From the chaos of Buenos Aires to the mist of Iguazu Falls, Argentina surprised us with warmth, wonder, and a few unforgettable adventures along the way.
Back to Argentina
After a few lively days in Montevideo, our early morning began with a 7 am bus back to Colonia and a much smoother ferry ride across the Rio de la Plata. Thankfully, no seasickness this time — a major win after our previous experience! Once in Buenos Aires, I ran several errands, picking up a bag we had left at the hostel and exchanging more U.S. dollars on Florida Street. The blue market rate had dropped a bit since our last exchange, but it was still worth the effort. After a sweaty, sun-soaked trek through the city, I reunited with Nic, Moire, and Rose just in time to catch our bus to Rosario.
Rosario – A Quiet Gem
Our bus ride to Rosario was comfortable and uneventful, a welcome change after the chaos of Buenos Aires. When we arrived, a taxi strike forced us to take a local bus. Lacking change, we were rescued by a kind woman who used her bus card to pay for all of us and refused to take our money — a random act of kindness that truly lifted our spirits.
The hostel, La Lechuza, was cozy and full of personality. The owner, Juan, and his sister, Javiera, welcomed every guest like family. We quickly fell into the rhythm of Rosario, exploring its riverside monuments and enjoying grilled local fish called Boga at a riverside restaurant. It wasn’t a tourist hotspot — just genuine Argentinian life at an easy pace.
Southward to San Ignacio Mini
From Rosario, we boarded a night bus to San Ignacio Mini, famous for its Jesuit mission ruins. Under the blazing 35°C sun, we wandered among the crumbling red stone walls and learned about the Guarani people and how their lives changed under the Jesuit influence. That evening, we returned for a sound and light show that projected the history of the Guarani people onto walls, trees, and mist — a creative and surprisingly moving presentation.
The Mighty Iguazu Falls
Next came our grand destination — Puerto Iguazu, home of the spectacular Iguazu Falls. After an overnight ride, we arrived in the sticky heat and checked into our modest hostel. The following morning, we made our way to Iguazu National Park to witness one of the world’s great natural wonders. The Argentinean side, everyone told us, was the best — and they were right.
The sheer size and power of Iguazu are impossible to capture in words or photos. The roar of the water, the mist drenching your face, and the endless rainbows are mesmerizing. We took a boat ride that plunged us right into the spray of the falls, emerging completely soaked and laughing. Later, we crossed walkways to the “Devil’s Throat,” the largest and most awe-inspiring section. Niagara Falls suddenly seemed small in comparison.
Wildlife added to the experience — mischievous coatees, colourful toucans, and even a glimpse of a massive capybara swimming below us. It was nature at its most vivid and alive.
Moonlight Magic
That evening, we returned for a rare treat — a full moon tour of Iguazu Falls. The rangers led small groups along the moonlit walkways, the river shimmering under the soft light. At the Devil’s Throat, the falls glowed silver in the moonlight, and the roar seemed even louder in the quiet of night. We didn’t get great photos, but the moment is etched forever in memory.
Final Days in Argentina
The next morning, Nic and I said goodbye to Moire and Rose, who stayed another day before heading home. It was the end of a wonderful three-week journey together, filled with laughter, shared adventures, and more than a few long bus rides. For Nic, it was especially meaningful to have this time with her mom. For me, it was a reminder of how travel connects people across places and generations.
Reflections on the Road
Argentina gave us more than beautiful sights — it offered rhythm, resilience, and the warmth of small kindnesses. From moonlit waterfalls to shared meals and long rides through the pampas, this leg of the journey reminded me that adventure isn’t just in the places we go, but in the people and moments that move us along the way.
