Driving our campervan to Lake Ibera in Argentina

Welcome to the Ibera Provincial Nature Reserve, an incredible conservation area spanning 13,245 km², making it the largest in Argentina!

This national park proudly protects a portion of the Ibera Wetlands, one of the most expansive and awe-inspiring wetlands on the planet.

This is why we chose to visit it!

The park's creation is a testament to dedication and vision, as it was formed from former private cattle ranches acquired since 1999 by the Conservation Land Trust–Argentina, a private foundation established by the passionate conservationists Doug and Kristine Tompkins.

The Conservation Land Trust took bold steps by removing most of the cattle and halting the practice of burning the land to boost cattle fodder. Instead, they used managed fires to encourage the flourishing of wild plants and animals, and interior fences were removed to grant wildlife the freedom to roam.

This park is a sanctuary for the vulnerable marsh deer and strange-tailed tyrant, and it boasts thriving populations of capybara, yacare caiman, and broad-snouted caiman. Excitingly, the park has also reintroduced majestic species like the jaguar, pampas deer, anteater, and the vibrant red and green macaw.

In this blog, we dive into the wonders around the Ibera Lake and the charming town of Carlos Pellegrini.

Driving our campervan to Lake Ibera in Argentina:

1 - Getting there

We kicked off our adventure in the town of Mercedes. From there, we embarked on an exciting journey along Route 40 all the way to the town of Carlos Pellegrini, one of the gateways to the stunning national park.

The journey begins like any ordinary paved road, and halfway through, it transforms into a thrilling dirt track. Thrilling is one way to describe it, bone-shaking is another way! The last 40 miles are a dirt track, with large stones, rocks, boulders and canal like tyre impressions left by the cattle lorries making it a challenging route, one which we tackled at no more than 20-30MPH. Upon entrance to the road it is displayed on a sign not to take the road the day after it has rained, we were lucky and had planned it around a few dry days and made sure that we got back out before any incoming rain. I can see how this road would become impassable in either 2WD or 4x4 after heavy rain.

However, as you are forced to slow down this is a perfectway to soak up the breath-taking surroundings. This beautiful area is a haven for various types of wildlife, and luckily for us, they weren't shy and they were eager to pop by and greet us on our way!

The dirt track of route 40

We found that the road journey was equally as captivating as the walking routes themselves.

2 - Campervan Parking

Colony Carlos Pellegrini have two fantastic campsites to choose from. You could opt for the municipal or the private site, both at 10,000 per person and 18,000 for your campervan.

The municipal campsite, though cosy and intimate, buzzes with energy, especially during the summer. It's the perfect spot not only for campers but also for families who flock here to sip mate with stunning lagoon views. Plus, you can embark on thrilling kayak excursions and boat routes right from the campsite!

Whether you decide to stay or not at this campsite, we recommend to spend a couple of blissful hours by the lagoon! Whether you decide to hop on a boat trip or simply relax and soak in the breath-taking scenery, parking outside the site is easy, with up to 2 hours allowed.

Our relaxing time at the lake

We didn't really need the campsite facilities, so we decided to head somewhere else for the night.

While overnight stays in the village aren't allowed, the friendly local police are usually fine with you parking just outside on either side of Route 40 for a night.

Our overnight park-up

3 - Dogs

Pets are welcome at the campsites; however, they are not allowed on the trail walks to protect the native species.

We decided to take our walk first thing in the morning before the van heated up, so our pooch stayed cool and safe.

4 - When to visit

When we considering driving our campervan to Lake Ibera in Argentina we had to bare in mind the time of year. The park is open all year, but it's best to visit in spring or autumn when the weather is nice and mild.

The walking paths have different opening hours depending on the season.

For more information, visit the park's official website.

Our tip: If you plan to drive your own vehicle, it's best to avoid rainy days and the days following rain, as the path becomes impassable.