Trip to Tigre from Buenos Aires

Q: While visiting Buenos Aires later this year we would like to take a trip to Tigre and the Parana River Delta. Can you help us with advice on how to get there, what to see and, possibly, where to stay. - Susan Rose-Smith

A: The Parana River Delta, located around 30kms north of Buenos Aires, It covers a stunning 8,000 square kms, making it one of the largest in the world that does not empty into the sea. The most picturesque way to get there is by the riverside train (known as the Tren de la Costa). It runs from Retiro (downtown Buenos Aires) to the Tigre Delta Station in 45 minutes, allowing passengers to see the Rio de la Plata coastline and dream of staying in one of its holiday residences. The cost is less than half a US dollar. Other ways to travel to Tigre include ferries, taxi boats and taxj (around 30 US dollars). However, the mode of transport is likely to be included in the package you choose for your trip, which is easier than trying to do it as an independent traveller. There are many tours leaving Buenos Aires on half or full day excursions. Most will include a ride on the train and sailing on the Parana River. Two companies you could try are You Say Hueque Tours (www.sayhueque.com) and the more upmarket Borello Travel (www.borellotravel.com). There are plenty of resorts in the delta, most of which offer all-inclusive packages for two or three night packages. Among the best are the Delta Eco Spa (www.deltaechospa.com), Rumbo 90 (www.rumbo90.com) and Bonanza Deltaventura (www.deltaventura.com), an 1898 villa on a former fruit plantation. (24/7/11)