National Parks in Argentina

The National Parks System of Argentina is a network of protected areas aimed at preserving the natural and cultural heritage of the country. The first national park in Argentina was Nahuel Huapi, established in 1922 under the name of South National Park and later renamed as Nahuel Huapi National Park in 1934. In the same year, Iguazú National Park was also created.

The National Parks Administration (APN) is the organization responsible for managing the system of protected areas at the national level. Its central headquarters are located in the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires. The APN is responsible for maintaining biological diversity, preserving the natural and cultural heritage, and protecting the country’s outstanding landscapes.

In total, Argentina has 40 National Parks, as well as interjurisdictional parks in collaboration with provinces, natural reserves, and natural monuments. These government-protected areas cover approximately 4% of Argentinian territory, equivalent to around 3.8 million hectares. They are cared for and preserved by around 200 park rangers.

In addition to those mentioned, there are also about 250 protected properties under the jurisdiction of municipal, provincial, or privately managed governments—areas of land that are under some form of protection or regulation to preserve their natural, cultural, or historical value. Some of these protected areas can receive additional recognitions, such as Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas (IBAs) or Biosphere Reserves.

The System of Parks and Natural Areas in the Argentinian Republic plays a crucial role in conserving the country’s rich biodiversity and preserving its valuable natural and cultural resources.

Content

1 Largest by Protected Area
2 Smallest by Protected Area
3 Best in Terms of Visits and Natural Tourist Interest
4 List of National Parks of Argentina
5 Natural Reserves in Argentina and Points of Interest

Largest by Protected Area

Argentina’s largest National Parks in terms of protected area are Ansenuza National Park, followed by Los Glaciares National Park, Nahuel Huapi National Park, Lanín National Park, and Los Alerces, to name the top 5 largest parks in the South American republic.

Smallest by Protected Area

There are also other protected areas that, while smaller compared to the largest ones, do not possess any less natural value. Argentina’s smallest national parks are of incalculable value to local communities, the country, and global biodiversity. For example, Los Arrayanes National Park holds incredible arrayan forests that form the habitat for countless birds, mammals, and all kinds of flora and fauna. In this category, we also find Islote Lobos National Park, which, although not as well-known and visited, acts as a biodiversity reserve in its different islets, serving as a habitat for sea lions and Magellanic penguins. Similarly, Pre-Delta National Park is emblematic for being a protected area for the large kingfisher.

Best in Terms of Visits and Natural Tourist Interest

But if any of Argentina’s national parks stand out, without a doubt, Iguazú takes the spotlight, receiving the highest number of visitors each year. It is followed by Los Glaciares, Nahuel Huapi, and a special mention goes to Tierra del Fuego National Park with its incredible glaciers and mighty mountains adorned with forests and lakes, marking the southernmost protected area in South America.

These impressive natural spaces host a great diversity of landscapes, flora, and fauna, playing a crucial role in conserving the country’s biodiversity and remarkable geology, such as Talampaya National Park with its rock formations, canyons, and incredible gorges. Below, you will find a list of all the National Parks of the Argentinian Republic, and the Natural Reserves to protect Biodiversity, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of nature in its purest state. From towering mountains to vast stretches of jungles and wetlands recognized by Unesco, Birdlife, and international organizations for their ecological and cultural value. These parks offer a unique experience for nature lovers and adventurers alike. Get ready to explore the wonders of Argentina!