Serrania San Luis National Park is a protected natural area in the Northern Paraneña region of Paraguay. The park is known for its biodiversity, particularly for birdwatchers who come to spot some of the hundreds of bird species that live in, or migrate through the park. It is part of an important corridor supporting the survival of jaguars, who roam over very large territories, stretching across Central and South America.
Understand
[edit]The park is mostly undeveloped wilderness. Only basic park infrastructure exists, including a ranger station, marked hiking trails and observation platforms, and a primitive tent camping area. The park is large, covering an area of 10,283 hectares.
History
[edit]The park was created and declared part of the Paraguay national parks system in 1991.
Landscape
[edit]The park is mostly semi-humid forest and grassland. It is generally flat, with low rolling limestone hills, none of which are higher than 800 meters. The park's forests are threatened by illegal logging as well as illegal gold mining, which causes mercury contamination.
Flora and fauna
[edit]
More than 200 bird species are known to inhabit the park, including colorful macaws and the Bare-throated Bellbird. A number of mammals also inhabit the park, which is known as a critical migration path for jaguars. Other mammals in the park includes anteaters, maned wolves, tapirs, and pampas deer. See also Central and South American wildlife.
Climate
[edit]The best time to visit the park is April to October.
Get in
[edit]The park is very remote and accessible only by dirt back roads that are frequently muddy and full of giant potholes. A 4x4 truck is beyond advisable, particularly in wet weather.
From Concepcion, drive north on the highway to Vallemi for 20 km. Follow the signs for the detour to San Alfredo. This is dirt road. After 17 km, watch for the signs to Parque Nacional Serrania San Luis.
Fees and permits
[edit]Get around
[edit]Hike.
See
[edit]Do
[edit]Buy, eat and drink
[edit]There are no stores or food vendors in the park. Bring anything you need with you.
Sleep
[edit]No hotels or other lodging area available in the park or nearby. The closest city with a good selection of lodging options is Concepcion.
Camping
[edit]Tent camping is allowed in a primitive campground near the ranger station. Bring food, water, and any supplies you may need as there is no store in the park. Remember to pack out trash and anything else that you brought into the park.