If you want to go off the beaten track and try something different from the classic Argentina tour, you should visit Talampaya and Ischigualasto, near La Rioja. Although it is a bit challenging to reach these extraordinary locations, we promise that it is going to be worth it.
1. La Rioja
Unless you have your own vehicle during your trip to Argentina, you will need plenty of time and energy to get to La Rioja, and even more to go from there to Talampaya and Ischigualasto. There are several agencies in La Rioja which will take you to the parks. Be careful though, it's better to contact them in advance. The opening hours are inconsistent and you want to make sure that you will be in a group if you want a cheaper rate. If you decide to go to Talampaya and Ischigualasto we would recommend to go from La Rioja, not from Villa Unión because it is more complicated to organise it from there.
2. Talampaya
Talampaya National Park is a natural wonder, proclaimed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. At the bottom of the incredible canyon you will be walking through the most beautiful scenery you have ever seen. You will also see superb petroglyphs and incredible rock formations. At the bottom, with your feet on a sandy path, you can look up to see the high tops of the gigantic red walls. During your walk you might see foxes, nandus, guanacos, and if you are lucky you can see the impressive flight of a condor. The panoramic views are unforgettable and at that point you will realise that there is absolutely no chance that you'll begrudge the effort it took you to get there. Photo Talampaya 2 Ischigualasto Ischigualasto 1 Ischigualasto Provincial Park is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. When you visit the Valle de la Luna, you're stepping back 250 million years into the past. Paleontologists are fascinated by this park because it was a playground of the dinosaurs. You need about 3 hours to visit the sight and see the Colorada cliff, the bowling lane, and the fossilised dinosaurs. It's one of the most unique places in the world.