Welcome to Paso de los Libres, a vibrant city located in the east of the province of Corrientes in the Argentine Mesopotamia. With a population of approximately 44,000 inhabitants, it is the head town of the department of the same name. The city is situated on the right-hand (western) shore of the Uruguay River, opposite the city of Uruguaiana, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, and is connected to it by the Paso de los Libres-Uruguaiana International Bridge, a road and railway bridge that offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding landscape.
One of the main attractions of Paso de los Libres is its lively and colorful Carnaval, which takes place every year in February and is considered one of the most important in Argentina. During the festival, the streets of the city come alive with music, dance, and parades of elaborately decorated floats and costumes. Visitors can also enjoy traditional food and drinks, such as empanadas, locro, and mate, and participate in various cultural activities and competitions.
Another must-see in Paso de los Libres is the Museo Histórico Regional, a museum that showcases the history and culture of the region through a collection of artifacts, documents, and photographs. The museum is housed in a beautiful colonial-style building that dates back to the 19th century and was declared a National Historic Monument in 1941.
For nature lovers, Paso de los Libres offers several options for outdoor activities, such as fishing, birdwatching, and hiking. The city is surrounded by lush forests, wetlands, and rivers that are home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including capybaras, caimans, and toucans. One of the most popular destinations for ecotourism is the Parque Nacional Mburucuyá, a protected area that covers over 17,000 hectares and features a network of trails, observation towers, and camping sites.
When it comes to food and drinks, Paso de los Libres has a lot to offer. The local cuisine is a blend of Spanish, Guarani, and Brazilian influences, and includes dishes such as chipá, a type of cheese bread made with cassava flour, and feijoada, a hearty stew of beans and meat. The city is also famous for its yerba mate, a traditional herbal tea that is consumed throughout Argentina and Uruguay and is said to have numerous health benefits.
In conclusion, Paso de los Libres is a city that has something for everyone, from history and culture to nature and adventure. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway or an exciting vacation, this charming destination is sure to exceed your expectations. Come and discover the magic of Paso de los Libres, and you will not be disappointed!