What You Need to Know

South America is home to nearly one third of the world’s bird species, many of them truly extraordinary. The continent spans six countries and, together with nearby Antarctica, covers an area comparable in size to entire continents. Across this vast territory, landscapes change dramatically— from tropical rainforests to polar ice, from some of the wettest regions on Earth in southern Chile to the driest desert on the planet in the country’s north. Extreme variations in altitude further shape this diversity, ranging from Aconcagua, the highest mountain outside the Himalayas at nearly 7,000 meters above sea level, to low-lying coastal areas below sea level in Patagonia.

Argentina (UTC −03:00) stands out for its extraordinary environmental diversity, encompassing 18 ecoregions (15 continental, 2 marine, and 1 Antarctic). These include the southernmost forests on Earth—the Magellanic subpolar and Valdivian temperate forests—shared with Chile, as well as the Patagonian steppe, Espinal, Humid and Dry Chaco, Dry Puna, Yungas cloud forests, and the Atlantic Rainforest, among others.

Together, these ecoregions form a remarkable natural mosaic, supporting an exceptional variety of flora and fauna and making Argentina one of the most diverse and fascinating countries for nature and birdwatching in the world.

Argentine Mesopotamian Region

We specialize in the Argentine Litoral (Mesopotamian) region, located in the northeast of the country, with a primary focus on the provinces of Misiones and Corrientes. In Misiones, the landscape is dominated by subtropical Atlantic Rainforest, which gradually transitions through grasslands and shrublands into the open savannas and wetlands of the Iberá region. The climate across this region is warm and humid, with regular rainfall throughout the year and mild autumns and winters, creating ideal conditions for high biodiversity and year-round wildlife activity. The Mesopotamian region also includes the provinces of Entre Ríos, Chaco, Formosa, and Santa Fe, and is recognized for its exceptional concentration of flora and fauna. Its most important protected areas include Iguazú National Park and Iberá National Park, Campo San Juan Federal Park, and the Yabotí Biosphere Reserve, designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Climate & Seasonality

Misiones has a subtropical climate with no true dry season, allowing birdwatching activities year-round. Weather conditions can change quickly, and brief but intense rain showers are common at any time of year. Visitors are advised to bring light rain protection and to be flexible with daily schedules.

• Many birders prefer to visit between September and November (spring), one of the most pleasant periods, with mild temperatures, increased bird activity, and the onset of the breeding season, when birds are more vocal and easier to observe. This is also a period of lush vegetation and peak biodiversity.

• The Argentine summer (December to February) is hot and humid and coincides with the national holiday season, resulting in higher visitor numbers. During this period, early-morning outings are strongly recommended to avoid extreme heat and crowds. Afternoon activities may be limited by heat or storms, and advance booking of flights, accommodations, and guided tours is highly advisable.

High humidity throughout the year can affect optical equipment and photography gear. We recommend protective covers, silica gel, and regular cleaning to prevent condensation or fungal growth.
Corrientes Province, located farther south than the Atlantic Rainforest, generally offers a more moderate and comfortable climate, particularly in grassland and wetland ecosystems. Seasonal flooding in wetland areas is a natural phenomenon and may influence access to certain sites, but it also enhances bird diversity and viewing opportunities.
Overall, travelers should be prepared for variable weather conditions, occasional insects, and changing trail conditions, especially after heavy rains. Proper preparation ensures a safe, comfortable, and rewarding birding experience in Northeast Argentina.

Logistics & Travel Tips

• Puerto Iguazú is connected by daily flights from Buenos Aires and other major cities in Argentina
• No visa is required for most travelers from the Americas and Europe
• No specific vaccines are mandatory, though yellow fever vaccination is recommended
• The climate is subtropical and humid year-round; light, breathable clothing is advised
• Use insect repellent and sunscreen, especially during warmer months when dengue and other mosquito-borne illnesses can occur
• Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as many attractions involve trails, stairs, and uneven terrain
• Tap water is generally safe in urban areas, though bottled water is widely available
• Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is useful in smaller towns and protected areas
• Electrical outlets use Type C and I plugs (220V); a plug adapter may be required
• Argentina is a safe destination; standard travel precautions are recommended
• When visiting national parks and nature reserves, follow park regulations and respect wildlife
• Border crossings to Brazil and Paraguay are common in the Iguazú area; travelers should carry their passport at all times

Currency & Payments

The local currency is the Argentine peso (ARS $). U.S. dollars and euros are not generally accepted for direct purchases but can be exchanged at official currency exchange offices. Many ATMs accept international cards, and credit/debit cards are widely used in hotels, restaurants, travel agencies and shops.

Accommodation Tip

Puerto Iguazú offers a wide range of accommodations, from eco-lodges to boutique hotels. Several properties are located along the forest edge, allowing excellent birding opportunities right from the garden. Whether you are staying in town or across the border in Brazil, Birds Iguazú can assist with transportation logistics and provide bilingual guiding services for birding on either side of the border. In Corrientes Province, tourist services are more limited and accommodations are typically located deep within grasslands and wetlands, far from major cities. For this reason, we strongly recommend prepaying all services in advance. Most lodges are fully inclusive, providing everything needed for a comfortable stay in these remote and pristine environments.

RECOMMENDATIONS: Before the Tour

• Please keep in mind that the hottest and most humid months are from December to March, which corresponds to summer in this region. For this reason, it is essential to start activities early in the morning, stay well hydrated throughout the tour, and bring appropriate accessories such as a hat and high-SPF sunscreen, as UV radiation levels are high.
• It is also important to note that bird activity peaks are shorter during this season and are strongly influenced by climatic conditions. Bird activity can decrease significantly between approximately 9:00 am and 10:30 am, making early starts especially important for successful birding.

• For tours inside Iguazú National Park, entrance and exit hours are:
• 5:30 am to 6:00 pm (September 1 to April 30)
• 6:30 am to 6:00 pm (May 1 to August 31)

• Puerto Iguazú is the correct name when referring to the town, while Iguazú Falls and Iguazú National Park refer to the natural attractions. It is the most visited natural destination in Argentina, with very high demand, so we strongly recommend making reservations well in advance.
• A valid passport is required on the day of travel. Please check whether you need a visa or additional documentation to enter Argentina and/or Brazil. You are solely responsible for obtaining the required travel documents.

• Wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for long walks and terraced trails. Inside Iguazú National Park, walkways are mainly made of cement and metal. We recommend bringing water, insect repellent, and binoculars.
• No prior birdwatching experience is required. If you are new to birding, we hope this outing will inspire you to continue exploring this activity. If you are already experienced, you can expect to observe many new and remarkable bird species.
• Birding success in the rainforest can be influenced by several factors, including weather conditions, humidity, and seasonal changes.
• If your main goal is bird photography and you have specialized equipment, we recommend booking a private tour, which allows for greater flexibility and better photographic opportunities.
• Likewise, expert birdwatchers seeking specific local specialties are encouraged to book a private tour, enabling the guide to focus exclusively on target species.
• Please remember to communicate your specific preferences and requirements in advance, such as tour duration, desired level of expertise, and target bird species. This helps us tailor the experience to your expectations.
• For larger groups or requests for larger vehicles, please click on “Request Change” or contact us directly. Availability is subject to prior arrangement.

What to Pack – Essential Items.

• Lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for warm and humid conditions.
• A light rain jacket or poncho (sudden showers can occur year-round).
• Comfortable walking shoes or trail shoes with good grip.
• Insect repellent (preferably with DEET or picaridin).
• Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses.
• Refillable water bottle to stay hydrated.
• Binoculars and/or camera with weather protection.
• Dry bags or waterproof covers for electronics and optics.
• Small backpack for day outings.