Audio Guide of Los Cardones National Park

Los Cardones National Park is open 24 hours a day, every day of the year, as it is a freely accessible park. The best way to get there is by private vehicle (car or 4x4) from Cachi or Salta, traveling along National Routes 40 and 33, part of the famous Adobe Route. There is no regular public transportation that goes directly into the park.

Good news! Access to Los Cardones National Park is completely free. As a national park, there is no admission charge, allowing you to enjoy its stunning landscapes without worrying about an entry budget. We recommend bringing some cash if you plan to buy anything at the small nearby stalls.

To fully enjoy Los Cardones National Park and visit its main points of interest, such as the Tin Tin Straight and the Enchanted Valley, I suggest setting aside at least half a day, around 3 to 4 hours. If you enjoy hiking and want to explore at a slower pace, you could extend your visit to a full day.

Los Cardones National Park was created in 1996 to protect a vast area of shrubland and puna biomes, as well as the impressive concentration of cacti from the Trichocereus pasacana genus, also known as cardones. Its importance lies in preserving this unique flora, as well as native fauna and archaeological sites with traces of pre-Columbian cultures, such as Inca roads.

The best time to visit is during spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May), when temperatures are milder and the weather is dry. Avoid the summer months (December to February) because of rain and high temperatures. As for the time of day, I recommend going early in the morning or at sunset; the light is spectacular for photography and the heat is less intense.

Due to the rugged nature and rocky terrain of Los Cardones National Park, access and mobility for people with reduced mobility may be limited in some areas. The Tin Tin Straight, being a paved road, allows you to enjoy the scenery from the vehicle, but the trails and viewpoints can be challenging. It is always advisable to check with the park administration for updated accessibility information by calling +54 (387) 4902166.

Cachi and its surroundings are full of charm! Do not miss the picturesque town of Cachi with its church and archaeological museum, the Piedra del Molino Viewpoint with spectacular views, and the Las Conchas Gorge if you continue along National Route 68 toward Cafayate, famous for its rock formations. I also suggest exploring wineries if you are interested in the High-Altitude Wine Route.

Of course! I recommend bringing enough water, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and comfortable walking shoes. The altitude can be considerable (up to 3,000 meters above sea level), so take it slowly to avoid altitude sickness. Always stay on marked trails and do not try to touch or damage the cardones. And of course, keep your camera ready to capture unforgettable landscapes!