Quick answer
The Wanda Mines are the only semi-precious stone mines open to the public in Argentina. They are 40 km from Puerto Iguazú (45 minutes via RN 12) and offer a guided tour through deposits where you can see amethysts, quartz, agates and topazes formed 150 million years ago. The visit lasts 30-45 minutes and they are open every day from 7:30 AM to 6:30 PM. They combine perfectly with the San Ignacio Ruins for a full day trip.
What Are the Wanda Mines?
The Wanda Mines are semi-precious gemstone deposits located in the town of Wanda, Misiones, along National Route 12. The town was founded in 1934 by Polish pioneers — its name comes from a legendary Polish princess.
The stones were formed 150 million years ago in basalt deposits of the Brazilian Shield. Water filtering through volcanic rocks deposited minerals such as silica and iron in cavities, creating the geodes that can be seen in the mines today: natural chambers lined with amethyst, quartz and agate crystals.
The Compañía Minera Wanda has operated the deposit since 1994 and opened it to the public as a tourist attraction. It is the most visited mine in the region and one of the most popular excursions from Puerto Iguazú.
The 7 Semi-Precious Stones of Wanda
Amethyst
Violet Most popularThe signature stone of Wanda. Found in geodes within the basalt. Its violet color is due to iron and natural radiation. It is the most abundant and sought-after gem from the mines.
Rock Crystal Quartz
TransparentTransparent crystals with hexagonal prismatic shapes. Highly valued in jewelry and decoration. They appear as bipyramidal prisms and octahedrons.
Agate
Varied (banded)Stone with concentric colored bands. Each piece is unique due to its pattern. Used in decoration, jewelry and crafts.
Topaz
Yellow / goldenWarm-toned gem ranging from light yellow to deep gold. Less abundant than amethyst but highly prized.
Jasper
Red / brownOpaque variety of quartz with intense colors. Used in decorative pieces and artisanal jewelry.
Citrine
YellowVariety of quartz ranging from yellow to orange. Natural or heat-treated from amethyst. Valued in jewelry.
Rhodochrosite
PinkThe national stone of Argentina. Deep pink with white bands. Very rare in Wanda but present in some veins.
What the Tour Is Like
The visit is led by an expert guide who explains the geological formation of the stones, the extraction process and the differences between the gems. The tour has three stages:
Open-air deposit
(15-20 minutes)You walk along trails between basaltic rocks where you can see quartz veins and amethyst geodes in their natural state. The guide points out formations and explains how stones are identified by color and crystal structure.
Lapidary workshop
(10-15 minutes)You observe the process of cutting, polishing and carving raw stones. Artisans transform extracted gems into jewelry and decorative pieces. You can watch how an opaque geode reveals brilliant crystals when opened.
Exhibition hall and shop
(15-30 minutes (free time))Display of the finest pieces found in the mine and a shop with finished products: rings, necklaces, earrings, decorative geodes, loose stones and crafts. Prices range from affordable pieces to collector geodes.
Practical Information
Location
Town of Wanda, Misiones, Argentina — on National Route 12
Distance from Puerto Iguazú
40 km (45 minutes via RN 12)
Hours (March-December)
Every day from 7:30 AM to 6:30 PM
Hours (January-February)
Every day from 7:30 AM to 7:00 PM
Tour duration
30-45 minutes (guided) + free time in shop
Full excursion from Iguazú
4-5 hours (round trip + visit)
Phone
+54 3757 624545
Facilities
Parking, restrooms, gem shop, restaurant, cabins
How to Get There from Puerto Iguazú
The Wanda Mines are 40 km from Puerto Iguazú, on National Route 12 heading south (toward Posadas). The road is paved and in good condition.
Private transfer (recommended)
The driver takes you, waits during the entire visit and brings you back. You can combine it with the San Ignacio Ruins on the same trip. Ideal for families and groups.
Group excursion
Several tour agencies in Puerto Iguazú offer regular excursions to the Wanda Mines (sometimes combined with San Ignacio). Fixed schedules and large groups.
Own or rental car
Via RN 12 heading south. Free parking at the mine. GPS marks "Compañía Minera Wanda" in Wanda, Misiones.
What to Buy at the Shop
The mine's shop offers products made with stones extracted from the deposit. Some highlights:
Amethyst geodes
From small (souvenir) to large collector pieces. The most sought-after are those with deep violet color.
Artisan jewelry
Rings, necklaces, earrings and bracelets with amethyst, quartz and agate set in silver or steel.
Loose stones
Polished amethysts, quartz and agates for collections or decoration. Ideal as gifts.
Stone crafts
Photo frames, ashtrays, lamps and decorative objects carved in agate and quartz.
5 Tips to Make the Most of Your Visit
Bring cash
The shop accepts cards but the POS terminal doesn't always work. Bring cash in Argentine pesos for last-minute purchases.
Wear closed-toe shoes
The tour goes through dirt trails between rocks. Avoid flip-flops or sandals — the terrain can be uneven and slippery after rain.
Combine with San Ignacio
If you have a full day, the Wanda Mines + San Ignacio Ruins combination is the most popular excursion in the region. Visit Wanda first (it's on the way) and then San Ignacio.
Choose Compañía Minera Wanda
There are several mines in the area. Compañía Minera Wanda (ciaminerawanda.com.ar) is the most recognized and offers the most complete tour with professional guides.
Take your time in the shop
Prices at the mine shop are reasonable and the pieces are authentic. Take your time choosing — each geode is unique and you won't find the same ones elsewhere.
What Tourists Say
The Wanda Mines have over 1,600 reviews on TripAdvisor and are the #1 attraction in the town of Wanda. What visitors highlight the most:
Expert guides
The guides know the geology and explain things clearly and engagingly. They adapt the visit to each group.
Educational value
Both adults and children learn about how the stones formed and the extraction process.
Ideal complement to the Falls
Most recommend it as a half-day excursion, ideal for a day when you're not going to the National Park.
Shop with great variety
Pieces ranging from affordable souvenirs to collector geodes. Reasonable prices compared to city jewelers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is admission to the Wanda Mines free?
You need to pay the entrance fee and guide upon arrival. Children get a discount. Check current prices on the official website ciaminerawanda.com.ar or upon arrival.
Can you visit with children?
Yes. The tour is suitable for all ages. Kids enjoy seeing the geodes with sparkling crystals. The trail is of low difficulty.
How long does it take from Puerto Iguazú?
45 minutes via National Route 12. The road is paved and in good condition. A private transfer is the most comfortable option.
Can it be combined with the San Ignacio Ruins?
Yes, it's the most popular combination. Visit the Wanda Mines first (they're on the way) and then San Ignacio. Full day excursion (8-9 hours).
Are the stones in the shop authentic?
Yes. Compañía Minera Wanda sells stones extracted from their own deposit. Each piece comes with a certificate of authenticity for higher-value gems.
Want to Visit the Wanda Mines?
With Cataratas Taxi we take you to the Wanda Mines from your hotel in Puerto Iguazú. The driver waits during the entire visit and brings you back. We can also combine it with the San Ignacio Ruins for a full day trip. Fixed fare agreed via WhatsApp.
Book excursion to Wanda MinesLast updated: June 2, 2026 · Author: Hernán Pared, Cataratas Taxi (12+ years taking tourists to the Wanda Mines)