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Guachipas Rock Paintings

5 reviews

11 hrs

From

290.417 ARS

South of the city of Salta lies one of the province's most well-preserved archaeological treasures, the Las Guachipas Painted Caves. This sacred site served as an oratory for the Guachipas tribes.

Commonly referred to as Cuevas Pintadas Las Juntas, these caves feature approximately 33 eaves carved into red sandstone, adorned with depictions of religious ceremonies, warfare, and scenes from the daily lives of the indigenous peoples.

During this excursion, you will have the opportunity to explore the caves and discover the ancient wisdom and mysteries preserved in the paintings. Guided by an expert, you will also explore the Cabra Corral Dam and visit Finca Santa Anita, a ranch dedicated to preserving Salta's gaucho traditions. Additionally, you will discover Argentina's first Tobacco Museum, which highlights the pre-Columbian social, shamanic, and ritual significance of tobacco.

Tour Description

Our journey begins bright and early at 07:00 AM with the pickup from your hotel situated in the heart of Salta. We will travel southward through the province along National Route No. 68, eventually arriving at the CIARG, the Guachipas Rock Art Interpretation Center.

This center is regarded as one of the top attractions in Guachipas and stands as the most significant archaeological site in the Lerma Valley.

Our exploration continues to the rocky hill, where you'll find eaves, caves, and walls of red sandstone adorned with numerous depictions of camelids, condors, felines, and other native wildlife, alongside geometric and abstract designs. The amazing Guachipas Painted Caves date back to between the 9th and 15th centuries, crafted by the native communities that once thrived in this area.

< div style="text-align: justify;">The most captivating elements are some red, black, and white figures resembling warriors, known as shield-men. Observing these figures is like stepping back in time, envisioning those ancient people, reflecting on their harmonious connection with nature and, most importantly, honoring their heritage.

By midday, we will return via National Route 68 and head towards the Cabra Corral Reservoir, where you'll have free time to enjoy lunch while admiring the expansive water mirror of the dam, which spans over 130 km².

Following our break, we'll visit Finca Santa Anita, a place where local and familial dedication has revived ancestral traditions and unique artifacts, establishing the first Tobacco Museum in Argentina. Experience typical production activities such as goat cheese making, chili pepper cultivation, Creole tobacco processing, and explore a variety of aromatic medicinal plants and indigenous trees, making this visit a fragrant journey into the past filled with ancient wisdom.

The tour concludes around 6:00 p.m. with a drop-off at your hotel in Salta.

What’s included?

What’s included:

* Round trip transfers * Bilingual guide ESP/ENG

What’s NOT included:

* Entrance to museums * Tips * Lunch

Frequently Asked Questions

The Guachipas cave paintings excursion includes round-trip transportation from your accommodation in Salta, a guided tour led by experts who explain the significance and history of the cave paintings, and time to explore the natural surroundings. A stop to enjoy a typical local lunch is also included. Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and water are recommended for hydration throughout the tour. This is a unique opportunity for lovers of cultural tourism and those interested in ancient history.

Yes, the Guachipas cave paintings tour is designed to be accessible to people of all ages. The trails are moderately easy, allowing both adults and children to enjoy the tour. The guides adapt the explanations to the groups, ensuring everyone understands and appreciates the archaeological site. It is recommended that children always be supervised by an adult during the tour. For any special requests, please contact the organization in advance.

The best time to visit the Guachipas cave paintings is during spring and fall, when the weather is milder and more conducive to outdoor activities. Temperatures are moderate, allowing you to enjoy the tour without the extreme heat of summer or the cold of winter. However, the tour is available year-round. In summer, it is recommended to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, while in winter, it is advisable to wear warm clothing. This way, you can make the most of the experience.

The excursion to the Guachipas cave paintings lasts approximately 7 hours. Departure is generally in the morning, around 8:00 a.m., from the meeting point or the tourist's accommodation in Salta. This schedule allows for maximum natural light and time to enjoy the scenery and the archaeological site without rushing. It is recommended to arrive a few minutes before departure time to ensure a smooth start to the tour.

For the excursion to the Guachipas cave paintings, it is recommended to wear comfortable, lightweight clothing. Footwear should be suitable for hiking, sturdy, and offer good traction. Don't forget a hat or cap for sun protection, as well as sunglasses. It is essential to apply sunscreen to avoid sunburn. A small backpack for water, snacks, and a camera is ideal for capturing the stunning scenery. A light raincoat is also recommended in case of unexpected rain showers, to ensure a pleasant and safe experience.

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Cost Level

Budget

Difficulty Level

Low

Traveler Class

Single Couple With friends With children Family

Cancellation Policy

General terms

Type of Activity

Visit museums

Type of interest

Archaeology Art Culture and history Mountains