Mesopotamia Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Mesopotamia in Argentina with our comprehensive travel guide. Explore cultural and natural attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture and customs, safety and health, transportation options, and nearby destinations.


Mesopotamia Travel Guide - A Comprehensive Tour Guide to Mesopotamia, Argentina

Mesopotamia is a land of natural wonders, cultural discoveries, and outdoor adventures. Located in northeastern Argentina, Mesopotamia is attributed to be the cradle of the pre-Columbian Guarani culture. This region comprises of three provinces- Entre Rios, Corrientes, and Misiones, and is famous for its stunning landscapes, beautiful rivers, and the Iguazu falls, which are one of the most dramatic and awe-inspiring waterfalls in the world.

Introduction to Mesopotamia

Mesopotamia is a land that boasts of stunning natural beauty and cultural diversity. This region has a rich history that dates back to the pre-Columbian era. It is home to many indigenous communities whose traditions and customs are still alive today. But beyond its cultural offerings, Mesopotamia is a place of outdoor adventures, like hiking, biking trails and scenic views. Visitors can also find national parks and protected natural areas across the region.

List of Places to Visit in Mesopotamia

Below is the list of the must-visit places to explore in Mesopotamia:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Jesuit missions of San Ignacio Mini: The ruins of this 17th-century mission are a UNESCO World Heritage site that was founded in 1610 to religiously convert Guaraní people.
  2. Palacio San Jose: This historical landmark was once home to the first president of Argentina, Justo José de Urquiza and is located in Entre Rios.
  3. Corrientes Cathedral: This cathedral is a must-visit place, which offers beautiful views and is located in Corrientes city.
  4. Provincial Museum of Fine Arts: This museum exhibits the cultural and historical creativity of Mesopotamia.

Natural Attractions of Mesopotamia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Iguazu Falls: This natural wonder on the border with Brazil and Paraguay is a must-visit. It is known as the world’s largest waterfall system.
  2. Esteros del Ibera: The Iberá Wetlands is the second-largest wetland in the world and homes to a vast of variety of flora and fauna.
  3. Mburucuya National Park: This park is located in the Corrientes Province and has beautiful waterfalls and wildlife species.
  4. Urutaú Natural Reserve: A protected area with a wide variety of fauna and flora. It’s an excellent place for hiking and observing the local flora and fauna.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mesopotamia

Mesopotamia has some of the best hiking and biking routes in South America.

  1. Quebrada de Jaspe: This trail is located on the outskirts of San Ignacio in Misiones Province, and its landscape is stunning. It has red rock formations, waterfalls, and canyons.
  2. El Palmar National Park: This park is located in Entre Rios, where you can explore the Palmar trails and observe the area’s striking Yatay palm tree groves.
  3. Caa Yari Nature Reserve: Located in Corrientes province, the trail is great for hiking through its lush forests and gorges covered with mosses and plantations.

Best Things to Do in Mesopotamia: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best things to do in Mesopotamia:

  1. Jungle Boat tours: Exploring the wetlands around the Ibera river system offers a unique opportunity to see dozens of bird species, monkeys, foxes, and others.
  2. Winery Tours: Entre Rios is a top winemaking region. You can visit local vineyards to learn about wine production or participate in wine tastings and enjoy an authentic Argentinean experience.
  3. Rafting: Due to the region’s many rivers, there are plenty of opportunities for whitewater rafting or kayaking tours.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mesopotamia

Day 1-2: Explore Corrientes city and its historic sites. Day 3: Visit the Iguazu Falls Day 4: Discover the Esteros del Ibera. Day 5: Visit the Jesuit mission of San Ignacio Mini and discover its Guaraní culture. Day 6: Explore the Palacio San Jose and the museum of fine arts in Entre Rios. Day 7: Visit El Palmar National Park, and hike through the trails of the park.

Food and Drink Scene of Mesopotamia

Argentina is famous for its beef and wine culture. But Mesopotamia is also a fantastic food destination on its merit.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Chipa: It is a type of bread made with cassava, cheese, and butter.
  2. Pacú: It is a type of fish that is caught in the region’s rivers and is usually roasted or grilled with regional herbs and spices.
  3. Calabaza Rellena: This dish is made with baked squash stuffed with meat or vegetable filling.
  4. Canto: This is a meat stew with a spicy and savory flavor.

Local Beverages

  1. Ilex Paraguayensis: a traditional infusion of yerba mate.
  2. Tereré: a cold version of the yerba mate.
  3. Craft Beer: Entre Rios Province is known for its craft beer scene with dozens of breweries offering top quality beers.

Where to Stay in Mesopotamia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Mesopotamia offers a variety of accommodation options to its visitors, including luxury hotels and guesthouses, budget hostels, and camping. Some of the following options are available:

  1. Awasi in Iguazu National Reserve is an excellent choice for travelers seeking privacy and a luxury experience.
  2. Posada Puerto Bemberg, a 4-star hotel near Iguazu Falls with a spa, hot tub, and pool.
  3. Las Azaleas in San Ignacio, a cozy guesthouse surrounded by a verdant green garden.

What to Buy in Mesopotamia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Mate Kit: You can purchase a complete mate kit from the local markets, which includes a mate gourd cup, bombilla, and a thermos to keep the water warm.
  2. Textiles: Local artisans in Misiones Province sell colorful handmade textiles and regional cultural designs.
  3. Clay handicrafts: Different clay artifacts from frog-shaped teapots to rooster-shaped bread dishes are typical items available.

Local Culture and Customs of Mesopotamia

The Guaraní people, one of the oldest indigenous people of the region, still maintain their traditions of yerba mate drinking and folk music. Visitors can witness live music and experience the indigenous community’s culture throughout the region.

Best Time to Visit Mesopotamia

The best time to visit Mesopotamia is from June to September as during this time, it is winter, and the region experiences mild weather. During the summer months, from December to February, the area is crowded and can be scorching hot.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mesopotamia

Do:

  1. Learn a few Spanish phrases before arriving, as some remote areas may not have people who speak English.
  2. Respect local customs and traditions.
  3. Tipping customs are common - tipping 10%-15% is customary for good service in restaurants, cafes, and guided tours.

Don’t:

  1. Do not flash valuables in public places or leave them unattended.
  2. Do not make loud noises or behave in an inappropriate manner.
  3. Do not enter any restricted national park areas without proper permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Mesopotamia

Mesopotamia is a safe region for travelers. However, it is essential to be vigilant and take precautions against pickpocketing and petty crimes.

Health in Mesopotamia

It is recommended to get updated vaccinations before visiting the region and take mosquito repellent, as there are frequent outbreaks of dengue fever and other mosquito-borne illnesses.

Getting to Mesopotamia: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Mesopotamia

  1. Cataratas del Iguazu International Airport is the nearest international airport is in Puerto Iguazu, Misiones province, Argentina.
  2. General Justo José de Urquiza Airport in Parana, Entre Rios Province.

Bus Stations Near Mesopotamia

  1. Retiro Bus Station in Buenos Aires.
  2. Terminal de Ómnibus de Rosario.

Other Options

It is also possible to arrive in Mesopotamia by car or boat.

How to Get Around in Mesopotamia

The best way to get around Mesopotamia is by car. You can rent a car from different rental companies available at the airports or bus terminals. Local buses and taxis are also available to travel within the cities and nearby areas.

Where to Go Next from Mesopotamia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Buenos Aires: Argentina’s vibrant capital city is located 1000 km away from the Mesopotamia region.
  2. Cordoba: This university town is located 1000 km from Mesopotamia and has stunning colonial architecture and rich culture.
  3. Mendoza: A world-renowned wine destination, located 1800 km from Mesopotamia.

Conclusion

Mesopotamia is a hidden gem within Argentina, with a rich cultural heritage, beautiful natural scenery, and outdoor adventures. With its unique combination of ancient history and modern charm, Mesopotamia should be high on any travel itinerary for Argentina.



    Corrientes
    Entre Rios
    Misiones