Observatorio Astronómico «Niokit Owush»
An observatory in Bahía Negra inspired by the Yshir worldview: dark Pantanal skies and free entry.
What it is
"Niokit Owush" means "from the water" in the Yshir (Ishir) language. The observatory aims to link ancestral knowledge with contemplation of the universe, and makes use of the low light pollution and vast surroundings of the Pantanal to offer a very clear night sky. According to SENATUR it opens on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, from 8:00 to 11:00 and from 19:00 to 23:00, with free entry. Besides stars, planets and the Milky Way, the project draws on traditional knowledge about the relationship between water, land and cosmos.
What to see and do
- Pantanal night sky with very little artificial light
- A Yshir view of water, land and cosmos
- Free entry
Did you know…?
The name means "from the water" in Yshir.
It combines astronomy with ancestral knowledge of Yshir culture.
Tips
- Confirm days and hours before travelling: it is a remote destination and schedules can change.
- Bring repellent and light long sleeves for the evening.
- It is an initiative of Senatur (the tourism secretariat) together with the UNDP, the Eco Pantanal Association and the municipality of Bahía Negra, opened in late 2021, with young guides from Yshir communities trained for the project.
According to SENATUR: Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, 8:00-11:00 and 19:00-23:00. Check before you go.
Best time: May to September, with clearer skies and fewer mosquitoes.
Activities
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Researched and reviewed in September 2026 with 3 sources. A second reviewer checked dates, coordinates and lodging. Hours and prices may change.