Palmar Yatay, Protected natural area in Entre Ríos Province, Argentina.

Palmar Yatay is a protected area covering roughly 21,500 hectares of land that extends along tributaries of the Uruguay River. The site contains wetlands, gallery forests, and seasonal lagoons that create a diverse natural landscape.

The area was recognized as a Ramsar site in 2011 and marks the intersection of the Pampa and Espinal regions. This international designation underscores its importance as a critical wetland ecosystem.

The Butia yatay fruit has fed local populations since pre-Columbian times; it is still used to make alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, and the leaves served to build shelters, roofs and mats. Within the wetland area stands Arroyo Barú, a village founded in the 18th century that keeps colonial features.

The area has marked trails for birdwatching, especially since over 300 bird species can be found depending on the season. Visitors should prepare for varying conditions as the wetlands change with water levels.

The yatay palm's fruit has been eaten since pre-Columbian times and was used to make alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, while its leaves served to build shelters, roofs and mats. In Uruguay the only reserve devoted to the palm grove is the private Santo Domingo estate, owned by the forestry company Montes del Plata, in north-eastern Paysandú, 30 km from Quebracho, where grazing has been excluded from some zones to allow natural regeneration.