During January and February, more than 6,500 people visited the Protected Natural Areas of the province of San Luis. The figure consolidates a growing trend towards proposals linked to landscape and conservation.
With an average of over 3,000 visitors per month, locals from San Luis and tourists opted for outdoor experiences. In this way, the reserves are established as spaces for recreation and environmental education.
The five ANPs combine native biodiversity, cultural heritage, and interpretive activities. Therefore, they represent an alternative to mass tourism and promote a more conscious relationship with the environment.
The most chosen reserves of the summer
The Floro Faunistic Reserve of La Florida was the most visited, with 2,786 people. There, interpretive trails and wildlife rehabilitation actions are developed.
In second place was the Provincial Park Bajo de Véliz, which received 1,350 visitors. This site is recognized for its paleontological richness and its geological formations.
The Quebrada de Las Higueritas also recorded good attendance with 1,014 people, Mogote Bayo with 1,330, and the Lagunas de Guanacache, del Bebedero, and del Desaguadero, which added 102 entries.
In total, the ANPs accounted for 6,582 visitors during the summer recess. Prior registration is mandatory for entry and allows monitoring of the tourist impact.
Profile of visitors and activities
The majority of tourists came from the province of Buenos Aires, with 80% of the total. Visitors also came from Mendoza, San Juan, Santa Fe, and Misiones.
Among the most chosen activities were bird watching, walks along marked trails, and guided tours. These proposals combine recreation with environmental education.
In the Floro Faunistic Reserve of La Florida, bird releases recovered from illegal trafficking and pet trade were also carried out. Thus, tourism is directly linked to active conservation processes.
Ecotourism in protected areas
The growth of ecotourism in the ANPs of San Luis reflects a cultural change. More and more people are seeking experiences that respect ecosystems and add value to local communities.
This model promotes low-impact practices, encourages knowledge of native flora and fauna, and strengthens the regional economy without degrading the environment. Consequently, it becomes a key tool for sustainability.
Visiting these areas is not just a recreational activity but also a way to support the protection of natural heritage. The record number of the summer confirms that responsible contact with nature is becoming a priority on the provincial tourism agenda.
