A few weeks ago, we received a visit from our friend Robert, who arrived from the United States with a clear goal: to explore some of Argentina's most biodiverse corners. Thus began a journey that took us through Entre Ríos, Corrientes, Misiones, and Córdoba, among grasslands, marshes, jungles, and mountains, in search of birds and unforgettable landscapes. Robert had already visited Buenos Aires years before for work but wasn't able to dedicate much time to birdwatching, so this trip would have a taste of revenge.
Entre Ríos: Grasslands and pajonales
Our first stop was in the south of Entre Ríos, in the Ceibas area, which is a classic for our outings. The guide assigned for this part of the tour was Manuel. Here we found a mosaic of grasslands, marshes and scrublands, where open-air birds abound. Among the species we liked the most were the elegant White-naped Xenopsaris, the Chaco Hartcreeper and the unmistakable White Monjita.
The adventure didn't end when the sun went down: at night, an imposing Great Horned Owl graced us with its presence, marking a great start to the trip.
The next day, we made a stop in the Colon area, just 200 km north. This area is well known for its Yatay palm trees. The star of the day was the Crane Hawk, although we shared the trail with many other species that made the day a true ornithological festival.
Próxima parada ¡Corrientes! Visitamos los mágicos Esteros del Iberá
Our main destination was the Iberá Wetlands, where we spent four full days. We visited gateways like Iberá and Lobo Cuá, the Cambá Trapo Reserve, and several rural roads that allowed us to discover the richness of this unique wetland—the largest in South America after the Brazilian Pantanal!
The gems were many: the Strange-Tailed Tyrant, a symbol of the grasslands and one of the most endangered species in the area; the elusive Red-billed Scythebill; the Ash-throated Crake; the Aplomado Falcon; and the Great Black Hawk. The wildlife provided memorable encounters: Marsh Deer, Giant Otters, Alligators, and a family of Howeller Monkeys that allowed us to observe and photograph them at our leisure.
Missions: Atlantic Rainforest and visit to the wonderful Iguazu Falls.
The road continued towards the Misiones jungle, where we visited the Araucaria, Piñalito and Cruce Caballero provincial parks, home to gigantic ferns that seem to be from another era, this place is like entering Jurassic Park 🙂 There we were excited by the Araucaria-Tit Spinetail, the colorful Vinaceous Breasted Amazon, the Green-billed Toucan, the striking Motmot and, as a finale, the majestic flight of a Eagle that circled over us while calling.
Once in Iguazú, we visited Iguazú National Park, where the imposing waterfalls welcomed us with the ever-present Great Dusky Swifts, who mingle with the roar of the water. We also toured Route 101, the Yriapú Rainforest Reserve, and the unmissable Hummingbird Garden, where the tiny winged jewels mesmerize with their brilliance and speed. Highlights included: the Black Fronted Piping Guan, Swallow Tanager and the famous Toco Toucan.
Córdoba: Mountains and salt flats-
The trip ended in Córdoba, a land of endemic species. On the first night, we were surprised by a Striped Owl, which delighted us with its calls. In Pampa de Achala, we enjoyed emblematic species, the Cinclodes!
The last big stop was at the Deán Funes salt flats, where we were able to observe and photograph the elusive Salinas Monjita, a true treasure of the region and one of the country's endemic birds. With this capture, we rounded off the tour in the best possible way.
The next day, we said goodbye to Robert at the airport, with the promise that it wouldn't be goodbye, but rather a "see you soon."
We'd like to thank Robert for choosing Sandpiper Birding & Tours for this adventure; it was a true pleasure to share these days of birdwatching, discovering the incredible diversity that Argentina offers us in every corner.
We invite you to experience this! We can design the trip of your dreams and observe more than 350 species of birds on this tour. Contact us at info@sandpipertours.com for more details.
Lets go to birding!