Calilegua National Park Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Calilegua National Park in Argentina with our comprehensive travel guide, featuring must-visit places, outdoor adventures, hiking/biking routes, local cuisine, accommodations, cultural insights, and safety tips.


Introduction to Calilegua National Park

Located in the Andean Northwest region of Argentina, Calilegua National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Spread across 76,306 hectares, the park boasts a diverse range of flora and fauna, including over 100 species of mammals, 300 species of birds, and countless reptiles, amphibians, and insects. The region is also culturally rich and steeped in history, with numerous museums, historical sites, and indigenous communities to explore.

List of Places to Visit in Calilegua National Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Calilegua Museum: Learn about the history, geography, and biodiversity of Calilegua National Park through interactive exhibitions and displays.
  • Archaelogical Sites and Rock Paintings: Visit the archaeological sites and rock paintings of ancient indigenous cultures, such as the Omaguaca and Chiriguano.
  • El Cucho Algarrobal: Explore the ruins of a colonial-era sugar plantation, which was one of the largest agricultural centers in the region.

Natural Attractions of Calilegua National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Rio Grande: Take a refreshing swim or go white-water rafting in the clear waters of Rio Grande.
  • Laguna de Brealitos: Hike to Laguna de Brealitos, a spectacular lake that is surrounded by lush forests and home to a variety of waterfowl.
  • El Naranjo Trail: Follow the El Naranjo Trail, which winds through dense forests and offers stunning views of the park’s rugged landscapes.
  • Jatun Mayu Trail: Trek the challenging Jatun Mayu Trail, a 16-kilometer route that cuts through mountains, valleys, and waterfalls, and culminates in breathtaking vistas.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Calilegua National Park

  • Quinoa Trail: Explore the park’s lush forests, rocky cliffs, and cascading waterfalls on the Quinoa Trail, a moderate 7-kilometer route that is suitable for hikers of all levels.
  • La Cascada Trail: Follow the La Cascada Trail to see the park’s most stunning waterfall, which tumbles over a sheer cliff into a crystal-clear pool below.
  • Los Arenales Trail: Cycle through the rugged terrain of the Los Arenales Trail, a 14-kilometer route that is perfect for experienced mountain bikers.

Best Things to Do in Calilegua National Park: Activities and Tours

  • Wildlife Watching: Go on a guided tour to spot some of the park’s incredible wildlife, including jaguars, pumas, tapirs, and anteaters.
  • Bird Watching: Calilegua National Park is a bird-watcher’s paradise, with over 300 species inhabiting the park. Look out for rare and endangered species like the red-faced guan and Andean condor.
  • Cultural Tours: Immerse yourself in the fascinating history and traditions of the region by visiting indigenous communities, attending cultural festivals, and learning about the region’s colonial past.
  • Adventure Sports: From white-water rafting to zip-lining, there are plenty of adrenaline-pumping activities to choose from in Calilegua National Park.

Week-Long Itinerary for Calilegua National Park

Day Activity
1 Arrive at Calilegua National Park
2 Hike the Quinoa Trail
3 Visit Calilegua Museum
4 Explore El Naranjo Trail
5 Cultural Tour of Indigenous Villages
6 Bird Watching and Wildlife Tour
7 Depart from Calilegua National Park

Food and Drink Scene of Calilegua National Park

Must-Try Dishes

  • Humita: A traditional dish made from fresh corn, onions, and cheese.
  • Empanadas: Delicious pastry turnovers filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.
  • Locro: A hearty stew made from corn, beans, and beef.

Local Beverages

  • Mate: A traditional Argentine herbal tea, made from steeping yerba mate leaves in hot water.
  • Torrontes Wine: A crisp, aromatic white wine that is grown in the region.

Where to Stay in Calilegua National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hosteria Los Tarcos: A small, eco-friendly hotel located in the heart of the park.
  • Hotel Del Parque: A comfortable and affordable option with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • La Posta del Sol: A guesthouse with rustic charm and a tranquil setting.

What to Buy in Calilegua National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handicrafts: Shop for authentic handmade crafts, such as woven textiles, ceramics, and wooden carvings.
  • Mate Gourds: Buy a traditional mate gourd and bombilla, so you can enjoy the yerba mate tea back home.
  • Local Produce: Stock up on regional specialties, such as quinoa, Andean potatoes, and cactus fruit jams and marmalades.

Local Culture and Customs of Calilegua National Park

The Calilegua National Park region is known for its rich cultural and ethnic diversity, with indigenous communities such as the Omaguaca and Chiriguano living in the region for centuries. Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs, dress modestly, and ask permission before taking photographs.

Best Time to Visit Calilegua National Park

The best time to visit Calilegua National Park is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. The weather is mild and pleasant during this time, with clear skies and cooler temperatures perfect for outdoor activities. The wet season, from December to March, can bring heavy rains and occasional flooding, which can make hiking and other outdoor pursuits more challenging and dangerous.

Do’s and Don’ts of Calilegua National Park

Do:

  • Respect the park’s flora and fauna.
  • Possess appropriate gear and equipment.
  • Keep the park clean.

Don’t:

  • Disturb the wildlife.
  • Damage park infrastructure or property.
  • Ignore park regulations and guidelines.

Safety and Health

Safety in Calilegua National Park

Calilegua National Park is a safe destination for travelers, and incidents of crime are rare. However, visitors should take precautions to ensure their own safety, such as avoiding isolated areas, not traveling alone at night, and safeguarding valuables and personal belongings.

Health in Calilegua National Park

Visitors should take precautions to prevent altitude sickness, which can occur due to the park’s high elevation. Drinking plenty of water and avoiding alcohol and tobacco can help alleviate symptoms. It is also recommended to have travel insurance and to bring any necessary personal medications.

Getting to Calilegua National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Calilegua National Park

The closest airport to Calilegua National Park is the Jujuy Airport, located roughly 90 kilometers away from the park. Other nearby airports include the Salta Airport and the Tucuman Airport.

Bus Stations Near Calilegua National Park

Regular bus services connect Calilegua National Park with neighboring towns and cities, including Jujuy, Salta, and San Salvador de Jujuy. The main bus terminal in San Salvador de Jujuy has connections to other major cities in Argentina and neighboring countries.

Other Options

Visitors can also hire a car or take a taxi to get to Calilegua National Park. However, it is recommended to hire a four-wheel-drive vehicle, as some roads in the park are unpaved and can be difficult to navigate.

How to Get Around in Calilegua National Park

The best way to get around Calilegua National Park is by car or on a guided tour. While there are no public transportation options within the park itself, tour operators offer a variety of transportation options, including jeeps, bicycles, and 4x4 vehicles.

Where to Go Next from Calilegua National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Salta: Explore the charming colonial city of Salta, known for its architecture, museums, and regional cuisine.
  • Purmamarca: Visit the colorful village of Purmamarca, famous for its stunning landscapes and the iconic Cerro de los Siete Colores.
  • Yala: Discover the natural beauty of Yala, a small town located in the foothills of the Andes, with picturesque streams, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

Conclusion

Calilegua National Park is a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural heritage, where visitors can immerse themselves in the region’s rich history and traditions, embark on thrilling outdoor adventures, and savor the local cuisine. With this comprehensive travel guide, you can plan your trip to Calilegua National Park with ease, knowing that the region is waiting to be explored and enjoyed.