Jabiru: Wildlife, wine and Jesuit Missions
14 days from £5,249
Explore the tour day by day, from the highlights to the quieter moments in between. Here’s how each day unfolds and what to expect along the way.
Those passengers arriving on an international flight will be met at the airport by the tour leader or a local representative and escorted to the group hotel.
In the afternoon your guided city tour takes you to all the major sites of this fascinating city including a visit to the Plaza de Mayo, enclosed on 3 sides by the metropolitan cathedral, the town hall and the Casa Rosada (the presidential palace). The tour continues to bohemian, arty La Boca, which was settled and built by Italian immigrants and has streets lined with brightly painted corrugated iron-clad houses, before visiting the district of Recoleta, home to the famous cemetery where Eva Peron is buried.
This modern property boasts stylishly eclectic décor and personalised service. Kenton Palace’s 80 rooms and public areas are light and uncluttered, with furnishings conveying a contemporary urban feel. Guestrooms have city or courtyard views and are equipped with super-sleek bathrooms with freestanding bathtubs and rain showers.
One of the hotel’s greatest assets is its location; slap bang in the centre of town, a stroll away from the main sights, restaurants and bars. Radiating outwards from the vicinity of the hotel are a broad array of attractive and lively areas, such as the Plaza de Mayo, the bohemian San Telmo district, the new port development at Puerto Madero and the boutiques and eateries of Recoleta.
Hotel amenities include an impressive range of facilities for children. It also has a spa, with spotless heated pool, Jacuzzi, gym, sauna and massage services.
Take the ferry across the River Plate to Colonia in Uruguay. Colonia has a UNESCO-protected historic centre where you can wander among cobbled streets lined with colonial houses. Once you have dropped your bags at your hotel you will be given a short, guided walking tour of the town which was founded by the Portuguese in 1680.
Today you take a full day’s tour from your base in Colonia to Carmelo and its surrounding wineries. Situated 80km north of Colonia you will visit 2 local wineries to taste the typical wines of the regions and enjoy a 3 course lunch before returning to Colonia later that day.
After breakfast it’s a 3-hour drive to this small country’s capital, Montevideo. In the lively waterfront city modern skyscrapers jostle with art deco façades and grand, monumental colonial buildings. The afternoon is free to relax at the hotel or further explore the city.
Start the day exploring the main sights of the city on a half day tour. These include the historic centre, Constitution Square, cathedral and colonial Town Hall, Solis Theatre, Independence Square and Government House. Drive through the district of Prado to one of the oldest parks in the city and stop at Plaza Virgilio to take in the impressive views and visit a monument dedicated to the fallen soldiers of the navy.
Transfer to the airport for your flight to little explored Paraguay. Get a feel for Asuncion, the capital, where once crumbling, battle-scarred buildings from the Spanish colonial era in the historic centre have been given a facelift. Your tour will also visit the four main plazas which house imposing buildings such as the Panteón and the Casa de la Independencia as well as other important points of interest in this quirky city.
Today you’ll be heading south and east to discover the marvellous ruins of the Jesuit Reductions, Christian settlements established to convert, teach and protect the native Guarani communities. These intricate and still impressive buildings are little visited but evocative of the extraordinary era in Spanish colonial times when the Guarani were taught architecture, music and craftwork.
Your first stop is Yaguaron a well-preserved Franciscan church. Continue across cattle country, passing through typical provincial towns with picturesque old houses and shady squares. Visit San Ignacio Guasú, the first of the Jesuit-Guarani Reductions (founded 1609) and an essential stop for its excellent museum with its collection of Jesuit-Guaraní statues, carvings and art.
From San Ignacio, continue through peaceful countryside to Santa Maria de Fe. The town’s museum has over 50 statues carved out of cedar by the Guarani and their teachers during Jesuit times. Visit the handicrafts co-operative on the plaza, run by the women of the town. Continue through sparsely populated countryside towards the border with Argentina and the town of Bellavista where you’ll stay overnight.
We reckon this is the best hotel on Paraguay’s Ruta Jesuita, at a distance of 2km from the town of Bellavista it’s a convenient base for visits to some of the ruins of the Jesuit reductions. The motel-style property is well-run and welcoming – the owner-managers speak English – and guest rooms are set within attractive subtropical landscaped gardens and grounds backed by farmland. Some have a balcony or terrace where you can relax and enjoy peaceful views.
The hotel’s cosy pub-style bar and adjacent restaurant is popular with both local people and guests. You can dine à la carte or opt for the evening buffet and Brazilian-style grill. Within the grounds are sun terraces and outdoor swimming pool as well as plenty of space to relax outside on warmer evenings.
Today you’ll travel to the Unesco-listed ruins of Trinidad and Jesus, the once-great Jesuit-established communities.
Arrive at 18th century La Santísima Trinidad del Paraná, the jewel of the Jesuit ruins, nestled in the rolling palm-studded countryside and alive with the screeches of parakeets and southern lapwings. Among the highlights are the stone carvings: an intricate frieze of angels playing musical instruments survives in the ruined church, which has elaborately carved door porticos and pulpit.
The smaller ruins at Jesus de Tavarangue have a peaceful setting on high ground with panoramic views. Travel south to the city of Encarnación and cross the vast Paraná river to Argentina and the city of Posadas where you’ll spend the night.
A 5-hour drive south-west from Posadas takes you into the heart of the Iberá wetlands. Once the haunt of hunters targeting the cornucopia of wildlife, this remote region of marshes, lagoons, floating islands and streams is now protected as a nature reserve. Wildlife has resurged, with caiman, otters, swamp deer, capybaras, wolves, howler monkeys and over 400 species of bird now thriving here. You will spend 3 nights on the banks of the wetlands at a typical Corrientine lodge.
Spend the next 2 days with the lodge’s expert guides who will talk you through the exciting nature of the Reserve, so that you can admire the infinite variety of species hosted by the marshes. Magical boat rides along the Iberá lake at daylight or night-time under a peaceful starry sky; unforgettable walks; canoe rides enjoying the assorted tunes of singing birds; horse-riding through the marshes and palm groves; these are just some of the thrilling activities you will experience in one of the richest wetlands on the planet for its natural wealth and biodiversity.
Travel back to Posadas for the short flight returning you to cosmopolitan Buenos Aires where you will have 2 more nights to further enjoy the buzzing capital.
This modern property boasts stylishly eclectic décor and personalised service. Kenton Palace’s 80 rooms and public areas are light and uncluttered, with furnishings conveying a contemporary urban feel. Guestrooms have city or courtyard views and are equipped with super-sleek bathrooms with freestanding bathtubs and rain showers.
One of the hotel’s greatest assets is its location; slap bang in the centre of town, a stroll away from the main sights, restaurants and bars. Radiating outwards from the vicinity of the hotel are a broad array of attractive and lively areas, such as the Plaza de Mayo, the bohemian San Telmo district, the new port development at Puerto Madero and the boutiques and eateries of Recoleta.
Hotel amenities include an impressive range of facilities for children. It also has a spa, with spotless heated pool, Jacuzzi, gym, sauna and massage services.
The places you’ll stay and explore on this tour. Here’s a closer look at each one and what makes it worth the trip.
Argentina - Buenos Aires
Discover Argentina’s elegant and energetic capital, where grand European-style architecture, vibrant neighbourhoods, world-class cuisine and the passion of tango come together to create one of South America’s most captivating cities. Dynamic, stylish and nostalgic in equal measure, Buenos Aires is a destination worthy of a trip in its own right.
Uruguay - Colonia and Carmelo
Cobbled streets, and a slow pace on the banks of the Río de la Plata, that’s the UNESCO-listed town of Colonia del Sacramento. Just an hour away, Carmelo trades cobblestones for vineyards, with wineries, and some of Uruguay’s best food. Together they make a rewarding Colonia holiday packed into one small corner of the country.
Uruguay - Montevideo
Set on the Río de la Plata, Montevideo combines rich heritage, great food and wine, and a laid-back atmosphere influenced by centuries of European immigration. Founded in 1726, the city pairs a historic old town with a vibrant waterfront. From cobbled streets to traditional asados by the water, Montevideo offers an authentic taste of Uruguay.
Paraguay - Asuncion and the heartland
Asunción holidays combine graceful colonial architecture, a riverside setting and a growing cultural scene in the heart of Paraguay. Once little more than a stopover, the capital has been revitalised by renewed public spaces, creative energy and a newfound confidence that makes it well worth exploring.
Paraguay - The Jesuit Missions of the south
Jesuit Missions Paraguay holidays trace one of South America’s more unusual historical chapters, an ambitious 150-year experiment in faith, farming, art and community, built by Jesuit missionaries and the Guaraní people together. Ornate churches, weathered plazas and UNESCO-recognised sites sit scattered across the rolling countryside of Misiones and Itapuá.
Argentina - Ibera wetlands
Glide by boat through channels lined with floating islands as caiman bask on the banks and capybara graze at the water’s edge. Watch for marsh deer and hundreds of birds that fill these lagoons. In the far north of Argentina, the Iberá Wetlands are one of South America’s great wildlife destinations.
Take a step off-the-beaten-track and uncover fascinating Uruguay and Paraguay. From Jesuit Missions dating back to the 1600’s to the extensive wildlife found in the marshy Iberá wetlands this is an inspirational journey through the lesser travelled South America.
Sophie Barber
All of our experts have lived or travelled extensively in Latin America, so you will receive unrivalled advice based on unique personal experiences.
The practical detail for this tour, all in one place. Transport, accommodation, what’s included and what to pack, so you know exactly what to expect before you go.
- About our Group Tours
To find out more about how our group tours including group sizes, solo travellers and why to choose us. Please click here.
- Tour Leader
On this tour, you’ll be accompanied from start to finish by one of our exceptional Journey Latin America tour leaders. From the moment you land in Latin America until the day the tour ends they will deal with all the practicalities, expertly adapting to the circumstances and individual needs of the group. Rather than different guides in different cities, your leader will get to know the group and keep you informed and entertained as you go.
- Summary of Nights
Buenos Aires 1; Colonia 2; Montevideo 2; Asuncion 1; Bellavista 1; Posadas 1; Ibera Wetlands 3; Buenos Aires 2.
- Accommodation
We use the following mid-range mid-range hotels and lodges on this tour.
- Buenos Aires: Kenton Palace
- Colonia: Posada don Antonio
- Montevideo: Radission Victoria
- Asuncion: Palmaroga Hotel
- Bellavista: Hotel Papillon
- Posadas: Hotel Urbano
- Ibera Wetlands: Posada de la Laguna
On very rare occasions these hotels can change, however please speak to one of our consultants who can provide full details for each departure if you have any doubts. Address and contact details will be sent out with your final documents.
- Transport
2 flights (longest 2hrs). 1 ferry. 5 road journeys all operated in private vehicles.
- Meals
Breakfast daily; Lunch days 3, 7 and 8; Dinner day 9 and full board days 10 and 11.
- Optional excursions
On this tour the price includes excursions in all the places you visit as per the itinerary. There will however likely be some free time when you may choose to take part in an optional excursion. These are booked locally through your tour leader once you are in Latin America, however we are more than happy to advise you of what is on offer in advance of your holiday so you can best plan the excursions that suit you.
- Travelling Alone
There is no extra cost for single travellers who are willing to share a room. You will be accommodated with a same-sex member of the group who is usually also travelling solo. For single travellers who wish to be sure of having their own room there are a limited number of single supplement places available, which carry a surcharge.
- Climate
This holiday operates when the weather is optimal in the region visited. As a broad overview Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay has the opposite seasons to the UK, meaning October and April tend to be Spring and Autumn time. The Ibera Wetlands will be cooler than other times of the year. A comprehensive overview of the weather in all the regions you are visiting can be found in our Destination pages. Our Travel Experts can answer your questions on climate and further details will be sent with your confirmation documents.
- Clothing, Equipment and Luggage
A day-pack is essential for carrying rain-wear, snacks, books/tablet and a water bottle as are comfortable walking shoes. Bring a hat with a visor, sunglasses and sun block. Binoculars are useful for bird and wildlife spotting. Because the weather can be changeable we recommend wearing layered clothing for excursions.
- Money
Please see the Country Info tab on this holiday for our latest currency information and advice about how to take your spending money. Tipping in Latin America is almost always done using cash. It is customary to tip tour leaders, local guides, drivers, boat crews and other service providers such as restaurant staff and porters. Full tipping guidelines are sent with your confirmation documents as is advice on local costs.
- Vaccinations, Visas and Insurance
For health information on Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay including recommended vaccinations, please see https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/
A Yellow Fever certificate is required for passengers under the age of 60 for entry into Paraguay. An exemption certificate is available from travel clinics in the UK if you’re unable to have the vaccine for medical reasons.
All Latin American countries have specific entry regulations related to Covid 19. Please also check our Travel Hub for further information.
Holders of a full British passport do not require a visa, although passports should be valid for at least 6 months after the trip begins. Other nationalities should enquire with us or check with the consulates.
Travel insurance is essential. Details of our recommended policy can be found on the Travel insurance website.
Our full briefing dossier contains more information on vaccinations, visas and insurance and will be provided with your final travel documents or can be requested from your travel consultant at any time.
- Do I need a visa to visit Argentina?
British passport holders don’t need a visa for tourist visits of up to 90 days. Your passport should be valid for at least six months from the start of your trip. If you’re routing through the US, you’ll need an ESTA in advance. Always check the latest entry requirements before you travel, as rules can change.
- How do I get to Argentina from the UK?
British Airways flies direct from London Heathrow to Buenos Aires in about 13.5 hours. There are also connecting routes via Madrid, São Paulo and other hubs, taking roughly 16 to 17 hours depending on the routing. We arrange all flights and transfers, and can quote them separately based on your dates.
- What’s the best way to travel around Argentina?
The country’s size makes domestic flights the most practical way to cover long distances, and most routes connect through Buenos Aires. Within regions, we arrange private transfers and guided excursions, while self-driving works well in the Lake District, Mendoza and parts of Patagonia, where the roads are good, and the scenery is spectacular.
- What currency does Argentina use?
The official currency is the Argentine peso. US dollars are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, and it’s worth carrying some. ATMs are available in cities and larger towns but can have low withdrawal limits, and credit cards are taken in hotels and restaurants in the main destinations. We’ll advise on the latest currency situation before you travel.
- How long should I spend in Argentina?
Two weeks works well for a first trip, pairing Buenos Aires with Iguazú and Patagonia, or with Mendoza and the lake district. To go further and add the northwest, Península Valdés or an estancia stay, allow three weeks or more. We’ll help you build an itinerary that makes the most of your time.
- What language is spoken in Argentina?
Spanish is the official language, spoken with a distinctive Argentine accent and plenty of Italian influence. English is widely spoken in hotels and tourist areas, less so beyond them, so a few basic Spanish phrases go a long way.
- Is Argentina safe for travellers?
Argentina is generally safe for visitors, especially in the main tourist areas. As in any large city, take sensible precautions in Buenos Aires: keep an eye on your surroundings, avoid flashy valuables, and use licensed taxis or ride apps. Our Travel Experts will advise on anything specific to the regions you’re visiting.
- What can I combine with Argentina?
Argentina pairs naturally with Chile, crossing the Andes from Mendoza, taking the lake crossing from Bariloche or linking a Patagonia trip across both countries. Brazil is a popular add-on to Iguazú Falls; Uruguay is a short ferry ride from Buenos Aires; and Peru pairs well with a broader South America itinerary. Our Travel Experts can design a multi-country trip around you.
- When is the best time to visit Uruguay?
Uruguay is an all-year destination, but probably best enjoyed in summer (Nov-Feb). The weather is mild all the year around. Temperatures range from 10-16oC in the southern hemisphere winter, while in the summer they hover in the mid-20s. Wet and windy conditions outside high summer are not unheard of, and can make it feel very chilly. Rainfall is moderate and varies little over the year, apart from Jul-Aug when there are prolonged wet periods.
- What is the official language of Uruguay?
The official language of Uruguay is Spanish.
- What is the official currency of Uruguay?
The official currency of Uruguay is the Uruguayan Peso. Cards are widely accepted. By using your credit card you may qualify for automatic partial VAT rebates to overseas tourists – check your statement. Some US Dollars cash will also come in handy. US Dollars cash is easier change into Pesos than Sterling/Euros and Dollars may also be accepted if you do not have any Pesos. There are ATMs in larger towns (subject to charges).
- What is the time difference between Uruguay and the UK?'
The time difference between the UK and Uruguay is GMT-3 hours. Usually daylight saving is observed in the summer (GMT -2 hours), from Sep/Oct to early Mar. The date is set by presidential decree.
- Do I need a visa for Uruguay?
Holders of a full British passport do not require a visa, although passports must be valid for at least 6 months after the trip begins. Anyone with a different nationality should enquire with us or check with the relevant consulate. If flying to the US, or via the US you will need to fill in your online ESTA application.
- What vaccinations do I need for Uruguay?
Please check Travel Health Pro for information on health recommendations and vaccinations for the destinations you are visiting. Please note that many Latin American countries require proof of vaccination against Yellow Fever if you have recently travelled to another country where Yellow Fever is present.
- Which other countries combine well with Uruguay?
Argentina Combines well with Uruguay. Accessing Buenos Aires from Montevideo by air (50mins), road (8 hours) or ferry (3 hours), there’s a ferry from Colonia to Buenos Aires (45mins); Iguazú Falls, Brazil, 3 hours by air.
- How long is the flight between Uruguay and the UK?
The average flight time to Montevideo is 17.5 hours. There are no direct flights from the UK. Some routes involve a change in Brazil, Europe or the USA.
- What are the festivals, cultural and sporting events of Uruguay?
Carnival; 5 days in Feb/Mar, variable. Live bands, costume parades and general frivolity in towns and cities, especially Montevideo. In the Barrio Sur, where the black Afro-Uruguayan population lives, there are condomblé ceremonies (traditional religious rituals from Africa).
- When is the best time to go to Paraguay?
The climate of this low-lying country is sub-tropical. Summer is extremely hot and humid, with average temperatures in Feb reaching 35°C. In winter temperatures are variable and it can be very cold at night. Most precipitation falls Oct- Apr but it can rain at any time of the year.
For more detailed information visit our When To Go section.
- What is the official language of Paraguay?
The official languages of Paraguay are Spanish and Guaraní.
- What is the official currency of Paraguay?
The official currency of Paraguay is Guaraní. Notes can be withdrawn from the many ATMs in Asunción using a UK credit or debit card. Limits may be lower than your UK bank allows. There are also many exchange houses in the capital and on the border where you can exchange US dollars and South American currencies cash.
- What is the time difference between Paraguay and the UK?
The time difference between the UK and Paraguay is GMT-4 hours.
- Do I need a visa for Paraguay?
Holders of a full British passport do not require a visa, although passports must be valid for at least 6 months after the trip begins. Anyone with a different nationality should enquire with us or check with the relevant consulate. If flying to the US, or via the US you will need to fill in your online ESTA application.
- What vaccinations do I need for Paraguay?
Please check Travel Health Pro for information on health recommendations and vaccinations for the destinations you are visiting. Please note that many Latin American countries require proof of vaccination against Yellow Fever if you have recently travelled to another country where Yellow Fever is present.
- Which countries combine well with Paraguay?
Argentina combines well with Paraguay, accessing Puerto Iguazú (close to the Falls) by road via the frontier at Ciudad del Este; Iguazú Falls, Brazil, crossing over the frontier via the Friendship Bridge from Ciudad del Este.
Why choose Journey Latin America for your holiday
We’ve been planning trips to Central and South America for over 45 years, longer than any other UK specialist. Every holiday is built around you by a Travel Expert who has been to the places they recommend, with support from your first enquiry to the day you fly home.
Rosie embarked on a year-long backpacking trip across Latin America. She is excited to share her knowledge and experiences with others.
Finn discovered his passion for travel on an extensive 18-month trip to Latin America, experiencing the vibrant Carnaval in Rio, the end-of-the-world city of Ushuaia, trekking the Andes and volunteering on the Galápagos Islands.
Maggie visited Latin America on her first backpacking trip when she was 19. Since then, she has taken every opportunity to travel, and has managed to explore a lot of the region in subsequent trips.
Gary discovered what he had been missing with his first foray into the wilds of Latin America. In his role as Product Manager, he combines this personal obsession with years of industry experience to help ensure that travellers will fall for the region every bit as much as he has.
Things to do
We proudly offer the widest range of activities, excursions and one-of-a-kind experiences across all our destinations, tried and tested personally by our travel experts.
Travel by boat from Buenos Aires to explore the port Colonia, one of Uruguay’s most charming and evocative historic towns.
Explore a UNESCO World Heritage Site where cobbled streets reverberate with history.
Discover the eclectic mix of architecture in Montevideo’s Ciudad Vieja (old town).
Visit on foot the highlights of colonial and contemporary Asuncion.
Visit the UNESCO-listed, ruined Jesuit Missions of Trinidad and Jesus in southern Paraguay.
Spot a huge variety of bird life from both land and water in the birders’ paradise of the Iberá wetlands.
Accommodation
Browse our unrivalled portfolio of accommodation. Every option has been carefully chosen by our team of travel experts, so you can rest assured that you will relax in utter comfort
Ideally located, stylishly eclectic décor and very attentive, personalised service.
If there’s somewhere you particularly want to go that isn’t included in this tour, we can add on an extension to take you there.
Iguazu from Buenos Aires
One of the continent’s most awe-inspiring attractions, the Iguazú Falls – which straddle the border between Argentina and Brazil – is a vast basalt amphitheatre veiled by a curtain of foaming water which crashes through tangled sub-tropical jungle. This is one of the great must-see highlights of Latin America, indeed the world. Day 1: Fly…
Iguazu and Rio de Janeiro
One of the continent’s most awe-inspiring attractions, the Iguazú Falls – which straddle the border between Argentina and Brazil – is composed of a vast basalt amphitheatre veiled by a curtain of foaming water which crashes through tangled sub-tropical jungle. Continue to Brazil and Rio de Janeiro, the continent’s most vibrant and colourful city. Day…
Estancia
Throughout Argentina prestigious rural estates have been adapted to accommodate visitors. La Bamba is a colonial-style property oozing with atmosphere and history, restored to its former elegance in parkland, with a good-sized pool. A few days here will allow you to relax and savour life on the pampa prairies, while feasting off delicious food and…
A former Journey Latin America tour leader, Sally spent 7 years working, travelling and living throughout Latin America before returning to the UK to help people arrange their own adventures to this wonderful destination.
Papagaio
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