You can expect some of this type of wildness at the intersection of Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay. Those in the know are familiar with the region, and its raison d’etre, the sensational Iguazú Falls. Let’s just stop right here for a second.
The Iguazú Falls, an exquisite environmental marvel of 275 individual drops, have inspired awe among tourists and indigenous inhabitants. It’s a sight of unfathomable beauty. With the distinction of being the world’s largest waterfall system, it is arguably grand by nearly every measure. Just exploring the various angles of the falls, which involves treks through lush rainforests, is worth the trip. This area is manna for bird watchers, and there is an abundance of wildlife to behold. If you’re lucky, you’ll get close to a toucan or spot a jaguar from afar.
Most people who visit the area can enjoy these attractions regardless of where they stay, but for the luxury adventurer, one option elevates the experience to something out of a storybook. Awasi Iguazú, a Relais & Chateaux property in Argentina’s Misiones Province, is the epitome of simple luxury — it’s anything but rough. Located only 20 minutes from the falls, the new compound of 14 villas and a lodge is situated on the banks of the Iguazú River. The property is completely surrounded by the Atlantic Rainforest, and the resort staff is totally committed to immersing guests in extreme comfort.
Getting here is relatively simple. It’s a short and picturesque flight from a nearby hub, most often Buenos Aires. Expect to be met at the airport by a personal guide who handles every detail of your visit for the duration of your trip. All guides are required to have an intimate knowledge of the area as well as the ecological and anthropological aspects that make it unique.
Upon arrival, you will enjoy your first foray into an epicurean adventure unlike any other. While relishing a lunch or late afternoon snack, you look around and realize that you’ve left the rest of the world behind. Surrounded by rainforest and its magical sounds, you will feel transported to a different realm.
Throughout your stay, the staff is attentive and intuitive. Don’t be surprised to return from dinner to find your villa glowing with candles, a bottle of wine on a table, and exotic petals scattered across your bed. Eventually, you’ll want to get some sleep because your days will be full of adventure.
Our guide, Carlos, was just as passionate about our experience as he was about the land and people of his region . . . it made all the difference. It’s typical to spend two or more days exploring the falls. However, an abundance of other excursions away from the falls, including boat trips, hikes, and archaeological explorations can keep you well occupied.
Expect to have an appetite by day’s end. The cuisine can only be described as unrivalled. From the experimentation that goes into crafting meals from locally sourced flora and fauna to mind-blowing presentation, the arrival of each dish is a new culinary adventure.
With luxury adventure growing in popularity across South America, sorting through options can take some time. Or not. Relais & Chateaux has an impeccable reputation and choosing from its growing portfolio of Awasi properties in South America can significantly reduce the time you spend on vacation decision-making.
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