A Sunny Afternoon at Nimez Lagoon

Trail View

Our afternoon hike on the Nimez Lagoon Trail in El Calafate was a peaceful and rewarding experience. At just 1.8 miles in length, this easy trail offered stunning views of the lagoon, distant mountains, and a wealth of birdlife. The warm, sunny weather made it a perfect day for a leisurely walk while taking in the natural beauty of Patagonia.

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A Gentle Start

Spectacled Tyrant

We started the trail near the entrance, where the landscape was dotted with low shrubs and grasses. Almost immediately, we spotted a Spectacled Tyrant perched on a branch, its striking black-and-white markings making it stand out against the greenery. A Gray-hooded Sierra Finch flitted nearby, hopping along the trail as if leading the way.

Gray-hooded Sierra Finch

Birds of Prey Watching Over

Chimango Caracara

As we walked, we noticed a Chimango Caracara surveying the area from the sky. These opportunistic raptors are a common sight in Patagonia, and it was fascinating to watch as it scanned the ground for food. Further along, a Patagonian Mockingbird sang from a low bush, filling the air with its varied and melodic calls.

Patagonian Mockingbird

A Lively Wetland

Red-fronted Coot

Reaching the edge of the lagoon, the scenery shifted to open water and reed-filled marshes. Here, a Red-fronted Coot paddled through the shallows, its bright red forehead shield making it easy to identify. An Austral Negrito darted over the water’s surface, catching insects in quick, precise movements.

Austral Negrito

The Rufous-collared Residents

Rufous-collared Sparrow

We continued along the path, enjoying the sights and sounds of the wetland. A few Rufous-collared Sparrows hopped along the ground near the trail, their cheerful songs adding to the peaceful atmosphere. They seemed completely at ease with our presence, allowing us to admire their delicate plumage up close.

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Swans and Shovelers

Black-necked Swans

One of the highlights of the walk was seeing a group of elegant Black-necked Swans gliding across the lagoon. Their long, curved necks and striking black-and-white coloration made them a breathtaking sight.

Trail View

Nearby, many Red Shovelers floated in the water, their distinctively large, spoon-shaped bills perfect for filtering food from the surface.

Red Shoveler

A Watchful Lapwing

Southern Lapwing

Further along the trail, a Southern Lapwing stood in the grass, keeping a close eye on us as we passed. These bold and territorial birds are known for their loud calls and striking appearance. Its watchful stance made it seem like the guardian of the lagoon, ensuring all visitors respected its home.

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A Chorus of Ibis and Gulls

Black-faced Ibis

A Black-faced Ibis flew overhead, its long, curved bill and broad wings making it easy to recognize. Nearby, a Brown-hooded Gull stood near the water’s edge, resting in the afternoon sun.

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The diversity of bird species here was truly incredible, each adding its own presence to the landscape.

Brown-hooded Gull

A Flash of Red to End the Walk

Long-tailed Meadowlark

As we neared the end of the trail, a Long-tailed Meadowlark caught our attention. Its bright red chest stood out brilliantly against the dry grasses, a vibrant splash of color in the golden afternoon light.

Overlook

Watching it perch and sing was the perfect way to end our hike—a reminder of how special this lagoon is for both wildlife and those lucky enough to visit.

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