Andreas Trepte · CC BY-SA 4.0Yacare caiman
Caiman yacare · jakare hũ
The most common caiman in Paraguay's rivers and marshes, dark and heavily armored.
What it is
A caiman with a heavily armored back, blackish or dark olive in color, it lives in the rivers, lagoons and marshes of the Paraguay and Paraná basins. For decades it was hunted for the leather industry, and protection measures have allowed it to recover. It often basks on riverbanks and slips underwater at the slightest noise.
Did you know…?
It is listed in CITES Appendix II: international trade is legal only under strict controls.
Where
Very easy to see in the Humid Chaco (tajamares and marshes along the Transchaco), the Pantanal, the Ñeembucú marshes and Lake Ypoá. Don't approach or feed them.
Researched and reviewed in September 2026 with 2 sources. A second reviewer checked dates, coordinates and lodging. Hours and prices may change.