Parque Nacional Traslasierra

Parque Nacional Traslasierra is a protected area in Argentina.

Parque Nacional Traslasierra at a Glance

Location
Central Sierras & Pampas, Argentina, Central & South America
Coordinates
-30.975908, -65.586426
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate

Getting to Parque Nacional Traslasierra

Nearest airport: Aerodromo de Guasapampa, 28 km away.

Big Five in Parque Nacional Traslasierra

1 of the Big Five can be found here: Mountain Lion.

Weather & Climate in Parque Nacional Traslasierra

The warmest temperatures in Parque Nacional Traslasierra occur in January, averaging 29.5°C (up to 35.8°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 13.3°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in August with average rainfall of 1.6mm. Average humidity: 40.1%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 29.5°C (rainfall: 68.2mm)
  • February: 27.1°C (rainfall: 71.2mm)
  • March: 26.0°C (rainfall: 59.5mm)
  • April: 21.5°C (rainfall: 19.9mm)
  • May: 16.1°C (rainfall: 12.5mm)
  • June: 14.0°C (rainfall: 3.2mm)
  • July: 13.3°C (rainfall: 4.6mm)
  • August: 16.4°C (rainfall: 1.6mm)
  • September: 20.4°C (rainfall: 4.8mm)
  • October: 23.6°C (rainfall: 39.9mm)
  • November: 26.6°C (rainfall: 54.0mm)
  • December: 28.6°C (rainfall: 51.9mm)

Best Time to Visit Parque Nacional Traslasierra

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

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 29.49°C, rainfall 68.2mm, sunshine 12.2 hrs, humidity 47.4%
  • February: Great, temperature 27.06°C, rainfall 71.2mm, sunshine 11.9 hrs, humidity 55.2%
  • March: Great, temperature 26.03°C, rainfall 59.5mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 57.7%
  • April: Great, temperature 21.52°C, rainfall 19.9mm, sunshine 9.2 hrs, humidity 58.7%
  • May: Great, temperature 16.13°C, rainfall 12.5mm, sunshine 8.9 hrs, humidity 59%
  • June: Good, temperature 14°C, rainfall 3.2mm, sunshine 8.5 hrs, humidity 58.2%
  • July: Great, temperature 13.27°C, rainfall 4.6mm, sunshine 9.4 hrs, humidity 52.2%
  • August: Great, temperature 16.44°C, rainfall 1.6mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 40.1%
  • September: Great, temperature 20.44°C, rainfall 4.8mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 36.3%
  • October: Great, temperature 23.63°C, rainfall 39.9mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 39%
  • November: Great, temperature 26.62°C, rainfall 54mm, sunshine 12.1 hrs, humidity 42.3%
  • December: Great, temperature 28.65°C, rainfall 51.9mm, sunshine 12.4 hrs, humidity 44%

Wildlife in Parque Nacional Traslasierra

Home to 11 recorded species including 5 birds of prey, 4 iconic birds, 1 tropical birds, 1 predators.

Recommended Packing List for Parque Nacional Traslasierra

Based on average temperature of 21.9°C, typical conditions, humidity 49%.

  • Light layers - comfortable for 22°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 Traslasierra

2 safari lodges available.

budget

Similar Parks in Central Sierras & Pampas

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Argentina

Travel advisory for Argentina

Parque Nacional Traslasierra FAQs

What is the ideal time of year to visit Parque Nacional Traslasierra for wildlife viewing and comfortable weather?

The best time to visit Parque Nacional Traslasierra is during the spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May). These seasons offer pleasant temperatures and optimal conditions for spotting native wildlife, avoiding the intense summer heat and cooler winter months.

What kind of 'safari' experience can I expect at Parque Nacional Traslasierra, and how does it differ from traditional African safaris?

Unlike traditional African safaris, Parque Nacional Traslasierra offers a unique 'safari criollo' experience, focusing on the diverse ecosystems of the Chaco Serrano and High Mountains. Visitors can expect guided walks, birdwatching, and opportunities to observe endemic species like the peccary, pumas, and a rich variety of birds in their natural habitat.

What unique or endemic wildlife species are visitors most likely to encounter within Parque Nacional Traslasierra?

Parque Nacional Traslasierra is home to several iconic species, including the peccary (chancho quimilero), pumas, and the endangered crowned solitary eagle. Keep an eye out for guanacos, various armadillo species, and a spectacular array of birdlife, particularly raptors and chacoan endemics.

What are the typical entry fees and transportation options for accessing Parque Nacional Traslasierra?

Entry fees for Parque Nacional Traslasierra are generally modest, with different rates for Argentine residents and foreign visitors; it's advisable to check the official APN website for current pricing. The park is best accessed by private vehicle from nearby towns like Villa Dolores or San Javier, as public transport options directly to the park entrance are limited.

Beyond general health precautions, what specific safety guidelines or regulations should visitors be aware of when exploring Parque Nacional Traslasierra?

Visitors should always stay on marked trails and follow park ranger instructions to ensure both personal safety and wildlife protection. It's crucial to carry sufficient water, wear appropriate hiking footwear, and be mindful of the dry, rugged terrain, especially during warmer months, to prevent dehydration or accidents.

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.