Destinations – Argentina Photo Workshops

Travel Guide to the Puna of Catamarca & Pumice Stone Field

Nicholas — Mon, 11 Aug 2025 18:43:17 +0000

Perched at altitudes often exceeding 3,500 meters above sea level, the Puna of Catamarca is one of the most remote, pristine, and visually arresting regions of Argentina. This high-altitude plateau, part of the broader Andean Puna that stretches across Argentina, Chile, Bolivia, and Peru, is a land of extremes.

What makes Catamarca’s portion of the Puna unique is its blend of volcanic landscapes, immense salt flats, and surreal mineral-rich lagoons. Towering over the horizon are some of the world’s highest volcanoes, many of them dormant giants like Ojos del Salado—one of the highest volcanoes on Earth at 6,893 meters. The terrain shifts dramatically: one moment, you may be traversing an endless expanse of white at the Salar de Antofalla (one of the longest salt flats in the world), and the next, standing before the lava fields of Campo de Piedra Pómez, a labyrinth of wind-sculpted pumice stone.

Life in the Puna has an ancient rhythm. Villages like Antofagasta de la Sierra, El Peñón, and Antofalla preserve the traditions of the Kolla and Atacameña communities, whose livelihoods are rooted in herding llamas and cultivating quinoa in the thin, dry air. Archaeological remains and petroglyphs testify to the deep pre-Columbian history of the region, once part of Inca trade routes and earlier cultures that adapted ingeniously to this challenging environment.

The vastness and isolation foster a profound sense of awe, a place where nature still reigns absolute.

In this article we are going to talk about the Puna and its main attractions, in the surroundings of Antofagasta de la Sierra and Fiambalá, ideal starting point to get to know the Puna of Catamarca:

Pumice Stone Field
Antofagasta Volcanoes
Salar de Antofalla
Balcon del Pissis
Ruta de los Seismiles

What is the Puna?

The word Puna has a Quechua origin and means “High Altitude Region”.

The Puna ecoregion is located in the central mountain range of the Andes. It extends from Peru, through Bolivia, until the north of Chile and Argentina. The Argentine Puna, in the provinces of Salta, Jujuy and Catamarca, is located at an average altitude of around 3,500 meters.

Wildlife in the Puna de Atacama

The most representative wildlife of the Puna includes vicuñas.

Among the birds, it is worth mentioning the presence of the flamingo, and the suri.

Climate in the Puna of Catamarca

The climate of the Puna has a wide thermal amplitude, which varies according to altitude.

Days can be warm under the intense Andean sun, but temperatures drop dramatically after sunset. Rainfall is scarce, the skies are almost always cobalt blue, and the clarity of the air reveals stunning night skies, making the Puna one of the best places in Argentina for stargazing.

It is always recommended to dress in layers, due to the large temperature variations.

The Pumice Stone Field

The Campo de Piedra Pómez (Pumice Stone Field) is one of Argentina’s most surreal and little-known natural wonders. Spanning more than 25 kilometers, this vast labyrinth of pale, wind-carved formations looks less like part of our planet and more like a fragment of a distant moon.

The field was born from a colossal volcanic explosion thousands of years ago. Superheated volcanic material, ejected from nearby eruptions, cooled rapidly in the thin, dry atmosphere, trapping air bubbles inside the rock and giving pumice its distinctive lightweight, porous texture. Over time, relentless winds, extreme temperatures, and the occasional Andean storm sculpted the rock into towering walls, sharp ridges, delicate spires, and fantastical shapes.

The contrast of colors is striking: the almost pure white and soft beige of the pumice meets the deep cobalt of the high-altitude sky, with the rusty reds and chocolate browns of surrounding volcanic cones completing the scene. In the early morning or late afternoon, low light accentuates the textures, casting long shadows that transform the landscape into an abstract piece of art.

Antofagasta Volcanoes

The small town of Antofagasta de la Sierra is surrounded by a silent army of volcanoes, ancient sentinels that have shaped the landscape for millions of years. This is one of the regions of Argentina with the highest concentration of volcanic cones, both inactive and extinct, whose size and colors defy all expectations.

The closer to the town are the Antofagasta, Alumbrera, Colorado, and Jote volcanoes.

The star of the area is the Galán Volcano, with its immense caldera (one of the largest in the world), and the Carachi Pampa Volcano, with its black basaltic cone rising beside a crimson-colored lagoon (visible from the Pumice Stone Field).

These volcanoes are more than geological curiosities; they are the architects of the surrounding landscapes. Their eruptions gave birth to the region’s striking features—vast pumice stone fields, rivers of frozen lava, and multicolored mineral deposits.

The harsh environment of the high Andes, with its thin air, intense sunlight, and freezing nights, has kept the area pristine. Few places on Earth feel as untouched. Yet, life persists—flamingos feed in mineral-rich waters, vicuñas graze on sparse tufts of grass, and the Kolla and Atacameña communities continue traditions rooted in centuries of adaptation to this volcanic land.

Salar de Antofalla

Stretching for more than 150 kilometers along the remote highlands of Catamarca, the Antofalla Salt Flat (Salar de Antofalla) is one of the longest in the world and a true hidden treasure of the Argentine Puna. At over 3,900 meters above sea level, this vast expanse of blinding white salt is framed by ochre mountains, and volcanic peaks.

The salar’s heart is a surreal mosaic of salt crusts, shallow lagoons, and mineral-rich surfaces that shimmer under the intense high-altitude sun.

On one side of the salt flat, you will find the small town of Antofalla, home to the Kolla Atacameña community. Its adobe houses, ancient irrigation channels, and traditions offer a glimpse into a way of life that has long been adapted to the extreme conditions of the Puna.

The Ojos de Campo formation (along with others) is an impressive sight in the salt flats: extinct geysers of salt water in different shades of blue, green, red, and orange. It can be accessed on 4×4 excursions with authorized guides.

Quebrada de Calalaste

At altitudes of over 4,000 meters, this remote Quebrada de Calalaste is surrounded by rugged peaks, volcanic slopes, and dry riverbeds shaped by millennia of wind and water.

Despite its arid appearance, Calalaste is a vital habitat for high-Andean fauna. It is particularly known for its large herds of vicuñas, which roam freely across the golden ichu grasslands. Andean foxes, and a variety of birds, complete the living tapestry of this untouched landscape.

The quebrada’s solitude is its greatest charm.

Balcon del Pissis

High in the Puna of Catamarca, along one of the most spectacular stretches of Route 60, lies the Balcón del Pissis — a natural viewpoint that frames one of the most imposing sights in the Andes: Mount Pissis. Rising to 6,793 meters, this dormant volcano is one of the highest mountain in the Western Hemisphere, a remote giant straddling the border between Argentina and Chile.

From the balcony, the panorama is nothing short of breathtaking. Mount Pissis dominates the horizon, its massive snow-covered slopes and glaciated peaks. On clear days, the crisp Andean air reveals details of the mountain’s ridges and valleys, offering a rare glimpse of its sheer scale and majesty.

Reaching the Pissis Balcony is itself an adventure, often requiring a 4×4 journey through rugged tracks at over 4,500 meters above sea level. But for those who make the trip, the reward is an encounter with one of the Andes’ most legendary peaks, seen from a vantage point that truly does it justice.

Standing there, with the wind sweeping across the plateau and the mountain rising in silent grandeur, it’s impossible not to feel the immensity — and the timelessness — of the Puna.

Ruta de los Seismiles

The Ruta de los Seismiles (Route of the Six-Thousanders) is one of the highest and most spectacular roads in the world. Winding through the Puna along Provincial Route 60, near the border with Chile, it takes its name from the extraordinary concentration of Andean peaks that rise above 6,000 meters — more than 20 in total — making this region a paradise for mountaineers, photographers, and lovers of extreme landscapes.

Here, volcanoes such as Ojos del Salado, Pissis, Bonete, and Tres Cruces dominate the horizon, their massive slopes capped with snow and ice even under the intense desert sun.

When to Travel?

The Best Time to Travel to the Puna of Catamarca is the fall (March to May) and spring (October to December).

How to Get to Catamarca?

The main cities to depart from, equipped with airports and regular flights from Buenos Aires, are Salta and San Fernando del Valle de Catamarca.

From there, it is recommended to travel with a 4×4 guide to explore the Puna de Catamarca. This is a very remote area, so it is best to venture out with the help of a local guide.

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3 Punas Adventure

A dream journey through the Puna of Salta, Catamarca, and Jujuy—where the Andes unveil breathtaking landscapes of salt flats, towering volcanoes, and diverse wildlife.

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7 days

4x4 Off-Road Adventure

Puna Experience: Catamarca

Experience the best of Catamarca’s Puna: the Pissis Balcony, the surreal Pumice Stone Field, Antofalla, and the Ruta de los Seismiles.

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8 days

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How to Prepare for a Photography Workshop: Ultimate Guide

Nicholas — Sun, 06 Oct 2024 12:16:23 +0000

Photography Workshops offer an invaluable opportunity to enhance your skills, network with fellow photographers, and immerse yourself in a creative environment. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned professional, preparation is key to making the most out of the experience.

This article outlines the essential steps to prepare for a photography workshop, ensuring that you’re mentally, physically, and creatively ready to seize the moment.

1. Research the Workshop and Instructor

Before attending any photography workshop, it’s crucial to research the workshop and the instructor thoroughly.

Each workshop may have a different focus, style, or theme, such as landscape, portrait, travel, wildlife, or documentary photography. Knowing what to expect helps you align your goals with the workshop’s objectives.

Key Points to Consider:

Instructor’s Portfolio and Style: Familiarize yourself with the instructor’s work to understand their approach. This will help you decide if their style aligns with what you want to learn.
Workshop Agenda: Review the daily schedule, including any practical or classroom sessions. Some workshops may include lectures on post-processing, critiques, or field trips, so know what to anticipate.
Skill Level: Ensure that the workshop is appropriate for your current level. Some workshops cater to beginners, while others may be aimed at more advanced photographers.
Location: If the workshop takes place in a specific location, such as a scenic national park or an urban landscape, research the area to know what kind of photography opportunities it offers.

By having a clear idea of what the workshop entails, you can tailor your expectations and goals accordingly.

2. Define Your Goals

Before the workshop begins, it’s important to set personal goals. What do you want to achieve during this workshop? Whether it’s mastering a new technique, building your portfolio, or simply gaining inspiration, having specific objectives will keep you focused.

Consider These Goals:

Skill Development: Do you want to improve your technical skills, such as understanding lighting, composition, or post-processing?
Creative Exploration: Are you looking to experiment with new ideas or push your creative boundaries?
Networking and Collaboration: Do you want to connect with fellow photographers or industry professionals for future collaborations?
Portfolio Expansion: Are you seeking to create new content for your portfolio, especially in a particular genre (e.g., landscape, portrait, or street photography)?

Setting goals will not only keep you motivated but also guide you during the workshop, helping you make the most of your time.

3. Gear Preparation: Choosing the Right Equipment

The equipment you bring to a Photography Workshop can significantly impact your experience. It’s essential to pack the right gear based on the type of photography and workshop requirements.

Essentials:

Camera Body: Bring your most reliable camera, whether it’s a DSLR, mirrorless, or film camera. Ensure it’s in good working condition.
Lenses: The type of lenses you’ll need depends on the focus of the workshop. For landscape photography, wide-angle lenses are essential. For portraits, a 50mm or 85mm lens works well. A telephoto lens might be necessary for wildlife photography.
Tripod: If the workshop involves low-light, long-exposure, or landscape photography, a sturdy tripod is essential.
Comfortable Camera Bag: Invest in a comfortable, durable camera bag with padded compartments to protect your gear, especially if you’ll be moving around a lot.
Memory Cards: Bring plenty of high-capacity memory cards. Ensure that they are fast enough for your camera, especially if you plan to shoot in RAW format.
Extra Batteries: Photography workshops often involve long days of shooting, so bring spare batteries to avoid interruptions.
Filters: Depending on the type of photography, you may want to bring filters such as neutral density (ND) or polarizers.
Cleaning Kit: Dust and dirt can accumulate on your lenses and camera sensor, especially during outdoor shoots. A cleaning kit is essential to keep your gear in top condition.

Optional (but Recommended):

Laptop and External Drive: If post-processing or editing is part of the workshop, bring a laptop equipped with your preferred editing software (e.g., Adobe Lightroom or Photoshop). An external drive is also useful for backing up your work.
Flash/Lighting Equipment: If the workshop covers studio or portrait photography, external flashes, diffusers, or softboxes might be needed.

Preparing your gear ahead of time ensures that you won’t be caught off guard by technical difficulties or limitations during the workshop.

4. Brush Up on Photography Basics

While workshops are designed for learning, it’s still a good idea to brush up on the basics before you attend. This will allow you to keep pace with the group and spend more time on advanced techniques or creative exercises rather than relearning fundamental concepts.

Essential Topics to Review:

Exposure Triangle (Aperture, Shutter Speed, ISO): Ensure that you are comfortable with how these settings affect your images.
Composition: Study the rules of composition such as the rule of thirds, leading lines, symmetry, and framing.
White Balance: Understanding how to adjust white balance for different lighting conditions will help you capture more accurate colors.
Metering and Focus Modes: Familiarize yourself with your camera’s metering system and autofocus settings to get sharp, well-exposed images.

A quick review of these concepts will help you maximize your time during the workshop, allowing you to focus on more advanced techniques.

5. Pack for Comfort and Practicality

Photography workshops often involve long days in various environments. Whether you’re trekking through forests, walking through busy streets, or standing for long hours in a studio, comfort is key.

Clothing:

Weather-Appropriate Clothing: Check the weather forecast for the workshop location and pack accordingly. Layered clothing is ideal for outdoor workshops, where temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day.
Comfortable Footwear: A sturdy, comfortable pair of shoes is essential, especially for workshops involving outdoor or landscape photography.
Accessories: A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are crucial for outdoor workshops. If you’re shooting in cold or wet conditions, gloves, waterproof jackets, and rain covers for your camera are recommended.

Food and Hydration:

Snacks and Water: Long shooting sessions can be tiring, so bring light snacks and a water bottle to stay energized and hydrated.

6. Prepare for Networking

Photography Workshops are excellent opportunities for networking with peers and industry professionals. Don’t miss the chance to make lasting connections.

Ways to Network:

Introduce Yourself: Be open to conversations and introduce yourself to fellow participants and the instructor.
Share Your Work: Bring business cards, and if appropriate, a tablet or portfolio to showcase your work during casual interactions.
Engage on Social Media: Many workshops have associated social media groups or hashtags. Engaging with these communities before, during, and after the workshop helps you stay connected and continue learning.

Networking can lead to future collaborations, feedback, and opportunities, so don’t hesitate to engage with others.

7. Be Mentally Prepared for Constructive Criticism

One of the most beneficial aspects of a Photography Workshop is the critique session. However, receiving feedback on your work can be intimidating. It’s essential to approach critiques with an open mind and a willingness to learn.

Tips for Handling Criticism:

Stay Open: Remember that the purpose of feedback is to help you grow as a photographer. Listen carefully to suggestions, even if they challenge your creative choices.
Ask Questions: If you don’t understand a critique, ask the instructor or peers for clarification. It’s an opportunity to learn different perspectives.
Apply Feedback: After receiving feedback, try to incorporate it into your work during the workshop. Experimenting with new techniques or perspectives can be incredibly rewarding.

Constructive criticism can significantly enhance your learning experience, so embrace it as part of the process.

8. Be Ready for Inspiration

Workshops are not just about learning techniques—they are about finding inspiration. Being around like-minded individuals in an immersive environment can ignite new ideas and creativity. Be open to inspiration and ready to experiment with your photography style or approach.

Tips for Staying Inspired:

Keep a Journal: Jot down notes, ideas, or sketches during the workshop. This can help you remember new concepts and stay creatively engaged.
Experiment: Try new techniques, compositions, or subjects that you might not typically shoot. Workshops are a safe space to push your creative boundaries.
Stay Curious: Ask questions and explore different perspectives. Engage with other participants to learn how they approach photography.

Inspiration often strikes when you least expect it, so be open to new possibilities throughout the workshop.

Conclusion

Preparing for a Photography Workshop is essential to ensure a fulfilling and enriching experience. By researching the workshop, setting goals, preparing your gear, and being open to learning and inspiration, you can maximize the value of the workshop.

The more prepared you are, the more you’ll be able to focus on creativity, learning, and connecting with others, leaving you inspired and ready to take your photography to the next level.

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Guide to Buenos Aires – A Photographic Paradise

Nicholas — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 12:50:17 +0000

Buenos Aires is often described as the Paris of South America. My city is a lively city, a city with striking architectural style. Walking along the broad avenues you need to look up not to miss the wonderful domes of the historic buildings.

As a Local Photographer I decided to write this Guide to Buenos Aires, to share some of the best corners to photograph. The city is in constant renewal, things change quickly and cultural life proliferates, driven by the energy and passion of its inhabitants.

Tango Guide to Buenos Aires

Let’s start with the Tango, one of the most dramatic aspects of Argentine culture to photograph. Walking through the neighbourhoods of San Telmo or La Boca you will encounter live performances watched by large crowds against the backdrop of the vibrant painted walls of these colourful historic districts.

At night the show continues in the clubs of the capital.

The Catedral del Tango (Sarmiento 4006, Almagro) is an authentic temple for dance enthusiasts. In bohemian style it offers tango and milonga lessons, cocktails, and finger food.

The Rojo Tango is an extraordinary show staged inside the eclectic Philip Starck designed, Hotel Faena (Martha Salotti 445), in the Puerto Madero district, once the capital’s port.

Buenos Aires Cityscapes

Buenos Aires also surprises visitors with its breathtaking views and cityscapes. I have a number of favourite panoramic viewpoints over the city:

The terraces of the Marriot Hotel (former Hotel Panamericano, Carlos Pellegrini 551) and the Grand Brizo (Cerrito 180) offer unique and different views of the Obelisk and Avenida 9 de Julio. One of the widest streets in the world, it is especially photogenic at twilight.
The Alvear Icon’s Rooftop Bar (Aimé Painé 1130, Floor 32) as well, offer a great view over the Puerto Madero district at sunset.
The Palacio Barolo building (Av. de Mayo 1370), on the famous Avenida de Mayo offers an impressive view of the Congress of the Argentine Nation from the top floor, simply magnificent.

Buenos Aires Notable Bars

Another cultural and historic highlight of this “Guide to Buenos Aires” are the Notables Bars. Once the meeting place of famous writers like Jorge Luis Borges and artists, such as Carlos Gardel, entering these bars is like taking a trip back in time.

Amongst the most famous Notables Bars are Café Tortoni (Avenida de Mayo 825), the oldest in Buenos Aires; Confitería Las Violetas (Avenida Rivadavia 3899), with its beautiful stained glass windows; Bar El Federal (Avenida Carlos Calvo 599) in the heart of San Telmo; Bar Sur (Estados Unidos 299), a classic of the tango porteño; and La Perla del Caminito (Av. Don Pedro de Mendoza 1899), in the colourful neighbourhood of La Boca.

The Ateneo Grand Splendid Bookstore

No Guide to Buenos Aires is complete without the Ateneo Grand Splendid Bookstore, formerly the Grand Splendid Theatre (Avenida Santa Fe 1860): its imposing exterior facade has carved figures of Atlas supporting ornate balconies.

Once inside, the building opens onto a huge central hall, lined floor to ceiling with bookshelves and exquisite ceiling frescoes painted by Nazareno Orlandi. If you’re lucky, you may be able to listen to a live piano concert while enjoying a coffee in this extraordinary setting.

The Colon Theatre - Buenos Aires Opera House

The Colon Theatre is another gem of the capital that cannot be missed. The main Buenos Aires Opera House is considered among the best in the world.

The guided visit bring the visitor through some of the best rooms of the building: the hall of busts, the Golden Room, with stunning glass chandeliers, and the Concert Hall and stages, with the balconies and allegorical ceiling frescoes painted by artist Raúl Soldi.

The Kirchner Cultural Center (CCK)

Lovers of modern architecture must visit the Centro Cultural Kirchner (Sarmiento 151), a short walk from the Casa Rosada and Puerto Madero.

This building, once home to the central post office, is now used for concerts and exhibitions. Its neo-classical facade conceals a unique futuristic work: the great Ballena Azul (Blue Whale), so called because of its size and shape, occupies the central part of the building.

Inside the whale is a majestic concert hall for symphonic music. Attending a show in this place is certainly an experience not to be missed in Buenos Aires.

Villa Ocampo in San Isidro

If you want to get away from the traffic of downtown, a visit to Villa Ocampo (Elortondo 1837), in the San Isidro district, is the ideal choice. The elegant villa, surrounded by verdant gardens was once the residence of Victoria Ocampo, one of Argentina’s cultural heroines and a leading figure in the feminist movement.

You can wander round the interior of the house, browsing the books and photographs about Victoria’s life, relax amongst the huge range of plants in the gardens or simply enjoy a drink in the picturesque café of the residence.

The modern district of Palermo

The youngest and liveliest neighborhood in Buenos Aires is Palermo. Strolling along Palermo’s narrow streets bars, restaurants and murals create a riot of colour. At night the neighbourhood lights up and truly comes alive.

A visit to some of Palermo’s Speakeasy Bars is not to be missed.Among the best are Victoria Brown (Costa Rica 4827), designed to resemble a Victorian-era factory; and Nicky Harrison (Malabia 1764), named after the Prohibition-era criminal of the same name, who ran his 1930s speakeasy hidden behind his family’s fish market in New York.

The San Telmo Market

Last, but by no means least, is the lively and colourful San Telmo Market (Bolivar 970). This renovated covered market with its wide range of food stalls and antique stores bustles with life.

It is an ideal place to get lost with your camera, looking to frame still life pictures of the bric a brac or portraits of the merchants, among scents, colours and a large crowd that every day fill the narrow alleys of the market.

The capital city has so much to offer. These “Guide to Buenos Aires” suggestions barely scratch the surface.

It is a city that enchants and an un-missable stop for photographers traveling in Argentina – but, of course, I may be biased!

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Mar Chiquita Lake: an oasis for flamingos in Argentina

Nicholas — Fri, 13 Aug 2021 22:17:52 +0000

The Mar Chiquita Lake is one of the largest saline wetlands in Argentina.

It is a real inland sea in the middle of the Córdoba plains, with an extension of 6.000 km2.

The vast wetland of Mar Chiquita is formed by two subsystems: the Mar Chiquita Lake to the south and the marshes of the Dulce River to the north. The marshlands include a large area of wetlands, grasslands and salt flats that extend into the valley of the Dulce River and at the end of its course, reaches the north of the lagoon.

Three rivers flow into the lagoon: Primero (or Suquía), Segundo (or Xanaes) and Dulce.

The area is surrounded by several villages, although only Miramar de Ansenuza is located on the shore of the lake.

The complex and diverse ecosystem that has developed, formed by abundant native flora and fauna, makes Mar Chiquita a destination of excellence, especially for flamingo sightseeing in Argentina.

Where is the Mar Chiquita Lake?

The Mar Chiquita Lake is located in the northeast of the province of Córdoba, in north-central Argentina.

It is a protected area that, together with the marshes of the Dulce River, are part of a project in the Argentinean congress to declare the area a National Park.

They constitute a key site for the conservation of biodiversity worldwide and for the conservation of birds from the center of the country and migratory species from South America.

Why is the Mar Chiquita Lake salty?

The Mar Chiquita Lake is an endorheic lagoon, which means that it is an area where the water has no fluvial exit to the ocean.

For this reason, the rain that falls remains there and only leaves the system by infiltration or evaporation, which favors the concentration of salts.

The high salinity of the lagoon and its variable surface make it one of the largest salt lakes in the southern and western hemisphere.

Flora and Fauna of Mar Chiquita Lake

The complex ecosystem developed in this area includes abundant flora and fauna.

In terms of vegetation, it is very diverse. The transition from the Chaco vegetation to the Mar Chiquita depression starts with the typical Chaco forest, where we can find mainly white quebracho, mistol and carob trees. As soil salinity increases, the Chaco forest is progressively replaced by a shrub forest, lower and with more halophyte species.

The complexity of the landscape is critical for the habitat of diverse wildlife species.

We can mention the artemia, a small crustacean that lives in salty waters, the pejerrey that reaches very high levels in the lagoon and the otter or “coipo” (in Araucanian) that is still in a wild state in spite of its intense hunting.

There is also a great variety of amphibians and different types of toads: “salineros” (they bury themselves in the mud to resist the dry season), spotted, gardeners, common; and different kinds of frogs: “vizcacheras”, “chaqueñas”, striped, monkey, among others.

As well as reptiles: the species are distributed among lizards, snakes (large ones like the lampalagua that reaches up to 3.5 meters and small ones like blind vipers), turtles (terrestrial and aquatic) and amphisbaenids (apex reptiles, without legs, with subway habits and very difficult to see).

Last but not least: the aquatic birds. The total number of bird species reaches 142, of which 73 are permanent in the area and of the rest, a little more than 60% are migratory species while the rest appear occasionally.

We can find two species of South American swans, the black-necked swan, which is very common and nests throughout the area, and the coscoroba, which becomes very common and nests in the marshes of the Dulce River.

There are also plovers, shorebirds and teros, birds associated with aquatic environments where they obtain their food from mud. Plovers are characterized by long migrations. To face such long journeys, they require a lot of energy, so they are able to store fat up to double their weight before leaving. They have an amazing capacity for orientation, being able to return each year exactly to the place where they nested.

Flamingos are the most charismatic and spectacular birds of the lake. Mar Chiquita is home to three of the six species of flamingos in the world: the Austral flamingo, the Andean flamingo and the James Flamingo.

The Austral flamingo (also known as Chilean Flamingo) is the most abundant and is found during the whole year, and it also reproduces massively in Mar Chiquita. Usually, the reproductive cycle begins around September, when large concentrations of flamingos are observed and they perform a series of complicated courtships. The nests are built by the couple. Eggs are laid between November and December. The chicks begin to leave the nests towards the end of January and remain in the area without being able to fly until at least the end of April. Flamingos do not reproduce every year.

As for the other two flamingo species, they are winter visitors, when they descend from their breeding areas located in the high Andean lagoons of the Argentine, Bolivian and Peruvian Puna.

The Andean flamingo (also known as Parina Grande) is a regular winter visitor, which can concentrate in numbers exceeding several thousand.

The James Flamingo (also know as Parina Chica), on the other hand, appears in low numbers and more sporadically.

Why is it also called Ansenuza?

Ansenuza is the name given to the Mar Chiquita Lake by the native people of the area.

A legend tells that Ansenuza was the beautiful Indian goddess of water, who lived in her crystal palace of the sea. She was very beautiful but also cruel to those who entered her domain.

Only once was love born in her heart for a badly hurt warrior, whom she could not save. As she cried so much over the body of her lifeless beloved, her tears turned the waters of the lake salty.

Seeing this, the father of the gods decided to give a chance to the love that had been born in Ansenuza’s heart, bringing the young warrior back to life. Then lightning struck and illuminated his body, transforming him into an attractive and slender bird with pink plumes.

From that moment on, the flamingo lived in the salty waters of Ansenuza.

Miramar de Ansenuza is the only town on the coast of Mar Chiquita Lake, in the southern part.

What to do in Mar Chiquita Lake?

With a unique biodiversity, this water mirror is ideal for aquatic birds sightseeing, among which plovers, seagulls, swans and pink flamingos stand out. Mar Chiquita Lake offers interesting scenarios and great opportunities for wildlife photography lovers.

In summer and on hot days, we suggest you bathe in its waters and come out revived by its medicinal properties; do water sports or take a boat ride to the mouth of the Segundo River, where you can see the union of the colors of sweet water and the lagoon.

Hiking and biking are other activities that cannot be missed. On the way it is tempting to climb up to a wooden lookout to watch the birds fly. To admire and photograph the sunset in this place is a unique experience.

Beyond the lagoon, the cultural proposal includes different attractions:

The Dante Marchetti Museum of Photography, to learn about the history of the town.
The Aníbal Montes Museum of Natural Sciences, to learn about the geological origins of the lagoon.
The Croatian Chapel of San Antonio, the first in the province of Córdoba.
The Gran Hotel Viena, one of the most visited places due to its German past and some ghost legends.

As for the gastronomy, you have to know that the typical dish of the locality is the otter meat – in marinade, to the vinaigrette or to the wine – you have to dare to try it!

What is the weather in Mar Chiquita Lake?

The dry season in the area of the Mar Chiquita Lake and the marshes of the Dulce River is between May and September, with rainfall occurring in summer.

The average temperature reaches an average of 24 ºC (75,2 °F) in summer (January) and drops to around 7 ºC (44,6 °F) in winter (July). The frost period extends between May and September.

How to get to Mar Chiquita Lake?

The city of Miramar de Ansenuza is located about 197 kilometers from the city of Cordoba (north-central province of Argentina) approximately 2 hours and a half by car.

Another alternative to travel is by bus, there are several companies that make that journey, which takes about 4 hours and a half.

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Tolar Grande: Guide to the Puna of Salta and Arita Cone

Nicholas — Sun, 25 Jul 2021 16:21:25 +0000

Tolar Grande is a small mining town at 3,500 meters of altitude, that was born with the railroad, It is located between the red and ocher mountains of the Puna of Salta, in the northwest of Argentina (NOA). A dream destination for a Landscape Photographer. Visiting the area around Tolar Grande and the Puna de Atacama in general offers the possibility of experiencing a trip to another planet.

In 1999 the town has gained some notoriety for being the closest place to the Llullaillaco volcano, where the bodies of the “Children of Llullaillaco” were found, now preserved in the MAAM (Museum of High Altitude Archaeology) in Salta.

In this article we are going to talk about the Puna and its main attractions, in the surroundings of Tolar Grande, which make the town the ideal starting point to get to know the Puna of Salta:

The Llullaillaco and Socompa volcanoes
The Arizaro Salt Flat and the Arita Cone
The Santa María Lagoon
The abandoned Julia mine
The Devil’s Desert (also called “Labyrinth Desert”)

What is the Puna?

The word Puna has a Quechua origin and means “High Altitude Region”.

Wildlife in the Puna de Atacama

The most representative wildlife of the Puna includes vicuñas.

Among the birds, it is worth mentioning the presence of the flamingo, and the suri.

Climate in the Puna of Salta

The climate of the Puna has a wide thermal amplitude, which varies according to altitude. With warmer temperatures during the day and colder at night.

In these climates it is always recommended to dress in layers, due to the large temperature variations.

History of the Tolar Grande

For a long time, the railroad and mining were the backbone of Tolar Grande’s economy.

The town, founded by Spanish settlers, was formed around the train station and had its period of maximum expansion around the 1940s. El Tolar was part of the railroad branch to Chile, connecting the city of Salta with the city of Antofagasta. At that time around 5,000 people lived in the town, mainly dedicated to the railroad business.

At the same time, the mine “La Casualidad” was in full operation, which transported loads of sulfur from “Mina Julia” to the Tolar Grande railway station to send them to their final destination.

The closure of the mine and the interruption of the railway project caused the depopulation of the region, with the consequent worsening of the living conditions of the few settlers who decided not to leave the town.

In recent years, tourism has become one of the main engine of development.

Salar de Arizaro and Arita Cone

The Arizaro Salt Flat has an area of 1,600 km² and is located 30 km away from the town of Tolar Grande. It is one of the largest salt flat in the world and in Argentina.

The famous Arita Cone, a perfectly conical hill, is located in the salt flat. A unique natural spectacle.

Llullaillaico Volcano

Llullaillaco is a stratovolcano located on the border between Argentina (Salta province) and Chile (Antofagasta region), 110 km from the town of Tolar Grande. The oldest rocks of the volcano are about 1.5 million years old.

The first recorded ascent of the mountain was in 1950, but traces of earlier ascents and several archaeological sites have been found on the mountain and at its foot.

Llullaillaco represents one of the highest archaeological site in the world. In 1999, the mummified remains of three children (La Doncella, La Niña del Rayo and El Niño), known as the “Children of Llullaillaco”, were found frozen in a perfect state of preservation. Offered by the Incas to their gods in this sacred mountain.

Socompa Volcano

The Socompa stratovolcano is one of the highest peaks in the Andes (6,051 m) and is located 140 km from the town of Tolar Grande, on the border between Argentina and Chile.

A mystical place, that has been witness of numerous Inca ceremonies.

Laguna Santa María

About 65 km from Tolar Grande are the blue waters of Laguna Santa Maria that contrast with the ocher-colored rocks typical of the landscapes of the NOA.

A unique saltwater mirror in the Puna to observe groups of vicuñas and large colonies of flamingos.

Julia Mine

Julia Mine is located near the Chilean border and represent what was one of the largest sulfur mines in Argentina until its final closure in 1991.

The Devil's Desert (Labyrinth Desert)

Welcome to Mars!

The arid landscape of the Devil’s Desert, near the village of Tolar Grande, is very similar to the Martian surface. The deep red of its rocks mixes with the blue of the clear skies of the Puna.

Not to be missed.

When to Travel?

The Best Time to Travel to Tolar Grande is the fall (March to May) and spring (October to December).

How to Get to Tolar Grande?

Tolar Grande is located in a remote area of Argentina, in the Andes Mountains. Before traveling it is important to always check the weather and the state of the road, almost entirely of dirt / gravel. It is recommended to travel only accompanied by a Local Guide.

The town of Tolar Grande is 380 km from the city of Salta and 214 km from San Antonio de los Cobre. It is accessed by RN 51 passing through the towns of Campo Quijano, Santa Rosa de Tastil and San Antonio de los Cobres. Then it joins with the RP 27 where it passes through the towns of Olacapato and Salar de Pocitos, until arriving to Tolar Grande.

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The Magic of Autumn in Patagonia

Nicholas — Sat, 03 Apr 2021 21:12:44 +0000

Patagonia is the dream of every traveler who ventures into South America. Destination of the most daring explorers, from Magellan to Paul Theroux. A place that never ceases to inspire and feed desires for freedom and adventure in nature. One of those places that must be visited at least once in a lifetime.

For the photographer, who loves landscapes, it is truly a unique opportunity.

And there is no better time to visit than autumn, when the warm colors of lenga, nire and cohiue, from yellow to orange and deep red, ignite the landscape and merge with the cold colors of the Land of Glaciers, from the turquoise shades of Lake Argentino to the blue of Perito Moreno, Upsala and Spegazzini. Just some of the scenarios that make El Calafate an extraordinary and unique tourist destination in Argentina.

Listening to the sound of a rupture of the Perito Moreno and photographing the ice falling into the waters of the “Canal de los Témpanos” or walking on the surface of a glacier, are unmissable experiences on a trip to this part of Patagonia.

The same happens with the estancias, symbols of culture and tradition, protagonists of the history of these places since ancient times. These estancias offer the possibility, not only to get to know the figure of the Patagonian gaucho, but also to get close to the wild nature and explore their private reserves, perhaps during a horseback ride or a boat trip.

If you go north on Route 40, a scenic road that passes near the shores of Lake Viedma, and then take Route 23, you will reach El Chaltén, the capital of trekking.

After a few kilometers along Route 23, Mount Fitz Roy finally appears, with its high granite walls and patches of perpetual snow, towering imposingly in the surrounding landscape. A Mecca for mountaineers from all over the world: it reaches 3405 meters above sea level and was climbed for the first time in 1952 by the french Lionel Terray.

The panorama that opens to the eyes of the traveler is incredible. From any point of view or angle you look at it. The sensation is of being in front of something unreal, a fantastic scenery.

The possibilities are endless for the photographer: just think about the variety of Patagonian skies combined with the colors of autumn and the mountains of the Glacier National Park.

If you are lucky and the weather is good, the granite peaks at dawn turn to a bright red, a unique emotion. It is even more unique if experienced from one of the high plateau lagoons where the peaks are reflected.

The trails with different levels of difficulty that start from El Chaltén offer beautiful views, which constantly change according to the time of the year and the light, but in autumn they show their best version.

If you are not a fan of trekking or do not have the possibility or the physical preparation to undertake long trails, it is possible to find different points of view and interesting elements with which to compose the scene in the best moments of light even without moving much.

Relying on a local Professional Photographer, who knows the area well, is always the ideal choice when you only have a few days to make the most of your time. You will get good pictures and share a unique experience along the way.

It is also worth dedicating a few words to gastronomy, an important aspect, especially after a long hike. Between Calafate and Chaltén the offer is wide and of high quality, with options for all tastes and typical Patagonian specialties, from trout to lamb.

A destination that has a lot to offer. Not only a paradise for mountaineers but also for photographers. Beautiful in all seasons, but extraordinary in autumn.

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Tolar Grande: Guide to the Puna of Salta and Arita Cone

Table of Contents

What is the Puna?

Wildlife in the Puna de Atacama

Climate in the Puna of Salta

History of the Tolar Grande

Salar de Arizaro and Arita Cone

Llullaillaico Volcano

Socompa Volcano

Laguna Santa María

Julia Mine

The Devil's Desert (Labyrinth Desert)

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How to Get to Tolar Grande?

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