A notable distinction of the Department of Marcos Juárez is its official recognition as a pioneer of no-till farming in Argentina. It also has historic sites, waterside recreation and recurring festivals. This offers a range of options for planning a trip, with a focus on history, rural landscapes or a stay timed around an event. Some of the places featured here are in the surrounding area, such as Cruz Alta, Los Surgentes and Leones.
Water and Landscapes
In the surrounding area of Cruz Alta, the artificial lake, the Balneario on the Río Carcarañá and their surroundings are part of the recreational offering. Water activities mentioned there include catamaran rides, kayaking, boat trips, sport fishing and water skiing. If you plan to take part in any of these activities, check dates and availability in advance. Cruz Alta’s Parque Urbano Municipal is also a place for relaxation and recreation.
In Monte Buey, the Balneario is located at the confluence of Arroyo Saladillo and Río Ctalamochita. Its summer offerings include water sports and beach games. Extensive cultivated areas and pastures give the surroundings their rural character. Within the department, the 300-hectare Reserva Natural Laguna de las Tunitas protects the lagoon and its habitats. Its diverse birdlife includes ducks, swans and flamingos. As it is privately owned, access is restricted; visits are not permitted.
History: Memorial Sites and Museums
The historic site of Monte de los Papagayos, also known as Chañarcillo de los Loros, is associated with the execution of former Viceroy Santiago de Liniers and the counter-revolutionaries of the May Revolution. A specially created public path leads to the site, where commemorative plaques and a historical summary recall the events of August 26, 1810. Check access conditions before setting out.
In the surrounding area of Cruz Alta, the Museo Regional y Archivo Histórico offers insights into different eras across seven galleries. The objects on display include items relating to the history of Indigenous people, gauchos and European immigrants. The museum is housed in a former stationmaster’s house built in the English style. Separate from this is the former Estación del Ferrocarril, which has been converted into a museum preserving furniture, telegraphs and documents about its operation. A group of monuments in Cruz Alta’s Zona de Monolitos also commemorates important historical events in the region.
Cultural Sites in Los Surgentes
In Los Surgentes, the former station building is now used by the Centro Cultural for educational, artistic, literary and sporting activities. The Centro Cívico is designated Provincial Historical Heritage. At the western entrance to the town, on Provincial Route No. 6, an archway in the Spanish colonial style is considered a local landmark. The themed walking route VIA MATER DEI, also known as Camino de la Madre de Dios, is dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
The Museo Don GUILLERMO has a historical collection of antique and classic cars, old motorcycles, bicycles and other means of transport from bygone eras. Parque de la Salud offers play opportunities for people with disabilities as well as opportunities for physical activity. These different places offer a range of experiences, from a religiously themed walking route and cultural history to vehicles from bygone eras.
Festivals and Activities in the Surrounding Area
The Fiesta del Andén takes place every year in February in Inriville. The program includes artistic performances, a craft market, sales and food stalls, as well as exhibitions by local institutions and displays of agricultural machinery. The Fiesta Nacional del Trigo is also held every February in Leones; it has taken place since 1947. For both festivals, it is advisable to check the specific dates for each edition.
A folk music and crafts festival is also held every February in Camilo Aldao, attracting visitors from the surrounding region. The Fiesta Nacional de la Siembra Directa draws visitors to Monte Buey every year. If you would rather get active outdoors than plan around an event, General Baldissera offers options such as paragliding, cycling excursions and walks along rural paths through the fields. The local tourist route includes Cremeria Modelo and Campo de Domas Municipal.
Discover more destinations: Marcos Juárez, Cruz Alta, Leones, Cruz del Eje Department, San Justo Department, Tercero Arriba Department, Cruz del Eje Department, Río Primero.
For the main travel overview: Córdoba.
