Argentina is often called a birdwatching paradise as it's home to a thousand bird species observed here all year round. One of the best birding areas is Esteros del Ibera—the second largest marshland in Latin America. Its water bodies cover an area of more than 30,000 hectares, its marshes cover 52,000 hectares, and islets about 260,000 hectares. This ecosystem gives life to more than 300 species of birds, including rare birds such as greater rheas, huayco tinamous, southern screamers, kelp geese, yellow-billed teals, hooded grebes, and many, many others. You can take local guides to explore the Carlos Pelegrini reserve—pristine wetlands rich in jungle flora and fauna.
The diversity of the landscape allows you to visit the Esteros del Ibera during any season. Generally, April to December is recommended as the best time, excluding extremely hot and humid summer. All the same, summer offers the best chances to see migrating birds and to enjoy the blooming flora of the region.
Besides Ibera Wetlands, bird lovers will be delighted to discover the Iguazu Waterfalls area, Buenos Aires, particularly Costanera Sur Nature Reserve, Tierra del Fuego, Patagonia, and other birding spots across the jungles of the north, and the tundra of the south.
Practical info
When is the best time to visit Esteros del Ibera for birdwatching?
Esteros del Ibera is a year-round destination, but the months from April to December offer the best birding experience. Summers can be hot, but it's also during the migration season, and flora bloom. If you prefer more comfortable weather, it's better to visit during other months. Show more
What are some rare bird species found in Esteros del Ibera?
Esteros del Ibera has 300+ bird species, including some rare ones, such as huayco tinamous, kelp geese, southern screamers, hooded grebes, black-chested buzzard-eagles, and migratory species like fork-tailed flycatcher and swallow-tailed kite during summers. Show more
Where else in Argentina is great for birdwatching besides Esteros del Ibera?
Argentina has various birding spots to offer besides Esteros del Ibera. Such as Buenos Aires' Costanera Sur Nature Reserve, Iguazu Waterfalls area, Tierra del Fuego, and Patagonia. Even the jungles of the north and the tundra of the south offer unique birdwatching opportunities. Show more
What type of flora can be seen in Esteros del Ibera?
Esteros del Ibera is home to an array of flora, including reeds, thistles, sedges, aquatic plant species like waterlilies, bulrushes, and pampas grasses. Visitors can spot wild orchids, irises, and blooming summers of aguará guazu and the Esterhazya splendida in the lush greenery. Show more
Can visitors explore Esteros del Ibera without a local guide?
It's highly recommended to visit Esteros del Ibera with a guide who can help explore its vast ecosystem and unique bird sightings better. Local guides possess the knowledge of the area's essential features that visitors might miss if exploring on their own. Visitors can choose from a wide variety of guided tours offered by the park. Show more
