Prepare to be awed by the breathtaking blue expanse of the Corona del Inca crater, a magnificent natural gem nestled in the province of La Rioja on our day trip from Villa Unión.
Description
At the designated time, we'll collect you from your hotel in Villa Unión. As the sun begins to rise, we'll embark on a scenic road trip through the expansive landscapes of Argentina's La Rioja region. We'll be traveling in a rugged 4x4 vehicle to the northern reaches of this province, bordering Chile, renowned for its awe-inspiring scenery.
Our first destination will be the Jagüe Mountain Range, and after a brief stop to grab some breakfast if you wish, we'll venture onward to the Quebrada del Peñón Gorge. From this dramatic gorge, our journey will lead us into the Laguna Brava Provincial Reserve, a vast expanse dotted with saltwater lagoons and inhabited by iconic Andean animals such as vicuñas and guanacos.
Our route continues through the Pampa del Veladero, a desert valley where, due to a unique natural phenomenon, you'll witness the emergence of colossal ice mounds. Following a well-deserved break to enjoy your packed picnic lunch, we'll trace the course of the Veladero River bed to the imposing Mount Pissis. Did you know this mountain soars to an impressive 6,882 meters (22,578 feet) above sea level?
At the base of Mount Pissis, one of the tallest peaks in South America, the enchanting Corona del Inca awaits. Nestled at an elevation of 5,500 meters (18,044 feet) above sea level, this colossal crater houses a stunning lake with an intense azure hue, formed by the meltwater. Upon reaching the crater, we'll embark on a tour of this captivating environment, allowing you to immerse yourself in its remarkable natural beauty.
Following our exploration of the Corona del Inca crater, we'll begin our return journey to your Villa Unión hotel, where we'll arrive approximately 15 hours after our initial pickup.