view page of Salta
share this post
Information
El Alfarcito is a locality in the Argentine province of Salta, about 90 km from the provincial capital and 71 km from San Antonio de los Cobres. It lies at an altitude of 2800 meters above sea level, with the Tastil River running alongside it, which during the coldest time of the year can be partially or completely frozen. The settlement is located in a high-altitude mountain valley that some sources include within the Quebrada del Toro, as they consider it in a broader sense to be the geographical corridor stretching from Campo Quijano to San Antonio de los Cobres.It can be reached via National Route 51, which connects the city of Salta with San Antonio de los Cobres. There is a large parking area, and it is common for those taking the Tren a las Nubes excursion to stop here to rest, grab something to eat and explore the place.
The locality has a church, with an ecclesiastical center next to it that serves as a kind of museum. At the top of a mountain behind the church, you can spot a cross and a Way of the Cross.
El Alfarcito is also where the Fiesta de la Papa Andina (Andean Potato Festival) is traditionally held, usually in July. The celebration brings together local producers, artisans and food stalls.