El Palmar National Park

El Palmar National Park in Argentina's Entre Ríos province preserves one of the last remaining groves of Yatay palm trees in the world. Within its 85 square kilometers, you'll walk among 20-meter-tall palms that have stood for over 300 years, swim in the clear waters of the Uruguay River, and spot capybaras roaming freely through the grasslands. The park's network of trails leads you past 18th-century lime kilns, through dense palm groves, and to elevated viewpoints overlooking the savanna.

The Yatay Palm Landscape

Thousands of Yatay palms dominate the park's savanna, with dense clusters stretching across 8,500 hectares - the largest connected area of these palms in South America. These 400-year-old trees grow just meters apart, creating patterns of shade and light that shift throughout the day. The best times to photograph the palm landscape are during sunrise and sunset, when long shadows emphasize the distinctive silhouettes.

Wildlife in El Palmar

You'll encounter capybaras throughout the park, often with blue ravens perched on their backs removing parasites. Listen for the loud chatter of monk parakeets in their large communal nests, built from thousands of twigs. From September through May, black and white Teju lizards (up to 140 centimeters long) bask on rocks and paths during midday. Dawn and dusk bring out nocturnal animals like vizcachas, small rodents that gather in family groups near their burrows.

Park Trails

Walk the 700-meter Sendero Glorieta for panoramic views across the palm savanna. The 350-meter Sendero El Palmar takes you through the heart of the palm grove, with interpretive signs explaining the ecosystem. For a full day hike, follow the 12.7-kilometer trail that climbs 211 meters through grasslands, palm groves, and riverside forests.

Calera Barquin Ruins

A one-kilometer riverside path leads to the Calera Barquin ruins, remnants of an 18th-century limestone operation. The site includes three preserved lime kilns and a former river jetty where boats once loaded processed limestone. Information panels explain the mining techniques used during the colonial period.

Planning Your Visit

The park entrance is 54 kilometers from Colón and 60 kilometers from Concordia. Entry costs approximately 12 USD per person. Drive 12 kilometers on a dirt road to reach the visitor center, which has a cafeteria and restaurant. The park remains open until 11 PM, making it possible to see both daytime and nocturnal wildlife. The best months to visit are March through November, when temperatures are mild and rainfall is less frequent.