Iberá Wetlands Travel

A remote, watery world where wildlife rules, the Iberá Wetlands are a must for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

Ranked as the second largest wetlands in the world, Iberá is making a comeback after years of neglect. Not so long ago, hunting was rife but, after successful conservation efforts, these protected marshes, lagoons and bogs in Argentina’s north-east are once again brimming with wildlife. What’s more, tourist numbers are low compared to more recognised South American wetlands, such as the Brazilian Pantanal. So that magnificent sunset vista is unlikely to be interrupted by any other boat but your own.

Gliding through the still waters of the Iberá Wetlands is at once both supremely peaceful and incredibly thrilling. The gentle lap of the water against the boat as you pass along waterways clogged with water hyacinths, the rustle of tall grasses in the breeze and the stillness of the tropical heat haze lull you into a state of blissful calm. Then, out of the silence comes a shrill bird call and the sudden whoop of a monkey, or the thick vegetation ahead unexpectedly trembles. Immediately you are alert and waiting with baited breath to see what magnificent creature might pop their head out to greet you.

Wildlife here is exotic and plentiful. Capybaras, Caiman and Otters slide through the waters while Maned Wolves and Wildcats stalk the marshy land. You might spot an Anaconda sliding away through the grasses or turn a corner to see a marsh deer cooling off in a shallow lagoon. Up in the treetops, black Howler Monkeys watch your progress while all around you is abundant birdlife. Herons, Storks and Eagles are but a few of the 400 bird species that inhabit these wetlands. Keep your camera at the ready and you’ll come away with not only some magical memories but incredible photos too.

Highlights of Iberá Wetlands:

Explore the waters by boat or kayak

Guided boat tours are the obvious way to explore these wetlands and you’re likely to see most wildlife this way, but exploration by kayak is a more independent option. Either way, you’ll reach deep into the watery depths of the reserve.

Horse riding

Splashing through the marshes on horseback is a novel way to explore Iberá and will get you to parts that can’t be seen by boat. High up on a horse, you’ll see more of the watery landscapes too.

Watch the sun set over the wetlands

The reflections of the sun dropping over the still waters are something else. Combine that with the mysterious atmosphere of dusk as the light starts to fade and the sounds of the nocturnal wildlife sets in; magical.

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