Ullum Dam

Information

It is a dam located about 16 km from the capital of the province of San Juan. Both its inflow and outflow are the San Juan River, and it is surrounded by mountains in an arid landscape. Its main purposes are to regulate water and generate hydroelectric power. It is also an important recreational area for residents of Greater San Juan and for tourists who come to visit.

Around the dam, there are boating clubs, accommodation options, viewpoints and beach areas. There is also a municipal campground that offers all the necessary services. It has a boat ramp and a shoreline with a public beach. On certain days of the week, a catamaran operates sightseeing trips across the reservoir (it is best to check the schedule in advance).

For those who enjoy hiking, there are two trail options with access points on either side of the dam wall and hydroelectric power station:
— Cerro Tres Marías Natural Adventure Park: a moderately difficult trek that takes you to the top of a mountain.
— Loma de las Tapias Natural Park: the trail passes through a lunar-like landscape shaped by wind and water erosion on soft ground.

The dam can be reached from the city of San Juan via paved Provincial Route 60. This same road partially follows the northern shore of the reservoir and provides access to its main attractions. In fact, if you continue along Route 60 you will reach another reservoir called Punta Negra.