Travel through Traslasierra by car and be amazed by the best of the Sierras of Córdoba

The province of Córdoba is a world to discover, and Traslasierra has everything to spend an unforgettable vacation.

The Talampaya National Park and the Ischigualasto Provincial Park are two of the most surprising destinations in Argentina. You will find high canyons, geological formations that look like moles and colors that change in just a few kilometers. Both parks, located in La Rioja and San Juan, invite you to learn about the history of our land.

Visiting them is simple and you can do it in a few days if you have a car. But the best thing is to take your time and explore each place to discover. Sometimes, with two or three more days on your trip, you get to see places that surprise you more than you initially planned.

At Rentennials we want a getaway to Córdoba to become an unforgettable moment. That’s why we offer you this guide with the best information to explore Traslasierra.

Córdoba

Where is the Traslasierra Valley in Córdoba?

There are ten tourist regions in the province of Córdoba. Some of the best known are:

• The Punilla Valley is north of the capital. It extends from Carlos Paz to La Cumbre on RN 38.
• The least explored is the North of Córdoba. It begins on RN 9, in Deán Funes. It crosses the royal road and one of the most beautiful towns in the world: Villa Tulumba.
• The Calamuchita Valley. It is accessed by RN 5, and there you will find Los Molinos, the Río Tercero Reservoir and other places to enjoy different activities.
• The Traslasierra Valley. From Mina Clavero to the border with San Luis along Provincial Route 14. You will find towns and a unique mountain landscape.

You can find more information on the official tourism page of the Province of Córdoba.

How to get to Traslasierra by car

There are several options to get to Traslasierra from the city of Córdoba. The first is to take Provincial Route 34 south towards Alta Gracia. After passing Falda del Cañete, you have to turn right towards Las Jarillas. Continuing along the same route, you cross the Las Altas Cumbres road, with a stunning scenic landscape. Finally, you reach the first city of Traslasierra: Mina Clavero. Here is the map with the suggested route.

Another option is to go slower and make a short stop in Alta Gracia. Taking National Route 36 from Córdoba to the south, you reach Alta Gracia after traveling 50 km. From here, you must continue along RP 34 until the intersection with Las Altas Cumbres road. This alternative is a little longer, but you will get to know one of the most emblematic cities in the province: Alta Gracia.

Must-see places on a road trip through Córdoba

On your journey to Traslasierra from the city of Córdoba, you will find unforgettable landscapes, a National Park and a historic city that you cannot miss. Below, we will tell you about the must-see stops to make on your route to Traslasierra.

Alta Gracia, a place with history

The history of the city of Alta Gracia begins around the 17th century. The Jesuit missions made their presence felt and shaped the identity of this town. Later, around the 20th century, it was one of the places that Ernesto “Che” Guevara’s family chose to live in.

All of this can be seen in two unmissable places that travelers must visit:

• Museo Estancia Jesuítica de Alta Gracia and Casa del Virrey Liniers. This is an estancia organized by the Jesuits since 1643. You can visit the church and the residence. Admission is free.
• The Museo Casa del Che. For health reasons, Ernesto Guevara’s family decided to live in this city. Today, it is a house museum that covers the entire life of the revolutionary leader. Admission is paid and it is open every day from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

In addition, you can visit the oldest dam in Córdoba, built by the Jesuits: El Tajamar. And don’t forget to walk through the Parque del Sierras Hotel.

Alta Gracia has a wide range of hotels of different categories. Find out the best places to stay!

Camino de Las Altas Cumbres

Provincial Route 34 crosses the Cumbres de Achala, the highest mountain ranges in the province. This is the path known as Las Altas Cumbres, and all travelers should take it at least once during their visit to Córdoba. In addition, it is one of the most emblematic Scenic Routes in the province

Along the route you will find some viewpoints to take the most beautiful panoramic views of the province. There are restaurants and diners to stop if necessary.

Córdoba

Mirador Quebrada del Batán

After traveling a few kilometers through Las Altas Cumbres, there is a path 130 meters from RP 34 that leads to the Batán ravine viewpoint. From here you can see a complete scene of the province: Carlos Paz, the San Roque dam and the capital.

If you are lucky, you can see the Andean condors, the emblematic bird of Argentina.

A recommendation: hire qualified guides because there are no signs. In addition, you will reach the Escondida waterfall, where you can practice rappelling.

Quebrada del Condorito National Park

Córdoba has a not-so-well-known National Park. You have to take your time, but the trip is worth it to be able to observe these magnificent birds. From La Pampilla, at approximately kilometer 59.5 of RP 34, you will reach the visitor center. From here, the route begins towards the Río de los Condoritos ravine and the balconies for bird watching.

Another alternative is to take the more visited Balcón Norte. It is a 4-hour round trip hike, with a medium difficulty.

Córdoba

To Mina Clavero via RP 14

To get to Mina Clavero there is an alternative for adventurers. A 28 km gravel road along RP 14. Along the route, San Gabriel Brochero, the Argentine saint, is remembered.

The Traslasierra Valley in Córdoba, a destination to rest

The towns of Traslasierra are synonymous with rest and nature. They are ideal for those looking to disconnect in accommodation with views of the mountains, but who at the same time want to go hiking, trekking and enjoy the streams.

The first thing you have to do on your trip to Traslasierra is choose the town where you are going to stay. So, here are some suggestions for you to organize your travel itinerary in the province of Córdoba.

What towns are in Traslasierra

From Villa Cura Brochero and Mina Clavero to the south, there are many towns to spend a few nights in complete peace. Nono, Villa Las Rosas, San Javier and Yacanto are just a few options. There are accommodations for all budgets and styles.

RP 14 is the backbone of the entire route. The best way to make the decision is to choose the town that suits your needs.

Villa Cura Brochero

This town honors the first Argentine saint, San Gabriel Brochero, who lived in the area. It has numerous attractions, such as the Centenario square with a monument to the saint, while the remains of the priest are kept in the Nuestra Señora del Tránsito church and the Brocheriano Museum. This museum is worth exploring, open every day from 10 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. and from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

If you are looking for nature, the trail to La Gloria waterfall is the best option. With almost 15 km, it starts from Plaza Centenario and runs through beautiful places in the mountains to one of the most famous waterfalls in Traslasierra.

Córdoba

Mina Clavero

Mina Clavero is the most visited destination in Traslasierra. It has three main rivers and numerous streams to enjoy the freshness of its waters. The Mina Clavero River is the most recognized and has several spas along its route: La Toma, Nido de Águila and La Residencia. Beaches, water holes and natural slides are just some of its attractions. Its beauty made it declared one of the “7 natural wonders of Argentina.”

The Panaholma River has the Los Cedros spa. It is more familiar due to its calm waters and shallow depths. Finally, the Los Sauces River has drawers and deep pools.

In the town there are accommodations for all budgets. If you go in summer, it is best to book in advance. This way, you can guarantee more affordable prices and the most beautiful places.

Córdoba

Nono

Its adobe buildings already indicate that we are in a town with a great history. Here there are two rivers that run through the area: Los Sauces and the Chico River. There is a place where both water courses meet, transforming the landscape into something unique.

The Las Tropas and Los Remansos spas are the best known in the area, ideal for enjoying the day. For those who prefer activities in full contact with nature, there are trails, bicycle tourism and horseback riding. For more information, go to the official tourism page of Nono.

If you are looking for a place with more tranquility, Nono is a good option.

Villa de las Rosas and Los Molles

Another town in Traslasierra full of rivers and streams. A few kilometers away is the La Viña Dam, perfect for water activities. In addition, you can take trails with different levels of difficulty. The best known are La Calandria, El Picahueso and Los Jilgueros.

Nearby is the town of Los Molles where the El Hueco Nature Reserve stands out. It is a forest with the oldest and largest trees in Córdoba. But be careful, the level of difficulty is high to get to this place. It is 24 km round trip.

San Javier and Yacanto

The calm and tranquility make these two towns the ideal destinations for rest and contact with what many seek: nature, disconnection and the silence of the mountains.

In addition, there is the possibility of trekking to ascend to the Ferreyra post. It takes 4 hours, 12 km in total, and the difficulty is medium. The area is known for its horseback riding and cycling tours.

We’ll leave you with something not so well known: there are wineries where you can taste the wines of the area:

• The San Javier winery
• The Aráoz de Lamadrid winery
• Piedra Mora Winery

Córdoba

Luyaba

One of the last towns in Traslasierra before reaching San Luis. Trails, horseback riding and regional products are what make this place special. It is known for being the paradise of aromatic herbs, as well as having its olive path.

An ideal town to stay in complete tranquility.

La Paz

Its dirt streets, its houses and the calm transform this town into a unique place in Traslasierra. Almost on the border with San Luis, La Paz lives up to its name. Horseback riding, hiking, streams and bike rides are the must-do’s. And always with the peace of the mountains.

One kilometer away is Loma Bola, a hill with a small area named after it. There is a famous hotel with a restaurant where it is worth having lunch or spending the night.

Most of the cabins and accommodations have beautiful views of the mountains.

Climbing Champaquí Hill

Its 2,790 meters make the hill one of the most popular adventures in the Traslasierra region. During the journey you will encounter high plains, rocks with particular shapes, ravines and streams. And when you reach the top, the view will reward the effort made.

From San Javier, Villa Las Rosas and Los Molles there are accesses to climb Champaquí Hill from Traslasierra.

The duration of the journey lasts between 8 and 10 hours. It is very important to go with local guides and register before climbing. It is an experience for which you have to be prepared: bring water, trekking shoes and a desire to walk.

Contact the authorized providers to begin organizing the climb.

Where to sleep in Traslasierra

Throughout the towns of Traslasierra, there are accommodations of all kinds and for any budget. Campsites, boutique hotels, cabins and traditional hotels are present in each town.

If you are looking for a place with more restaurants and services, Mina Clavero is the right place. If you are one of those who prefer tranquility, Luyaba, San Javier or La Paz may be your place. Nono and Villa Las Rosas are towns with a little more accommodation and gastronomy.

In summer or winter, call a few months in advance to reserve.

Rent a car with Rentennials to tour Córdoba

Traslasierra in Córdoba is that place you arrive at and you will not want to leave. Starting with the beautiful Altas Cumbres road, all the way to the border with San Luis, each town, stream and trail has a special magic. All year round, it is ideal for a restful break.

The car is the quickest and easiest way to get to know each of these places in Córdoba. Renting one with Rentennials is the ideal option for those who prefer flexibility, low cost and reducing environmental impact.

Unmissable guide to activities and excursions to do in Cafayate, Salta

In the Calchaquí Valleys, Cafayate has magical places to visit and spend the best vacations.

If you’re wondering what to do in Cafayate on a long weekend or a week of vacation, here you’ll find the activities you can’t miss. In the heart of the Calchaquí Valley of Salta, the historic city of Cafayate has everything: wineries, treks, excursions for the whole family and essential driving tours.

Renting a car in Salta is the first step to organizing your trip. From the capital, you will drive through ravines until you reach Cafayate. It is not a long journey, but it is worth doing it at your own time and pace.

At Rentennials we want people to be able to enjoy the country without rushing, in an economical way and to get to know those hidden corners that Argentina has. Therefore, here we leave you all the information to prepare your travel itinerary to the province of Salta.

Cafayate

Where is Cafayate?

Cafayate is located in the south of the province of Salta, 200 kilometers from the provincial capital. It is very close to the border with Tucumán, which makes it a perfect destination if you are traveling from the capital of that province.

It is the most important city in the Calchaquí Valleys, and many travelers choose it as a base to tour the area.

From San Miguel de Tucumán to Cafayate by car

From the city of Tucumán to Cafayate, take National Route 38 south and then turn right onto Provincial Route 307. This is a mountain road with curves and counter-curves, so it is best to go slowly.

You will pass through Tafí del Valle and Amaicha del Valle, two towns surrounded by beautiful mountain landscapes. If you have time, it is worth staying a few nights and exploring their surroundings.

The road is all paved and is 224 km in total. Here is the map to get to Cafayate from San Miguel de Tucumán.

From the city of Salta to Cafayate by car

To get to Cafayate from Salta, take National Route 68 south. It is a road that begins to offer beautiful landscapes from the town of Alemanía. As we always recommend, it is best to go slowly and stop at the points that are worthwhile to contemplate the landscapes.

In total there are 198 km, paved and in very good condition. Here we leave you the map to go from Salta to Cafayate.

Unmissable stops on the route from Salta to Cafayate

On the route that goes from Salta to Cafayate there is one of the most beautiful scenic routes in the country: the Quebrada de Las Conchas. Here, you will drive through unexpected landscapes and there are many points to stop and enjoy. Therefore, it is best to do it with time and dedicate practically a day to this route.

Below we leave you with places you cannot miss.

Cafayate

Town of Alemanía

After traveling 115 km there is a small place that is worth visiting: Alemanía. You can walk around and see what the old train station is like. There is a restaurant there today to taste the flavors of Salta (open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.).

Quebrada de las Conchas Scenic Route

Starting from Germany, the landscapes begin to turn red, the geological formations are transformed and it becomes necessary to stop at each of the points indicated by the signs.

The places where you have to stop and, at times, walk are the following:

• Garganta del Diablo (km 141). It is one of the most visited places in the Quebrada. It is accessed after a short walk. In summer it is best to visit it early or late in the afternoon.
• The Amphitheatre (km 142). It is a naturally formed space that has perfect acoustics.
• Mirador Tres Cruces (km 146). A stop that you have to make. From here you will contemplate the beauty of the Calchaquí Valleys.
• The Toad and the Obelisk (km 153 and 165). As their names indicate, they are geological formations that resemble the reptile and the traditional monument of the Egyptians.
• La Yesera (km 161). To get there you will have to walk along the Los Estratos trail. It takes about half an hour and is of low difficulty.
• Los Castillos (km 169). You will find some beautiful shapes sculpted in the mountain that will surprise you.

A fact: at km 126 is the Morales Bridge. One of the most famous scenes from Wild Tales was filmed here.

Cafayate

What to do in Cafayate

Once you arrive in this magical city, all you have to do is enjoy what it has to offer. Whether in the surrounding area or in the city, Cafayate has activities for the whole family.

It stands out for being a historic city, with streets that go back to the past and architecture typical of northern Argentina. In addition, from here you can visit the high-altitude wine cellars, with the Torrontés grape variety as the star of the region.

Below, we leave you with some of the best activities to organize your trip.

Get to know the city

It is a colonial-style city that has a great offer of accommodations, restaurants and all the services for tourism. The artisan market and the Museum of Vine and Wine (open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., except Mondays) are the places you have to visit. In the center of the city you can enter the beautiful Nuestra Señora del Rosario cathedral built in 1885.

Don’t miss walking through the streets calmly, and having a wine ice cream in its classic ice cream shops

Community tourism

For those looking for close, authentic experiences and connecting with the culture of Argentina, Cafayate is the place. From horseback riding, artisan workshops, walks learning about the history of the place and the customs of the native peoples.

For more information, visit the Community Tourism Network.

Trekkings

For lovers of hiking in amazing landscapes, Cafayate will not disappoint you. In general, the treks are of medium or low difficulty. It is best to go accompanied by a guide to be able to enjoy without worries and knowing every story that the region has to offer.

• Los Medános. Unexpected, but here there are some dunes to ride or walk. Only 6 km from the city-
• Walk through the Quebrada de las Conchas. It is another way to explore these particular rock formations. Through a half-day tour with a guide.
• Cerro San Isidro. To climb you have to have about two or three hours. The view you will find is worth the effort.
• Siete Cascadas. It is a three-hour walk. You cross ravines and rocks until you reach the waterfalls and their pools of water. It is mandatory to go with a guide because there are no signs and the difficulty is high. Both in the city and in the surroundings, you will be able to find local guides.

Which wineries to visit in Cafayate

The emblem of the area is the high-altitude wine. In the wineries of Cafayate you can enjoy an international-level lunch while tasting the best wines of the region. In some you can even spend a few nights. And the best: the views you have of the Calchaquí Valleys.

We leave you the best wineries in Cafayate

• Finca Las Nubes. Whatsapp: 0261 405 8333
• Piatelli. Whatsapp: 0261 405 8333
• El Esteco. Telephone and Whatsapp: 03868 42-2496

It is best to book in advance, and more so if you visit Cafayate in high season or on a long weekend.

Nearby places to visit in Cafayate

The car will allow you to visit some sites just a few kilometers from the city. In one day, you can tour the Quebrada de las Flechas, reach the town of San Carlos or walk through one of the best archaeological sites in the country.

Quebrada de las Flechas

It is a 10 km journey along National Route 40. During this short journey you will see inclined rocks that look like arrows.

It is located almost 70 km north of Cafayate. The road is gravel, so it is advisable to go slowly.

Cafayate

San Carlos

One of the magical towns of Salta, and one of the places with the most history in Argentina. In its streets you can see mansions, artisans and many stories of the peasant communities.

Visit the San Carlos site for more information

Sacred City of Quilmes

It is one of the most important archaeological sites in the country. The Sacred City of the Quilmes was inhabited around the 12th century, and today you can visit the remains of its residences and the fortress that is located on top.

Before taking the tour of the protected area, do not miss visiting the Interpretation Center that is located at the entrance. This way, you will be able to understand much more about how this town lived.

The length of the visit depends on your schedule. It is best to visit it in the morning or a few hours before closing time, so you can enjoy it without the midday heat.

It is located 54 km from Cafayate. To get there, take National Route 40 to the south. It is open every day from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Cafayate

The best time to visit Cafayate and the Calchaquí Valleys

Cafayate is beautiful all year round. From December to March the temperatures are warmer, but what can prevent you from enjoying each place is the rain.

The best months to visit Cafayate and tour the Valleys are between March and June, and between August and November.

Where to stay in Cafayate

In Cafayate you will find accommodations for all budgets. In addition, there are proposals from the highest level to campsites with all services.

Visit the official Cafayate website to find out about the available accommodations.

Where to stay in Cafayate

One car, one road, one ravine in northern Argentina. Touring Salta at your own pace and without worries is the ideal plan for a pleasant vacation. Cafayate awaits you with all its activities.

The roads to get to Cafayate and those that take you to the must-see places nearby are in very good condition. This makes renting a car with Rentennials the best option for touring the Calchaquí Valleys of Salta, and for responsible travelers looking for sustainability and generating a positive impact on the local population.