Tigre Delta: Private Boat Tour & San Isidro Cathedral Day Trip

Summary

Winding rivers, old cobblestones and fruit market colors in Tigre

You’ll drift through Tigre Delta’s winding rivers on a shared boat ride, guided by locals who know every bend. Explore San Isidro’s soaring cathedral and stroll along cobbled streets before losing yourself in the colors and scents of Puerto de Frutos market. It’s a day that lingers quietly—a mix of river breeze, history, and small surprises.

What’s the experience like?

We’d barely left Buenos Aires when the city noise faded, replaced by that watery hush you only get near rivers. Our guide, Martín, was already pointing out odd little houses on stilts as we boarded the boat in Tigre. The river was brown but alive—kids waving from docks, tangled green everywhere. There was this smell—muddy and sweet, maybe from all those willows? I didn’t expect to feel so far away from the city after just an hour’s drive. The boat glided past rowing clubs and old wooden inns (Martín said some families have lived on these islands for generations). He kept tossing in stories—about Sarmiento’s house under glass, about how people here get mail by boat. It’s funny what sticks with you.

After we docked, Martín whisked us through Tigre town in his car—windows down because it was warm and honestly, I wanted to catch every bit of street chatter. Paseo Victorica had these faded mansions and cafés spilling onto the sidewalk; I could’ve sat there all afternoon if we hadn’t been moving along. San Isidro Cathedral surprised me—I’m not really a church person but stepping inside felt like walking into cool stone after too much sun. Light filtered through stained glass in weird colors across the floor. Some local kids were giggling at each other near the altar (I guess even grand cathedrals are just part of daily life here).

The last stop was Puerto de Frutos—a market right by the river where you can smell oranges before you see them. I wandered off for a while; ended up buying a carved mate cup I’ll probably never use but couldn’t resist. People were friendly but not pushy—one woman selling baskets told me about her grandfather hauling fruit downriver decades ago. I liked that nobody rushed us; Martín just waited nearby, chatting with someone he knew from school apparently (small world?).

On the drive back to Buenos Aires I watched sunlight flicker through trees and realized how much lighter I felt than when we started. There’s something about water and slow afternoons that sticks with you long after you’re back in city traffic—you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Tigre Delta navigation and city tour

• Pick up from hotel
• Drive to Tigre city
• One-hour boat navigation on Rio de La Plata
• Explore Paraná Delta and river attractions
• Tour San Isidro cobbled streets by private car
• Visit San Isidro Cathedral
• Walk along Paseo Victorica
• Free time at Puerto de Frutos market
• Return to hotel

Top questions

How long is the Tigre Delta boat tour from Buenos Aires?

The navigation on the Tigre Delta lasts about 1 hour, plus driving time from Buenos Aires.

Is hotel pickup included for this day trip to Tigre?

Yes, private hotel pickup and drop-off are included in Buenos Aires.

Do we visit San Isidro Cathedral during this tour?

Yes, there is a stop at San Isidro Cathedral to explore its interior.

Is lunch included on the Tigre Delta day trip?

No lunch is included, but you’ll have free time at Puerto de Frutos where you can buy food.

What is Puerto de Frutos in Tigre?

Puerto de Frutos is a riverside market known for crafts, food stalls, and local produce.

Will there be a local guide during the tour?

Yes, an official local guide accompanies you throughout except during shared navigation.

Is this Tigre Delta tour suitable for kids or infants?

Yes, infants and children are welcome; strollers and infant seats are available.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are permitted during the entire experience.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation with air conditioning from your Buenos Aires hotel (pickup and drop-off), a one-hour shared navigation through the Tigre Delta with audio guides available in several languages, all city touring by private car with an official local guide—including stops at San Isidro Cathedral and Paseo Victorica—and free time to browse or shop at Puerto de Frutos before heading back home.