Mar Chiquita Albufera

The albufera of Mar Chiquita is a coastal lagoon of around forty-six square kilometres separated from the Atlantic by a dune barrier and connected to it by a single narrow channel, so the tide pushes salt water in and out of a shallow inland sea, creating a gradient from fresh to brackish that supports an unusual mix of life. Recognised as a UNESCO biosphere reserve, it draws large numbers of birds, including flamingos, herons, black-necked swans and migratory shorebirds, and the surrounding grassland and dunes hold pampas deer and foxes. The village of Mar Chiquita on the channel is a low-key base for kayaking, kitesurfing on the lagoon, fishing and birdwatching, and the dunes between lagoon and sea are extensive.

The landscape

• The tidal lagoon - shallow brackish water connected to the sea by one channel.
• The birdlife - flamingos, swans, herons and migratory shorebirds.
• The dune barrier - the sand ridge separating lagoon from ocean.
• The water sports - kayaking, kitesurfing and fishing from the village.

When to go

October to April for warm weather and migratory birds; spring brings the most species. Winter is cold and windy but good for waterfowl. Wind is a near-constant here, which suits kitesurfers and troubles everyone else.

Practical notes

The village is very small with minimal services, and there is no organised visitor centre. Access to much of the lagoon requires a boat. Mosquitoes in the marshes are heavy in summer, and shade is scarce.

Nearby

Mar del Plata lies south; Villa Gesell and the northern resorts are up the coast.