April 1 - 12, 2027
Featuring Robert Raguso,
Professor of Neurobiology and Behavior
In partnership with Criterion Travel
22 participants max
Step into a world of shimmering wetlands and wide, open skies—where birds lift off at dawn, capybaras slip through the reeds, and the landscape feels vast, untamed, and alive. Along the way, encounter caimans, otters, armadillos, foxes, and an extraordinary diversity of birdlife in a setting that rewards curiosity and movement. Customized by Cornell professor, Robert Raguso, this active, small-group, faculty-led journey—created exclusively for Cornell’s Adult University— brings scientific insight and ecological storytelling into conversation with what you’re seeing, hearing, and feeling on the ground. This is travel experienced at eye level and ground pace—moving through wetlands alive with sound and motion, where every day unfolds in rhythm with light, water, and wildlife.
Stay in comfort at the Estancia Rincon del Socorro, the best eco-lodge in the Iberá Wetlands, famous for its delicious Argentine cuisine and organic garden and orchards.
In Iberá, explore one of South America’s most astonishing wildlife regions, venturing deep into wetlands so expansive they rival the size of Belgium.
Experience the grandeur of Iguazú Falls with unhurried access to its trails and the rare privilege of being immersed in its sights and sounds throughout your stay.
"This trip is thrilling to me because we will enter the tropics from the south instead of the north, as we travel from Buenos Aires through Argentina’s own “Mesopotamia” (Entre Rios), Corrientes and into Missiones, our final destination." ~Professor Robert Raguso
Robert Raguso, Professor of Neurobiology and Behavior, has spent most of his life tracking moths, sniffing flowers and chasing sunsets. His childhood fascination for natural history kindled a lifelong desire to travel, an enduring love for Latin America and a fulfilling career as a scientist and educator. His educational path began with undergraduate studies of butterflies (Yale), a PhD on the evolution of floral scent (Michigan), postdoctoral research on insect olfaction (Arizona) and 8 years as a junior faculty member (South Carolina), before moving to Cornell in 2007. Raguso’s expertise is in Chemical Ecology, the study of how fragrances, toxins and pheromones mediate complex biological phenomena, which he promotes globally in workshops and symposia. He speaks Spanish fluently, enjoys music, cooking and photography, travels widely in South America, and has tour guiding experience on the Peruvian Amazon, Andean Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. Professor Raguso's course Health, Wealth, & The Divine: Biodiversity & The Human Quest debuts at CAU Summer 2026. With Robert’s guidance, your journey through Argentina becomes a sustained act of discovery—one that frames wetlands and rainforest as interconnected systems shaped by deep ecological forces.
Depart on an overnight flight to Buenos Aires. Arrive in the morning and transfer to your hotel in the upscale Recoleta neighborhood. This afternoon, enjoy a walking excursion through this cosmopolitan capital city, often called “the Paris of South America,” including Recoleta Cemetery, frequently described as an open-air museum. Stroll through elegant nearby streets lined with cafés, boutiques, and art galleries. This evening, enjoy a welcome reception and dinner accompanied by a tango demonstration, showcasing Argentina’s iconic dance and rich cultural heritage.
(Meals included on April 2nd: Reception, Dinner)
Begin the day with a welcome orientation and lecture. Explore Buenos Aires, including the historic Plaza de Mayo, the vibrant streets of San Telmo, and the colorful neighborhood of La Boca, famous for its street art and tango culture. Pause to enjoy a traditional Argentine coffee or pastry at one of the city’s famed cafés.
(Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch)
Fly to Corrientes and transfer to Estancia Rincón del Socorro. Stay in comfort at this premier eco-lodge, widely regarded as the best in the Ibera Wetlands, known for its delicious Argentine cuisine and organic gardens and orchards. Begin your stay with a guided tour of the estancia’s gardens and wildlife viewing areas, located just steps from your rooms. Take some time to explore the property on your own, spotting native birds and other wildlife in the surrounding wetlands.
(Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Begin the first of three full days exploring the wetlands on foot, horseback, bicycle, by boat, and in 4x4 vehicles. Meet with members of Rewilding Argentina to learn about the creation of Iberá National Park, its conservation initiatives, and the ways the park preserves the ecology while supporting local communities. Take in sunsets over the marshes, where spectacular colors are reflected across the water, and gain further insight into this remarkable ecosystem alongside resident scientists and guides. Watch for abundant birdlife and wildlife roaming freely across the estancia’s property, and enjoy locally sourced specialties throughout your stay.
(Meals included each day: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Depart by motorcoach for the city of Posadas, overlooking the Paraná River, where broad river views and a lively waterfront reflect the character of northeastern Argentina. En route, visit a yerba mate plantation to learn about the cultivation, health benefits, and cultural significance of this traditional tea, long woven into daily life across the region.
(Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Start the morning at the ruins of the Jesuit mission in San Ignacio and learn about the historical events that inspired the movie The Mission. Continue to Iguazú National Park and check into your waterfall-view room at the Gran Melia Iguazú Hotel.
(Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Marvel at the Devil’s Throat Falls in the morning and explore the Upper Circuit trails, offering panoramic views of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the afternoon, experience a thrilling boat ride to the base of the falls. Celebrate your journey with a farewell dinner this evening, sharing highlights and memories from the trip.
(Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Explore the Lower Circuit trails this morning, taking in the waterfalls and rainforest. Transfer to Puerto Iguazú for your flight to Buenos Aires, then connect to your overnight flights home. Reflect on the diverse landscapes and wildlife you’ve encountered during your journey.
(Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch)
Arrive in the U.S. and connect to flights home.
The program ranges from moderately active to very active, depending on chosen activities. Travel is by jet aircraft, and private motor coaches or vans. The itinerary offers an in-depth look at Argentina’s culture, and natural history. Daily guided excursions include half-day and full-day options such as walking, biking, boating and horseback riding. Walks typically range from one to three miles over uneven terrain, with longer distances optional. Participation is optional, except when traveling to the next destination. Some buildings may lack elevators, and steps without handrails may be encountered. There will be three long drives in northeastern Argentina, each about four and a half hours on paved and unpaved roads. Any physical condition requiring special attention, diet, or treatment must be reported in advance. All reasonable efforts will be made to accommodate special needs, but medical services are generally not at U.S. standards. Given the remote locations, flexibility is essential as we navigate schedules, food, weather, wind, and dust.
Start your journey early with an exploration of Argentina’s cosmopolitan capital city Buenos Aires. Buenos Aires welcomes you with European elegance and Latin flair, where grand boulevards, Belle Époque architecture, and leafy parks evoke the charm of Paris with a distinctly Argentine soul. Immerse yourself in its rich cultural life — world-class museums, private art galleries, and the magnificent Teatro Colón await discovery. Visit neighborhoods not included on the main program and spend an afternoon immersed in Argentina’s delicious culinary traditions. Download more info about the Pre-Trip Extension
April 1 - 12, 2027
In partnership with Criterion Travel
Phone: 888-328-2089 | Email: res@criteriontravel.com
Download the brochure and Register Online
Week One: July 5 - 11 | Week Two: July 12 - 18
Take a riveting one-week CAU Summer course in your favorite subject taught by leading Cornell faculty on campus. Alumni, family, and friends are welcome.
CAU is your first choice for in-depth, lifelong learning with Cornell faculty in the classroom and around the globe. Since 1968.
We are committed to ensuring that CAU and Cornell Alumni Travel tours provide a welcoming and inclusive experience for everyone. You can find the expectations that are applicable to all attendees of Cornell University alumni events, both on and off campus, by visiting this link.