Payogasta

Information

Payogasta is a small village in the Argentine province of Salta. It lies at an altitude of around 2596 meters above sea level, at the foot of Nevado de Cachi and on the banks of the Calchaquí River, in an area that forms part of the Calchaquí Valley. It can be reached via National Route 40, about 10 km from the town of Cachi. It is right on the way when visiting Cachi and Los Cardones National Park, as it lies halfway between the two.

As for the best time to visit Payogasta, it is best to avoid summer (between December and March) when the region receives most of its rainfall. The village has a few basic services including grocery stores, some simple accommodation options and an ATM, enough to take care of certain needs while passing through.

It is a very quiet village where you can enjoy views of the mountains surrounding the valley. There are usually few visitors, except during the dates of the Fiesta Nacional del Pimiento (National Pepper Festival), an event held in the main square every year for decades. During those days, the village's usual peaceful atmosphere gives way to a livelier scene.

One of the places to visit is the village chapel. There is also a riverside walk where you can enjoy a good view of the landscape, which is an ideal spot to take a photo in front of a sign bearing the name of the village.