Recently Viewed
Valley of Calingasta: Explore Barreal and El Leoncito
4.5
12 Ratings
San Juan
Embark on a spectacular tour of the Valley of Calingasta and Barreal in San Juan. Explore the Astronomical Complex El Leoncito, South America’s premier observatory.
Embark on a spectacular tour of the Valley of Calingasta and Barreal in San Juan. Explore the Astronomical Complex El Leoncito, South America’s premier observatory.
Duration:
13 hours
Cancellation:
24 hours
Highlights
- San Juan - The day begins promptly at 7 AM as the group departs from chosen hotels to embark on an exciting adventure.
-
Calingasta - The first destination is a peaceful town, nestled among scenic mountain roads. Visitors can enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals, making it an ideal introduction to the charming region of Calingasta.
-…
- San Juan - The day begins promptly at 7 AM as the group departs from chosen hotels to embark on an exciting adventure.
- Calingasta - The first destination is a peaceful town, nestled among scenic mountain roads. Visitors can enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals, making it an ideal introduction to the charming region of Calingasta.
- Barreal - Along the way, travelers will appreciate the natural beauty and panoramic views while traversing the mountainous route. The journey continues to Pampa El Leoncito, a plain renowned for its stunning landscape and the popular activity of land yachting (three-wheeled vehicles powered by sails).
- Parque Nacional El Leoncito - This Astronomical Reserve covers 70,000 hectares and boasts between 270 and 300 clear nights each year, making it perfect for stargazing. It is the largest and most important reserve in Argentina and South America. During a 45-minute guided tour, participants will explore the “Jorge Sahade” telescope facilities, admire astronomical images, and enjoy an informative talk about the universe.
- Cerro Alcazar - On the return journey to San Juan, travelers will be captivated by the stunning panoramic view of Cerro Alcázar, enhancing the beauty of the trip back.
- San Juan - After this fascinating excursion, the group will return to their selected hotels in San Juan at approximately 8 PM.
What's Included
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Guide in English/Spanish
- Pick up/Drop off from central hotels
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Guide in English/Spanish
- Pick up/Drop off from central hotels
What's Not Included
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
- Lunch, food and / or drinks not mentioned in the itinerary
- Tickets not mentioned in the itinerary
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
- Lunch, food and / or drinks not mentioned in the itinerary
- Tickets not mentioned in the itinerary
Additional Information
You cannot miss this spectacular Tour to the Valley of Calingasta and Barreal. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes and unique geography of the region while glimpsing into the fascinating world of astronomy at the renowned El Leoncito Astronomical Complex. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the wonders of both earthly beauty and celestial exploration in one remarkable adventure!
You cannot miss this spectacular Tour to the Valley of Calingasta and Barreal. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes and unique geography of the region while glimpsing into the fascinating world of astronomy at the renowned El Leoncito Astronomical Complex. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the wonders of both earthly beauty and celestial exploration in one remarkable adventure!
Location
San Juan
The pick up transfer is only from selected centrally located hotels. If your hotel is outside the geographic area, we will confirm you the closest meeting point. Indicate the name and address of your hotel.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Customer Ratings
4.5
(12 Ratings)
5 stars
4 stars
3 stars
2 stars
1 star
N7515rimartah
Mar 9, 2026
Unmissable! - Both parks are beautiful. In Ichigualasto they charge the entrance fee to the park, the guide gets into a vehicle, and leaves by caravan, and stops at the different viewpoints and a museum in territory. Beautiful. The access road is also beautiful (we went from Jachal).
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Cabaniasatahualpa
Aug 25, 2024
Calingasta and barreal - Calingasta tranqui beautiful landscapes Barreal more touristic beautiful landscapes and the pomp of the cool little lion. The tour is scenic. It never ceases to amaze you. Highly recommended
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Sandrada6333rb
Mar 20, 2024
Beautiful landscapes - The road to Calingasta is beautiful, the landscapes are incredible, the mountains exhibit varied colors. There is a beautiful sculpture of the Christ of Mercy, it is located on a hill that allows a panoramic view of the valley.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Henk
Feb 11, 2024
Liftend up to see the tops of the Andes 6600/7000m here is Space for the eyes the ears and the sole - This is where Argentina and Chile have their roots all the PLAZAs San Martin and Las Herrqs come for a Andes crossing-over beginning here by some coronels going into battle with the Spanish colonial gouvernement and following the RIO de Los Patos.
Amazing Views . breathless skies
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Franciscor210
Dec 10, 2023
We loved it !! - From San Juan along a picturesque road you reach the Calingasta Valley, and 35 km further you reach Barreal. On the way you must not miss going to see the El Alcazar hill, it is a wonder, as well as the hill of the 7 colors. Barreal, a beautiful town from where you can go to Barreal Blanco in the Pampa El Leoncito. They do car sailing there and also very close is the El Leoncito Astronomical Observatory, where you can see the clearest sky in South America. It can be visited day and night, since the sky is very starry. This trip is worth it. It is also a very good and picturesque road.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
R4215aipatriciaf
Nov 8, 2023
The Andes, beautiful scenery. - The views are incredible, Cerro Alcázar is a monument of nature. Indescribable experience. Also Barreal, a town full of landscapes with mountainous backgrounds, the Andes as a backdrop; the adobe houses. Spectacular.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
830silvanav
Sep 5, 2023
Our experience was wonderful. - Dream landscapes, very kind and cordial people! It far exceeded our expectations. Contact with nature in its purest form. There are many activities to develop. You have to study the maps and the different possibilities to make the most of the time and the long kilometers! In the Barreal area we recommend @bahoaventurabarreal, and Posada Paso de los Patos. In Valle Fértil we recommend the Hotel Rústico and Hugo Fernandez for the walks. All excellent people and tourism professionals!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Aliciamq5369ft
Dec 11, 2022
Shocking and surprising - Ischigualasto Park and Talampaya Park
Unforgettable experiences, incredible connection with nature, through landscapes, archaeology, paleontology and geology. It's going, being surprised, learning and worshipping.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Pepsomos
Sep 16, 2022
San Juan, forgotten province, is worth it - Day and night, the sky is an essential protagonist. Here you will see exceptional landscapes. The Barreal gives multiple unforgettable sensations.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Marty
Jan 18, 2026
You may not visit everywhere they say you’ll visit. - Most of the tour was good but we did not go to the observation. Going there was the only reason we went to San Juan. It was a waste of money and time.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
