Great Canal Journeys

Timothy West and Prunella Scales embark on their first Latin American adventure and head for Argentina. A few miles from Buenos Aires, lies a vast labyrinth of canals and rivers that meander ever deeper into the jungle. Hiring a traditional cargo boat, known as a chatta, Tim and Pru voyage into the remoter corners of the Paranß delta. 'When you're my age, a trip from Wandsworth to Putney on a 37 bus can seem quite an adventure,' remarks Pru. 'And here I am in South America on a tramp steamer, heading into the jungle - I mean I can't believe it.' Tim and Pru discover the Belle Epoque splendour of the jungle town of Tigre. They visit a remote enclave of Anglo Argentines, who still drink G and T and toast the Queen. They also learn about the 'dirty war' of the 1970s. They marvel at the local flora and fauna and admire the hummingbirds, and perform Argentina's national dance.