Explore the geological wonderland of Vila Velha (“Old City" in Portuguese) on a scenic day trip from Curitiba, and learn the myths and history behind the fascinating state heritage park. You will depart Curitiba at 07:30 for the 55-mile journey to Vila Velha State Park. There, your guide will lead you around the formidable sandstone formations, and explain how they were created over millions of years by the combined effects of wind, rain, volcanic eruptions, and glaciation. A similar weather process gave rise to the mica-filled Golden Lagoon (Lagoa Dourada), where you may catch the golden effect caused by the sun’s rays. The stunning water mirrors of the furnas (craters) formed by the collapse of the sandstone is another feature of Vila Velha that will dazzle you! The tour continues with a visit to the Witmarsum Colony with a delicious typical German lunch. The village is full of family stores that sell colonial products produced in the region, such as cheese, salami and biscuits. After enjoying such natural beauty, tourists will return to the bus that will take them to their respective hotels.

Begin your day trip with a convenient pickup from your hotel in Foz do Iguaçu in Brazil. Sit back and relax during the 250-kilometer (155-mile) ride to the Ruins of San Ignacio Jesuit Mission in Argentina, listed as UNESCO World Heritage in 1984.   Walk around the ruins of the mission, which was founded in 1632 by the Jesuits in the Americas during the period of Spanish colonization. Learn about its history how it was built in what can be called the "Barranco Guarani" as one of 30 missions built by the Jesuits in a territory that currently comprises Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay. Appreciate the detailed architecture in carved stone, with sculptural details of baroque origin, interpreted and developed by indigenous artists of the time. Enjoy a spectacle of light and sound along the tour, which animates the ruins and brings the history of the site to life.   On your way back to the city, you will stop for a one-hour tour at the Wanda Mines, located 60 kilometers (37 miles) south of Foz do Iguaçu in Argentina. Find hidden gems in the walls of the 300-meter tunnels, such as agate, amethyst, topaz, jasper and different types of quartz. Admire these semi-precious stones in different parts of the mine as well as in workshops and exhibition halls. You will also see other agricultural and forestry developments.   After the mines, you will visit the store, which sells accessories and jewelry made from stones extracted from the mines. See a collection of local specimens exhibited at the Stone Museum and get the chance to buy raw or processed samples from specialist shops.   After a full day of exploring and sightseeing, enjoy a comfortable ride back to your hotel in Foz do Iguaçu.