Private transfer Puerto Iguazú – San Ignacio Ruins

San Ignacio Miní is a Jesuit mission built with the Guaraní people in the 17th century and now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its red sandstone walls stand in the middle of a small Misiones town on Ruta Nacional 12. From Puerto Iguazú it is a long drive, far closer to Posadas than to the falls, so the visit takes a full day.

Two ways to fit it in

• There and back in a day. You leave your hotel early, the driver waits while you walk round the ruins, and you are back in Puerto Iguazú by evening. Most of the day is spent on the road, which is worth knowing before you choose.
• A stop on the way south. If your journey continues, the ruins are on the route of the Puerto Iguazú – Posadas transfer and your luggage stays in the vehicle.

The visit itself

The site is explored on foot, with an interpretation centre at the entrance. Each visitor buys a ticket on the spot; it is not part of the transfer. There is also an evening light-and-sound show. Tell us if you want to see it, because it changes the return time or calls for a night nearby.

A little further along the same road are the ruins of Santa Ana and Loreto, less restored and half taken back by the forest. They can be added if time allows.

On the road

Route 12 is hilly and winding, with lorries. It is hot for much of the year and the site has little shade, so bring water, a hat and sun cream. Many travellers add the Wanda mines, which lie at the start of the drive.

Availability of the service in Misiones is confirmed when booking.