Getting there and finding your way

From the provincial capital, the fully paved and well-signposted Provincial Route No. 1 leads to La Puerta. Road conditions and signage may change; check the latest conditions before setting out. In La Puerta, peaceful walks with panoramic views, hiking destinations, mountain biking, and cultural and culinary experiences are all on offer. To help plan your trip, you can first decide whether you would rather explore on foot, experience rugged terrain by bike, or focus on history and regional flavors.

Hiking and terrain

La Puerta offers peaceful walks with panoramic views along the slopes of two hills. On a hike suggested by the “Pasos con Historia” program, almost 40 people walked from the Plazoleta de Isla Larga in La Puerta through a ravine. The natural trail crossed rocky ground, followed streams and passed over sand before reaching Cueva de Cubas. During the Battle of Catamarca, former governor José Cubas hid there.

On August 8, 2026, La Puerta’s tourism department organized a seven-kilometer hike of moderate difficulty to Diaguita mortars and residential complexes. The meeting point was in the Río Los Puestos area. The two hike descriptions emphasize different things: the Cueva hike focuses on the ravine, varied terrain and historical episode; the August 8 hike visits archaeological sites and specifies its distance and difficulty. When choosing, you can therefore weigh up whether you prefer landscapes and history or archaeological sites.

Mountain biking follows rough trails through forests and hilly terrain. This cycling experience differs markedly from peaceful panoramic walks: uneven ground, forest and changing elevations shape the ride, while walks focus on views from the hillsides. So when making your choice, consider not only the destination but also how you would like to get around.

Culture, regional cuisine and water

The Iglesia de Nuestra Señora del Rosario is considered the second-oldest building in Catamarca Province. This designation refers to the province and places the building within a broader regional historical context. La Puerta’s tourist offerings also include a gastronomic craft fair featuring regional flavors and tastes. For travelers interested in food as well as nature and history, it offers a distinct point of interest. Check current event dates if you would like to plan your stay around it.

The nearby Río del Valle is considered a destination for sport fishing. The Dique de Las Pirquitas is also accessible from La Puerta. Sailing, kitesurfing and canoeing are listed there as possible water sports. These activities appeal to different interests: sport fishing on the river, or one of the water sports offered at the dam. If fishing or water sports are important to your travel plans, check current conditions in advance.

Discover more destinations: Las Juntas.

For the broader travel overview: Departamento Ambato.