The landscape in Calilegua National Park is divided into distinct altitude zones: from the Selva Pedemontana at 500 meters above sea level up to the Pastizales de Neblina at 3,600 meters. In between are Selva Montana and Bosque Montano. The park is part of the Reserva de Biosfera de las Yungas, recognized by UNESCO. Those interested in nature and vegetation will find a clear thread here: the transition between four named landscape zones.

Route Provincial 83 and its changing landscapes

Route Provincial 83 runs for 23 kilometers through Calilegua National Park and reveals the transition from the Selva Pedemontana forest to the mountain forest. The park’s paved gravel and high-altitude road can be traveled by bicycle or motorcycle. Check road conditions before setting off. This makes the route a distinct part of the nature experience, while the various hiking trails offer different points of interest.

Trails with different perspectives

The accessible Somos Selva trail has a cement surface that makes it easier for people with reduced mobility to get around. Sendero Bosque del Cielo passes through the mountain forest and ends at a rest area with a viewpoint over the Serranías de Calilegua. On Sendero La Lagunita, the small lagoon is the destination; it is an example of the Yungas’ aquatic ecosystem. The trails therefore focus on different themes: easier access, a mountain forest viewpoint, or a glimpse of an aquatic ecosystem.

Cultural interpretations in the park

The Guaraní symbolic interpretation trail “Nuestra Selva” presents the worldview of the Guaraní people at seven stops. Information is available in Spanish and Guaraní. Sendero Seres Fantásticos offers a different approach: it features eleven sculptures made from scrap metal by artists from northwestern Argentina. They depict mythological beings connected with nature. The two trails differ in form and subject: one offers a cultural interpretation through a series of stops, while the other features figures made from reused materials.

Las Pircas is also part of the area’s historical heritage. The site is considered a former transhumance outpost. Its past role adds another perspective on the region’s history alongside its nature and cultural trails, without requiring an additional themed trail.

Staying at Aguas Negras

The day-use recreation and picnic area at Camping Aguas Negras includes fire pits, tables and grills, covered seating areas, and camping pitches. The sanitary facilities include water intended exclusively for hygiene. This is important to keep in mind when planning: the water here is explicitly for personal washing. With both a picnic area and camping pitches, Aguas Negras combines time outdoors with practical facilities.

The municipal area around Libertador General San Martín

The municipality of Libertador Gral. San Martín is considered a gateway to Calilegua National Park and lies within the Reserva de Biosfera de las Yungas. It is located on paved National Route 34, near Provincial Route 83, and can be reached from San Salvador de Jujuy by private car or bus. Check road and public transport conditions before your trip.

In Libertador General San Martín, the Museo de la Ciudad displays items relating to the city’s history and customs. The Ledesma neighborhood is also home to a visitor center about the Ingenio Ledesma complex: it presents the company’s history and offers insight into its production processes. The Semana San Martiniana takes place in the municipality every year. Its program includes formal, civil-military, and cultural events; program details may vary. If you would like to include the festival in your travel plans, check the dates and the program for that year.

Discover more destinations: Palpalá, Santa Catalina Department, Humahuaca Department, Yavi, San Pedro Department, San Antonio, Santa Bárbara Department.

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