Catamarca and the Andean Valleys:
Between History, Wine, and Surreal Landscapes

12 days - 11 nights

Day 1 - Getting to Know San Juan

Reception at San Juan Airport and transfer to the hotel.

We embark on a tour of the city and its surroundings, discovering together the main historical and cultural attractions. We visit the Birthplace of Sarmiento, the Cathedral, and take a peripheral tour around the Bicentennial Theater, also stopping at the Juan Victoria Auditorium. The Birthplace of Sarmiento preserves personal items, period furniture, and documents that allow us to learn about the life and legacy of Sarmiento. Its architecture is typical of the 19th century, with internal courtyards, tiled roofs, and adobe walls. It is an ideal place to appreciate Argentine history while connecting with the everyday life of that time. We then head to enjoy regional production, continuing to explore some of the San Juan wineries, such as Merced del Estero, Aceitera Campo de Olivos, or Finca Sierras Azules, where we discover the essence of local flavors and admire the Ullum Dam, a great engineering work located on the San Juan River, surrounded by mountains and vineyards, with tranquil waters of intense blue color. It is ideal for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and water sports. You can also enjoy coastal walks, picnics, and photography, especially at sunset, when the reflection of the sun on the water creates memorable views. Please note that the mentioned locations may be replaced with others depending on availability and services. On Sundays, we prioritize the landscapes to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. It is important to highlight that entrance fees to wineries or olive oil factories are not included in the tour.

Day 2 - Ischigualasto Provincial Park: Fertile Valley & Valley of the Moon

Full‑day excursion to Valle Fértil and the mythical Valley of the Moon, beginning our adventure headed toward the heart of the San Juan desert. We depart for Valle Fértil, enjoying the impressive scenery along the route as we approach Ischigualasto Provincial Park, a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site since 2000 for its extraordinary geological and paleontological value. Here we make the traditional daytime visit to the Valley of the Moon, comprised of four main stations: Valle Pintado, Cancha de Bochas, El Submarino and El Hongo, in an internal route of approximately 40 kilometers that allows us to appreciate the diversity and uniqueness of its geo‑forms. During the visit, we also explore the William Sill Interpretation Center, where we learn about the geological and paleontological history of the region. This place transports us to the Triassic period, about 230 million years ago, when the first mammals and dinosaurs appeared, among them one of the oldest found: the Eoraptor Lunensis. Each formation, from Valle Pintado to El Hongo, amazes us with its colors and shapes that seem sculpted by an artist, creating a surreal landscape that seems suspended in time. To reach Ischigualasto we travel via National Route 150, enjoying the views of Valle Fértil and its unique surroundings. Note that the entrance to the park is not included, and during the route, each visitor can delight in the natural and historical richness of this jewel of the San Juan desert.

Note: The Ischigualasto & Talampaya natural parks contain a complete sequence of continental fossiliferous sediments representing the entire Triassic period (about 45 million years) of geological history, says UNESCO. Imagine a plain populated by plants climbing over one another, with lagoons, swamps and strange reptiles moving among vegetation. That’s what this place was millions of years ago, in the Mesozoic Era, when the Andes had not yet existed and the Earth was a uniform mass not yet divided into continents. Hard to believe now, facing this blue sky that seems never to know rain; the greyish, arid, rocky ground, the gigantic red cliffs rising in the distance, and the strange rock shapes that alter the landscape. The stars of the itinerary are the gigantic stone figures sculpted over millennia by erosion and which popular imagination whimsically named: “El Gusano” (The Worm), “La Esfinge” (The Sphinx), “El Submarino” (The Submarine), “El Hongo” (The Mushroom). Not long ago one colossal figure called “La Lámpara de Aladino” collapsed, but as consolation, nature is a tenacious sculptor continuing to carve its work through wind erosion, rains, and temperature changes. The Earth, which until the Triassic period—about 225 million years ago—was inhabited only by plants and invertebrates, began to be invaded by reptiles. Here in Ischigualasto are found the remains of reptiles with mammalian characteristics among the oldest on Earth, which may explain key links in the evolution of species.

Day 3 - Talampaya National Park, La Rioja

We depart from Villa Unión with the objective of visiting Talampaya National Park. Villa Unión has about 6,000 inhabitants and lies in a valley between the pre‑cordillera and the formidable Famatina mountain chain, about 60 kilometers from the park.

Talampaya is a natural reserve containing archaeological and paleontological deposits, due to the large number of fossils found, such as *Lagosuchus talampayensis*, a Mesozoic era reptile. In summary, this park is the product of intense tectonic movements and wind erosion over millions of years. It covers 215,000 hectares, is famous for its incredible red rock cliffs and the various sculptural figures formed by wind erosion, and is a nesting site for condors. Its rocks date from the Triassic period of the Mesozoic Era, and the footprints of the first dinosaurs are recorded. Then we return to Villa Unión to spend the night or we return to San Juan. If you wish to see other excursion options in La Rioja, click here: Tours in La Rioja.

Note: The rock art of Talampaya Constitutes one of the most valuable indigenous manifestations in our country. The engravings on rocks located at the foot of the cliffs number over one hundred, representing stylized human figures, rhea footprints, felines and various signs and geometric figures still not interpreted. The most important core, called “Los Pizarrones,” is located along the bed of a seasonal stream tributary of the Talampaya River, on a smooth, flat rock sector of about fifteen meters long covered with engravings (petroglyphs) sculpted several centuries before the conquest. Remains of dwellings and stone walls, fragments of fired clay, lithic material from stone tool manufacture were also found in the area. It is presumed that in those times, about one thousand years ago, the climate was somewhat more humid.
Greater abundance of permanent water, vegetation and fauna would have facilitated the settlement of stable human groups and the development of their artistic, rock and craft expressions. Another natural attribute of great importance in the Talampaya area is its paleontological value. The entire valley between the Sierras de Sañogasta and Morada is of the same Triassic origin as the adjacent region of Ischigualasto or the Moon Valley in San Juan Province. These two natural areas are separated by the Sierra Morada. Before the uplift of the Andes, about 160 million years ago, these lands were low, swampy and humid, with lush tropical vegetation, ferns and large trees covered in lianas, populated by a varied fauna of aquatic and terrestrial reptiles, herbivores and carnivores, all of considerable size. The sedimentary rocks of the region house fossils corresponding to that prehistoric flora and fauna.

Day 4 - Chilecito & The Cuesta del Miranda

We enjoy a thrilling full-day excursion to Chilecito, crossing the impressive Cuesta de Miranda, famous for its nearly vertical tectonic plates and intense reddish color, reflecting millions of years of geological history. The Cuesta de Miranda is nestled between the Sierras de Famatina and the Sierras de Sañogasta and is one of the few well-maintained roads connecting the Chilecito Valley with the Cuyo region. It is the main route between Villa Unión and Chilecito, winding its way between the mountains and the canyon of the river of the same name, ending in a scenic route with dramatic curves and cliffs. As we ascend this majestic slope, we observe unique rock formations and landscapes that seem to belong to another era. Upon arriving in Chilecito, the second most important city in La Rioja, we delve into its mining history by visiting the Mining Museum, which displays tools, machinery, and stories showcasing the region's rich tradition. Chilecito lies in the Antinaco – Los Colorados Valley, surrounded by the Velasco and Famatina ranges. The area is known for its wine industry, as well as walnut and fruit cultivation. We continue our visit at the iconic Cable Car, stopping at Station 1 and then Station 2, from where we enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the city and surrounding valleys. After this rich cultural and natural experience, we return to rest, concluding a day filled with stunning landscapes, history, and discovery in the heart of La Rioja.

We will overnight in Tinogasta (La Rioja) and continue to Catamarca tomorrow.

Day 5 - Adobe Route & Fiambalá Hot Springs

The excursion takes us to discover the legendary Adobe Route, a cultural itinerary that traverses ancient adobe structures, heritage from indigenous peoples and colonial times. Along the way stand centuries‑old churches, historic chapels, and traditional mansions that seem to freeze time, inviting us to connect with the region’s history and identity. Every corner of the route holds stories of faith, tradition, and vernacular architecture, set against the arid and captivating landscape of western Catamarca. The journey continues to the famous Fiambalá Hot Springs (subject to availability of the thermal complex), a true natural treasure in the heart of the mountain range. There, thermal water flows through various natural pools at different temperatures, offering an ideal space to relax and enjoy its therapeutic benefits. Surrounded by imposing mountains, the hot springs combine rest, health, and nature, becoming an unforgettable experience for body and spirit. The tour ends in the picturesque town of Tinogasta, where accommodation is provided, closing a day that unites history, culture, and well‑being in one trip.

Day 6 - Inca Ruins of Shincal de Quimivil (Catamarca)

We begin the journey crossing landscapes that combine mountains, valleys, and villages rich in history, until we reach Londres, Catamarca, where the imposing Inca Ruins of Shincal stand—one of the most significant archaeological sites in South America. This site was founded by the Incas in the 15th century and became the capital of Collasuyo, the southernmost region of the Inca Empire. Across its 23 hectares remain ceremonial plazas, kallankas (large rectangular buildings), food storage houses, dwellings and remnants of roads that were part of the Qhapaq Ñan, the Inca road network designated a UNESCO World Heritage. Also noteworthy are the ushnu, a ceremonial platform used for rituals and offerings, and the tutelary hills surrounding the site, laden with sacred symbolism in the Andean worldview. The visit allows one to travel through time and understand how the Incas managed to organize an administrative, political, and religious center in this Catamarca valley, integrating the territory into their vast empire. Then we continue the journey toward the capital of La Rioja, passing through Aimogasta and Anillaco, until we reach the Los Sauces Dam— a landscape combining water, mountain, and tranquility. During the trip, we enjoy a tasting of typical products and have the opportunity to purchase regional goods that reflect local identity. The day ends with arrival in the city of La Rioja, where we will stay, closing a day that unites history, archaeology, and nature in a single journey.

Day 7 - From La Rioja to San Juan

Breakfast at the hotel. We transfer from La Rioja to San Juan, arriving in the afternoon. Rest of the day free to relax.

Day 8 - Wine Route: Vineyards & Wineries

On this tour we immerse ourselves in the fascinating world of San Juan wine by touring some of its most prominent wineries. We visit Bodega Viñas de Segisa, whose beautiful old building transports us through time as we discover its wine‑making history and tradition. We continue to the organic sparkling‑wine house Miguel Más, a unique establishment that produces sparkling wines following natural and sustainable processes, combining innovation with respect for the land. Then we head to Bodega Fabril Alto Verde, recognized for producing excellent organic wines that reflect the purity of the San Juan terroir. Also part of this circuit are the Bodegas Las Marianas and La Guarda, each with their particular character, offering the visitor a sensory journey among aromas, textures and flavors. At each winery we enjoy a guided tasting, where we learn to appreciate the nuances of wine with all our senses. During the experience we visit three of these establishments, although admission to the wineries is not included. Each establishment has its own style: some specialize in young fresh wines; others in sparkling wines or in artisanal productions that incorporate family techniques handed down from generation to generation. This circuit allows us to discover the diversity, the history and the passion that make San Juan one of Argentina’s most important wine regions.

Day 9 - Barreal, Calingasta Valley & Pampa del Leoncito (Astronomical Observatory)

We set off to Pampa del Leoncito, then we go to the Astronomical Observatory and the Cerro Alcázar. During this mountain road, we see the cerro Villicúm, the Quebrada de las Burras, Talacasto town, entering Calingasta up to the Barreal. From there we go to Pampa del Leoncito where wind-car is practised thanks to the sustained winds that blow more than 80km per hour. The wind-car is a small vehicle with 2 car wheels at the back and a motorbike wheel at the front, it has a fuselage and a mast made of aluminium to be light and be able to move with great impulse. The Pampa del Leoncito also called Barreal Blanco is a geological structure next to the Barreal town, where a natural reserve has been created. It is a plain with arid and cracked soil 15km long per 5km wide, which before was the bottom basin of a lake, without vegetation of any kind, similar to a spider web.

The vision is atypical and the white colour is very deep. We can observe the impressive Mercedario Mount 6,772m high and then have lunch at the Barreal. It is the most important tourist centre of the valley, a town with dirt streets and beautiful poplars, where we will also visit the astronomical complex El Leoncito. It is an observatory located at the foot of the mountain range, 2,500m over sea level, in the San Juan Astronomical Reserve, occupying almost 70,000 hectares, being an excellent place to observe the space. Once again in San Juan, we will enjoy a spectacular view of the Cerro Alkázar. If you want to see other excursion options in San Juan, click here: Tours in San Juan.

Day 10 - Jáchal, Cuesta del Viento Dam & Rodeo

Breakfast at the hotel. We take the Ruta 40 towards the north of San Juan province, leaving the San Juan river behind, going through towns like Albardón, Matagusanos, Talacasto and next to Villicúm Mount we arrive at San José de Jáchal city, where we learn about its indigenous cultures. We change direction to the west to the central Andean foothill along a mountain road discovering unique sights.

We visit Cuesta del Viento, ideal place to practise nautical sports such as windsurf, then we go to Rodeo, small mountain town next to the Dique Cuesta del Viento, hydroelectical dam with a mirror of crystalline water of a turquoise colour. We continue with the itinerary to Pismanta, where the famous thermal water complex is, mixing the arid desert with the green oasis, being one of the nicest places in San Juan. Its thermal water has healing, therapeutics and rejuvenating effects, ideal for rheumatism and skin diseases. We return to San Juan capital by Las Flores and Bella Vista, foothills road climbing up the slope to arrive at the highest zone at El Colorado. Then, in Talacasto we go back to the Ruta 40 to enter San Juan.

Day 11 - Pismanta Hot Springs

We begin the day heading north in San Juan, towards Pismanta, a hidden corner in the Andes Mountains where hot water springs from the depths of the earth. Upon arriving at the Hotel Termas de Pismanta, time seems to stop: we are greeted by the silence of the mountain and the calm of a natural environment that invites absolute rest. There, we let ourselves be enveloped by the magic of its thermal pools, a gift of nature that relaxes the body and soothes the spirit. The steam rising from the water seems to blend with the pure mountain air as we enjoy a restorative bath, accompanied by the softness of a robe and the warmth of a space designed for well-being. At midday, the experience is completed with a lunch included at the hotel restaurant, where the flavors of the region become a simple yet memorable feast, served in two courses perfectly paired with the surroundings. After this moment of pleasure and contemplation, we begin our return to San Juan in the afternoon, carrying in our body the feeling of renewal and in our soul the certainty of having lived a different day, where water, mountain, and calm united in perfect harmony.

Day 12 - San Juan

Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to San Juan Airport. End of our services.