Parque Nacional Chaco

Introducing Parque Nacional Chaco

Preserving several diverse ecosystems that reflect subtle differences in relief, soils and rainfall, this very accessible park (03725-499161; entrance free; visitor center 9am-7pm) protects 150 sq km of the humid eastern Chaco. It is 115km northwest of Resistencia via RN 16 and RP 9.

Ecologically, it falls within the ‘estuarine and gallery forest’ sub-region of the Gran Chaco, but the park encompasses marshes, grasslands, palm savannas, scrub forest and denser gallery forests. The most widespread ecosystem is the monte fuerte, where mature specimens of quebracho, algarrobo and lapacho reach above 20m, while lower strata of immature trees and shrubs provide a variety of habitats at distinct elevations. The hard-wooded quebracho colorado tree used to be widespread across northern Argentina, but overlogging almost led to its complete disappearance.

Scrub forests form a transitional environment to seasonally inundated grasslands, punctuated by caranday and pindó palms. Marshes and gallery forests cover the smallest areas, but they are biologically the most productive. The meandering Río Negro has left several shallow oxbow lakes where dense aquatic vegetation flourishes.

Mammals are few and rarely seen, but birds are abundant, including the rhea, jabirú, roseate spoonbill, cormorants, common caracaras and other less conspicuous species. The most abundant insect species is the mosquito, so visit during the cooler, drier winter and bring repellent.

Park service personnel are extremely hospitable and will accompany visitors if their duties permit.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009