Although I have written a little, already, about this four day period off the ship, I feel it appropriate, to produce a “one-off” account of this incredible journey through three South American countries, Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay.
Remarkably the tour ran almost as described in the brochure and other Cunard publications.
My earlier “on the hoof” writings are, perhaps, somewhat lacking in detail; hopefully this illustrated account may compensate for the hurried nature of my previous blog.
Note: I am compiling this account on 16th February, using notes from the Cunard itinerary issued only to those (approximately 30) who had booked for the “Iguassu Falls Overland,” also from memory and photographs I have taken.
The World Cruise concierge’s personnel told me that around 30 would make up the party on this Overland. (I remain unsure of the exact number of participants. On 10th February, we assembled at the Gin and Fizz Bar at (for me) the ungodly hour of 7.30 am for an 8 am departure from the pier. Highlight of the morning was the ascent of Corcovado by cogwheel train to the world famous statue of Christ the Redeemer. The presence of cloud might have been a pity given the glorious clear day we all enjoyed 24 hours previously ascending Sugar Loaf Mountain. Nevertheless, there were occasional “biblical” partings of the mist, revealing at least some spectacular vistas. Please refer to earlier blogs, written nearer the time for numerous illustrations.
After descent of Corcovado Mountain, we were driven to a rather nice eatery for a splendid buffet lunch, the first of many such meals which would eventually cause my cabin steward to suggest I was my diet wasn’t working out (not his words, exactly). We continued via various beaches and other points of interest, to the airport in ample time for Flight GOL 2074 directly to IGU Airport. I enjoyed the flight, and shortly after 6.05pm, we were on our way to boarding our lovely roomy coach which would take us to the only hotel in the Iguazu National Park, from the front of which, Iguassu Falls could be seen clearly. Yes, it turned out to be a long day, but the panoramic sight of that huge row of cascades in the distance, as dusk fell, was the prelude of unbelievably exciting stuff to come.
That concludes the first part of my account of this four day Overland to Iguassu Falls.
David. 12.42 hrs, Sunday 16th February ’20
David's Cruise 