Eco Área
Eco Área is a protected area in Argentina.
Eco Área at a Glance
- Location
- Central Sierras & Pampas, Argentina, Central & South America
- Coordinates
- -34.662440, -58.315205
- IUCN Category
- II
- Crowds
- Quiet
- Malaria Risk
- Moderate
Getting to Eco Área
Nearest airport: FIM Firmat (exclusivo ULM), 322 km away.
Weather & Climate in Eco Área
The warmest temperatures in Eco Área occur in January, averaging 24.6°C (up to 29.0°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 10.3°C.
The driest weather conditions are typically in June with average rainfall of 36.1mm. Average humidity: 80.2%.
Monthly Temperatures
- January: 24.6°C (rainfall: 73.6mm)
- February: 23.4°C (rainfall: 87.3mm)
- March: 22.2°C (rainfall: 155.2mm)
- April: 17.8°C (rainfall: 91.0mm)
- May: 13.2°C (rainfall: 43.8mm)
- June: 11.3°C (rainfall: 36.1mm)
- July: 10.3°C (rainfall: 46.1mm)
- August: 11.8°C (rainfall: 56.0mm)
- September: 14.2°C (rainfall: 61.4mm)
- October: 17.2°C (rainfall: 61.2mm)
- November: 20.8°C (rainfall: 104.5mm)
- December: 22.8°C (rainfall: 71.3mm)
Best Time to Visit Eco Área
The best months to visit Eco Área are January, February, December, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Month-by-Month Safari Conditions
- January: Great, temperature 24.65°C, rainfall 73.6mm, sunshine 12.1 hrs, humidity 64.8%
- February: Great, temperature 23.39°C, rainfall 87.3mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 68.5%
- March: Good, temperature 22.16°C, rainfall 155.2mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 74%
- April: Good, temperature 17.82°C, rainfall 91mm, sunshine 8.7 hrs, humidity 76.9%
- May: Good, temperature 13.24°C, rainfall 43.8mm, sunshine 8 hrs, humidity 77.7%
- June: Good, temperature 11.26°C, rainfall 36.1mm, sunshine 7.4 hrs, humidity 80.2%
- July: Good, temperature 10.27°C, rainfall 46.1mm, sunshine 7.8 hrs, humidity 78.9%
- August: Good, temperature 11.83°C, rainfall 56mm, sunshine 8.3 hrs, humidity 75.3%
- September: Good, temperature 14.2°C, rainfall 61.4mm, sunshine 8.9 hrs, humidity 74.3%
- October: Good, temperature 17.18°C, rainfall 61.2mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 69.1%
- November: Good, temperature 20.78°C, rainfall 104.5mm, sunshine 11.5 hrs, humidity 66.2%
- December: Great, temperature 22.75°C, rainfall 71.3mm, sunshine 12.5 hrs, humidity 63.4%
Wildlife in Eco Área
Home to 59 recorded species including 26 waterbirds, 16 birds of prey, 9 iconic birds, 7 tropical birds, 1 small mammals.
Recommended Packing List for Eco Área
Based on average temperature of 17.5°C, typical conditions, humidity 72%.
- Layered clothing - recommended for 17°C temperatures
- Fleece or warm jacket - essential for cool mornings and evenings
- 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
- Great Horned Owl (Bubo virginianus) - Birds of Prey
- Capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) - Small Mammals
- Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura) - Birds of Prey
- Nanday Parakeet (Aratinga nenday) - Tropical Birds
- Graylag Goose (Anser anser) - Waterbirds
- Maguari Stork (Ciconia maguari) - Waterbirds
- Collared Plover (Anarhynchus collaris) - Waterbirds
- Bare-faced Ibis (Phimosus infuscatus) - Waterbirds
- Black-headed Duck (Heteronetta atricapilla) - Waterbirds
- White-faced Ibis (Plegadis chihi) - Waterbirds
- White-faced Whistling-Duck (Dendrocygna viduata) - Waterbirds
- Whistling Heron (Syrigma sibilatrix) - Waterbirds
- Wattled Jacana (Jacana jacana) - Waterbirds
- Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) - Waterbirds
- Swainson's Hawk (Buteo swainsoni) - Birds of Prey
- Black-crowned Night Heron (Nycticorax nycticorax) - Waterbirds
- Roseate Spoonbill (Platalea ajaja) - Waterbirds
- Snowy Egret (Egretta thula) - Waterbirds
- Cocoi Heron (Ardea cocoi) - Waterbirds
- Gray-cowled Wood-Rail (Aramides cajaneus) - Birds of Prey
Safari Lodges in Eco Área
50 safari lodges available.
Other
- América del Sur - https://www.americahostel.com.ar/home_bsas_aleman.html
- ART DECO Hotel & Suites ****
- Artfactory - http://artfactoryba.com.ar
- Ayres de Recoleta
- Blank Hotel Recoleta
- Cambacuá Bed&Breakfast
- Camping AJB
- Camping Bahia
- Casa de Pia Buenos Aires
- Casa Franca Recoleta Hostel - https://casafrancarecoletahostel.com/
- Casa Köhli
- Circus Hostel & Hotel
- Dazzler Hotel Recoleta
- Famila Ortiz
- Familia Mansilla
- Galeón del Plata
- HI Recoleta Hostel - http://www.hirecoleta.com.ar/
- Hostal Tercero del Sur - http://www.hostaltercerodelsur.com.ar/
- Hostel Fiesta
- Hostelmo Hotel & Hostel
- Hostel Ostinatto
- Hostel Rayuela
- Hostel Sol
- Hotel Reconquista Garden
- Hotel Urban Suites Recoleta - https://www.urbanrecoleta.com
- Juan y Julietta
- Loaras's
- Loi Suites Recoleta Hotel - https://loisuites.com.ar
- Melia Recoleta Plaza - https://www.melia.com/pt/hoteis/argentina/buenos-aires/melia-recoleta-plaza/
- Ostinatto - http://www.ostinatto.com/
- Parla Hostel
- Pensión CABJ
- Petit Recoleta Suites
- Puerto Limon Hostel
- Reconquista Plaza
- River Hotel
- Sabatico Hostel
- Sandanzas Hostel
- Sudamerika - http://www.sudamerikahostel.com.ar/
- Tango Guesthouse
- Trianon Residence Recoleta
- Trip Recoleta Hostel
- UTEDYC
- Via Via Buenos Aires RJC - https://viavia.world/es/america/buenos-aires
- Voyage Recoleta Hostel
- Youth Hostel
luxury
- Ker Recoleta Hotel & Spa - https://www.kerhoteles.com.ar/
- Milhouse - https://www.milhousehostel.com/
- Residencia Universitaria Hogar San José - https://santafaz.org.ar/residencia-san-jose/
budget
Similar Parks in Central Sierras & Pampas
- Parque Nacional Campos del Tuyú
- Parque Nacional Ciervo de Los Pantanos
- Parque Nacional Lihué Calel
- Parque Nacional Quebrada del Condorito
- Parque Nacional Traslasierra
- Parque Provincial Bajo de Véliz
- Parque Provincial Ernesto Tornquist
- Reserva Ecológica Lago Lugano
- Reserva Ecológica Santa Catalina
- Reserva Natural Arroyo Balta
Health & Travel Info
Eco Área FAQs
When is the optimal time to visit Eco Área for wildlife viewing and comfortable weather?
The best time to visit Eco Área is typically during Argentina's dry season, from May to September, when wildlife is more concentrated around water sources and temperatures are milder. This period offers excellent visibility for spotting native species and more comfortable conditions for exploring the protected area.
What unique wildlife can I expect to encounter at Eco Área, given its protected status in Argentina?
Eco Área, as a protected area in Argentina, is home to diverse South American wildlife, including capybaras, caimans, various bird species, and potentially pumas or jaguars, though these larger predators are more elusive. Visitors can anticipate observing a rich ecosystem representative of the region's biodiversity.
What precautions should I take regarding malaria risk when visiting Eco Área?
Given the moderate malaria risk in Eco Área, it is highly recommended to consult your doctor about antimalarial medication before your trip. Additionally, use insect repellent containing DEET, wear long sleeves and pants, especially at dawn and dusk, and sleep under mosquito nets if available to minimize exposure.
How crowded does Eco Área get, and what kind of visitor experience can I expect regarding solitude?
Eco Área maintains a low to moderate crowding level (2/5), offering a more intimate and less bustling safari experience compared to many other parks. This allows visitors to enjoy wildlife viewing and nature exploration with a greater sense of tranquility and fewer disruptions.
Beyond traditional safaris, what specific activities or experiences are available within Eco Área, given its IUCN Category II designation?
As an IUCN Category II protected area, Eco Área focuses on both conservation and recreation, offering activities like guided nature walks, birdwatching excursions, and potentially boat trips on local waterways to observe aquatic wildlife. These experiences provide deeper engagement with Argentina's natural environment.
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.