Ernesto Tornquist Provincial Park

Information

Ernesto Tornquist Provincial Park is a protected area in the province of Buenos Aires covering around 6700 hectares. Without a doubt, it is one of the best options for exploring the hills of the Sierras de Ventania region, the highest mountain system in the province.

The park has two different entrances or sectors, both located along Provincial Route 76. Each one has its own trails and attractions, so it is worth considering what we want to see before planning our visit:
a) Cerro Bahía Blanca base sector: this sector offers, among other activities:
— Cerro Bahía Blanca: it stands at 739 meters above sea level and can be climbed on a moderately difficult trail. It is a good option for those who want to experience hiking in the hills without taking on one of the more demanding routes in the park.
— Claro-Oscuro Trail: an easy hike that passes through areas of woodland and grasslands typical of the hills.
b) Cerro Ventana base sector: this sector is home to some of the park's best-known attractions:
— Cerro Ventana: one of the highest and best-known peaks in the province of Buenos Aires, especially because of the distinctive opening at its summit. The climb is considered difficult and requires a good level of physical fitness.
— Garganta del Diablo Trail: this is also a difficult route that requires good physical fitness and leads to a waterfall and a natural pool.
— Garganta Olvidada Trail: a moderately difficult trail that leads to a waterfall and allows you to venture a little further into the surrounding hills.
— Piletones Naturales Trail: also moderately difficult, this trail leads to an area with several natural pools.

Some things to keep in mind:
— To see most of the park's attractions, I would say that you need at least three days. The nearby towns of Villa Ventana, Villa Serrana La Gruta, Tornquist and Sierra de la Ventana offer various accommodation options and other services, making it possible to plan a stay of several days.
— It is also worth keeping in mind that access requirements vary depending on the activity: some require an entrance ticket, while others are free.
— The last time I visited the park, the climb to Cerro Ventana and the Garganta del Diablo Trail had to be done with an authorized park guide. However, it is important to keep in mind that whether a trail or attraction requires a guide or can be done independently may change over time.
— A restaurant and small grocery shop usually operate in the Cerro Bahía Blanca base sector, where you can buy some food and drinks.