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Parque Nacional Los Cardones: A Cactus Wonderland

Discover towering cacti and breathtaking landscapes in Argentina's Parque Nacional Los Cardones. A high-altitude desert adventure awaits!

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Los Cardones National Park, located in the Salta Province of Argentina, is a protected area famous for its towering cardón cacti set against a backdrop of rugged mountains and vast desert landscapes. This unique park offers hiking trails, cultural significance, and stunning natural beauty.

A brief summary to Parque Nacional los Cardones

Local tips

  • Visit during the cooler months (May-September) for more pleasant hiking weather.
  • Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun and dry climate.
  • Stay on marked paths to ensure a safe visit and minimize environmental impact.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
  • Check the weather forecast before camping, and be aware of potential hazards like falling trees and branches.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Salta, take Route 68 towards Cafayate. Continue on Route 40 towards Payogasta. The park entrance is located on Route 40, approximately 15 km from Payogasta. Parking is available near the park entrance.

  • Public Transport

    Take a bus from Salta to Cachi or Payogasta. From Cachi, hire a taxi or local guide to reach the park, approximately 30 km away. The bus journey from Salta to Cachi takes about 4-5 hours. Be aware that bus schedules may be limited, and verify times in advance.

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Discover more about Parque Nacional los Cardones

Parque Nacional Los Cardones, established in 1996, spans over 65,000 hectares of the Argentine Northwest, protecting diverse Andean biomes. The park's namesake, the cardón cactus (Trichocereus pasacana), dominates the landscape, with some plants reaching up to 10 meters in height and living for over a century. These cacti were historically used by indigenous populations for timber in buildings. The park's altitude ranges from 2,700 to 5,000 meters above sea level, encompassing hills, ravines, and the towering Cerro Malcante. Visitors can explore various trails, including the Valle Encantado (Enchanted Valley) and Ojo de Cóndor (Condor's Eye) trails, each offering unique perspectives of the park's beauty. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, such as foxes, guanacos, and condors. The park also holds cultural significance, with evidence of ancient indigenous practices. The Recta del Tin Tin, a 15-kilometer straight road, is believed to have been built by the Incas. The park's arid climate, with average rainfall of only 200mm mostly between November and March, preserves paleontological remains, including dinosaur tracks. Stargazing is popular due to the clear night skies.

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