Between the Chaco Serrano and Yungas
The Siancas Valley runs through La Caldera, parallel to Route 9. La Caldera lies in a transition zone between the Chaco Serrano region and the Yungas. The RĂo La Caldera flows through the department from north to south; Campo Alegre Dam is north of the river. The valley, river and reservoir thus provide different landmarks for exploring La Caldera Department.
Campo Alegre Dam and roads
The Campo Alegre Reservoir “Ing. Alfonso Peralta” was built in the early 1970s and lies four kilometres north of the town of La Caldera. It can be reached via a winding mountain road along the RĂo La Caldera and National Route No. 9 towards Jujuy. Check road conditions before setting out. The Camino de cornisa also leads from La Caldera towards Jujuy on National Route No. 9, passing through the Yungas; here too, it is advisable to check road conditions in advance.
Sailing, sport fishing, hiking and horseback riding are all possible at Campo Alegre Dam and in the surrounding area. Guided horseback rides are also available in La Caldera, and cycling is another sport-tourism activity. The area around the dam and its protected area also offer opportunities for birdwatching in different forest and jungle habitats. Visitors can enjoy activities on the water as well as explore on foot, on horseback or by bicycle.
Church, Chicha and Pachamama
The Iglesia Nuestra Señora del Rosario was built by the Jesuits in the 17th century and stands beside the former Camino del Inca. The church’s construction period and its location beside this old route give it a historical setting. Leatherwork is also part of the town’s history: La Caldera has a tradition of leather craftsmanship linked to livestock farming in the colonial era.
The Festival Nacional de la Chicha is considered a traditional event in La Caldera. Its 35th edition took place in March 2026. The festival programme includes equestrian performances, folk dancing and tastings of regional dishes. At the 2024 edition, Chicha producers from La Caldera took part with stalls selling the drink. If you plan to travel for the festival, check in advance when the next event will take place.
Visitors were invited to the Pachamama ritual in 2024. That year’s programme included incense ceremonies, the serving of rue tea and singing by local Copleros. If you would like to experience the ritual, check in advance whether and when another event will take place; the programme details given here refer to 2024.
There is a craft fair opposite the main square. On the road to the Cristo, there is also a workshop featuring leather goods, horse tack and wickerwork. Check current opening hours before visiting. This offers a chance to discover both the regional craft tradition and the specific craft venues as distinct facets of cultural life in La Caldera.
Getting around
In addition to its office, the La Caldera tourist information centre has parking for cars and bicycles. A provincial government report dated 28 February 2023 described the provincial SAETA bus service as one way to make it easier to access recreational areas and places of general interest in La Caldera. Check current routes and timetables before travelling by bus.
More destinations
Discover more destinations: La Caldera, Vaqueros, Calderilla, Humahuaca Department, Molinos Department, Rosario de la Frontera Department, Rosario de Lerma Department, General JosĂ© de San MartĂn Department.
For the main travel overview: Salta.
