Getting There -- The Tigre Delta is best reached by train from Buenos Aires and then a boat or launch from the train station. Trains from Buenos Aires leave from Estación Retiro for Estación Tigre, at Avenida Naciones Unidas, every 10 to 20 minutes along the Mitre Line. Tickets run about $3 (£2) round-trip. Call tel. 11/4317-4445 for schedules and information, or visit www.tbanet.com.ar. Within Tigre, the Estación Fluvial Tigre, where the boats depart to head through the various rivers and islands, is on the next block over from Estación Tigre, at Mitre 305. Many companies run launches and services on both banks of the river here; you have to know where you want to go, or simply choose one and go wherever it takes you. Among the many companies are Catamaranes Interisleña (tel. 11/4731-0261); Líneas Delta (tel. 11/4749-0537); and Catamaranes Río Tur (tel. 11/4731-0280). To reach Martín García Island, one of the most remote parts of the delta, you have to travel with Cacciola (tel. 11/4749-0329). Most of these companies service the various islands but allow you to ride on the boat until the end of the trip and then simply return. Ticket prices vary but range from less than $1 (70p) and up. I highly recommend that you find out when the last few boats leave from your destination; toward the end of the day, boats can fill up quickly, leaving some passengers to wait for the next boat. Extra boats are dispatched at peak times, but you still may have to wait a few extra hours at the end of the day, especially on Sunday. Build this time into your plans or you may literally get stuck in the mud. Many tour companies in Buenos Aires also provide excursions to the Tigre Delta, and I have included that information below.
Visitor Information -- In theory, there are two Centros de Información Turística in Tigre. There is one in Estación Tigre, but it never seems to be open. Within Estación Fluvial Tigre, at Mitre 305 (tel. 0800/888-TIGRE [84473] or 11/4512-4497; www.tigre.gov.ar), another office is open daily from 8am to 8pm. It is a very busy office, providing information on the islands, hotels and rentable bungalows, and other activities. You may have to wait a little while for help, but most of the staff speaks English. Another useful tourism website is www.puntodelta.com.ar.
Getting Around -- Within the town of Tigre itself, where both the train station and the docks are, one can easily walk along both banks. There are restaurants, playgrounds for children, and a few tourist-oriented shops along the waterfront and on the streets heading to the Puerto de Frutos . To get around and see the delta, however, you will need a boat. I have listed the companies that provide these services above. Of course, if you have the skills and stamina, swimming is another option.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
