Iguazú Falls Pre-Extension: Wild Water and Wildlife

Thundering falls in an extraordinary subtropical, wild forest

Before embarking on your expedition aboard National Geographic Endurance or National Geographic Explorer, join us for an in-depth exploration of Iguazú Falls. Taller than Niagara, Iguazú Falls is also twice as wide, with 275 cascades spread in a horseshoe shape over nearly 2 miles of the Iguazú River. Situated in Iguazú National Park in northeastern Argentina, this natural sanctuary is a UNESCO World Heritage site owing to its beautiful landscapes and subtropical forest, with 450 species of birds, including toucans and parrots, and butterflies, orchids, and endangered jaguars.

Day 1 - Buenos Aires, Argentina

Arrive today in cosmopolitan Buenos Aires. At midday, meet your local guide in the lobby of your hotel (Alvear Icon, or similar) and set off for your first taste of Argentina’s cuisine at a local restaurant.

This afternoon, enjoy an overview of this spirited global capital; experience the vast history of this city with a private visit to the El Zanjon de Granados museum in the south, followed by a drive through the Plaza de Mayo and a panoramic view of the Casa Rosada, most famous for Eva Perón’s iconic arms-outstretched silhouette.

Dinner this evening is on your own; ask your local guide for their favorite recommendations or speak with the Hotel Concierge. (L)

Day 2-3 - Buenos Aires / Iguazú Falls

On the second day of our program, we are en route to Iguazú. We take a short flight from Buenos Aires to Puerto Iguazú, followed by a brief bus ride, and arrive to Iguazú National Park where our hotel awaits. The Gran Meliã Iguazú Hotel boasts stunning views of the falls, and your rooms will have the best of them all.

We’ll have our first up-close look this afternoon, and over the next two days we’ll intimately explore the rainforest and spectacular panoramic views of the rushing waters with a local naturalist leading the way. Possibilities include walks along both the Upper and Lower Circuits, the Paseo Garganta del Diablo (the Devil’s Throat Walk), and the Gran Aventura (the Grand Adventure)—an epic ride on an inflatable boat (think Zodiacs, but bigger)! Multiple cascades drop 350 feet with such force that there is always a 100-foot cloud of spray overhead. Watch for the rainbows!

For the bird enthusiasts, we’ll explore the national park’s diverse environment and observe a variety of bird species. Our expert local guides have special authority to access areas of the park before the public is allowed to enter to spot the most interesting local birds, including toucans and parrots.  (B,L,D)*

*You will be provided with a voucher for dinner on Day 2; there will be a Group Dinner on Day 3

Day 4 - Iguazú Falls / Buenos Aires

Today, we return to Buenos Aires and have a traditional farewell lunch at a local restaurant. This evening, join your expedition companions at our hotel for a welcome reception, then enjoy dinner on your own. (B,L)

Please note: All day-by-day breakdowns are a sample of the places we intend to visit and the activities we intend to conduct. The weather dictates the order, timing, and feasibility of activities, subject to change based on local conditions. Your local guide will share your hand-crafted itinerary on Day 1.

Costs & What's Included

Occupancy

Double Occupancy

Single Occupancy

Cost Includes:

One hotel night in Buenos Aires, two hotel nights in Iguazú, meals where indicated, Buenos Aires transfers based on Arrival guidelines, transfers connected to the flights between Buenos Aires and Iguazu and all sightseeing tours, activities and entry fees, gratuities, services of a local guide, and a Lindblad Expedition Staff Leader (for groups of ten or more).