Argentina Photo Gallery

A good option for a short walk in Esquel: Plaza de los Mates in the middle of nature

2026-09-14T08:46:00.000-05:00

With this type of travel, where you plan to stay a little longer than usual, it is possible to get to know places that would otherwise have gone unnoticed. Each new city I visit has its own charm, and I like to have enough time to visit as much as I can. During my stay in Esquel I had a lot of free time in the evenings, as I got a very good volunteer shift during the late evening hours. Taking advantage of this scheme, I walked around most of the city, visiting the most touristic places and those that are not so touristic .

One of the most popular areas for tourists is the La Zeta Lagoon. This lagoon can be reached by vehicle, making it a good option for family outings and for getting to be in a beautiful place without making so much physical effort. Of course I love walking to places, so that's how a group of hostel guests and I got there. Autumn was approaching, so we wanted to make the most of the last days of good weather .

After staying in the lagoon for a while until the sun started to go down, we decided to walk a little further. The thing about southern Argentina is that in the afternoon the weather can be as hot as summer, but as soon as night falls, the temperature drops abruptly. To warm up a bit we chose one of the many trails around the lagoon, and one of them was the one that took you to the Plaza de los Mates .

Of all the trails in this area, the one in this square is the shortest and takes only about 20 minutes. A short walk around the lagoon leads to a path that enters the forest and then comes out into a clearing with short grass, where there are some games for children and also a place to spread out. As for the name, it is called ‘de los Mates’ (of the gourds) because it has some gourds carved in wood distributed around the place. In case you don't know, a ‘mate’ is the drink made of yerba mate and hot water that we consume in Argentina, and the recipient in which this infusion is contained has the same name .

While I like quiet days with little walking and a relaxed atmosphere, from there I was already spotting the mountain I wanted to climb at some point during my stay. The highest mountain in Esquel is called Nahuel Pan, at over 2260 masl, and it was the one we could see from there. That big mountain looked like a physical challenge, and at that moment I felt emboldened to do it. I had done some research on how to climb it and I knew it wouldn't be an easy task, but it was my goal to reach the summit before I left (spoiler: a month and a half later that day, I made it to the top) ❤️.

I liked Esquel so much that little by little the nostalgia of having left El Bolsón faded away and the excitement of getting to know more about a new city began to emerge in me. This nomadic trip took me to a lot of unthinkable places, but I liked it because I know that improvisation can also work. Before being in this corner of Chubut I didn't know much about it, but at that moment, seeing with my own eyes all the beautiful things it had to see and do, I knew it was a good decision to schedule a long stay there. And that was just the beginning ❤️.

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What are the best places to visit in the south of San Juan province

2026-09-11T15:05:00.000-05:00

The southern and southwestern regions of San Juan Province—centered around the sweeping Calingasta Valley and the Ruta Interlagos—offer some of the most dramatic mountain backdrops, surreal dry flats, and world-class astrophotography spots in Argentina.

The best places to visit in the southern half of San Juan, along with their key photo details and distances from San Juan City, include:

1. Barreal & The Calingasta Valley

Distance from San Juan City: ~170 to 200 km southwest (about a 3-hour drive via Ruta Nacional 149).
Photo & Visual Details: Barreal is a charming oasis village nestled in a wide, peaceful mountain valley. Photographers love capturing the "Avenida de los Álamos" (a stunning tunnel of towering, centuries-old poplar trees filtering the desert light), rustic adobe houses, and the breathtaking backdrop of the massive, snow-capped Mount Mercedario towering in the distance.

2. Pampa del Leoncito (Barreal Blanco)

Distance from San Juan City: ~200 km southwest (just outside the town of Barreal).
Photo & Visual Details: A surreal, blindingly white, completely flat dry lakebed measuring roughly 12 km long by 4 km wide. It is a dream location for minimalist photography. The intricate, geometric cracks in the sun-baked white clay contrast sharply against the dark purple and brown desert mountains framing the horizon. On windy afternoons, you can capture dynamic shots of land-sailing carts (carrovelismo) zipping across the flats.

3. El Leoncito National Park & Observatories

Distance from San Juan City: ~210 km southwest (further up the mountain road from Barreal).
Photo & Visual Details: Set against the high Andes, this protected area features dramatic high-desert landscapes. Its most famous visual landmarks are the white domes of the CASLEO astronomical observatory perched on the ridge. Because the area boasts over 300 clear nights a year, it is one of the premier spots on the continent for astrophotography, capturing the glittering Milky Way stretching over the mountain silhouettes.

4. Ruta Interlagos: Ullum & Punta Negra Reservoirs

Distance from San Juan City: ~30 to 50 km west/southwest.
Photo & Visual Details: A fully paved, deeply scenic loop road that connects two brilliant, emerald-turquoise water reservoirs carved into stark rock canyons. It is ideal for wide-angle landscape photography, highlighting the intense color contrast of the water against folded red-and-grey cliffs, modern engineering bridges, and nearby boutique wine cellars hidden in the adjacent Zonda Valley.

Discovering the beauty of Laguna La Zeta: a must-see a few kilometres away from the city of Esquel.

2026-09-07T08:40:00.000-05:00

When I arrived in the city of Esquel I had nothing exactly planned, but I knew that the options for walks would not be long in coming. In my opinion, it always ends up being best to ask the locals for recommendations, because they know more than any internet forum. Luckily, the owners of the hostel where I worked this autumn were very knowledgeable about the city, so they recommended a visit to La Zeta Lagoon as my first trip. I had the option of taking a taxi, but as it was close by, I thought it would be more fun to walk there .

From where the flat where I lived with my roommates was located, it was about 6 km to the lagoon. This distance may sound like a lot, but it is fun if you go with someone else. That day I was able to organise with guests from the hostel to go together to the lagoon, so the journey to the lagoon was not so tiring. The path was very easy, all on the vehicle path, so it was impossible to get lost .

The La Zeta Lagoon area is a nature reserve with a few trails around it. Unless there is usually a special event, we were told that this area is always quiet and that was the case when we were there. The day we were there was beautiful: the weather was inviting to be outside so we spread out our day to do everything we wanted to do. This included a little rest on the shores of the lagoon, but also stretching our legs a bit more to complete some of the trails in the area .

The shore of the lagoon seemed to me a good place to rest and spend the afternoon. These waters did not look very deep, but it is said that some people still go there to cool off in the summer. You might think that in the south of Argentina it is always cold, but in places like Esquel, the summers are very hot and the winters are snowy. This autumn we had an in-between climate, with just the right temperature to be outside enjoying the day without suffering from either extreme .

The postcard of Esquel from the Laguna La Zeta is one of the most beautiful you can have of this place. I recommend visiting this place around sunset, when the sun starts to go down and form a mirror on the water. The combination of mountains and lagoon with some green around is beautiful, creating a unique landscape all day long. I quite enjoyed visiting this place, it was so peaceful and quiet that it didn't even seem to be that close to the city .

Of course, if we had taken a taxi the journey would only have taken about 20 minutes, but I think walking also had its magic. The part I like the most about volunteering in different hostels in my country is the social part, like that day when we had the opportunity to share an extra moment with the guests. Visiting Laguna La Zeta for the first time was great, and I liked it so much that I took the trouble to go a few more times to spend my free afternoons. A place as beautiful and peaceful as this deserves to be visited several times, and that's exactly what I did ❤️.

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Adventure sports such as rafting and windsurfing in the province of San Juan

2026-09-04T15:00:00.000-05:00

Northern San Juan is a paradise for adventure sports lovers — especially rafting on the Jáchal River and windsurfing at Cuesta del Viento Dam. Here’s a focused guide with details and visuals:

Rafting on the Jáchal River

Experience: Strong rapids and turquoise waters make it one of Argentina’s best rafting spots.
Difficulty: Medium to high, ideal for thrill‑seekers.
Best season: October to March, when water levels are optimal.
Extra: Combine rafting with fishing or camping along the riverbanks.

Windsurfing at Cuesta del Viento Dam

Experience: Famous worldwide for consistent strong winds, perfect for windsurfing and kitesurfing.
Difficulty: Suitable for both beginners (with lessons) and experts.
Best season: Year‑round, but summer offers warmer water.
Extra: The dam’s desert‑mountain backdrop creates stunning scenery while you sail.

️ Adventure Base: San José de Jáchal

Role: The main town to organize excursions.
Activities nearby: Trekking in Huaco Valley, horseback riding, and cultural tours.
Atmosphere: A mix of colonial heritage and modern adventure tourism.

Fauna and flora of the Malvinas Islands

2026-08-31T16:59:00.000-05:00

The Malvinas Islands (Falklands) host a unique ecosystem shaped by their cold, windy climate and isolation. The fauna is dominated by marine mammals and seabirds, while the flora consists mainly of grasses, shrubs, and peat bog vegetation, with no native trees.

Flora of the Malvinas Islands

Grasslands and Shrubs: The islands are largely covered by tussac grass (Festuca flabellata), which can grow up to 2 meters tall and provides shelter for birds and sea lions.
Peat Bogs: Extensive peatlands support mosses and small herbaceous plants.
Heathlands: Areas with dwarf shrubs and hardy plants adapted to poor soils and strong winds.
Endemic Plants: Species such as Malvinas Daisy (Perezia recurvata) and Malvinas Violet (Viola maculata) are unique to the islands.
Absence of Native Trees: No native arboreal vegetation exists today, though fossil records show ancient cypress and araucaria forests.

Fauna of the Malvinas Islands

Marine Mammals

Seals and Sea Lions: Southern sea lions, elephant seals, and fur seals are common along the coasts.
Cetaceans: Orcas, dolphins, and several whale species migrate through surrounding waters.

Birds

Penguins: Five species breed here: King, Gentoo, Rockhopper, Macaroni, and Magellanic penguins.
Seabirds: Albatrosses, petrels, cormorants, and skuas thrive in the nutrient-rich waters.
Land Birds: The Falkland steamer duck (flightless), upland goose, and the endemic Cobb’s wren are notable.

Invertebrates

Endemic Beetles: Several species of ground beetles and weevils are unique to the islands, such as Malvinius compressiventris.

Conservation Notes

Fragile Ecosystem: The harsh climate limits biodiversity, making species highly specialized and vulnerable.
Threats: Introduced species (rats, cats) have impacted native bird populations.
Protection Efforts: Conservation programs focus on seabird colonies and restoring tussac grass habitats.

Quick Comparison Table

Category
Key Species/Features
Notes

Flora
Tussac grass, peat bog mosses, endemic daisies
No native trees; vegetation adapted to wind/cold

Marine Mammals
Sea lions, elephant seals, dolphins, whales
Coastal and migratory presence

Birds
Penguins (5 species), albatrosses, Cobb’s wren
Major global seabird colonies

Invertebrates
Endemic beetles, weevils
High endemism despite low diversity

In short: the Malvinas Islands are a haven for seabirds and marine mammals, with vegetation dominated by tussac grass and peat bogs. Their isolation has fostered unique endemic species, but conservation is crucial to protect this fragile ecosystem.

Geoform of "the mushroom" in the Ischigualasto Park: typical postcard of the Moon Valley of San Juan.

2026-08-26T14:52:00.000-05:00

Before going on a trip to the province of San Juan, I only had one trip in mind that I had to do and that was to go visit the famous "Valley of the Moon". Once I was there I discovered that the correct name of this place is Parque Ischigualasto and that there were many more surprises there than just the few photos that were shown on the internet. Discovering all these beautiful landscapes with my own eyes was one of the best things I did this year, and after all the surprises I saw along the way, I was finally in front of the typical postcard of this place ❤️.

My hostel co-worker and I traveled almost four hours to get from the city center to the park. This trip was a little tiring, but we still knew it was worth it when we were finally there. This place, made up of more than 60 thousand hectares of clay terrain, houses the most beautiful landscapes of this province. What I liked the most is that these were unique for me since I had never seen anything like this in any other province ❤️.

In total, the visit to this park took us about 4 hours. In it we traveled more than 40 km of road aboard a public bus provided by the park itself. On the walk we stopped to see five places of interest, such as the Painted Valley, the Bocce Field, the Dr William Sill Site Museum and the El Submarino geoforomas. Each one of them had its special touch, and at the end of the path it was time to discover the famous mushroom ❤️.

This geoform is the typical postcard of this park, and is even the logo of the park itself. I think its popularity is due to the fact that it is the one closest to the large reddish wall in the background, which serves as the natural boundary between the provinces of La Rioja and San Juan. The colors of both materials create a great contrast and its popularity is well deserved ❤️.

The funniest anecdote from this day is that it took me quite a while to get the ticket to visit this place. Due to failures in the ticket sales system, I had to go to the bus station four times until I finally got my seat. This walk was scheduled for a Sunday, and on Saturday night, at the last minute, my partner decided to go with me. His idea was to approach the bus at departure time to ask if they would sell him a ticket at that moment, and he was so lucky that they did. It didn't cost him anything to get a place, and then he laughed at me and my whole ordeal .

I quite liked having my friend's company that day. There we took the opportunity to talk about my desire to travel alone for a long time and about all the times I imagined myself in front of that figure, achieving my fiancé. The truth is that this trip encouraged me to travel alone more often, because after all, friends are made along the way ❤️.

This was the last stop of our walk and to return to the park gate, we did so alongside the large orange wall that we were seeing during the afternoon. This large wall, about 30 meters high, extended the entire length of the park and contrasted very well with all the pale landscapes we had been seeing ❤️.

From the bus in which we were traveling we were lucky enough to come across some guanacos in their natural habitat. In addition to these cute animals, you can also see small foxes, condors, small rodents and even pumas in this park. This place is really sprawling, so I imagine thousands of families live around here .

This walk ended with a short stop at the dinosaur museum at the entrance, where some of the specimens found here were on display. This entire place is oriented towards these prehistoric animals, since to this day studies are carried out on the findings that were found here. The truth is that it is highly recommended to visit this place, because you will definitely learn something new ❤️.

Visiting Ischigualasto Provincial Park was something very beautiful and memorable for my partner and me. Even though the four-hour return trip left us more than tired (we arrived at the hostel straight to sleep), going there was worth it. While I was in that place I thought about how lucky I am to be able to achieve what I set out to do, and to delight my eyes with the landscapes I want to see. I hope that you also liked it as much as I did and that if you ever visit Argentina, don't hesitate to take a getaway to San Juan ❤️.

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Summer forest fires on Cerro Pirque threaten local biodiversity

2026-08-24T15:05:00.000-05:00

Cerro Pirque in Chubut, Patagonia, has been burning for several days due to summer forest fires, destroying one of the last virgin Andean-Patagonian forests and threatening endangered species like the huemul deer. Experts warn the damage could be irreversible, with biodiversity loss and ecosystem collapse highly likely.

Key Facts About the Fire

Location: Cerro Pirque, near Puerto Patriada and Lago Epuyén, Chubut, Argentina.
Duration: The fire has been active for at least four consecutive days.
Cause: Authorities suspect intentional ignition, worsened by drought, high temperatures, and strong winds.
Scale: More than 60 hectares have already been affected in past incidents, and current damage is spreading rapidly.
History: Cerro Pirque has suffered four major fires since 1987, showing a recurring vulnerability.

Biodiversity at Risk

Huemul deer (Hippocamelus bisulcus): Critically endangered, with Cerro Pirque serving as a rare refuge.
Virgin Andean-Patagonian forests: These ecosystems are unique, hosting native species of flora and fauna found nowhere else.
Irreversible damage: Specialists warn that the loss of primary forest cover could permanently alter the ecological balance.

Environmental Impact

Habitat destruction: Loss of nesting and feeding grounds for birds, mammals, and insects.
Soil degradation: Fires strip protective vegetation, increasing erosion and reducing regeneration capacity.
Carbon emissions: Large-scale release of stored carbon worsens climate change.
Water systems: The fire threatens watersheds feeding Lago Epuyén, impacting local communities and tourism.

Challenges in Containment

Topography: Steep slopes make firefighting difficult.
Weather: Strong winds accelerate fire spread.
Resources: Local brigades face limited equipment and manpower.
Negligence: Past fires have been linked to poor handling of ashes and human activity.

Broader Context

Climate change: Rising temperatures and prolonged droughts increase fire frequency and intensity.
Human factor: Intentional or negligent ignition remains a major driver of forest fires in Patagonia.
Conservation urgency: Protecting Cerro Pirque is critical for maintaining biodiversity corridors in the southern Andes.

Takeaway

The summer forest fires on Cerro Pirque represent an ecological tragedy, threatening endangered species and unique ecosystems. Immediate containment is essential, but experts caution that long-term recovery may be impossible if virgin forests are lost. Strengthening fire prevention, monitoring, and conservation policies in Patagonia is now more urgent than ever.

20 km journey from Zonda to the Ullum Dam above the Sierras Chicas mountain range.

2026-08-19T14:49:00.000-05:00

With the aim of challenging myself more and more, during my stay in the province of San Juan I decided to do all the trekking that was within my reach. For us who live in the city, being surrounded by mountains from time to time is a real treat, so I wanted to spend most of my time seeing these types of landscapes. After having made several walks in the surroundings, my hostel companion, who recommended the walks, "enabled" us to do one of the longest treks in the area, and of course I wanted to be there to show myself that I could get to complete it ❤️.

Since my hostel partner had already visited San Juan several times, she already knew almost all the paths to follow. She was in charge of suggesting (but without join us) hikes for us in order of increasing difficulty, so that our body could get used to the demands of the climbs and long distances. When she finally noticed that our physical condition was capable of withstanding the climbs and physical effort well, she recommended that we do one of the most emblematic treks in the area: crossing from Zonda (red mark) to Ullum (blue mark), walking over of the mountains. This walk can be done in either direction, and the good thing is that at both ends you have public transportation to the city, which makes it a one-way route ❤️.

_{Trail to complete in the trek from Zonda to Ullum.
Sendero a completar en el trekking desde Zonda hasta Ullum.}

The initial information they had given us about this trek was that it would take us about 6 hours to complete, a time that my companions and I thought we would spend without problems. They also recommended that we start early in the morning on a day without much wind, since walking completely on the top could be dangerous. In addition to bringing plenty of cold water, we also had to bring plenty of sunscreen and enough food to last those supposed six hours. I must say that we did everything except bringing a lot of food, since we underestimated the effort it would take us to complete this section and we didn't have as many snacks, but we still survived .

The beginning of the trail was from the Zonda area, where we arrived by bus around 10 AM. In previous days we had already been there so we knew the first part well: to go to the beginning you must climb the same as to go to see the head of the Indian, only instead of To follow a civilized path, you must climb a little to the top .

As we went up, we were able to get some great views of the Zonda Valley, with its olive and grape plantations. There were also some vacation houses around and a few other wineries, but preserving plenty of green space in the place. Behind everything we could see the other great mountainous area of this place: the Sierras Azules ❤️.

Once we crossed the first part of this path, which we had to climb using our arms and legs, we found a well-marked and seemingly easy trail. As we chose to go early, the sun was reaching its highest point so we had all the light available to see, knowing that we had to walk in the direction of the dam. From up there we could see what we had already seen in previous days, such as the abandoned racetrack, the abandoned hotel and also the municipal field ❤️.

An hour and a half after starting to walk, we find the highest peak of these mountains. At only 1110 meters above sea level, this place offered a great panoramic view of the valley and its surroundings. To symbolically mark this place, there was a cross and a grotto, so it was impossible to miss it. It was also a place to sit and rest and eat our humble lunch, since there were no traces of what we had had for breakfast .

It was at this first peak where we saw a sign indicating that the descent to Ullum would take about 5 hours. Becoming professional trekkers, we thought that it would take us much less time to travel this section, since from up there we could already see the dam and "it didn't seem to be that far away" .

Well, this assessment of "not being that far from the dam" was correct if we looked in a straight line, but we found ourselves walking over some mountain ranges that went up and down all the time. So, this journey was like climbing small hills over and over again, where of course we needed stops to rest and regain strength in our legs .

It would be around 3 PM when we finally reached what my hostel companion pointed out as "the halfway point." This place was easily distinguishable because we would find some stone shelters against the wind. These constructions serve as protection for those who choose to spend the night here, or in case you are caught by the gusts at that time. Luckily, the weather was beautiful and none of that was necessary ❣️.

We had been walking for five hours and although the dam looked closer and closer, it already seemed that in just one hour we would not finish the entire journey as we had been told. Perhaps some hiker focused on finishing the trail will make it in that time, but with my companions we were relaxed so we took all our time, in total there was still plenty of sun ahead ❤️.

A funny anecdote from this day, which I was later able to recognize from the photos I took along the way, is that at one point we left the main path and that detour cost us more than an extra hour of walking. After a while we noticed that we were not on the correct path, but in that part the mountain had a kind of ravine and could only be crossed by going back and taking the correct path. My friends and I of course did not admit our mistake and continued walking forward, until we were able to go down in part and go up to return to the true path .

The afternoon was passing and we were still walking: we had already eaten all our provisions and the water was also running out, even though there was still a good stretch to go. At this moment we began to feel really tired, but we were so close to completing the route that that was what motivated us to continue (added to the fact that we were at the top of the mountains, who could go looking for us without making such a fuss? ).

When the mountains began to change their dark color to orange, we knew that we were already very close to the Tres Marías area, which we had also visited days before. It was really crazy to think that we had already been to both ends of this path, and that at that moment we were joining them with this great challenging hike. It was undoubtedly a wonderful although exhausting experience ❤️.

The clock was already reading past six in the afternoon when the golden hour began and we had finally reached the other end of the mountain range. What remained now was all downhill, but our legs were so tired that even that hurt. By that time we didn't have any water or food, so we were literally surviving. Although we underestimated the provisions, no one fainted along the way .

When we were finally at street level again, my companions and I hugged each other and congratulated each other on the great journey. None of us had done a trek as demanding as this: my partner set the step counter and in total we walked about 20 km. Although I had already done this distance on other walks, it was never constant up and down like this, so this walk was unique ❤️.

When we went down to the dam and found a stop to buy something, the first thing I did was drink a Coke as if it were water. After sitting down, I think all the fatigue hit me at once and my blood pressure went underground, so much so that I felt dizzy and my vision was blurred. But nothing that a good dose of sugar and a sandwich cannot recover the energy I spent in almost 9 hours of walking. Just a few minutes later, it was already fresh as a lettuce. I can't say the same about my muscles the next day, which hurt everywhere, but the walk was already done and now no one can get this great memory out of me ❣️.

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Native fauna species of Argentine Patagonia

2026-08-17T17:53:00.000-05:00

Argentine Patagonia hosts a remarkable variety of native fauna, ranging from marine mammals and seabirds to land-dwelling species like guanacos and condors. These animals are uniquely adapted to the region’s harsh climate and diverse ecosystems.

Key Native Fauna of Argentine Patagonia

Terrestrial Species

Guanaco: A wild relative of the llama, iconic of Patagonian steppes.
Patagonian Mara (Dolichotis patagonum): A large rodent resembling a hare, endemic to Argentina.
Puma (Mountain Lion): Apex predator of the region, preying on guanacos and smaller mammals.
Huemul (South Andean Deer): Endangered species, symbol of Argentina’s national heritage.
Armadillo (Piche and Peludo): Adapted to dry steppe environments.

Marine Species

Southern Right Whale: Seen along the Valdés Peninsula during breeding season.
Orcas (Killer Whales): Famous for their unique hunting technique of beaching to catch sea lions.
South American Sea Lion: Common along the coasts.
Southern Elephant Seal: The largest seal species, found in coastal colonies.
Dusky Dolphin: Agile and playful, inhabiting coastal waters.

Birds

Andean Condor: One of the world’s largest flying birds, soaring over mountains.
Magellanic Penguin: Colonies found in coastal areas like Punta Tombo.
Rhea (Ñandú): Large flightless bird of the Patagonian plains.
Cormorants, Seagulls, Antarctic Doves: Abundant along coasts and islands.
Black-necked Swan: Found in Patagonian wetlands.

Ecosystem Adaptations

Cold Climate Survival: Thick fur (guanacos, pumas) and fat layers (whales, seals) help withstand freezing winters.
Migratory Patterns: Whales and penguins migrate seasonally for breeding.
Steppes & Mountains: Species like the huemul and condor thrive in rugged terrains, while maras and rheas dominate open plains.

Summary Table

Habitat
Representative Species
Notes on Adaptation

Steppes
Guanaco, Patagonian Mara, Rhea
Endurance in arid, windy plains

Mountains
Puma, Huemul, Andean Condor
Adapted to rugged terrain and altitude

Coasts
Sea Lions, Elephant Seals, Magellanic Penguins
Colonies on beaches and cliffs

Oceans
Southern Right Whale, Orca, Dolphins
Seasonal migrations, specialized hunting

⚠️ Conservation Notes

Huemul: Critically endangered due to habitat loss and hunting.
Southern Right Whale: Protected, but vulnerable to ship strikes and pollution.
Magellanic Penguin: Threatened by oil spills and climate change.

Patagonia’s fauna is not only diverse but also emblematic of Argentina’s natural heritage. Many species are conservation priorities, making the region a hotspot for eco-tourism and wildlife research

Two hours to go up and 45 minutes to go down to get the highest view of the Punta Negra Dam.

2026-08-12T14:49:00.000-05:00

After spending so much time walking here and there, I realized that amateur trekking can become a kind of addiction. And after conquering one peak, and another and another, it makes you want to continue challenging yourself. Even the perception of time and the difficulty of a walk change, to the point of thinking that two hours walking are almost nothing. With this in mind, my companions and I decided to climb up to Cerro Negro in the Punta Negra Dam area in San Juan: a "short" walk but by no means easy .

During my trip to this province, I frequently visited two of its most important water reservoirs: the Ullum Dam and the Punta Negra Dam. It is incredible to think that these two places are separated by less than 15 km, because their landscapes are so different from each other that they do not seem to be almost brothers. While at Dique Ullum we find a clear, clay landscape, at Dique Punta Negra dark mountains and contrasting turquoise water await us ❤️.

Of course one of the activity options on this dam is to sit and relax from the water and the landscape, but we are restless children who always want to see a little more. One of my companions recommended the climb to the top of Cerro Negro, which would take us "just two hours to walk." For us who had already walked so much, that sounded like nothing and quite simple, so we didn't even hesitate to go to the top ❤️.

The peculiarity of the terrain of this trail is that it is completely steep and made of loose flagstone. These sharp and not at all firm stones force you to measure each step and step with precision if you do not want to slip. It is also important to have appropriate footwear because urban sneakers do not resist much on that ground. And above all, like every mountain we go to, we must have respect: no rushing or wanting to arrive long before the stipulated time .

According to our work schedule at the hostel, we were only able to start this walk at 4 in the afternoon. We knew that the sun would begin to go down shortly, but it would give us enough margin to get to the top of everything and get the best views. Getting to the top was not very easy to say because there was almost no flat section and even when stopping to rest, your feet were still in an upward position. When I started to feel that my leg muscles were being pulled too much, I sat wherever I could until I recovered: I didn't want to push myself beyond my limit for fear of injury .

Of the group of four people that we were, I arrived last of everyone and my friends welcomed me with great applause. Up there the best views awaited us and we could finally sit down and see what we wanted: the dam and all its panoramic views. The good thing is that, like most days, the weather was beautiful and clear so we saw everything from up there, including part of the city of San Juan ❤️.

According to the signage, this Cerro Negro is about 1470 meters above sea level. The truth is that I have already been to quite a few hills and this is not the highest of all the ones I visited, but it is one of the ones that tired me the most. The steep section to get up there was very challenging: an intermediate level trek I would say, but with patience and adequate rest it can be completed without problems. You just have to put your mind to it and go up, because the reward is above all ❤️.

Unlike the other hills I had been visiting so far in the province of San Juan, this one did not have any cross or the small grotto of a virgin. In its place were only posters of other conquerors of this peak, and also a small tribute to a local saint. From up there we could also see the continuation towards other trails, with the possibility of doing them another day because we had already had enough for that afternoon .

It took us two hours to get to the top of Cerro Negro, but due to the fact that public transportation was about to leave, we had to get down in record time. My companions who are already a little more experienced than me ran down, but I continued with my philosophy of respecting the mountain. However, I had the lightest step I could and we finished down the mountain in just 45 minutes. Five minutes later, the bus passed by and took us back to the hostel (the last one that day). Just in time ❤️.

What I liked most about this trip to the province of San Juan is that I was able to make the most of my time to do physical activity and visit some beautiful places. Luckily my body took me to all the places I wanted to be, so my eyes could see everything I wanted to see. I'm truly grateful that this is the case: my country is beautiful, in every corner of it you can find something interesting to see and do, and I'm happy to be able to enjoy that

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Native flora species of Argentine Patagonia

2026-08-10T17:52:00.000-05:00

Argentine Patagonia hosts a remarkable diversity of native flora adapted to extreme cold, strong winds, and poor soils. Key species include coihue, ñire, lenga, ciprés de la cordillera, calafate, jarilla, and cushion plants like viola auricolo, each thriving in different ecological zones from Andean forests to Patagonian steppe.

Major Native Flora of Argentine Patagonia

Native Trees

Coihue (Nothofagus dombeyi): Tall evergreen tree found in humid Andean forests.
Ñire (Nothofagus antarctica): Deciduous tree adapted to colder, drier areas.
Lenga (Nothofagus pumilio): Dominant in high-altitude forests, tolerates snow and frost.
Ciprés de la Cordillera (Austrocedrus chilensis): Conifer native to the Andes, resistant to poor soils.

Native Shrubs

Calafate (Berberis microphylla): Thorny shrub with edible blue berries, iconic in Patagonian culture.
Jarilla (Larrea spp.): Hardy shrub typical of the Patagonian steppe.
Mata negra (Verbena tridens): Common in arid zones, adapted to wind and drought.
Mata guanaco (Anarthrophyllum rigidum): Cushion-like shrub with bright red flowers.

Herbaceous & Cushion Plants

Viola auricolo: Endemic cushion plant of Santa Cruz, adapted to rocky soils.
Coirón (Festuca spp.): Grasses forming extensive steppe pastures.
Mosses & lichens: Thrive in extreme conditions, especially in high-altitude and arid zones.

️ Regional Distribution

Region
Dominant Flora
Adaptations

Andean Forests
Coihue, Lenga, Ciprés
Cold tolerance, snow resistance

Steppe
Jarilla, Mata negra, Coirón
Drought resistance, wind protection

Shrublands
Calafate, Mata guanaco
Thorny defenses, edible fruits

High Andes
Cushion plants (Viola auricolo)
Compact growth, frost resistance

⚠️ Challenges & Conservation

Overgrazing by sheep and goats has degraded native shrublands, especially jarilla and coirón pastures.
Deforestation threatens lenga and ciprés forests.
Climate change alters snow and rainfall patterns, impacting species distribution.
Conservation efforts in national parks (e.g., Los Glaciares, Nahuel Huapi) protect endemic species and restore degraded ecosystems.

Patagonia’s flora is not only ecologically vital but also culturally symbolic—calafate berries are tied to local legends, and lenga forests form the backbone of Andean landscapes.

What are the best places for hiking in eastern Catamarca province

2026-08-05T14:16:00.000-05:00

The eastern region of Catamarca province offers stunning landscapes, ranging from lush subtropical Yungas jungles to dramatic mountain ranges and ancient archaeological sites. Here are the top places for hiking in eastern Catamarca:

La Merced

La MercedFai clic per aprire il riquadro laterale per ulteriori informazioni

Located in the Paclín department in northeastern Catamarca, La MercedFai clic per aprire il riquadro laterale per ulteriori informazioni is a premier destination for hikers looking to explore lush vegetation, crystal-clear streams, and historical landmarks.

Features a popular 7 km round-trip trail leading past abandoned historical railway tunnels and rocky riverbeds.
Offers rich biodiversity within a microclimate characterized by dense Yungas foliage and natural water pools like Pozo del Gaucho.
Guided trekking excursions are regularly organized by local tourism authorities to help hikers safely navigate the terrain.

Tuneles de la Merced Catamarca hiking

Cuesta del Portezuelo

Cuesta del PortezueloFai clic per aprire il riquadro laterale per ulteriori informazioni

Famous across Argentina and immortalized in folk music, Cuesta del PortezueloFai clic per aprire il riquadro laterale per ulteriori informazioni sits along the eastern slopes overlooking the Central Valley, providing breathtaking panoramic trekking routes.

Features a dramatic route with sweeping vistas across valley landscapes and surrounding mountain ridges.
Popular high-altitude vantage points frequented by hikers, nature enthusiasts, and adventure sports practitioners.
Protected as a provincial cultural and natural heritage site with scenic paths.

Cuesta del Portezuelo Catamarca landscape

Sierra de Ancasti

Valutazione a 4,4 stelle4,4

Pico de montaña

Sierra de AncastiFai clic per aprire il riquadro laterale per ulteriori informazioni

Stretching across the eastern portion of the province, the Sierra de AncastiFai clic per aprire il riquadro laterale per ulteriori informazioni range combines outdoor hiking with deep historical and archaeological exploration.

Home to ancient pre-Columbian rock art sites and sacred caves like La Candelaria and La Tunita hidden within native cebil forests.
Peaceful mountain trails providing low-to-moderate difficulty trekking experiences suitable for cultural and adventure tourism.
Serene highland environments offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Sierra de Ancasti Catamarca nature

How many glaciers are there in Patagonia?

2026-08-03T13:57:00.000-05:00

There are about 17,300 glaciers in Patagonia, spread across the Northern and Southern Patagonian Ice Fields.

Breakdown of Patagonia’s Glaciers

Total count: Approximately 17,300 glaciers across the region.
Major ice fields:
- Northern Patagonian Ice Field – smaller but still significant.
- Southern Patagonian Ice Field – the largest in the Southern Hemisphere outside Antarctica.
Argentina’s Los Glaciares National Park: Contains over 300 glaciers alone, including famous ones like Perito Moreno, Upsala, and Viedma.
Chile’s side of Patagonia: Hosts many of the massive glaciers flowing from the Patagonian Ice Fields into fjords and lakes.

Why This Matters

Scientific importance: Patagonia’s glaciers are crucial for studying climate change, as they are retreating at alarming rates.
Tourism: Iconic glaciers like Perito Moreno (one of the few still advancing) attract thousands of visitors each year.
Water resources: These glaciers feed rivers and lakes, supporting ecosystems and communities.

⚠️ Challenges

Climate change: Many glaciers are shrinking rapidly, with some losing kilometers of ice in just decades.
Accessibility: While some glaciers (like Perito Moreno) are easy to visit, others are remote and require expeditions.

In short: Patagonia is home to 17,300 glaciers, making it one of the most glacier-rich regions on Earth, second only to Antarctica and Greenland.

What are the best places for hiking in western Catamarca province.

2026-07-31T14:05:00.000-05:00

Exploring the extreme high-altitude terrain of western Catamarca—such as Balcón del PissisFai clic per aprire il riquadro laterale per ulteriori informazioni and Los SeismilesFai clic per aprire il riquadro laterale per ulteriori informazioni—requires careful planning due to elevations ranging from 3,000 to over 4,500 meters.

High-Altitude Acclimatization Strategy

Because air pressure and oxygen levels drop significantly at high elevations, protecting yourself against acute mountain sickness (Puna) is essential for an enjoyable trip.

Fiambalá

Gradual Ascent: Spend your first 2 to 3 days based at lower elevations like FiambaláFai clic per aprire il riquadro laterale per ulteriori informazioni (~1,500 meters) or TinogastaFai clic per aprire il riquadro laterale per ulteriori informazioni to let your body adjust before pushing higher.
The "Climb High, Sleep Low" Rule: Take day trips to higher viewpoints, but return to sleep at lower base towns or camps to help your body recover overnight.
Hydration and Nutrition: Drink plenty of water (2 to 3 liters daily) and eat light, carbohydrate-rich meals. Avoid alcohol and heavy fats during your first few days at elevation.
Monitor Symptoms: Mild headaches or fatigue can happen, but severe dizziness, persistent nausea, or shortness of breath mean you should immediately descend to a lower altitude.

Guided Excursions & Logistics

Navigating the remote Puna without local support is risky due to extreme isolation, lack of cell service, and rugged terrain.

4x4 Vehicles Are Non-Negotiable: Reaching trailheads and remote viewpoints like Balcón del Pissis requires high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles capable of handling loose gravel, steep inclines, and remote desert tracks.
Expert Local Guides: Book excursions with certified local operators based in Fiambalá. Local drivers know the changing weather patterns, carry necessary safety equipment, and handle mechanical or navigational challenges.
Check Mountain Corridors: If you are exploring along the Ruta Nacional 60 toward the international border at Paso San Francisco, check weather forecasts and opening schedules beforehand, as sudden high-altitude snowstorms or high winds can close routes temporarily.

Essential Packing List

Layered Clothing: Pack a windproof jacket, a fleece mid-layer, and thermal base layers. Even in warmer months, high-altitude winds can cause temperatures to plummet quickly.
Sun Protection: UV radiation is exceptionally harsh at 4,500 meters. Bring high-SPF sunscreen, lip balm with UV protection, polarized sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed sun hat.

Is the Perito Moreno Glacier the largest in the world?

2026-07-27T13:55:00.000-05:00

No, the Perito Moreno Glacier is not the largest in the world, though it is one of the most famous and accessible.

While it is a massive and impressive sight, it is actually quite small when compared to the giants found in Antarctica or even other glaciers within South America.

How It Compares

World’s Largest: The Lambert Glacier in Antarctica is the undisputed champion.¹ It is about 400 km (250 miles) long and up to 100 km (60 miles) wide.²

+1
South America’s Largest: Even within its own continent, Perito Moreno is not the largest. That title belongs to the Pío XI Glacier (also known as Brüggen Glacier) in Chile, which covers more than five times the area of Perito Moreno.³
Argentina's Largest: In Argentina, the Viedma Glacier is larger than Perito Moreno in terms of surface area.

Quick Stats Comparison

Glacier
Location
Approx. Surface Area

Lambert Glacier
Antarctica
~1,000,000 km² (Ice Stream drainage area)

Pío XI Glacier
Chile
~1,265 km²

Viedma Glacier
Argentina
~978 km²

Perito Moreno
Argentina
~254 km²

Why is Perito Moreno so famous?

If it isn't the biggest, why is it the one everyone talks about? There are three main reasons:

Accessibility: Unlike most glaciers that require days of trekking or expensive boat rides, you can drive right up to Perito Moreno and walk along wooden boardwalks to see it from just a few hundred meters away.⁴
Stability: While most of the world's glaciers are retreating due to climate change, Perito Moreno is considered stable (it is neither significantly growing nor shrinking), which is a rare glaciological phenomenon.
The "Rupture": It periodically forms an ice dam across Lake Argentino.⁵ When the water pressure becomes too great, the ice bridge spectacularly collapses in an event known as "The Rupture," which draws tourists from all over the world.

Would you like me to find out when the last major rupture occurred, or perhaps compare it to other famous glaciers like those in Alaska?

What is the best time of year to explore these trails in southern Catamarca?

2026-07-23T14:04:00.000-05:00

Las Juntas

The best time of year to explore the trails across southern and central Catamarca—including Las JuntasFai clic per aprire il riquadro laterale per ulteriori informazioni, La MercedFai clic per aprire il riquadro laterale per ulteriori informazioni, El JumealFai clic per aprire il riquadro laterale per ulteriori informazioni, and Cuesta del PortezueloFai clic per aprire il riquadro laterale per ulteriori informazioni—is during the shoulder seasons of autumn (March to May) and spring (September to November).

Why These Seasons Are Ideal:

Pleasant Temperatures: Daytime temperatures during autumn and spring usually range from a comfortable 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F). This avoids the intense heat of mid-summer, when valley temperatures can regularly exceed 35°C (95°F) and make strenuous climbs exhausting.
Lower Rainfall & Clear Skies: Summer (December to February) is Catamarca's primary rainy season. Sudden afternoon storms, heavy downpours, and swollen river crossings can make trails in lush areas like La MercedFai clic per aprire il riquadro laterale per ulteriori informazioni or mountain streams in Las JuntasFai clic per aprire il riquadro laterale per ulteriori informazioni risky or muddy. Autumn and spring offer much more stable, dry weather and clear views.
Vibrant Scenery: Spring brings blooming native flora and green hillsides following winter, while autumn provides mild hiking weather with beautiful foliage shifts in the valleys.

What to Expect in Winter (June to August):

Winter is dry and sunny, making daytime hiking quite pleasant for lower-altitude circuits like El JumealFai clic per aprire il riquadro laterale per ulteriori informazioni. However, higher elevation points and ridgelines (such as Cuesta del PortezueloFai clic per aprire il riquadro laterale per ulteriori informazioni or higher mountain trails) experience very cold winds and temperatures that frequently drop below freezing at night, requiring proper cold-weather gear.

Visiting the lake shore in Los Glaciares National Park: what do you think of these icebergs?

2026-07-20T13:45:00.000-05:00

After planning and planning for months, the day we had been waiting for had finally arrived. You could say that everything else we did was filler to justify the stay, because our main objective was to get to this place. Luckily the weather was with us on a cloudy day but without rain, perfect for us to spend the whole day outdoors. After the long trip from home to El Calafate in the province of Santa Cruz, it was time to meet the ice giants we had hoped to see ❤️.

The city of El Calafate has the necessary tourist development so that visitors can easily reach the area where the Perito Moreno glacier is located, the most famous here and in the world, I would say. If you want to get to this place, of course you can go by private vehicle, private excursion or public transport. My cousin and I chose the public transportation option: it was a bus that for 12,000 ARS in January 2023 (approx. 35 USD) would take you to the park, wait for you for 3 hours, and then return you to the city center. This time was enough to tour the area and take a good postcard of the place .

The journey from the center to the area of the glaciers was approximately 45 minutes. For much of it we were able to skirt the Argentino lake, then plain and plain with mountains, until finally we could make out some ice at the bottom. When we got to the park entrance, we had to sign in and pay an entrance fee. The cost was 1500 ARS (4 USD approx) for Argentine residents and 5500 ARS for foreigners (15 USD approx), retirees and children could enter for free. There is also a 50% discount promotion if you go the next day: many people take advantage of this because the place is so beautiful that it makes you want to continue enjoying it .

When we arrived, the bus driver gave us instructions on where to wait for him on the way back and then we had free time to do whatever we wanted. This park is made up of different trails, most of them with metal walkways that surround the entire area of the glacier and the lake. In the three hours that we had free time we could cover all of them perfectly, and according to the recommendations, we should start with the so-called Sendero de Los Témpanos ❤️.

This trail was the only one that did not have metal walkways: at first it was a small section of wood but then it was just the natural shoreline of the lake. We got closer to there and I can't explain the frozen wind that hit you in the face. Of course, the temperature had to be accordingly to keep all giants in the water. I could not believe the large masses of ice that we were seeing floating on the lake, they had such an artificial turquoise color that they even seemed fake. They were beautiful .

After going along the shoreline of the lake and playing a bit with the smaller ice that came to the shore, the ideal would have been to go back towards the beginning of the trail to take the second trail to the left, but since this is Argentina, what What we did was get caught by the stones, jump over the railings and we reached the second trail faster. I'm not proud of this outrage but I had to tell it because that's what we did. These walkways were already part of the Central Trail and from it we could see more icebergs up close ❤️.

All this distribution along trails reminded me a lot of Iguazú National Park, touring the beautiful falls. All these structures are prepared for people to walk and enjoy the scenery without having to worry about the route. After having done so much trekking in El Chaltén, going through many unstable trails, walking on firm platforms was a real pleasure .

If the weather had taken pity on us the day we walked to Laguna Torre in El Chaltén we would surely have seen icebergs like these there, but that day there was so much rain and cloudiness that we could see very little. Luckily this day was clear and dry and we were able to see these giants in all their splendor. If you are wondering how these giant ice sheets got here, well, they are the product of the detachment of the Perito Moreno Glacier that is at the end of this route .

Finally, I share with you the photo of my traveling "mate" conquering a new destination. Unfortunately, during all my tours in El Chaltén I forgot to take it with me so it doesn't have any photos there, but the day I went to the glacier it was the first thing I put in my backpack. This mate has been with me since March 2021 and so far we have traveled everywhere. We Argentines can lack anything, except drinking some good "mates" in a beautiful landscape .

Los Glaciares National Park covers an extremely large area, but this is the most touristy and crowded part by visitors from all over the world. Being there was an incomparable feeling, I felt so happy to have achieved what I wanted, which was to see these landscapes with my own eyes. Nature is surprising, exciting, each incredible landscape fills you with satisfaction and always leaves you wanting more. I'm very grateful for the life that brought me there, and for all the favorable conditions that allowed me to get to know this great place .

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The best places for hiking in the south of the province of Catamarca

2026-07-16T14:01:00.000-05:00

The central and southern regions of Catamarca—comprising the Valle Central and the surrounding sierras of Ambato, Ancasti, and Paclín—offer stunning hiking and trekking opportunities characterized by lush green microclimates, rushing river valleys, Yungas jungles, and panoramic mountain ridgelines.

Las Juntas

Las JuntasFai clic per aprire il riquadro laterale per ulteriori informazioni

Nestled in the Ambato mountain range, Las JuntasFai clic per aprire il riquadro laterale per ulteriori informazioni is a premier mountain village known for its refreshing streams, dense willow groves, and scenic trails that lead up into high-altitude plateaus like La Silleta. It is an ideal destination for combining river valley walks with more demanding mountain ascents.

Famous for the trail leading up to "La Silleta," a saddle-shaped high mountain ridge at around 2,500 meters of elevation.
Beautiful routes crossing crystal-clear mountain streams, rocky riverbeds, and fields of wild daisies.
Excellent cooler microclimate during spring and summer months with lush vegetation.

La Merced

La MercedFai clic per aprire il riquadro laterale per ulteriori informazioni

Located in the Paclín department north-east of the capital, La MercedFai clic per aprire il riquadro laterale per ulteriori informazioni serves as the gateway to stunning Yungas jungle trails and historical engineering landmarks. The area is especially renowned for its historic abandoned railway tunnels carved into the green mountain slopes.

Scenic medium-difficulty hikes through dense subtropical vegetation, tree ferns, and native laurel forests.
Trails featuring historic mid-20th century railway tunnels and natural swimming pools like Pozo del Gaucho.
Rich biodiversity and birdwatching opportunities amidst deep river ravines.

El Jumeal

El JumealFai clic per aprire il riquadro laterale per ulteriori informazioni

Situated right on the edge of San Fernando del Valle de Catamarca in the Valle Central, El JumealFai clic per aprire il riquadro laterale per ulteriori informazioni is the ultimate local favorite for accessible trail running and introductory day hikes. The looped paths surrounding the reservoir offer stunning views overlooking both the urban valley and the base of the Ambato hills.

Very accessible circuit with low technical difficulty, making it perfect for warm-up hikes or casual outdoor walks.
Panoramic vistas of the city water reservoir framed by arid-to-green transitional hill slopes.
Safe, popular route with well-defined dirt paths combined with the paved perilagoon road.

Cuesta del Portezuelo

Cuesta del PortezueloFai clic per aprire il riquadro laterale per ulteriori informazioni

Famed in Argentine folk music and poetry, the Cuesta del PortezueloFai clic per aprire il riquadro laterale per ulteriori informazioni in the Sierras de Ancasti features a legendary winding road accompanied by challenging ridgeline trails. Hiking along its heights rewards trekkers with breathtaking sweeping views over the entire Valle Central.

Iconic zig-zag mountain paths rising through diverse botanical strata of native cacti and shrubs.
Dramatic cliffside viewpoints offering incredible photography opportunities of the valley below, especially at sunset.
Historic mule tracks and footpaths utilized for generations to cross between valleys.

Sailing in front of the glacier: beautiful and freezing experience.

2026-07-13T11:23:00.000-05:00

When my cousin and I set out to visit the Perito Moreno Glacier in the province of Santa Cruz, we already expected that everything would be quite expensive because this was no mystery. We had said that we were going to do everything in our power to enjoy this stay, although these landscapes are so beautiful that looking at them from afar will already fill you with satisfaction. However, our surprise was that when we arrived at the national park there was a navigation in front of the glacier and quite accessible in terms of price, so we didn't hesitate to do it ❤️.

The fee that must be paid when entering this area of Los Glaciares National Park includes the possibility of walking the walkways that surround the entire glacier, including the Sendero de los Témpanos along the shore of the Argentine Lake. This is what most people do, but there are a wide variety of sailing excursions to see this and the other glaciers in the area, including walks on top of the great mass of ice. You can imagine that none of this is cheap for us Argentines: being an international destination, all the prices for these tours are also in international currency .

Even so, I think that someone will have taken pity on humble people, adding a relatively cheap navigation service. It was a 45-minute ride in a small boat that took you along one side of the great glacier. This can be seen from the shore and the walkways, but who would deny the possibility of getting a little closer to this frozen mass? Of course we don't .

While the large sailing excursions around all the glaciers in the area were around 150 USD and increased in price, this small tour only cost us approximately 17 USD (6000 ARS in January 2023). It's still a lot of money here in Argentina, but because it's a unique experience and who knows when it was going to be repeated, I didn't think too much about it. Also, I always like to take some navigation souvenirs with me from the places I go: it's a good way to get a special perspective of the landscape ❤️.

Before we got on they told us to wrap up warm because as we got closer to the glacier it was going to get colder and colder (logical). The good thing about the cold in southern Argentina is that it is very different from the cold we have in Buenos Aires: the climate here is dry so the cold is not so terrible and you don't suffer too much. When we are at home the humidity in the winter makes you ache to the bones, literally. Just in case, I went with all the thermal clothing I had available. I knew that even if it was summer the temperatures remained low, so it was better to prevent .

The ship came up to a considerable distance and then slowly passed in front of the almost 5 km wide glacier. Of course we all expected to see some ice calving and we did, but at least I wasn't cool enough to catch it on my camera. Something the guide told us is that icefalls are great but very dangerous, because when the ice falls into the water thousands of ice fragments fly out like projectiles. This scared me a bit, but I trusted that we were far enough away that the ice wouldn't reach us .

Another thing I learned about glaciers during this trip is that the calving is not only due to global warming, but also due to the regeneration of the ice mass itself. As new ice forms from freezing temperatures, this pushes out old ice and if the surface is unstable, cracks form and pieces break off. This great glacier has an area of 250 km2 and is about 60 meters high, which is regenerated year after year, with incredible landslides that can be seen daily. If you are interested in learning more about the Perito Moreno Glacier, you can read more about it here .

A funny anecdote that I have from when I was on this navigation is when I asked someone to take a photo of me with the landscape and he took this one where you can't even see the glacier .

When I saw him and told him, he tried a little harder and took this one. It's not a great photo either, but much more couldn't be done because the boat was quite full, something to be expected since it was the high summer season .

My cousin couldn't stand the cold it was when we got close to the glacier and she went to look at it from inside the boat, but I endured until the end of everything. This kind of scenery is hypnotic, and all the colors that made up this place were amazing. The glacier stood out with its light blue color among all those dark mountains and the cloudiness also adorned the surface. Nothing could have been more perfect, I couldn't help but get excited ❤️.

Seeing the glacier with my own eyes was one of the things I wanted to do since I started this whole travel thing and after a lot of saving and planning I was able to achieve it and it was as beautiful as I imagined. My country is so beautiful and has so many wonders that I am glad that people from all over the world choose it for their vacations. Getting there was something incredible, a place that I would return to a thousand times because even if you have it in front of you, it is hard for you to believe that it is real. But it is and there it was for us to enjoy ❤️.

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The best places for hiking in the north of the province of Catamarca

2026-07-09T14:00:00.000-05:00

Northern Catamarca offers some of the most striking, high-altitude trekking and hiking experiences in Argentina, characterized by dramatic volcanic landscapes, ancient Incan history, and surreal geological formations.

Campo De Piedra Pomez

Valutazione a 4,9 stelle4,9

Reserva natural

Campo De Piedra PomezFai clic per aprire il riquadro laterale per ulteriori informazioni

Antofagasta de la Sierra

Located near Antofagasta de la SierraFai clic per aprire il riquadro laterale per ulteriori informazioni on the high Andean plateau, Campo de Piedra Pómez provides an otherworldly hiking experience amidst vast, wind-sculpted white pumice stone fields framed by dark volcanic peaks. Walking through this vast labyrinth of porous rock feels like exploring another planet.

Surreal landscape featuring towering white pumice formations sculpted over millennia.
High-altitude hiking requiring careful acclimatization due to elevation.
Stunning contrast between white rock formations and black basaltic lava fields.

El Shincal de Quimivil

Valutazione a 4,7 stelle4,7

Museo

Aperto · Chiusura alle ore 08:00

El Shincal de QuimivilFai clic per aprire il riquadro laterale per ulteriori informazioni

Situated near the historic town of Londres, El Shincal de QuimivilFai clic per aprire il riquadro laterale per ulteriori informazioni offers exceptional archaeological trekking along the remnants of the Inca Road network (Qhapaq Ñan). Hiking here combines historical exploration with panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.

Well-preserved Incan ruins including administrative buildings, terraces, and ceremonial platforms.
Guided trails winding through native scrublands and archaeological sectors.
Excellent introduction to the pre-Columbian history of northwestern Argentina.

Los Castillos de Villa Vil

Valutazione a 4,8 stelle4,8

Atracción turística

Los Castillos de Villa VilFai clic per aprire il riquadro laterale per ulteriori informazioni

Located near Villa Vil, Los Castillos de Villa VilFai clic per aprire il riquadro laterale per ulteriori informazioni features majestic rock formations shaped by wind and water erosion that resemble medieval castles rising from the desert floor. It is a fantastic destination for scenic day hikes and geological exploration.

Impressive clay and sandstone castle-like formations carved by natural erosion.
Peaceful, less-frequented trails offering solitude and striking photography opportunities.
Scenic river valley crossings and unique desert flora.

Fiambala

FiambalaFai clic per aprire il riquadro laterale per ulteriori informazioni

Famous as the gateway to the Ruta de los Seismiles, FiambalaFai clic per aprire il riquadro laterale per ulteriori informazioni serves as the base for high-mountain trekking and desert dune hiking. Beyond the famous thermal springs, the surrounding sierras and alluvial fans offer diverse trails ranging from moderate desert walks to challenging high-altitude mountaineering.

Gateway to towering 6,000-meter Andean peaks and challenging mountaineering routes.
Unique desert trekking across massive sand dunes and river canyons.
Relaxation options at natural hot springs after a demanding day of hiking.

The most incredible road of all to get to Iruya in Salta, a small village in the mountains at 2780 masl.

2026-07-06T11:00:00.000-05:00

One of the places I wanted to visit without fail during my nomadic trip to the north of Argentina was Iruya, in the province of Salta. This destination is highly touted on social media as the must-see of this province and of course I wanted to go and see what it was all about. What I like most about my country is that no matter how many times you visit the same area, there will always be a new and beautiful place to visit. In this case, Iruya fulfilled that place, exceeding my expectations and fulfilling one of my wishes on this route ❤️.

After deciding to travel north together, the Dutch guest's and my solo trip became ‘our trip’, where we could both propose places to go. As my route was not planned beyond Huamuahaca in Jujuy, which is where I was supposed to be doing my cancelled volunteering, I did not have many options of places to visit other than the ones we had already seen so far. I only had one on my wish list and that was Iruya, one I had wanted to visit for a long time .

From the town of Huamahuaca in Jujuy you can reach the town of Iruya in Salta by public bus. Currently, this service takes three hours and costs $8. The road to Iruya is 73 km of gravel, so it is close, but it still takes a long time to get there due to the state of the road and the many sharp bends. Besides, getting to Iruya means moving at more than 2700 masl, so you can't go very fast either. This is the way I had planned to go if I continued travelling alone, but luckily my plans had changed for the better and now I was travelling in a small Suzuki 4x4 .

All the way from Humahuaca to Iruya was truly incredible. We went through beautiful mountains with incredible colours, up and down, and around a lot of curves that seemed endless. Also, nature had gifted us with splendid weather, so we could see all the colours more than brilliantly. Sometimes I couldn't believe what a vast and beautiful place we were in ❤️.

So that the car wouldn't shake so much on those roads, as usual, we had to deflate the tyres a bit. We couldn't drive with the windows open either, because too much dust got in due to the dryness of the road, but we still stopped many times to get out and take some pictures. This road is not very busy at all, so we passed very few vehicles during those 70 km until we reached the entrance of the village after more than 4 hours of driving .

When we were finally there, I think I must have said ‘amazing’ a few dozen times. I was fascinated to be in this town that I had seen so many times on social media, and in reality it was so much nicer. Its location was really amazing, as if nestled in high clayey and colourful mountains. My amazement didn't stop, I was really excited and we even had a special welcome from some very curious locals .

Our plan in Iruya was to camp for one night, taking advantage of the cooler temperatures. Although we arrived in the afternoon, as this town is so immersed in the mountains, the sun sets early, so we wanted to take the opportunity to walk around a bit first and then we would look for a place to sleep. Anyway, this town is not that big, but we wanted to see as much of it as we could ❣️.

As far as can be seen, the town of Iruya has expanded quite a bit over time, but what belongs to the ‘centre’ of town is only a few blocks. Here you can see most of the tourist accommodations, restaurants, a church and even a square. The streets of Iruya are small and uphill, one way because hardly any vehicles can enter, so you have to drive carefully. Guest M made a good choice leaving the car under the bridge while we walked through the town, because it would have been a mess to get around without knowing exactly where to go .

One option for a short walk inside Iruya, after having wandered around the town and seen all there was to see, was to go to a small viewpoint. Of course, this is a viewpoint with a cross, which is reached after a half hour walk. The truth is that it wasn't difficult to get there even though it was a bit steep, but I think that being at more than 2700 masl makes everything worse and you get tired faster. However, despite the heat and everything, the views from there are incredible and you can see the whole town. Once again I felt fulfilled for being where I wanted to be, seeing what I wanted to see and doing what I wanted to do, which is to continue discovering beautiful places in Argentina ❤️.

The town of Iruya in the province of Salta was one of the towns I most enjoyed visiting on this leg of the trip. I knew that even if I was alone on my walk I would be able to get there, but doing it with company was also a lot of fun. This is what I enjoy about the spontaneity of going on a nomadic walk, and that is that the routes can be modified according to what you feel at the time. Continuing to see beautiful places in my country keeps convincing me to want to travel it even more, because we have so much to see that it is almost impossible to get bored in it. I hope it stays that way ❣️.

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Climbing Nevado Pissis (Catamarca)

2026-07-02T13:40:00.000-05:00

Pissis is the third highest mountain in the Andes. It is located in the province of Catamarca and despite its beauty and importance it is still a mountain that is not very visited, although nowadays there are some services that facilitate the access and the climbing.

This tracklog includes all the way from the international road to Mar del Plata, which is the base camp of this mountain.

The track also has all the way to the summit, which is the same as the one done on the descent.

Since it is one of the highest mountains in the Andes, it requires a good acclimatisation.

Climbing Nevado Pissis (6,793m) in Catamarca, Argentina, is an expedition to the third-highest peak in the Americas and the second-highest volcano in the world. Located in the hyper-arid High Andes of the Atacama Desert, it is a highly remote, physically demanding high-altitude endeavor.

While it lacks steep technical vertical walls, its primary challenges are extreme altitude, bitter cold, crushing winds, and complete geographical isolation

️ Expedition Logistics & Route Overview

Climbing itineraries typically span 12 to 15 days to ensure safe, methodical acclimatization.

The Hub: Expeditions typically group and launch from Fiambalá, a desert oasis town in Catamarca.
Approach Route: Vehicles travel via Ruta Nacional 60 (the famous Ruta de los Seismiles), branching off onto rugged 4x4 tracks. A high-clearance 4x4 vehicle is mandatory.
The Normal Route (North Face / Nevero Norte): This is the classic line. It is an open glacier/snowfield slope that leads directly to the primary summit ridge.
Key Campsites:
- Acclimatization Base: Laguna Verde or Las Cortaderas (~3,400m to 4,300m).
- Base Camp: Mar del Plata (~4,700m).
- High Camp 1: Fiambalá (~5,300m) or Glacier Camp (~5,900m depending on strategy).

Difficulty & Requirements

Technical Difficulty: Basic to Intermediate. The standard route consists of a long, sustained walk over volcanic scree, loose rocks, and hard glacier ice/snow.
Physical Demands: Extreme. You will carry heavy loads, set up camps in severe mountain weather, and make a massive summit-day push at nearly 6,800m.
Climate Danger: Sub-zero temperatures drop well below -20°C (-4°F). Powerful wind storms (Zonda winds) frequently alter routes and freeze exposed skin instantly.
Optimal Climbing Season: From December to March, which provides marginally warmer conditions and stable daylight.

Required Equipment

Because Nevado Pissis is a true high-altitude mountaineering environment, you must pack specialized gear:

Footwear & Traction: Heavy double or triple mountaineering boots, crampons, and a straight mountaineering ice axe.
Shelter: A rugged, 4-season geodesic mountain tent designed to survive high-velocity winds.
Layering: -20°C rated down parkas, heavy fleece layers, windproof hardshell jackets, and heavy-duty mittens.
Water & Fuel: Multi-fuel expedition stoves (gas canisters struggle to vaporize in extreme cold and high altitudes).

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24 km test after a month of inactivity: the path to the Arrayanes Forest was generous to me.

2026-06-29T14:07:00.000-05:00

Returning home after six months on the road, walking almost every day in the mountains, was something I needed. The distance made me miss my family and I also wanted to spend my 30th birthday together. I enjoyed our reunion, where we caught up with everyone until it was time to start a new walk. That stop of more than a month at home did me a lot of good on an emotional level, but on a physical level not so much because I had some very sedentary days. This was a habit that I had to put aside little by little if I wanted to take myself to walk around all those beautiful places .

Our 21-day trip in the motorhome had scheduled several treks in the different cities where we would stop. The most difficult and awaited by all was the one we would do in the city of Bariloche, walking 15 km up the mountain through the snow until we reached the Frey Refuge. That is a hike that I had done in the summer without problems, but at that time my hiking pace in the mountains was very good. After the month still at home I felt very heavy, so I had to do small progressive hikes until I regained my good condition .

While we were in the city of Villa La Angostura in Neuquén, one of the scheduled hikes was to the Arrayanes Forest. This is a 12 km trail on a terrain that has some inclines, but almost 75% of the trail is flat. You can get to the forest by boat, or some people combine going by boat and coming back by trekking or vice versa, but our plan was to walk there and back. This long hike was just what I needed to test my endurance again .

We started our hike around 9 AM, because we knew it would take us about three hours to get to the forest. That morning it looked like good weather was not going to be with us because it was freezing and foggy, but we went anyway because that's winter. I had done this hike coming back from the forest a year ago in the fall, but it was great to see the trail again adorned with some snow ❤️.

I must say that at the beginning it took me a while to get back into the rhythm, especially on the long climbs. I felt a bit out of breath, and at that point I regretted everything I ate and drank while I was back home, I was laughing inside. It was also quite an adventure to do a long hike in winter because I overdressed and couldn't maintain a constant body temperature without sweating or freezing. But despite all those inconveniences, I arrived safe and sound to the Bosque de Arrayanes .

Why is this place so interesting for tourists? Well, because it is the forest that contains the largest number of Arrayanes trees in the region. This part of the park is a walk through wooden paths where you can stroll among the cold orange trees. This area also has a small grocery store and restrooms, enough to spend the day. In my visit in 2023 I already wrote in detail about this place, so I invite you to read this post. This time I didn't take many pictures of the forest, I just used my time to sit for a while to catch my breath and eat my humble lunch .

My final conclusion on this whole situation is that fitness takes months, but can be lost in just a few weeks of inactivity. Luckily, as we had also planned the hike back that day, I had time to move my legs a bit and warm up, getting ready for the day we would go up to the refuge in Bariloche. I enjoyed going to the forest again, it's always a picturesque place to visit, and if I can get the benefit of physical activity along the way, all the better ❣️.

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Exp.Co.PABELLON Day 2 - Summit (3181m) Rio El Tala

2026-06-25T13:34:00.000-05:00

The Summit Stage (Day 2) of the Cerro El Pabellón (3,181m) expedition, starting from the Río El Tala basin in Catamarca, is a highly demanding trekking route due to its steep slopes and elevation gain.

️ Route and Key Locations

The step-by-step itinerary for the summit push includes the following key milestones:

Starting Point: "El Durazno" Camp (located at approximately 2,020 meters above sea level).
West Bypass: The trail begins along the ridge base and veers slightly left (West) to gain altitude gradually, avoiding the steepest part of the main ridge.
Main Ridge Line: The path returns to the main ridge crest. The final stretch of this section features an extremely steep and challenging incline.
High Plateau: Once past the ridge, you reach a high flat area where the final summit crest begins.
Final Destination: Cerro El Pabellón Summit (3,181m). The descent follows the same route back to camp to pack up and return to the trailhead.

Distances and Metrics (Day 2)

Total Daily Distance: 10.76 kilometers (full round trip from the camp to the summit and back).
Elevation Gain (+): 1,194 meters of pure ascent from the campsite.
Maximum Altitude: 3,181 meters above sea level.

️ Scenic Viewpoints

Main Ridge and Crest: As you gain altitude and leave the tree line behind, the trail offers open views of the mountain range.
Condor Sightings: The high ridges are frequent updraft areas for Andean condors soaring close to the peaks.
Quebrada Panorama: The pre-summit plateau and the peak itself offer panoramic views of the entire Río El Tala upper basin and the valleys toward El Rodeo.

EXPEDITION: Co. Pabellon, 3190m, 2 Days, 1 Camp
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OBJECTIVE Day 2: Ascend Co. Pabellon, return to camp, break camp, and return to the vehicles.
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STARTING POINT: Campsite at 'EL DURAZNO' Camp
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ROUTE:

-Start at 6:00 am, taking the path that skirts the hill and then climbs the small hill to the left (West) to gain altitude.
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-Return to the main hill, thus avoiding the initial slope of the Main Hill.
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-Then proceed along the ridge of the hill,
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-Trail
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-Crested Ridge
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-Ridge Trail
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-Hill
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-Rocky Slopes
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-Rocky Slopes
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-Small Balcony

-Ridge
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-Crested Ridge
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-Ridge
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-Summit
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-Return

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A small frozen waterfall at the side of the snowy road: a good postcard of a winter trip.

2026-06-22T15:50:00.000-05:00

The last time I had travelled to the south of Argentina in winter was 13 years ago on my high school graduation trip. From this trip I have more memories of partying with friends than of the landscapes I saw, so returning after such a long time seemed interesting. I think I'm now more aware of my surroundings on every walk I take, and I'm glad I am: renewing my memories of these beautiful landscapes was something I didn't know I needed. On our motorhome trip last month we made many interesting stops, and one of them was the one that allowed us to see this small frozen waterfall ❤️.

Six days into our three-week motorhome trip we were already in a landscape surrounded by snow, something we all look forward to. I already knew it, but many of my fellow travellers did not, so it was great to accompany them on their first experience. As the second city we would visit would be Villa La Angostura and we had been to San Martin de Los Andes, it was necessary to cross the Seven Lakes Route, but not without spending a night by one of them .

The route was beautiful, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and also quite a lot of snow accumulated on the sides. Seeing the landscape painted white was something we all wanted to see, so we took advantage of the day to go for a walk. Our motorhome was parked on the shores of Lake Villarino, in a free camping area, and from there we took advantage of our afternoon to go for a short hike. The Ruta de Los Siete Lagos is 110 km in total and several of the interesting things to see are quite far from each other, so we were lucky that there was ‘something else’ to see .

According to the map, about two kilometres from where we were, there was a viewpoint of a waterfall called Vuliñanco. We had all had lunch and had enough time to go for a walk, so we walked there. The Seven Lakes Route has a few viewpoints like this one, where you can park your car and just sit and watch the scenery. They also have informative signs about what you are seeing, as if to better interpret the landscape ❤️.

To our surprise, once we reached the viewpoint of the waterfall we noticed that it was 75% frozen. There was still some water running down the side of the waterfall, but a large mass of sharp ice remained fixed in the landscape. In addition, the whole area of the viewpoint had a thick layer of snow that raised the ground level, so you could stand on the railing to see the waterfall from higher up. It may not have had the magnitude of even the smallest waterfall in the Iguazu Falls, but at least it was an interesting waterfall for an express walk .

I liked this winter trip very much, because snow and cold always have the ability to make landscapes even more beautiful. My fellow travellers and I lingered in front of the waterfall drinking mates, but not before starting the occasional snow war. I was glad to have spent my afternoon with a short walk there, because although I had already visited this route, I did not know this corner. And that is why it is sometimes worthwhile to revisit these beautiful places ❤️.

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