Awasi Iguazú: the most exciting new hotel in Argentina

Discover the luxury eco-lodge which has opened up a new way to experience the thundering Iguazú Falls – away from the crowds

There are so many reasons to get excited about Awasi Iguazú, the latest venture from the renowned Awasi group. Of course, there is its slick design and incredible location deep in a private 25-acre plot of dense rainforest, but what is most thrilling is that it offers a completely different spin on experiencing the powerful Iguazú Falls and its surrounds. Guests are able to go far beyond the often tick-box experience of just seeing the famous cascades and instead also delve into the jungle, wildlife and waterfalls that make the area of Misiones so intoxicating.

Awasi’s other two lodges, both in Chile, tackle similarly challenging environments, from the otherworldly glaciers of Patagonia to the swirling sands of the Atacama Desert, so the company is well-versed in the idea that every element of the lodge and guiding must be expertly thought-out. That said, each morning guests can decide exactly how they want to spend their days from boat trips to hikes past canopies of butterflies, kayaking and picnics. In true Awasi form, all guests have a private guide and a 4×4 vehicle to make the most of their time at the lodge.

The hotel’s 16 guides are chosen for their in-depth knowledge and enthusiasm and are tasked with being as good as the best African safari guides. As well as naturalists many are accomplished historians who can bring to life old Jesuit ruins and illuminate visits with local tribes.

At cazenove+loyd, we want to take clients far beyond the tourist veneer, but appreciate that some of the world’s most-visited highlights are, rightfully, a must on many itineraries. That is why we are passionate about developing new ways to see these renowned sights. Awasi Iguazú chimes with this approach perfectly. Collectively, the falls draw over 1.3 million visitors a year, most of whom come simply to marvel at the 275 cascades. The crowd-averse guides at Awasi are able to show you the most famous and dramatic sections of the falls such as Devil’s Throat from lesser-known viewpoints and work hard to find ways to show the falls at their very best.

Life at the eco-lodge

Awasi’s arrival in Northern Argentina is timely as the area needs sustainable tourism as it continues to attract record visitors. Like Mashpi Lodge in Ecuador, its existence is crucial to protect the threatened rainforest that surrounds it.

Pleasingly, its eco-credentials even stretch to the food. Awasi Iguazu’s accomplished chef Aarón Castillo Tellería and his Michelin-worthy menus are already making waves. In the treetop restaurant, 30 ft above the forest floor, feast on Argentine tenderloin steak, a ceviche of local freshwater fish and zingy seasonal produce inspired by the surrounding jungle. After dinner, stroll over to the elegant wood-carved bar for a glass of good Malbec before bed.

As for the 14 spacious villas, each comes with a private open-air plunge pool and large deck with fantastic views over the jungle. The lodge is undeniably luxurious, but still pleasingly earthy and blends comfortably with its wild rainforest backdrop.