Reserva Provincial Isla del Cerrito - Other Activity Resistencia - Argentina

Where the Paraguay and Paraná Rivers meet, you'll find Isla del Cerrito. Once a leper colony and Chaco Territory's first capital, this island is now a provincial reserve with ample opportunities for observing flora and fauna. Birdwatching is especially rewarding. The big draw of the island, though, is its fishing, culminating in the catch-and-release International Dorado Fishing Tournament, held every July.

The historical center, atop a 20-meter (66-ft) high knoll in the center of the island, was the colony itself. Now there are several lodging choices, from camping and hostels to a luxury resort. The Museo Histórico, focusing on the War of the Triple Alliance, is also here (Tuesday – Sunday 8 a.m. – noon, 4 – 8 p.m. Tel: 03722-49-6230. Entry: Free). Other ways to while away the time on Isla del Cerrito are horseback riding, swimming at the municipal pool and traversing the island on bicycle.

Location:
57 kilometers / 35 miles north of Resistencia
Resistencia, Argentina

Other Activity Types:
Wildlife refuge

Getting There
From Resistencia, take Ruta Nacional 16 east. Just before Puente General Belgrano over the Río Paraná, turn left onto Ruta Provincial 63. Public tramsportation: Viaje y Turismo (Monday – Friday 11:30 a.m., 7:30 p.m., return 5:30 a.m., 2:30 p.m.; Satur

Travel Tips: Lodging options are:

• Camping Municipal â€” fire pits, bathhouse with hot showers, parking, electricity; per tent: $3-4

• Albergue Municipal (Tel: 03722-49-6230) â€” kitchen, common baths $9-11

• Albergue Judicial (Tel: 03722-49-6286 / 1522-1141) — kitchen, shared and private rooms $11-22

• Hostería del Sol (Tel: 03722-1573-1054 / 49-6200; in Resistencia 44-5588) — guided tours, fishing, bicycles, horseback riding, pool, restaurant; 1 person $43, 2 people $49, special deals in low season.

The island also has several simple restaurants. The city's Oficina de Turismo keeps a list of fishing and tourist guides.

Price Description: Free.

Relative price: Free

Travel Skills: None

Stroll through Resistencia's open-air sculpture "museum," or check out its indoor galleries. In that city, hang out in Parque 2 de Febrero, or take in a concert or movie.

Currencies accepted
Argentine Peso

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By Lorraine Caputo

Upon re-declaring her independence at age 29, Lorraine Caputo packed her trusty Rocinante (so her knapsack's called) and began...

Updated: 14 Jan 2010