Argentina Travel Planet

Formosa

The Province of Formosa is tucked up into the northeast of Argentina, bordering with Paraguay to the north, and its neighboring provinces of Salta and Chaco. Sitting in the Gran Chaco region, it is known for its beautiful landscapes and warm weather. It is still home to three of the indigenous groups from the area, including the Pilagás, Wichis, and Tobas, who continue to speak their mother tongues in the province.

The area was first populated by Europeans in 1585, and was later fought for, after both Argentina and Paraguay declared independence in 1810. It was finally declared Argentine land in 1870, after the War of the Triple Alliance. Formosa, now the province’s capital city, was founded in 1879, which began its establishment as an Argentine territory. The province has been steadily growing since the beginning of the 20^th century, growing from 20,000 residents in 1914 to over 150,000 in 1955, when President Perón declared it an official province. As it still has a fairly large native population, land grants are given, in a program initiated after the Rincón Bomba massacre by white locals.

The northern province enjoys relatively warm weather year-round, with temperatures of up to 45ºC in the summertime. It has a sub-tropical climate, with wet summers and drier winters, except for in the east, where there is steady rainfall all year. The land is mostly flat plains, running between two major rivers. Small lagoons form naturally, and are eventually reabsorbed, creating an ever-changing landscape. The more humid side is thick with lush green jungle, and the drier climate has a typical Chaqueño forest.

While the province is not among the most wealthy in Argentina, it still has the stable economies of cattle and various agricultural undertakings, such as fruit and cotton production, as well as timber farms. While the area has plenty of beautiful places to visit, its tourist track and economy is still being developed.

The province is named for its capital city, also named Formosa. The name comes from the old-Spanish word fermosa, which means “beautiful”. The province boasts a wide variety of activities to see and do. As the winter is the dry season, and the temperatures tend to be more bearable, Formosa makes an attractive winter destination for tourists. And since it is still not frequented as an established tourism province, it is still considered a bit off the beaten path. This means purer landscapes, more interaction with the locals, a truly authentic experience, and a sense of adventure for the travelers who decide to go see what this unique province has to offer.

Whatever your interests, the Province of Formosa has plenty to offer any visitor, and is a great break from the usual tourist destinations. For more information on this province and the other magnificent areas of Argentina, visit this Argentina Travel Guide.

The province can be reached by air or traveling by RN 11. Tourism activities include photo safaris and animal and bird watching, taking advantage of the rich variety of species. Taking a canoe down the Monte Lindo Grande, or on the Bermejo river, you will get as close to nature as possibly; these sights are unforgettable, and cannot be missed. Horseback riding and 4×4 tours are also available in the Guaycolec Natural Reserve, as well. In addition, there is the unique Isla de Oro (Island of Gold), and a wooded botanical park.

The capital city of Formosa has a lot to offer, as well. With its somber style, the Government House attracts many visitors, as does the local cathedral, and a spa that sits on the Paraguay river, which also boasts sport fishing.