Parque Provincial Boca del Chimehuin

Parque Provincial Boca del Chimehuin is a protected area in Argentina.

Parque Provincial Boca del Chimehuin at a Glance

Location
Northern Patagonia & Lake District, Argentina, Central & South America
Coordinates
-39.845917, -71.188910
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate

Getting to Parque Provincial Boca del Chimehuin

Nearest airport: Aeródromo Hosteria San Huberto, 16 km away.

Nearest international airport: Aeropuerto El Tepual (PMC), 240 km away.

Big Five in Parque Provincial Boca del Chimehuin

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

Weather & Climate in Parque Provincial Boca del Chimehuin

The warmest temperatures in Parque Provincial Boca del Chimehuin occur in January, averaging 17.1°C (up to 24.9°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 2.5°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in February with average rainfall of 19.1mm. Average humidity: 56.3%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 17.1°C (rainfall: 28.6mm)
  • February: 17.0°C (rainfall: 19.1mm)
  • March: 14.1°C (rainfall: 45.4mm)
  • April: 9.9°C (rainfall: 95.5mm)
  • May: 5.7°C (rainfall: 103.7mm)
  • June: 3.3°C (rainfall: 256.9mm)
  • July: 2.5°C (rainfall: 195.7mm)
  • August: 3.1°C (rainfall: 138.8mm)
  • September: 5.2°C (rainfall: 97.8mm)
  • October: 8.4°C (rainfall: 56.0mm)
  • November: 11.9°C (rainfall: 46.7mm)
  • December: 15.3°C (rainfall: 23.7mm)

Best Time to Visit Parque Provincial Boca del Chimehuin

The best months to visit Parque Provincial Boca del Chimehuin are January, February, December, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 17.07°C, rainfall 28.6mm, sunshine 13.3 hrs, humidity 56.5%
  • February: Great, temperature 17°C, rainfall 19.1mm, sunshine 12.6 hrs, humidity 56.3%
  • March: Good, temperature 14.09°C, rainfall 45.4mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 63.1%
  • April: Good, temperature 9.95°C, rainfall 95.5mm, sunshine 8.6 hrs, humidity 72%
  • May: Poor, temperature 5.68°C, rainfall 103.7mm, sunshine 7.2 hrs, humidity 79%
  • June: Poor, temperature 3.3°C, rainfall 256.9mm, sunshine 4.9 hrs, humidity 83.5%
  • July: Poor, temperature 2.53°C, rainfall 195.7mm, sunshine 5.8 hrs, humidity 81.4%
  • August: Poor, temperature 3.15°C, rainfall 138.8mm, sunshine 7.5 hrs, humidity 78.8%
  • September: Good, temperature 5.17°C, rainfall 97.8mm, sunshine 9.5 hrs, humidity 74.3%
  • October: Good, temperature 8.45°C, rainfall 56mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 67.3%
  • November: Good, temperature 11.93°C, rainfall 46.7mm, sunshine 12.5 hrs, humidity 64.1%
  • December: Great, temperature 15.26°C, rainfall 23.7mm, sunshine 13.9 hrs, humidity 56%

Wildlife in Parque Provincial Boca del Chimehuin

Home to 29 recorded species including 13 waterbirds, 10 birds of prey, 3 predators, 2 tropical birds, 1 iconic birds.

Recommended Packing List for Parque Provincial Boca del Chimehuin

Based on average temperature of 9.5°C, typical conditions, humidity 69%.

  • Heavy layers & thermal clothing - temperatures around 9°C require warm insulation
  • Warm hat & gloves - critical for early morning game drives
  • 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 Provincial Boca del Chimehuin

47 safari lodges available.

Other

luxury

ultra-luxury

Similar Parks in Northern Patagonia & Lake District

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Argentina

Travel advisory for Argentina

Parque Provincial Boca del Chimehuin FAQs

What is the optimal time of year to visit Parque Provincial Boca del Chimehuin for wildlife viewing and pleasant weather?

The best time to visit Boca del Chimehuin is typically during the spring and summer months in Argentina, from October to April. During this period, the weather is milder, and many species, including various birdlife and Patagonian fauna, are more active and visible.

What specific health precautions should I take regarding malaria when planning a trip to Parque Provincial Boca del Chimehuin?

Given the moderate malaria risk in the region of Boca del Chimehuin, 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.

What unique wildlife can visitors expect to encounter within Parque Provincial Boca del Chimehuin?

Parque Provincial Boca del Chimehuin, being a protected area in Argentina, is home to diverse Patagonian wildlife. Visitors can often spot various bird species, including waterfowl and raptors, alongside mammals such as guanacos, Patagonian maras, and possibly even pumas or foxes, especially near the river mouth and surrounding landscapes.

How does the low crowding level at Parque Provincial Boca del Chimehuin enhance the visitor experience?

With a crowding level of 2/5, Parque Provincial Boca del Chimehuin offers a more intimate and tranquil nature experience compared to busier parks. This allows visitors to enjoy wildlife viewing and the natural landscapes with greater serenity, often providing better opportunities for photography and undisturbed observation.

Are there entrance fees for Parque Provincial Boca del Chimehuin, and what types of activities are typically available for visitors?

While specific entrance fees can vary, most Argentine provincial parks like Boca del Chimehuin have a nominal charge for conservation efforts. Visitors can typically enjoy activities such as hiking along designated trails, birdwatching, nature photography, and fishing in permitted areas, all while immersing themselves in the pristine Patagonian 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.