Part of the Gran Chaco, the province of
Formosa
is located in Argentina's northeastern region bordering Paraguay. Not as well known by vacationers as some of the other provinces, its landscape consists of tidelands, swamps and flat plains between the Bermijo and Pilcomayo Rivers. A poor region, the main source of income in the province is cattle and agriculture. The indigenous cultures of the Tobas, Pilagas and Wichi populate much of the province.
The capital city of the same name is located on the western side of the Paraguay River. Formosa's chief industry is timber from cedar, red quebracho, and timbo trees shipped to other regions in Argentina from the city's river port. There are a number of craft markets in the city where one can purchase aboriginal baskets and artwork. Some of the local attractions include the Juan Pablo Duffard Historical Museum (named after one of the first settlers), Casa de Gobierno or Government House, and the Estadio Centenario, a 25,000 seat soccer stadium built in 1980.
Landscapes of Formosa Province Video
The landscape of this unique province is preserved by thousands of acres of ecological parks which offer adventures in nature for the tourist. The Rio Pilcomayo National Park lies 70 miles outside of the capital city. It was set up in 1951 to protect over 123,000 acres of grasses, marshlands and various ecosystems along the river. The Laguna Blanca, a 1700-acre lagoon within the Rio Pilcomayo National Park offers camping and recreational facilities for visitors.
Guaycolec Natural Reserve offers an array of wetlands, forests and wildlife including marsh deer, giant anteaters, and strange-tailed tyrants. It is one of the few locations in Argentina where visitors can view wild curassows. The reserve is 15 miles from the capital city and has camping facilities available.
The weather in the province is subtropical, hot and humid without a dry season. Summer temperatures range from 71-92 Fahrenheit (22-33 Celsius) and can reach as high as 113 Fahrenheit (45 Celsius)! Winter averages are 53-73 Fahrenheit (12-23 Celsius).
El Pucu Airport is located 4 miles outside of the capital city. Connecting flights from Buenos Aires and other Argentine cities can be arranged through
Aerolineas Argentinas
. The airport code is "FMA".
