Sierra de las Quijadas National Park
Explore a surreal desert landscape of eroded sandstone, ancient fossils, and breathtaking vistas in this unique national park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for hiking
Sierra de las Quijadas National Park
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for hiking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a surreal desert landscape of eroded sandstone, ancient fossils, and breathtaking vistas in this unique national park.
"Amazing part of the Earth. I loved it. Worth every minutes and every pennies."
Pack Plenty of Water! 💧
The arid climate means you'll need more water than you think. Stay hydrated on all trails.
Wear Comfortable Hiking Shoes 👟
The terrain can be uneven. Sturdy footwear is essential for exploring the trails safely and comfortably.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.7 · 3,991 reviews
Type
National Park
Website
parquesnacionales.gob.arHighlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Labyrinthine Landscapes
Throughout the park
Explore surreal, eroded sandstone formations creating natural labyrinths and canyons. A photographer's dream!
Paleontological Wonders
Fossil sites
Discover ancient dinosaur fossils and geological evidence of millions of years of evolution. A treat for science enthusiasts!
Panoramic Viewpoints
Various miradors
Marvel at breathtaking vistas of the arid landscape, offering stunning photo opportunities and a sense of vastness.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Getting There and What to Bring
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack Plenty of Water! 💧
The arid climate means you'll need more water than you think. Stay hydrated on all trails.
Wear Comfortable Hiking Shoes 👟
The terrain can be uneven. Sturdy footwear is essential for exploring the trails safely and comfortably.
Consider a Guided Tour 🚶♀️
For longer or more complex trails, a guide enhances the experience and safety.
Allow a Full Day ⏳
To truly enjoy the park and explore multiple trails, dedicate a full day to your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack Plenty of Water! 💧
The arid climate means you'll need more water than you think. Stay hydrated on all trails.
Wear Comfortable Hiking Shoes 👟
The terrain can be uneven. Sturdy footwear is essential for exploring the trails safely and comfortably.
Consider a Guided Tour 🚶♀️
For longer or more complex trails, a guide enhances the experience and safety.
Allow a Full Day ⏳
To truly enjoy the park and explore multiple trails, dedicate a full day to your visit.
Capture the Colors 📸
The red hues of the landscape are stunning, especially during sunrise and sunset.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning, otherworldly landscapes and the unique geological formations of Sierra de las Quijadas National Park. Many highlight the vibrant colors and the paleontological significance as major draws. While the journey can be a bit remote, most agree it's a worthwhile detour for its natural beauty and free entry.
"Must see in national park in St. Luis, Argentina. It is one of of the many geological national parks in Argentina with plenty of beautiful outcrops. Unfortunately we didn’t have too much time to go for a hike."
Thomas Fridrich
"Great National Park, loved it. Superb colours. The people at the entry point we're friendly and helpful. The road in is a bit rough in places but no problem for an ordinary sedan. Allow an hour or so to do the loop walk. Apparently longer guided walks are possible but we were only there for a couple of hours. Well worth the diversion off the highway."
Ian Richards
"Beautiful place. It's definitely worth visiting."
Olga
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is located in the northwest of San Luis province, about 120 km from the capital. Access is via Route 147, followed by about 6 km of gravel road. While manageable for sedans, a 4x4 can be beneficial for deeper exploration. 
The road in can be a bit rough in places, but it's generally manageable for an ordinary sedan.
It's a 2-3 hour drive from both San Juan and San Luis cities, and travelers find it well worth the journey.
Public transportation options are limited. Renting a car or joining a tour is the most common way to reach the park.
Yes, a regular sedan can access the park, though some sections of the road might be bumpy.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the entrance to the park is free, making it an accessible natural wonder.
The park is generally open year-round during daylight hours. It's advisable to check official park sources for any seasonal changes or specific access times.
For longer trails that require guides, it's highly recommended to book in advance to secure your spot.
As a national park, there are regulations to protect the environment and wildlife. Visitors are expected to stay on marked trails and not disturb the natural habitat.
While the park is generally accessible, it's best to plan your visit during daylight hours for safety and to fully experience the landscape.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The park is famous for its unique eroded sandstone landscapes, creating labyrinths and canyons, as well as its paleontological significance with dinosaur fossils.
There are several marked trails, ranging from short, self-guided walks to longer ones that may require a guide. The loop walk is about an hour.
Yes, the park is a paradise for paleontologists with numerous fossils, including evidence of dinosaurs.
Hiking is the primary way to explore. The self-guided trails offer a great introduction, while guided tours provide deeper insights.
Basic facilities are available, but it's wise to confirm their operational status before your visit.
🎫 💧 What to Bring
Essential items include plenty of water, sunscreen, a hat, sturdy hiking shoes, and snacks. A camera is a must for the stunning scenery.
Yes, as there are limited services within the park, it's crucial to bring all your own food and drinks, especially water.
Lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for a desert climate is recommended. Layers are good for cooler mornings and evenings.
While trails are marked, it's a good idea to have a map, especially if you plan to venture on less-traveled paths. Offline maps on your phone are also useful.
Bring a good camera and extra batteries. The unique geological formations and colors offer incredible photographic opportunities.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit