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Reserva Laguna Nimez: A Patagonian Birdwatcher's Paradise

Discover Patagonian birdlife at Laguna Nimez: a serene nature escape near El Calafate with diverse ecosystems and stunning views.

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Reserva Laguna Nimez, a municipal nature reserve near El Calafate, Argentina, is a haven for birdlife and nature enthusiasts. This protected wetland offers easy access to observe diverse Patagonian bird species in their natural habitat, with stunning views of Lago Argentino and the Andes Mountains.

A brief summary to Reserva Laguna Nimez

  • Nestor, Av. Costanera Pte, Av. Costanera Pres. Néstor Carlos Kirchner 2075, El Calafate, Santa Cruz Province, Z9405, AR
  • +54290249-5536
  • Visit website
  • Monday 10 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-6 pm
  • Friday 10 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best birdwatching opportunities and softer light for photography.
  • Bring binoculars for a closer look at the diverse bird species. Binoculars are also available for rent at the visitor center.
  • Wear layers, as the Patagonian weather can be unpredictable. Be prepared for wind, even on sunny days.
  • Bring cash for the entrance fee, as credit cards may not be accepted.
  • Stay on the designated trails to protect the fragile dune ecosystem and avoid disturbing the birds.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From El Calafate's town center, Reserva Laguna Nimez is approximately a 1 km walk. Head east from Av. Libertador towards the lakefront. Continue onto Av. Costanera Presidente Néstor Carlos Kirchner. You'll find the reserve entrance on your right, a short distance past the ACA Automóvil Club Argentino. The walk is flat and takes about 15-20 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Take a local bus from the El Calafate bus terminal towards the 'Costanera' area. Ask the driver to drop you off at the nearest stop to Reserva Laguna Nimez. From the bus stop, it's a short 10-15 minute walk along Av. Costanera to the entrance of the reserve. The bus ride costs approximately 200 Argentine pesos.

  • Taxi

    A taxi or rideshare from anywhere in El Calafate to Reserva Laguna Nimez is a convenient option. The fare should be approximately 500-700 Argentine pesos, depending on your starting location within the city. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Reserva Laguna Nimez

Located just a kilometer from the center of El Calafate, Reserva Laguna Nimez is a 140-hectare protected wetland and bird reserve established in 1986. It stands as one of Argentina's first nature reserves, created with the mission to preserve, study, and protect the area's natural heritage. The reserve is a vital habitat for numerous bird species, with approximately 80 different species calling it home. Around 70% of these are migratory birds, making it a crucial stopover point. Visitors can explore five distinct natural environments within the reserve: shrub steppe, wetlands, flood grasslands, reedbeds, and the Argentine Lake coast. A well-maintained 3 km loop trail guides visitors through these diverse habitats, providing ample opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying the Patagonian scenery. The trail features interpretive stops with information about the local flora and fauna, enhancing the educational experience. Among the many bird species that can be spotted are Chilean flamingos, Coscoroba swans, black-necked swans, crested ducks, and Chiloe wigeons. The Argentine Lake coast offers a panoramic view of El Calafate, the Calafate River valley, Round Bay, and the lake itself, where Magellanic plovers, ashy plovers, and blue and white swallows can be observed. The reserve also provides services such as guided tours, binocular rentals, and bilingual brochures.

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