Talampaya National Park, the jewel of La Rioja!

We’re sure you’ve heard of Talampaya Canyon, not just the “jewel” of La Rioja, but one of the most recognized sites in Argentina as well. From there, may Talampaya National Park be a must-see attraction of this province. It is an impressive place, with huge reddish walls; a natural monument that leaves all its visitors speechless.

In fact, in 2000, it was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, together with the Ischigualasto National Park in San Juan (perfect to combine on a tour!). For this reason, we invite you to click on the link and also know more about the latter; you will surely want to put together a travel itinerary with both sites.

MEET TALAMPAYA NATIONAL PARK

The curious and particular formation of its reddish wall is due to erosive processes dented from the low mountain forests of western La Rioja. This means that it is the wind that has been carving the high and straight walls that make up Talampaya Canyon.

Simply put, this natural monument is largely due to the province weather. There is a lot of thermal amplitude and the nights are cool, but the heat of the day is very intense. Meanwhile, summer is characterized by torrential rains and spring by strong winds. Water and tectonic movements have also participated in the erosion of the gun, albeit to a lesser extent than the wind.

The Parque Nacional Talampaya is located very close to Route 40 because, for its users, it is impossible not to deviate to enjoy this magical place. In fact, it is considered to be one of the top 10 landscapes on Route 40.

Created in 1975, it was declared a National Park in 1997. Within it, you can find different types of paleontological and archaeological sites.

While Talampaya can be visited all year round, there are some times that are more recommended than others. To make you have a more accurate reference, you can consult our article on the seasons to travel to La Rioja. It will be very helpful for your visit to the Canyon!

HOW TO ACCESS TALAMPAYA NATIONAL PARK

Accessing the Talampaya NP is quite simple. The routes are in very good condition and can be reached by car to the parking lot. From there, it is mandatory to make the visit with a guide, but it can be in a truck or other vehicles of the company, by bicycle or even walking.

Following the above, it is suggested to hire the full tour and even a complete package with flight and other services included. If you like this alternative, you can contact our travel specialists, they will provide you with all the advice you need and help with the booking.

Another option is to camp in the park, where there are necessary facilities for your stay such as baths, picnic areas and grills. If you like this idea, you should know that you have to process a permit.

Visits can be made daily between 8.30 and 19:30 hrs during summer; between 9:00 and 18:30 hrs during winter. Always, of course, accompanied by a guide.

WHAT TO DO IN LA RIOJA NATIONAL PARK

Besides delighting in the famous Talampaya Canyon, inside the park you can visit other places like the Don Eduardo ravo, the botanical garden and the Great Viewpoint. There is also the possibility to appreciate cave paintings, the strange rock formation that gives rise to the Monk, the Drawers, the Lost City and the Rainbow Canyon.

Going even further, there’s a night activity called the Full Moon Excursion and, within the National Park, there are several circuits to do, the most requested being: the classic Talampaya Canyon and Talampaya Canyon with Shimpa Canyon. The first covers the most basics of the Park with the visit to the petroglyphs, the botanical garden, the Gothic Cathedral and the Monk. The visit lasts about two hours and is done by combi or minibus. The second consists of visiting the same places as the previous one, but adding the Shimpa Canyon. The view lasts about four hours and is done in 4×4 trucks.

TIPS FOR VISITING THE REDDISH WALL OF LA RIOJA

•         Wear comfortable, non-slip footwear
•   There is a confectionery, bathrooms, utility room and showers in the service area if necessary.
•   Wear light clothing -preferably white- and some warmth, as there can be a lot of thermal amplitude during the day and night. It is usually very hot in summer and very cold in winter.
•         Don’t forget to wear a hat, sunscreen and glasses.
•         Bring water and/or canteens.

In brief, the visit to Talampaya National Park is highly recommended. Easily accessible, it is presented as a must-have for landscape lovers. If you are interested in knowing this amazing place and require help to assemble your travel schedule, do not hesitate to send us a whatsApp, we will gladly guide you!