Yacutinga

“I went to the woods because I wanted to live deliberately. I wanted to live deep and suck out all the marrow of life. To put to new all that was not life, and not, when I came to die, discover I had not lived” – Henry David Thoreau

Misiones Forest and Yacutinga Lodge feature the kind of serenity among lush forests that not even Thoreau could have imagined. Located in the Northeastern most part of Argentina along the Iguazu River and only 26mi (42km) from Iguazu Falls, Yacutinga Lodge is a commingling of nature and civilization; constructed of fallen trees and built to blend in with its surroundings, this eco-resort is just that. Water is supplied from a well 85m deep; the plethora of food stuffs served come from local farms; waste water from showering, hand washing, and food washing is recycled through a constructed marsh full of rainforest swamp plants; an intricate system of tree cover and natural convection currents are employed to keep the resort at a comfortable temperature throughout the year; and solar power, supplemented by clean natural gas, is used to provide all of the lodge's energy needs.

Apart from experiencing the natural beauty of the lodge, visitors are taken on guided treks through the forest where they have the pleasure of seeing an assortment of insects, bird and animal species, and exotic plants. Tranquil voyages on the San Francisco River, with numerous opportunities to capture the surreal surroundings on film and camera, can also be experienced from the perfectly located Yacutinga Lodge.

A typical excursion to this remote area includes:

Day 1 – Transfer from Puerto Iguazu on land through the forest to Yacutinga Lodge.
Day 2 – Early morning float on the San Francisco River, lunch at the lodge, and then a magnificent tour through Misiones Forest. A possible late evening owl watching under the shining stars and moon.
Day 3 – Exploration of one of the self-guided tours, relaxation at the lodge, and a return to Puerto Iguazu. (and we can easily extend your trip for another night or two within Iguazu proper to include a great Iguazu Falls experience!)

Thoreau envisioned the forest as a peaceful place where one could explore their inner self and experience the magnificence of the natural world around them. Well, Yacutinga Lodge is the venue, we’re the guides to get you there. Contact us by email (info@latitudeworldtours.com) or call our Argentina desk (866.949.9940 x701). –Raul L.

Mars on Earth

The Atacama Desert is famously known as the “driest place on earth.” Average rainfall measures 0.6-2.1mm and that’s only where it actually does rain; some areas haven’t seen rain in over 20 million years! The lack of precipitation makes for great stargazing and even has NASA testing its Mars probes in this desert altiplano.

However, sandy dunes and dry air are just one of its many claims to fame. This desert oasis provides visitors numerous activities including exploration of rare plant species, 4x4 trekking expeditions, or sight seeing of some very interesting natural wonders. One of the most intriguing sites is the Salar de Atacama, which is a huge salt plane that was formed as the ocean receded and the remaining water evaporated, leaving a magnificent glacier-like field of salt. Another marvel the Atacama offers up is the Laguna Chaxa, a long shallow group of ponds that features the breeding ground for a flock of flamingoes. Also, if one has ever seen or heard about the beauty of the geysers in Yellowstone National Park, then they can more than appreciate El Tatio Geyser Field, located at an astonishing 4200m above sea level and featuring an array of geysers and hotbaths. The Valle de la Luna is a spectacular mixture of caves, dunes, and mountains covered with colored minerals and as the name implies, it resembles the surface of the moon, so for those wishing to explore that childhood out-of-world experience, welcome to planet Earth.

Natural wonders abound in this altiplano oasis: salt flats, boiling ponds, and if one is lucky enough, rainfall that envelops hundreds of miles of the Atacama, leaving behind a carpet of flowers that dazzle the eye with a multitude of colors and scents. If you can imagine yourself here, then we can help you experience it. For more information, contact us by email at info@latitudeworldtours.com or call us at 866.949.9940 x701. - Raul L.

San Pedro de Atacama

The small village of San Pedro is the gateway for exploration in the Atacama Desert. While most tours and sites are only a short bus ride away, visitors can also explore this splendid desert town, which offers attractions of its own.

The local museum invites visitors to delve into the regions history and features some of the oldest mummies ever discovered. Walking around town provides for a look into Chile’s architectural background and a stop at one of the local cafes or restaurants allows for a delectable meal and refreshment. Horseback riding expeditions are available and bicycles may be rented, with a subsequent enjoyable and easy 16km ride to the Valle de la Luna. Hotels are numerous and if one feels adventurous, camping is a great alternative considering the warm weather and lack of precipitation.

As a departure point for the Atacama’s natural wonders, San Pedro encompasses historic beauty and a variety of things to discover and enjoy. For further information, we encourage travelers to visit http://www.sanpedroatacama.com/ingles/. - Raul L.

Mendoza Wine Harvest Festival March 2009

Since I was just there in November, and still have wine on my mind, I thought I'd add some background on one of the best festivals in all of Argentina, the¨Wine Harvest Festival¨ in Mendoza, which this year, runs March 6 - 9. We have contracts with 4 and 5-star hotels, including boutique hotels, so just let me know if you'd like a nice excursions there; email me at dan@latitudeworldtours.com.

Since the nineteenth century the people of Mendoza have celebrated their wine harvest. In those days at the beginning of autumn the celebrations at each winery would take place between the rows of vines. The most beautiful grape picker would be chosen and the music and dancing would be in her honour.

The tradition grew until it reached the city, and, due to popular demand, a provincial decree was passed and so in 1936 the first Wine Harvest Festival of Mendoza was held, with a carousel and public show. Over the years ceremonies were added, such as the Blessing of the fruits, the Vía Blanca de las Reinas (parade of the queens) and the main show which began to take on great significance. Today it is the oldest and most traditional festival in the country, with over sixty year’s with of celebrations and queens.

Activities start in January, when the celebrations begin in each of the eighteen departments with the election of the candidate for the central throne. During the two weeks leading up to the final ceremony various artistic, cultural and sporting events take place.

The main celebrations begin with the blessing of the fruits; a liturgical ceremony presided over by the Virgen de la Carrodilla, the patron of the vineyards, which takes place in the Prado Gaucho of the Parque San Martin. Al the beginning of March, on the Friday evening before the main ceremony, the Vía Blanca de las Reinas is held. This is a parade of brightly coloured floats which pass through the main avenues in the centre of the city. Each float represents a different department of the province and carries each department’s elected queen, accompanied by her entourage.

The following morning the show is repeated, but there are also traditional groups of gauchos who show off their horse riding skills, leather and silver implements and traditional clothing. The communities who take part in the job of wine making also take part in the show such as Italians, Spanish, Bolivians, Chileans and other, with their traditional music and costumes. The show ends with the parade of the majorettes and vehicles which show the produce, business and services of the region. These two ceremonies annually involve around 300.000 people.

Finally on the nights of the first Saturday in March, the central show of the Wine Harvest Festival takes place in the Theatre Gringo “Frank Romero Day”, located the foot of the hill, in the open air. With this imposing back-drop, there is a son et luminuère show watched by 30.000 people from the stands and the hill around.

Over 1.000 artists from Mendoza take part in the show. The first part combines dance with light and sound and an amazing set. Then in the second part, the National Wine Harvest Queen is chosen and crowned, amidst feverish participation from the audience. Finally the show is brought to a spectacular close by the new Queen, and ends with a performance by internationally famous Argentinean musicians.

4WD adventure options in northern Argentina

While we have some incredible and outstanding trips "as is" in the remarkable, largely undiscovered region of northern Argentina, another option is off-roading, and getting even further off the beaten path!

Experiencing the wonders of Northern Argentina has never been more thrilling and engaging than in a 4x4 vehicle. Trekking through towns and local communities, driving from the depths of valleys to mountain peaks, and capturing Argentinean scenes and culture are only a few of the adventures travelers can embark upon in an off-road excursion.

Tours typically start in the Northwest cities of Salta, San Miguel de Tucuman, or Catamarca and descend into the valleys of the west. Travelers enjoy the surreal scenery as they cruise through moon-like plateaus, gaze upon salt mines and formations, and ascend to the edge of picturesque volcanoes. Accompanied by a professional, English speaking driver and guide, visitors can travel in safety while getting a detailed understanding of their surroundings and the local culture. In addition, if predetermined tours don’t fit your schedule or travel expectations, then personalized trips can easily be arranged, encompassing established tours or places chosen by you.

An off-road adventure might be just the perfect complement to a relaxing few days at an Estancia or a daring addition to your North Argentine expedition, so if you are interested in knowing more, we would be glad to inform you of your options and help you book your tour. Contact us by email (info@latitudeworldtours.com) or call our Argentina desk (866.949.9940 x701). –Raul L.

Chiloe

We've had a number of clients recently inquire about beautiful Chiloe in Chile so it gave me a nice blog topic for the week! Thank you Latitude travelers and keep the ideas coming.

Chile’s most culturally unique milieu can be found on Isla Grande de Chiloé. A small island off the coast, Chiloé offers travelers sights like wooden-built churches, colorful rows of stilted houses, picturesque bays and inlets, luscious rain forests gravid with rare flora and fauna, and the serenity of an undiscovered tourist attraction. The capital city of Castro is adorned with wooden built and shingled buildings that were made from local Alerce trees; this architectural design was also employed in the local Spanish churches. While the areas archetypal constructions are enough to appease anyone, an enticing meal of fresh seafood in-between town excursions is not to be missed.

The localities of Chiloé engage the visitor with the people and charm of this small island, but the Parque Nacional Chiloé in the west displays a special and equally charming beauty. The park contains hundreds of bird species and a multitude of creatures and plant life found only on Chiloé; home to the Chilote fox, the rare pudú (miniature deer), and the Magellanic penguin. Visitors can explore these wonders from a variety of walking trails that traverse the forest, run along the natural coastline, and even lead to hills that allow panoramic views of the area.
Chiloé is an unexplored treasure of Chile and whether you are interested in culture, nature, food, architecture, flora and fauna, or even kayaking, this region can satisfy your senses. We have options for visiting the Isle, just let us know your interests. We will often combine Chiloe with Puerto Varas and Santiago for a nice short trip. ~Raul L.

The next big destination in Argentina: Salta and environs

What do trains, rafts, and cars have in common? They can be enjoyed from the beautiful Northern Argentine city of Salta. Located in the Lerma Valley at the foothills of the Andes, the city has been nicknamed Salta la Linda (Salta the Pretty) and features numerous attractions including the Cathedral of Salta and the departure point for the Tren de las Nubes (Train of the Clouds).

The colonial architecture and natural beauty of the surrounding landscape will immediately catch the visitors’ eye. Many churches and historical buildings exist with two of the most renowned being the Cathedral of Salta and the Church of San Francisco. They tower over adjacent buildings with their spectacular designs and display a Spanish colonial architecture (COS) with a more recent French/Italian influence (CSF).

Due to the Juramento River’s proximity, rafting tours are offered, presenting some of the magnificent scenery including fossil algae formations, the condores, and the marvelous Seven-color Hill. For those who would rather experience the desert landscape, 4x4 adventures can be taken, with one or numerous day expeditions. However, if relaxing and riding in comfort while enjoying Northern Argentina sounds better, visitors may take the Tren de las Nubes that runs 269m (434km) roundtrip, allowing visitors to take-in the landscape including the picturesque mountains and a number of tunnels and bridges. A preview at www.youtube.com/watch?v=IZW5PYC_9kw&feature=related.

Northern Argentina provides travelers with a multitude of activities and attractions that is a perfect addition to any trip to Argentina and perhaps even Chile, due to the area’s proximity to the border. If you would like to visit Salta and its surroundings, contact us contact us by email (info@latitudeworldtours.com) or call our Argentina desk (866.949.9940 x701). –Raul L.