province that was founded by Jesuits in 1700 who came to convert the native Guarani. (Watch the movie “The Mission” with Robert DeNero.) Then we transfer to 4×4 trucks and drive to the remote wildlife preserve called “the green corridor.” 80 miles from the falls in the extreme north of Argentina just 3 miles from Brazil. We arrive at Yacutinga Eco-Lodge hidden deep in the rainforest. It was like walking on the set of Avatar. The unique architecture of stone, adobe and tree trunks blends in in perfect harmony with nature. Our charming bungalows do not have a television, but do have electricity, comfortable beds, drinking water, a wood stove, and hot showers. It is a sustainable tourism with adventure under control. It included a pool, bar, and organic meals throughout our stay. Unlike our previous AFS Amazon trips, there are no resident “pets” at this hostel. They refuse to disturb anything in their natural habitat and insist on keeping wild animals wild.
Yacutinga promotes a dozen conservation programs and supports a nearby village of 120 Guarani. The Guarani are the poorest of the poor natives who live to preserve their ancestral culture. With the invasion of the lumber industry, it is almost impossible for them to adapt to the new world around them. The hostel employs Guarani who often do not show up due to superstitions of the cosmos on any given day. Under the forest canopy at night, we heard a lecture about this fragile disappearing jungle.
There are 2 resident biologists and an ornithologist. The next morning, they led the group on a hike to identify native plant and animal species. I slept late and went to the kitchen to fry some eggs like at home. The group returned covered in mud. I was amazed by his perseverance and good humor. The canopy is usually on fire with orchids and hummingbirds. Unfortunately that week we were greeted with the buzz of ever-present mosquitoes and intermittent rain.
Later we paddle kayaks down the San Francisco stream to the Iguazú River. Here is a world of hummingbirds and butterflies. There are also giant tapirs, capybaras, and ocelots. Apart from some monkeys and bird species. We did not see any other wild animals. I wonder if it is due to poachers and deforestation. However, it was educational about the symbiotic relationship of each plant element necessary to sustain a rainforest. My group started resorting to cell phone and WiFi recalls. 3 days here is enough.
On the flight home, I reflect on this varietal vacation of extremes. This Adventures For Singles trip cost $ 1,399 land. Argentina is a hot destination with diversity from north, south, east and west. Next year I can present a cruise through Patagonia. Marcello begged him to come with us and guide us. He loved our group and so did I.
