Bañado La Estrella
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In the heart of the province of Formosa lies an area of 400,000 hectares called El Bañado la Estrella with an interesting history. This area has been flooded by the Pilcomayo river multiple times, once in 1940 and again since 1966. The floods have defined the landscape, and made the area what it is today: absolutely stunning.
The area is protected, and is considered a Chaco sub-region, semi-arid and transitional. The median annual temperature is 23ºC, and it usually rains around 600 mm between October and April.
The regular flooding has given the area a distinct environment. Hardwood trees that spent years growing were effectively drowned by the floods, dying while standing upright. Now, they provide perfect frames for the local thick vines, turning them into green ghostly figures that the locals call Chámpales.
Just 45 kilometers from Las Lomitas, along RP 28, one of the legs crossed by the waters of the marsh was covered with stones 700 meters out, allowing for vehicle transit through the body of water. This specific place is called Vertedero, and from there you can see the shad fish jumping in their stubborn struggle against the strong current.
Along with the Gran Pantanal in Brazil and Esteros del Iberá, in Corrientes, El Bañado la Estrella in Formosa is considered one of the three most important ecological reserves in all of South America.
It is home to an insane amount of diverse flora and fauna, including water spouts, aquatic vines, and two different forests, classified as “high” and “low”. Animals include a variety of fish and birds, as well as otters, coral snakes, alligators, capybaras, anteaters, tapirs, and jaguars. Fog is not uncommon here, but it only adds to the mysterious quality that the marsh possesses. One of the best ways to observe the land is by air, as it can’t always be traveled by land.
Las Lomitas is the nearest town, at 45 kilometers away, but there is not too much to do or see in the town itself. In fact, the reserve itself wasn’t too popular of a destination until Gisela Infantino and the forest engineer Carlos Spagarino settled here in 2004, discovering the secrets of the marsh. Now, they work to promote visiting the area, all within a framework of respect and education about the delicate land. El Jabirú is their company, which seeks designation for the marsh as a Biosphere Reserve. Through their company, you can get up close and personal with the beautiful landscapes, while maintaining a respectful distance.
Excursions include canoe and land trips. With the canoes, it is possible to get in and really experience the area, without leaving any sort of footprint. Birdwatching it El Jabirú’s specialty, and their guides can ensure that you get the most out of your experience, even if you’re not already an avid birdwatcher.
It is recommended to visit Bañado La Estrella during the fall and winter, from May to September, as these are the dry months. There will be less heat, insects, and closed roads at this time, all of which will contribute to a more comfortable stay. For more information about Argentina and her natural beauties, see this Argentina travel Guide.