Inscribed in June 2022 as one of Argentina’s latest national parks, Ansenuza covers a large part of the Laguna Mar Chiquita – the largest salt lake in South America and the fifth-largest in the world – and the wetlands of Río Dulce. Home to three of the four types of flamingos found in South America, the area is a boon for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
Visiting the Reserve
Even with national park status, Ansenuza still has limited tourism infrastructure, especially given the size of Laguna Mar Chiquita . For now, the Reserva Municipal Bahía de Ansenuza (WhatsApp 9 3575-410999), 12km east of La Para along RP 17, offers interpretative trails on elevated boardwalks for spotting coastal wildlife (especially flamingos, but also mammals like gray foxes and capybara). It's open daily from 7am to 11pm. Inside the reserve, the Interpretative Center Terraza Ansenuza features an exhibit, a cafe with an alfresco patio and a 3rd-floor observation platform. It’s open from 8:30am to 12:30am Thursday to Sunday, plus 5:30pm to 9pm in summer. There's a campsite in a woodland by the lake and space for motor homes. Visit municipalidadlapara.com for more information.
Boat Trips
The best way to appreciate the lake and see the birdlife is to take a trip on Mar Chiquita’s water. This is best achieved in Miramar; among its boat operators, pioneer El Barco Pirata (instagram.com/barcopiratamiramar, WhatsApp 9 3563-404193) has larger, more secure boats operating multiple daily departures (depending on weather conditions). One-hour trips include a final fun photo session with pirate gear from a treasure chest stored aboard.