Nimez Lagoon Nature Reserve (Laguna Nimez Reserve)
The Basics
Explore the reserve on foot on a self-guided tour that follows a 1.5-mile (2.5-kilometer) walking trail around the two lagoons; the many observation shelters along the route increase your chances of spotting birdlife. Located just outside of El Calafate, the reserve is included on most city and bike tours of the lakeside, which typically cover the Walichu Caves and the Old Town of El Calafate.
Things to Know Before You Go
Guided tours of the reserve are possible and are available to book at reception on arrival. Guidebooks and binoculars are also available.
Bird watchers and photographers should plan to spend at least an hour at the reserve.
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, as well as plenty of water.
How to Get There
The Nimez Lagoon Nature Reserve lies one mile (1.5-kilometers) north of El Calafate on the south shore of Argentino Lake. It’s possible to walk (around 20 minutes), cycle (less than 10 minutes), or take a taxi (around 5 minutes) from downtown El Calafate.
When to Get There
Spring and summer are the most popular time to visit, when the highest number of migratory birds are present in the reserve. The best time for bird watching is in the early morning or evening, when the birds are most active.
Bird Sightings at Nimez Lagoon Nature Reserve
The reserve is among the region’s most important conservation areas and provides a habitat for dozens of Patagonian bird species. Common sightings are flamingos and black-necked swans, but you’re are also likely to see geese, silvery grebes, ibis, hawks, chimangos, and ducks.
- El Calafate Historical Interpretation Center
- Estancia Cristina
- Calafate Mountain Park
- Los Glaciares National Park (Parque Nacional Los Glaciares)
- Glaciarium Ice Museum
- Estancia Alice (El Galpon Del Glaciar)
- Walichu Caves (Cuevas Galicho)
- Argentino Lake (Lago Argentino)
- Lago Roca
- La Leona Petrified Forest
- Perito Moreno Glacier
- Upsala Glacier
- Onelli Glacier
- Viedma Glacier
- Huemul Glacier