Embark on a full-day tour to explore the rich history of the Jesuits in the region, visiting the three most significant Jesuit reductions: San Ignacio, Loreto, and Santa Ana. These historical missions, established in the 17th century in what is now Argentina, played a vital role in the colonization and evangelization of indigenous populations. The tour provides a deep dive into their cultural exchange and historical significance.
This private, guided tour is led by an English-speaking guide, ensuring a personalized and informative experience throughout the day.
Duration:
AM
Cancellation Policy:
72 hs before your tour
Availability:
Every day
Starting Time:
around 8 am
Finishing Time:
around 7 pm
Pick Up and Drop Off:
"From Your Hotel " -
"At Your Hotel"
Language:
English, Spanish
Maximum Group Size:
Minimum Booking:
1
Your journey begins with a pick-up from your hotel to start this private full-day tour, where you will visit three of the most important Jesuit reductions in the area: San Ignacio, Loreto, and Santa Ana.
Ruins of San Ignacio: Founded in 1632 and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, San Ignacio is located 60 km from Posadas and 237 km from the Iguazú Falls, accessible via National Route 12 and situated in the heart of San Ignacio. Its excellent state of conservation showcases the architectural and urban grandeur of 17th-century American Baroque. At the entrance to the ruins, the Jesuit-Guaraní Interpretation and Recreation Center features nine rooms that narrate the story from the arrival of the first Spaniards to a scale model of the reductions at their peak. Explore the central square, the church, the missionaries’ house, the cemetery, the workshops, warehouses, hospital, town hall, and chapel. Constructed from locally sourced red sandstone in large blocks, the site boasts substantial columns symbolizing the grandeur of Christianity. San Ignacio Mini was built according to the plans used by the Society of Jesus for reductions in other regions. Initially, the indigenous population lived in makeshift camps until completion; however, the design limited spontaneous growth—if a reduction exceeded 6,000 inhabitants, the surplus was relocated to another area experiencing a demographic decline. San Ignacio could accommodate 3,300 individuals.
Ruins of Santa Ana: Located just 45 kilometers from Posadas and 10 kilometers from San Ignacio, this significant architectural remnant was founded in 1637. Nestled amid the province’s typical vegetation, the temple steps and productive structures still stand, offering a glimpse into the life of the 4,400 Guarani who lived there. An Interpretation and Support Center is also available on-site.
Ruins of Loreto: Situated 53 kilometers from Posadas and 6 kilometers from San Ignacio, Loreto was founded in 1632. Though the ruins have deteriorated over time, their historical importance remains, as this site housed the first printing press in America, built by the Jesuits to serve the Guarani community, producing Guarani-Spanish bilingual dictionaries. Notable features include the vestiges of the temple, a sundial, and the Chapel of the Virgin of Loreto. An Interpretation and Support Center also operates in the area.
After approximately 10 hours of exploration, you will return to your hotel.
If for any reason, you decide to cancel the activity or excursion, the cancellation conditions specified in the product description or in the voucher will be valid.
In the event that the cancellation conditions in the product description do not differ, the provider of tourist services will charge you the following cancellation fees:
Check this information with us.
Correct, the tour is entirely in private, including english speaking guides. We also can offer french or german guides, or even italian. Check with us supplement for guide in other language.
The tour lasts approximately 11 hours, from around 8 am to 7 pm.
We recommend bringing comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and a bottle of water. It’s also a good idea to bring a camera to capture the beautiful sights.
Yes, transportation is provided from and to your hotel in Iguazu.
After booking and finalizing payment, you will receive a confirmation for your purchase. Then, in less than 24 hours, you will receive the voucher that you can use to take the excursions. If the reservation is for the next day, we will be attentive and send you the voucher before your excursion begins.
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"A friendly, happy day made enjoyable by the environment and a great tour guide.
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