Iguazu: Visit Mines of Wanda

Just 40 km from the breathtaking Iguazu Falls lies the fascinating Mines of Wanda, a hidden gem for those seeking to uncover nature’s geologic wonders. Visitors can embark on a guided tour through the open-pit mine, marveling at the vibrant quartz, amethyst, and topaz formations that dot the landscape. But the adventure doesn’t end there – the Minera Wanda Company store beckons, offering the chance to bring home a piece of this extraordinary place.

Key Points

• The Mines of Wanda, located 40 km from Puerto Iguazú, Argentina, offer visitors a chance to explore an opencast mine rich in semi-precious stones like quartz, amethysts, and topazes.
• The tour includes pickup from select Puerto Iguazú hotels, transportation to the mine, a guided exploration of the geological formations, and a visit to the on-site souvenir store.
• The tour costs start from $31.00 per person, with a non-refundable cancellation policy, and instant confirmation upon booking.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and it has a maximum group size of 30 travelers for a more personalized experience.
• Traveler reviews of the Mines of Wanda tour experience are mixed, with some finding the guided tour a highlight, while others felt it was underwhelming.

Overview of the Mines of Wanda

The Mines of Wanda, located approximately 40 km from Puerto Iguazú in northeastern Argentina, offer visitors a unique opportunity to explore an opencast mine rich in semi-precious stones.

On a guided tour, travelers can witness the extraction and processing of quartz crystals, amethysts, and topazes. The mine’s stunning geological formations and vibrant colors make it a captivating destination.

After the tour, visitors can browse the on-site Minera Wanda Company store, where they can purchase souvenirs and locally sourced gems.

This excursion provides a fascinating glimpse into Argentina’s mining heritage and natural wonders.

Tour Itinerary and Experience

Visitors begin their tour of the Mines of Wanda with a pickup from select hotels in Puerto Iguazú, departing at 8:30 am.

They’ll travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle to the mine, located approximately 40 km from the city.

Upon arrival, a guided tour through the opencast mine reveals a treasure trove of semi-precious stones, including quartz crystals, amethysts, and topazes.

After the tour, visitors can browse the Minera Wanda Company store for an opportunity to purchase souvenirs.

The experience includes a lunch, providing a chance to refuel before the return journey to Puerto Iguazú.

Pricing and Booking Details

The cost for the tour of the Mines of Wanda starts from $31.00 per person.

Explore the Mines of Wanda with a tour starting at $31.00 per person.

Keep in mind the cancellation policy is non-refundable, with no refund if canceled.

You’ll receive your booking confirmation right away upon completing the reservation.

• Pricing starts at $31.00 per person

• Cancellation policy is non-refundable

• Instant booking confirmation provided

• Tour not wheelchair accessible

• Maximum group size is 30 travelers

Accessibility and Group Size

Although the Mines of Wanda tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate.

The tour has a maximum group size of 30 people, allowing for an intimate experience. Infants are welcome but must sit on their guardian’s lap during the tour.

The narrow mine passages may pose challenges for those with mobility issues, but the guides are attentive and happy to provide assistance.

Traveler Reviews and Feedback

Traveler reviews for the Mines of Wanda tour offer a mixed sentiment, with an overall rating of 2.7 out of 5 stars across 9 total reviews.

The feedback highlights both positives and negatives:

The feedback on the Mines of Wanda tour offers a mix of praise and criticism, reflecting the overall lukewarm sentiment.

• One review praised the tour’s punctuality, but the overall sentiment was lukewarm.

• Travelers noted the lack of wheelchair accessibility and the requirement for infants to sit on laps.

• Some mentioned the guided tour of the mine as a highlight, while others felt the experience was underwhelming.

• The opportunity to shop at the Minera Wanda Company store received mixed reactions from visitors.

About the Tour Operator

Gray Line Argentina operates the Mines of Wanda tour, a reputable company with a global presence. Founded in 1972, Gray Line Argentina offers diverse experiences across the country, including this unique mine excursion.

As one of the world’s largest sightseeing companies, Gray Line is renowned for its high-quality tours, experienced guides, and commitment to customer satisfaction.

The Mines of Wanda trip reflects Gray Line’s expertise, providing travelers a chance to explore the stunning natural wonder of the region’s semi-precious stones.

Booking with this established operator ensures a well-organized, enjoyable journey to the Mines of Wanda.

Getting to the Mines of Wanda

To reach the Mines of Wanda, visitors depart from Puerto Iguazú, traveling approximately 40 kilometers northwest to the site.

Visitors depart from Puerto Iguazú and travel approximately 40 kilometers northwest to reach the Mines of Wanda.

The guided tour includes:

• Pickup from select hotels at 8:30 am

• Transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle

• A guided tour through the open-pit mine

• Opportunities to shop at the Minera Wanda Company store

• An included lunch

The journey offers a chance to witness the extraction of semi-precious stones like quartz crystals, amethysts, and topazes.

With a maximum of 30 participants, the tour provides an intimate and immersive experience at the Mines of Wanda.

Sum Up

The Mines of Wanda offer a captivating opportunity to explore a unique geological landscape, uncover semi-precious gems, and take in Argentina’s natural beauty. With a guided tour, on-site shopping, and convenient transportation, this excursion promises an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking to discover the hidden wonders of the region. Whether you’re a geology enthusiast or simply seeking an adventure, the Mines of Wanda are a must-visit destination near Iguazu.