When most photographers and naturalists think of the New World tropics, they rarely envision Argentina. And that’s just as well, because the secrets of northern Argentina’s Ibera Wetlands have remained just that, a secret. The Esteros del Ibera are ancient oxbow lakes of the Parana River. Isolated from the river, the lakes are now the centerpiece of an enormous mosaic wetland complex of marshes, tropical fens, open water, and patches of tropical woodlands. The diversity of habitats results in an abundance of wildlife. Hundreds of species of birds, reptiles, mammals, and amphibians call the Ibera home. And thanks to recent conservation efforts, charismatic species like Jaguar, Giant Anteater, and endangered macaws now roam free in the Ibera once more. The bird and wildlife photography opportunities are limitless.

But the Ibera is not the only stop on this unique photo workshop. Too, we will travel to the famous Iguazu Falls, which lies on the border between Argentina and Brazil. There we will have two full days to explore and photograph the falls, and wander the surrounding primary tropical rainforest. Jungle wildlife is abundant, and so too are the opportunities for landscape photos of the dramatic falls themselves (which make New York’s Niagra Falls look like a tiny, pale imitation.)

Join me for this unique photography experience!


Dates

2021 Dates To Be Announced

Trip Overview

Beginning in the northern Argentine city of Posadas, our trip will start with a night in comfortable local hotel, where we can recover from long hours of travel. Early the following morning, we will board a 4WD vehicle for the trip to Colonia Carlos Pellegrini a community on the eastern border of the Ibera Wetlands. The journey will take us until early afternoon, but it’s a wildlife and bird-filled trip. As we approach the Ibera, tropical birds and wildlife begin to appear including Capybara, parrots, orioles, foxes, and the tall ostrich-like Rheas.

We will have four full days to explore and photograph in the Ibera Wetlands. There, we will take multiple boat trips, where we can photograph Spectacled Cayman, Capybara, and dozens of species of birds. We will also take walks through the patches of forest where Howler Monkeys hang from the trees. If you wish, there will be the opportunity to ride horses, or take splashy hikes through the marshes for a more immersive experience.

At the comfortable Irupe Lodge, food will be abundant, including at least one Argentine barbecue, called an Asado. These are meals not to be missed or forgotten, full of abundant grilled, local meats and creative side dishes.

We will depart the Esteros del Ibera early after our days of exploration and make our way north toward the historic Estancia Santa Ines. At well over 100 years old, the ranch house is like stepping back in time and will give us the opportunity to photograph and experience rural life in northern Argentina. Lovely grounds, expansive patios, and resident wildlife provide ample opportunity for image-making.

The following morning, we will head for Iguazu in northeast Argentina. We will check into the Cantera Lodge, spend a relaxing afternoon exploring the lodge’s bird and wildlife filled grounds, or making independent visits to the nearby town of Iguazu. If time, allows, we may make our first visit to the falls that evening.

The national park, which is home to Iguazu Falls, is a short distance from town, and is a popular destination for Argentine and international travelers alike. We won’t be alone, but the drama of the falls, and tropical wildlife makes up for the crowds.

With two full days at Iguazu we will have the chance to wander away from the crowds on the less-travelled jungle trails where Capuchin monkeys, toucans and parrots compete for our attention. Too, our trip is timed around the full moon, if conditions allow, we will make a rare full moon, night-time visit to the falls. When the moon is bright, moonbows are created by the spray, a unique and eerie phenomenon.

Our trip ends on the 11th of February in Iguazu. There is a major airport in Iguazu with regular service to Buenos Aires for flights home. Schedule your flights for that day, or linger on for independent travels in Argentina or elsewhere in South America.

  • All lodging after arrival in Posadas
  • Local transportation to and between all workshop destinations
  • All meals after arrival in Posadas
  • Photography Guidance and Instruction
  • Post-processing lessons
  • One on one photo discussions and image critiques
  • Local naturalist guides
  • On-sight support
  • Assistance with travel arrangements, if needed
  • Travel from your home to Posadas, Argentina and return from Iguazu, Argentina
  • Gratuity for local guides and lodge staff
  • Travel, medical, and evacuation insurance (required)
  • Guide tips
  • Alcoholic drinks

Day 1 – Arrive Posadas, Argentina. Night in a local hotel.

Day 2 – Travel to the Ibera Wetlands, local photography and exploration

Day 3 – Ibera Wetlands

Day 4 – Ibera Wetlands

Day 5 – Ibera Wetlands

Day 6 – Ibera Wetlands

Day 7 – Ibera Wetlands to Estancia Santa Ines

Day 8 – Estancia Santa Ines to Iguazu Falls

Day 9 – Iguazu Falls

Day 10 – Iguazu Falls

Day 11 – Departure

$5500/person (Minimum 4 participants, Maximum 10)

A deposit of $1500/person will be required to secure your spot on the trip. The remainder will be due over two additional payments.

Travel insurance which covers you for medical evacuation and trip cancellation is required. I encourage you to purchase insurance soon after booking in case of a medical or family issue that prevents you from traveling. (Insurance Recommendations)

Ibera Wetlands and Iguazu Falls