Cerro Alcázar

Information

Cerro Alcázar (also commonly written as El Alcázar) is a natural monument located in the province of San Juan. It lies about 18 km from Calingasta and 21 km from Barreal, two towns where you can find basic shops, places to eat and lodging options. It is set on the western edge of the Sierra del Tontal (a mountai rnge) which is part of the Precordillera, at approximately 3,000 meters above sea level.

The landscape is made up of sediments from the Triassic period, the oldest of the Mesozoic era. The geological formations visible here are the result of wind and rain acting over thousands of years, creating a visually striking environment that makes it a major tourist attraction. Once a year, usually in April, a stage is set up at the site and an open-air concert is held taking advantage of the natural acoustics.

Access is direct via the paved National Route 149 and entry is free. There is an internal path of about 600 meters that allows visitors to go through the site and get a close look at the colorful mountains and their shapes.

It is undoubtedly an ideal destination to visit, especially when combined with other nearby attractions such as the Hilario ruins located just 1 km away, which were part of one of the country's earliest mining projects.