San Juan (province, Argentina) Travel Guide

Discover the beauty and culture of San Juan Province, Argentina through this comprehensive travel guide. Get tips on where to stay, what to do, and how to get there.


Introduction to San Juan Province, Argentina

Located in the Cuyo region of Argentina, San Juan Province boasts a rich culture, spectacular natural scenery, and a fascinating history. Known for its vineyards, olive groves, and beautiful landscapes, this region is a must-visit destination. In this travel guide, we will explore the top places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in San Juan Province.

List of Places to Visit in San Juan Province, Argentina

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

San Juan Province has a wealth of culturally significant attractions, including museums, art galleries, and historical sites. Here are some of the top places to visit:

1. Museo Provincial de Bellas Artes Franklin Rawson

Located in the heart of San Juan, this museum showcases a stunning collection of Argentine art. Visitors can wander through the galleries, admire the works on display, and learn about the country’s rich artistic history.

2. Casa Natal de Sarmiento

A tribute to the renowned Argentine statesman and writer, Domingo Faustino Sarmiento, this museum is housed in the home where he was born. Visitors can explore the rooms, view personal belongings, and learn about his contribution to the country’s history.

3. Parque de Mayo

A popular spot for locals and tourists alike, Parque de Mayo is a scenic park located in the center of San Juan. It features a lake, walking trails, playgrounds, and numerous cultural and recreational activities.

Natural Attractions of San Juan Province, Argentina: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

San Juan Province offers a diverse range of natural attractions, from rugged mountains and volcanoes to sparkling lakes and rivers. Here are some of the best natural wonders to explore:

1. Parque Provincial Ischigualasto

Also known as the Valley of the Moon, Parque Provincial Ischigualasto is a stunning natural reserve that features incredible geological formations, such as canyons, valleys, and unusual rock formations. Visitors can take a guided tour, explore the hiking trails, and marvel at the beautiful scenery.

2. Parque Provincial San Guillermo

Located in the Andes Mountains, this national park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including guanacos, vicuñas, and flamingos. Visitors can explore the park’s many hiking trails, take a guided tour, and enjoy the breathtaking views.

3. Dique Cuesta del Viento

One of the most popular destinations in San Juan Province, Dique Cuesta del Viento is a stunning reservoir that offers a range of activities, including windsurfing, kitesurfing, and fishing. Visitors can also take in the spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.

Hiking/Biking Routes of San Juan Province, Argentina

San Juan Province is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering numerous hiking and biking trails of varying difficulty levels. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

1. Circuito Laguna Blanca

Located in Parque Provincial Ischigualasto, this moderate hiking trail offers stunning views of the valley and the surrounding mountains. Visitors can see a variety of geological formations, including volcanic ash and sedimentary rocks.

2. Quebrada de Zonda

A popular hiking and biking route, Quebrada de Zonda is a scenic canyon located just outside San Juan. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful views of the canyon and the surrounding mountains.

3. Huayquerías

Located in the Ullum Dam area, this moderate hiking trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Visitors can also see the remains of ancient settlements and petroglyphs.

Best Things to Do in San Juan Province, Argentina: Activities and Tours

In addition to exploring the natural and cultural attractions of San Juan Province, there are plenty of other things to see and do. Here are some of the best activities and tours to consider:

1. Wine Tasting Tours

San Juan Province is known for its excellent wines, and visitors can take a tour of the region’s many vineyards and wineries. Some of the best wineries to visit include Bodega Norton, Bodega Finca La Anita, and Bodega Luigi Bosca.

2. Wildlife Safaris

For nature lovers, San Juan Province offers numerous opportunities to see wildlife up close. Visitors can take a guided safari tour of the Andean Mountains to see guanacos, vicuñas, condors, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

3. Hot Air Balloon Rides

For a unique and unforgettable experience, visitors can take a hot air balloon ride over the beautiful landscapes of San Juan Province. This is a great way to see the region’s mountains, valleys, and vineyards from a different perspective.

Week-Long Itinerary for San Juan Province, Argentina

To make the most of your trip to San Juan Province, here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long stay:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Museo Provincial de Bellas Artes Franklin Rawson
2 Explore Parque de Mayo and Casa Natal de Sarmiento
3 Take a tour of Parque Provincial Ischigualasto
4 Visit Dique Cuesta del Viento and go windsurfing or kitesurfing
5 Go hiking in Huayquerías
6 Take a hot air balloon ride or go on a wildlife safari
7 Go on a wine tasting tour of the region’s vineyards and wineries

Food and Drink Scene of San Juan Province, Argentina

San Juan Province is known for its delicious cuisine and excellent wines. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

1. Chivito

A traditional dish of the region, chivito is a delicious goat or lamb stew that is cooked with a variety of vegetables and spices.

2. Empanadas

A staple of Argentine cuisine, empanadas are turnovers filled with different ingredients such as beef, chicken, vegetables, or cheese.

3. Locro

A hearty soup made with corn, beans, vegetables, and meat, locro is a staple dish of Argentine cuisine and often served during national holidays.

Local Beverages

1. Wine

San Juan Province is known for its excellent wines, including varietals such as Syrah, Bonarda, and Cabernet Sauvignon.

2. Fernet

A popular alcoholic beverage in Argentina, Fernet is a bitter spirit that is often mixed with Coca-Cola or soda.

Where to Stay in San Juan Province, Argentina: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

San Juan Province offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses to luxurious hotels. Here are some of the best places to stay in the region:

Luxury Hotels

1. Hotel Viñas del Sol

Located in the wine region of San Juan Province, this hotel features luxurious rooms and suites, a spa, and outdoor swimming pool.

2. Hotel Del Bono Park

A five-star hotel located in the center of San Juan, Hotel Del Bono Park features elegant rooms and suites, a casino, and a range of dining options.

Budget Accommodations

1. Hostel Trotamundos

A popular hostel located in the heart of San Juan, Hostel Trotamundos offers comfortable dorm rooms and private suites, as well as a shared kitchen and lounge area.

2. Casa Zonda

A charming guesthouse located just outside San Juan, Casa Zonda offers comfortable rooms and suites in a peaceful and picturesque setting.

What to Buy in San Juan Province, Argentina: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

San Juan Province is known for its unique and high-quality artisanal products. Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home:

Olive Oil

San Juan Province produces some of the best olive oil in the world. Visitors can purchase bottles of high-quality olive oil from local producers and markets.

Wine

San Juan Province’s vineyards produce some of the finest wines in the world. Visitors can purchase bottles of local wines from the wineries they visit or from local markets.

Handicrafts

San Juan Province is known for its artisanal products, including ceramics, textiles, and leather goods. Visitors can find unique and beautiful handicrafts at local markets and artisan stores.

Local Culture and Customs of San Juan Province, Argentina

San Juan Province has a rich and diverse cultural heritage. Here are some of the customs and traditions that define the region:

Festival of the Sun

A popular festival that takes place in February, the Festival of the Sun is a celebration of the region’s agricultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy traditional music, dance, and food during the festival.

Folk Music and Dance

San Juan Province is known for its vibrant folk music and dance scene. Visitors can attend live performances and festivals to experience these traditions firsthand.

Best Time to Visit San Juan Province, Argentina

The best time to visit San Juan Province is during the months of March to May (fall) and September to November (spring). During these periods, the weather is mild and pleasant, and there are fewer crowds than during the peak summer months.

Do’s and Don’ts of San Juan Province, Argentina

Do:

  • Learn some basic Spanish before your visit.
  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local food and wine.
  • Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing in public.
  • Drink tap water without boiling it first.
  • Use drugs, as they are illegal in Argentina.

Safety and Health

Safety in San Juan Province, Argentina

San Juan Province is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, visitors should take the usual precautions to keep themselves and their belongings safe, such as avoiding isolated areas and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in San Juan Province, Argentina

San Juan Province has good medical facilities, but visitors should still take precautions to avoid illness. Travelers should drink only bottled water, avoid eating street food, and take insect repellent to avoid mosquito-borne illnesses.

Getting to San Juan Province, Argentina: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near San Juan Province, Argentina

The San Juan Domingo Faustino Airport is located 12 km from the city center and offers direct flights to and from Buenos Aires.

Bus Stations Near San Juan Province, Argentina

The San Juan Bus Station is located in the city center and offers bus services to and from destinations throughout Argentina.

Other Options

Travelers can also reach San Juan Province by car, as it is well-connected to major highways in Argentina.

How to Get Around in San Juan Province, Argentina

The easiest and most convenient way to get around San Juan Province is by car. However, travelers can also use public transportation, including buses and taxis, to get around the region.

Where to Go Next from San Juan Province, Argentina: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

San Juan Province is located in a scenic and diverse region of Argentina, with numerous destinations and excursions nearby. Here are some of the best places to visit:

Mendoza

Known for its vineyards and natural scenery, Mendoza is a popular destination for wine tasting tours, outdoor activities, and cultural attractions.

La Rioja

Located to the northwest of San Juan Province, La Rioja is known for its stunning desert landscapes, ancient ruins, and cultural attractions.

Chile

San Juan Province is located close to the Chilean border, and visitors can take a trip across the Andes Mountains to explore the unique culture and landscapes of this neighboring country.

Conclusion

San Juan Province, Argentina is a destination that offers something for everyone, from stunning natural scenery and outdoor adventures to rich cultural heritage and delicious cuisine. We hope this guide has provided you with the inspiration and information you need to plan your trip to this beautiful region.



    Barreal
    San Agustín de Valle Fértil
    San Juan (city, Argentina)