Foz do Iguaçu: Wanda Mines and San Ignacio Ruins Day Trip
Misiones Province, Argentina
Discover the architecture of the baroque buildings at the UNESCO-listed San Ignacio Jesuit Mission. Explore the mysterious Wanda Mines and admire the precious stones in the walls.
San Ignacio Ruins and Wanda Mines Day Trip from Foz do Iguaçu
This guided day trip from Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil, suits travelers interested in history, geology, and small group tours of up to 15 people.
Highlights
- Explore the San Ignacio Jesuit Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Visit the Wanda Mines to see precious stones embedded in the tunnels
- Enjoy hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience
- Experience an intimate group setting with a maximum of 15 participants
- Minimum of 2 passengers required for the tour to operate
Description
Begin with a hotel pickup in Foz do Iguaçu for a 250-kilometer (155-mile) drive to the San Ignacio Jesuit Ruins in Argentina, recognized by UNESCO since 1984.
Walk through the ruins of a mission founded in 1632 during Spanish colonization. Learn about its history and the 'Barranco Guarani' region, one of 30 Jesuit missions spanning present-day Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay. Observe baroque-style stone architecture crafted by indigenous artisans. The tour includes a light and sound show that animates the ruins and illustrates the site's history.
On the return trip, stop at the Wanda Mines, 60 kilometers (37 miles) south of Foz do Iguaçu. Explore 300-meter tunnels where agate, amethyst, topaz, jasper, and quartz are embedded in the walls. Visit workshops, exhibition halls, and agricultural displays. A store selling jewelry and accessories made from these stones is also part of the visit, along with the Stone Museum showcasing local specimens.
After the tour, return to your hotel in Foz do Iguaçu for drop-off.
Sample Itinerary (Approximate Times)
- 06:30 - 07:00 am: Hotel departure
- 09:00 am: Arrival at Wanda Mines
- 10:30 am: Depart Wanda Mines for San Ignacio Ruins
- 2:00 pm: Arrival at San Ignacio Ruins
- 4:00 pm: Departure from San Ignacio Ruins
- 8:00 pm (approx.): Return to hotel
Note: Times are estimates. A confirmation with exact schedule will be sent the day before the tour.
Includes
- Hotel pickup and drop-off from Foz do Iguaçu
- Entrance ticket to Wanda Mines
- Professional tour guide
Excludes
- Food and drinks
- Admission ticket to San Ignacio Ruins (to be purchased separately)
Important Information
- San Ignacio Mission is approximately a 3.5-hour drive from Foz do Iguaçu
- A tourist tax applies in Puerto Iguazú; this fee is managed by local authorities and not included
- A valid passport is required to cross the border; check visa and reciprocity fee requirements beforehand as they cannot be paid at the border
Easy Cancellation
You may cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
For the best experience, bring your passport, wear comfortable walking shoes, and carry water. Afternoon visits are ideal to avoid peak heat and crowds.
