Bañado La Estrella, located in the remote province of Formosa, is one of Argentina’s largest and most biodiverse wetland systems—second only to the Iberá Wetlands. Stretching over 400,000 hectares, it is a surreal, almost dreamlike landscape of flooded forests, floating islands, and abundant wildlife. Despite its immense ecological value, it remains one of the country’s least-visited treasures, making it a paradise for those seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences in wild nature.
Where It Is and How to Get There
Bañado La Estrella lies in northwestern Formosa, close to the border with Paraguay and not far from the Gran Chaco region.
- Nearest town: Las Lomitas, which serves as the main base for visitors
- Distance from Formosa City: ~370 km (about 6 hours by car)
- Access route: Typically via National Route 81 and provincial roads
- Best time to visit: During the dry season (May to October), when roads are more accessible
Due to the wetland’s isolation, most visitors arrive by private transfer or through specialized tours.
A Landscape Unlike Any Other
Bañado La Estrella is characterized by:
- Ghost forests of dead trees, eerily standing in still water
- Floating vegetation islands that shift with water levels
- Palm groves, marshlands, and lagoons teeming with life
Its ever-changing hydrology makes it a dynamic and mysterious ecosystem. The scenery alone—especially at sunrise or sunset—feels straight out of a painting.
Wildlife and Birdwatching
This wetland is a biodiversity hotspot, hosting a wide array of species including:
- Capybaras
- Yacaré caimans
- Marsh deer
- Howler monkeys
- Giant otters (occasionally)
- An incredible variety of birds: storks, herons, hawks, kingfishers, and more
Birdwatchers will be especially thrilled, as Bañado La Estrella has become an increasingly recognized site for observing rare and migratory species.
Community-Based Tourism
One of the most enriching aspects of visiting Bañado La Estrella is the connection with local communities. The indigenous Pilagá people inhabit the region, and some community-based initiatives have started offering guided experiences, providing insight into their culture and the land they’ve long protected.
Conservation and Challenges
While still largely untouched, the wetland faces threats from:
- Deforestation in surrounding areas
- Agricultural expansion
- Poor infrastructure, which limits responsible ecotourism
That said, recent efforts have begun to promote sustainable tourism as a tool for conservation and local development.
Final Thoughts
Bañado La Estrella is a place of silence, mystery, and raw beauty. It offers a glimpse into a different Argentina—one far from the crowds of Patagonia or the cities, where nature thrives in a quiet, untamed form. For travelers willing to venture off the grid, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime destination that leaves a deep and lasting impression.
We’re a local tour operator based in Buenos Aires, which offers custom tours in Patagonia and other regions of Argentina and Chile. We invite you to contact us, and start planning your next incredible journey to South America!
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