Parque Nacional El Rey

Parque Nacional El Rey is a protected area in Argentina.

Parque Nacional El Rey at a Glance

Location
Andean Northwest, Argentina, Central & South America
Coordinates
-24.678060, -64.632126
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate

Getting to Parque Nacional El Rey

Nearest airport: Aeropuerto Internacional Gobernador Horacio Guzmán (JUJ), 57 km away.

Nearest international airport: Aeropuerto Internacional Gobernador Horacio Guzmán (JUJ), 57 km away.

Weather & Climate in Parque Nacional El Rey

The warmest temperatures in Parque Nacional El Rey occur in January, averaging 23.7°C (up to 29.1°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 12.1°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in August with average rainfall of 8.2mm. Average humidity: 50.8%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 23.7°C (rainfall: 205.6mm)
  • February: 21.9°C (rainfall: 181.0mm)
  • March: 21.5°C (rainfall: 152.3mm)
  • April: 17.7°C (rainfall: 144.5mm)
  • May: 13.6°C (rainfall: 35.9mm)
  • June: 12.3°C (rainfall: 23.8mm)
  • July: 12.1°C (rainfall: 12.0mm)
  • August: 14.7°C (rainfall: 8.2mm)
  • September: 17.8°C (rainfall: 18.9mm)
  • October: 20.4°C (rainfall: 53.6mm)
  • November: 21.9°C (rainfall: 133.7mm)
  • December: 22.9°C (rainfall: 137.4mm)

Best Time to Visit Parque Nacional El Rey

The best months to visit Parque Nacional El Rey are August, September, October, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 23.71°C, rainfall 205.6mm, sunshine 11.3 hrs, humidity 67.7%
  • February: Good, temperature 21.85°C, rainfall 181mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 76.3%
  • March: Good, temperature 21.49°C, rainfall 152.3mm, sunshine 9.8 hrs, humidity 77.3%
  • April: Good, temperature 17.74°C, rainfall 144.5mm, sunshine 8.2 hrs, humidity 83.6%
  • May: Good, temperature 13.62°C, rainfall 35.9mm, sunshine 8.5 hrs, humidity 78.8%
  • June: Good, temperature 12.32°C, rainfall 23.8mm, sunshine 9.3 hrs, humidity 74.9%
  • July: Good, temperature 12.11°C, rainfall 12mm, sunshine 9.5 hrs, humidity 67.7%
  • August: Great, temperature 14.66°C, rainfall 8.2mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 50.8%
  • September: Great, temperature 17.8°C, rainfall 18.9mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 50.3%
  • October: Great, temperature 20.44°C, rainfall 53.6mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 53.3%
  • November: Great, temperature 21.86°C, rainfall 133.7mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 61.7%
  • December: Great, temperature 22.92°C, rainfall 137.4mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 66.2%

Wildlife in Parque Nacional El Rey

Home to 41 recorded species including 15 waterbirds, 12 birds of prey, 9 iconic birds, 4 tropical birds, 1 big herbivores.

Recommended Packing List for Parque Nacional El Rey

Based on average temperature of 18.4°C, typical conditions, humidity 67%.

  • Light layers - comfortable for 18°C weather
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Parque Nacional El Rey

2 safari lodges available.

Other

Similar Parks in Andean Northwest

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Argentina

Travel advisory for Argentina

Parque Nacional El Rey FAQs

When is the optimal time to visit Parque Nacional El Rey for wildlife viewing and comfortable trekking?

The dry season, typically from May to October, offers the best conditions for exploring Parque Nacional El Rey. During these months, rainfall is minimal, making trails more accessible and increasing the chances of spotting wildlife as animals congregate near water sources.

What unique wildlife can I expect to encounter in Parque Nacional El Rey, and how does the viewing experience differ from traditional safaris?

Parque Nacional El Rey, nestled in the Yungas and Chaco Serrano ecosystems, is home to unique species like the tapir, collared peccary, and various deer, alongside a rich birdlife including toucans. Unlike open savanna safaris, wildlife viewing here often involves patient trekking through dense forests, offering a more intimate and immersive experience.

Beyond the moderate malaria risk, what specific safety precautions should I take when exploring Parque Nacional El Rey's diverse terrain?

Given the park's varied terrain, including dense forests and potentially rugged trails, it's crucial to wear sturdy hiking boots and long clothing to protect against insects and thorny vegetation. Always stay on marked paths, consider hiring a local guide for deeper exploration, and carry sufficient water and sun protection.

What are the typical access requirements and logistical considerations for reaching and navigating Parque Nacional El Rey?

Access to Parque Nacional El Rey often requires a 4x4 vehicle, especially during the wet season or for reaching more remote sections, as roads can be unpaved and challenging. It's advisable to check road conditions beforehand and consider arranging transport or guided tours from Salta or nearby towns.

What are the general costs and available facilities for visitors planning a trip to Parque Nacional El Rey?

Visitors should anticipate an entrance fee for Parque Nacional El Rey, which contributes to its conservation. While basic camping areas and ranger stations are available, facilities within the park are generally rustic, so it's recommended to bring your own supplies and plan for self-sufficiency.

Recommended Books

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.