I am a native Argentine who has lived and worked around South America as well as in the United States. A few years ago, I (semi) retired to operate tours to the Tigre Delta and surrounding area; which I have navigated and fished for the last 35 years. I am passionate about the area and love to share my passion and knowledge with visitors and friends. Currently ( while not on the water) I live in Palermo neighborhood in Buenos Aires city and am well versed in BA history, neighborhoods, cafes, hotels, restaurants, and off-the-beaten-path spots with some authentic character, creativity and good quality (to which I am happy to recommend to guests who will be traveling aboard the Barba ). I welcome you to Argentina and hope you will join me in navigating the rivers of the Delta and surrounding sights

Typical Full Day Tour

The full-day tour described below exemplifies an “average” trip aboard the Barba, but can be adjusted to prioritize fishing, nature, history, or other significant aspects of the Tigre Delta as you prefer. It includes boat charter and crew, transfers from your hotel, food, and fishing gear.

The full-day guided tour starts with an 8:30AM pick-up at your hotel (or other lodging). I tour you in my car along the Buenos Aires coast, over the Rio de la Plata, and through Tigre City, a historic leisure and vacation area north of Buenos Aires. Then, we continue to the marina in San Fernando, where you may enjoy coffee or tea and pastries while the boat is readied for departure. We typically depart the marina no later than 10:30AM.

Departing the marina, we enter the Lujan River, which divides mainland Argentina from the islands. Yacht clubs, dramatic vacation houses, and boats ( Pic 5: River Taxi ) of all descriptions are visible as we near the mouth of the river. As we pass through the Rio de la Plata estuary into the Delta islands, a spectacular view of Buenos Aires’ skyline is visible. After an hour of navigation through meandering waterways, we enter an enchanted area of never-ending rivers, tributaries, and islands with jungle-like surroundings.

In the Aguajes del Durazno river ( Pic 1 ), close to Los Bajos del Temor ( Pic 2 ), beverages and snacks will be served before lunch. In this area, we may stop to row in shallow water streams, pause for bird watching, or fish (for Bogas or Tarariras) – and, in summer, go for a swim. We also pass a few small wooden houses occupied by islanders who hunt, fish, and gather wicker reeds for a living.

Argentinean Asado Try a tender and juicy Lomo (tenderloin), Bife de chorizo ( bone less fore ribs), Tira de asado ( short ribs, bone in), Pork, Sausages among other meat cuts of your preference, grilled/ barbecued on board. I will share with you my experience and "secrets" for a top asado! For "Veggys" : potatoes, sweet potatoes, eggplants, pepper and squash.

At midday, you have a choice: a barbecue lunch served aboard the boat, or a stop at one of the two bed and breakfasts’ affiliated with Barba Charters: Los Pecanes, or La Pascuala. A BBQ affords the opportunity to continue fishing, sightseeing, or relaxing on the water, while a stop at one of the inns is a chance to explore their exotic vegetation, birds (including a dazzling array of hummingbirds), or simply relax in hammocks over the river – not to mention the chance to experience another perspective on the Delta island lifestyle.

Following lunch, we explore your choice of other areas in the Tigre Delta. From a Norwegian church building imported from Europe decades ago and installed along the river ( Pic 3: Church )
( Pic 4: Map ), to locals-only fishing areas, to the unrivaled natural beauty of Argentina’s ecological heritage, there is no shortage of activities to enjoy.

In late afternoon, we start the trip back, navigating the Sarmiento river back to the marina. Sunsets over the water are unforgettable.

Los Pecanes (click here)

La Pascuala (click here)

Typical Overnight Tour

The Overnight Tour price includes boat charter and crew, overnight lodging at either Los Pecanes or Cabañas Lodge, all meals, and transfers from your lodging. The description below represents a typical overnight tour; as with the day tour above, the itinerary can be adjusted to accommodate your interest in fishing, sightseeing, nature, relaxation, or other activity. Advance reservations are strongly suggested for overnight stays.

The first day of an overnight voyage aboard the Barba will be similar to the full day tour described above. During the late afternoon, we arrive at the inn and enjoy drinks as dinner is prepared. A full-service, gourmet meal is served, after which we retire under the infinite stars and peaceful silence of the Tigre Delta islands.

After breakfast the next day we depart and head for the beautiful Paraná Mini and Chaná
( Pic 6: Chaná river ) ( Pic 7: hydric erosion ) rivers, where the indigenous Chaná Indians lived, passing some gorgeous properties and fascinating local habitations along the way. This quiet river is perfect for a relaxed, laid-back tour to ease us into our day.

Happy guests on board "Barba".

Along the Paraná Mini and its mouth at the Rio de la Plata estuary we explore peaceful semi-wild surroundings. This area is the perfect location to climb aboard the Barba’s dinghy and explore the estuary, where you may also elect to fish for larger species such as dorado, or take a swim. We may choose to stay the rest of the day in the area, or cruise to Aulicino pier, a popular spot for Porteños (citizens of Buenos Aires) to anchor for the evening to enjoy the sandy beach along the river. Around 5PM, we head back to the marina.

About The Barba

The Barba is a 28 foot cruiser, built in 2002, which comfortably accommodates up to six guests. Its 150 HP Volvo Penta engine provides more than enough power to reach deep into the Tigre Delta, while its small motorized dingy provides a chance to explore shallow water and, if you desire the exercise, rowing. The Barba is fully equipped with a nautical barbecue, refrigerator, kitchen, bathroom, deck shower, chairs, a cushioned deck, CD player, TV, and DVD, as well as extensive fishing equipment suitable to the Tigre Delta waters. Of course, it is equipped with all safety equipment per P.N.A. requirements. The Barba is only chartered by its owner.

• Guided historical tours of the Tigre Delta region, which in decades past has been used for agriculture as well as lavish vacation homes for Buenos Aires residents (full day)
  
• Tours of the Reserva de la Biosfera
  
• Bird watching (half or full day)
  
• Visit to island inns for lunch, nature walks inland, or just relaxing on the hammock
  
• Fishing all year round

Drink a Mate ? Have you tried a good mate con bombilla ?. If interested, I will prepare it and tell you about its origins in Argentina and South America.