Reserva Natural Parque Lugo

Location:
Santa Rosa, Argentina

City Park

By Elizabeth Sutcliffe

The first game reserve in Argentina, Parque Lugo is now a protected provincial nature reserve and home to more than 160 species of birds, as well as foxes, pumas, ferrets, red deer and boar. Lagoon, woods and dunes cover the 6,500 hectares of the former estate of Pedro Lugo, who created this hunting ground to cater to visits from European gentry in the early 1900’s.

The ciervo colorado (red deer), introduced by Lugo, are now one of the park’s major attractions, especially during brama (mating season – March/April). Visitors can watch from discreet lookouts as stags follow their reproductive instincts across the reserve.

El Castillo, the French style chateau and once the master residence, is now a museum. To the side of El Castillo, the Centro de Interpretaciónes has detailed information on the native flora and fauna.

Guided tours leave from the centre at 11.30 a.m. and 3.30 p.m. daily to explore the reserve in full, though exploring independently is also permitted. There is a restaurant that operates only during the weekends.

Parque Lugo lies 35km south of Santa Rosa. Rapibus (office number 15 in terminal) has several departures from Santa Rosa on Saturday and Sunday that drop visitors at the recreation area inside the park. Call (02954) 439841 for timetable information and reservations. Between Monday and Friday, access is a little more difficult. DUMAS buses heading south will drop you at the entrance to the Park on route 35 (upon request), but it is a further (3km) walk to the recreation area. Going by taxi may be a better option for those who want more of a direct drop off.

Days Closed:Open Tues - Sun & Holidays from 9 a.m - 7 p.m in winter and 8 a.m - 8 p.m in summer. Closed Mondays.

Travel Skills: None

Contact Information:
Phone: (02594) 499000 or (02594) 420071 to arrange camping/cabanas
E-mail: info(at)remove-this.parqueluro.gov.ar
URL: www.parqueluro.gov.ar