The disappearance of Wenceslao Benoit, an Argentinian 4×4 vehicle rental operator in Paraguay, has sparked concern among Belgian travellers and authorities. Benoit, who guides tourists through the dense El Chaco forest, went missing after an expedition on August 1, 2025, involving Raphael Joseph Gibbon, a Belgian national.
- Wenceslao Benoit van Paraguay vermist sinds augustus
- Benoit verhuurt 4x4’s en biedt gidsdiensten
- Belgische toerist Raphael Gibbon vond Benoit niet
- Gibbon onderging negatieve paraffine-handtest, geen wapencontact
- Politie onderzoekt vermissing als officiële zaak
- Benoits auto gevonden, geen andere sporen ontdekt
According to reports, the pair set out early to explore Defensores del Chaco National Park, aiming to photograph the landscape from a high vantage point. However, the trip took a troubling turn when Gibbon lost track of Benoit mid-journey and left him resting on a tree trunk. When Gibbon returned, Benoit had vanished without a trace. The last known movements were documented around 17:00 on that day, with rescue efforts continuing into the following day.
This incident raises pressing questions about the safety of tourists in remote areas and the challenges of search operations in dense wilderness. How can Belgian tourists better prepare for such adventures? What measures are in place to protect travellers in South American national parks? The answers are critical as the investigation unfolds.
What does this disappearance mean for Belgian travellers venturing into remote natural areas? It highlights the risks involved in isolated expeditions and the importance of thorough preparation and reliable communication. Key points to consider include:
- The necessity of staying together and maintaining clear contact during excursions.
- The value of local guides who know the terrain but also the risks they face.
- The importance of timely reporting and coordinated rescue efforts.
- How outdated investigative methods, like the paraffin test, may affect case progress.
As the search for Benoit continues, Belgian travellers are urged to exercise caution and ensure they have reliable support when exploring remote areas. Authorities from Belgium and Paraguay will likely strengthen cooperation to prevent such incidents and improve response times in future emergencies.
