We will start this excursion in the morning, around 7 am from Tinogasta, where we will embark on a fascinating journey along National Route 60, which, upon passing through Fiambalá, becomes the famous "Route of the Six Thousanders".
This section takes us through a landscape of impressive heights, bordered by some of the highest volcanoes on the planet, many exceeding 6,000 meters above sea level. Along the way, we will witness the local wildlife, including vicuñas, guanacos, condors and suris, which are often sighted along the route; and native flora that is adapted to the extreme altitude conditions, such as tola and yareta, plants that have been used by local communities for centuries. This tour not only offers stunning scenery but also the chance to learn about the history and culture of the region, from the ancient civilizations that once inhabited these lands to the current traditions of its inhabitants. Although the Ruta de los Seismiles extends to Paso San Francisco, our adventure will take a 55-kilometer detour along a gravel road to reach the Balcón del Pissis, where we will arrive around 11:00 a.m. The first stop will be the Aparejos Lagoon, home to flamingos that migrate to this area during the summer. The next stop is the Laguna Celeste, known for the intensity of its vibrant blue color.
Finally, we will reach the Balcón del Monte Pissis, a natural viewpoint at 4,550 meters above sea level from which we will contemplate the Pissis Volcano, the fourth highest mountain in America and the highest inactive volcano in the world, at 6,792 meters.
The return is made by the same route as the outward journey, but due to the passing of the day and the position of the Sun, the route is painted in other shades and colors. We arrive at the hotels at approximately 2:00 PM.
For an even more complete experience, you can add a tour of the entire Route of the Six Thousanders.
On the way back, instead of going back through Fiambalá, we will continue along Route 60 to Paso San Francisco, bordering the majestic hills San Francisco, Tres Cruces, Los Patos and Incahuasi. All of these hills, in addition to being over 6,000 meters high, are home to endemic flora and fauna, impressive landscapes, and are a point of interest not only for tourists but also for geologists and local communities.
This section will take us through the Quebrada de las Angosturas, a foothills area characterized by its multicolored hills.
Finally, we will return to your accommodation in Tinogasta.