Ovni Puerto de Cachi
A unique landing site for UFOs, built by a Swiss visionary in the heart of Salta's stunning Calchaquí Valleys.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
See the star formations clearly
Ovni Puerto de Cachi
Best Time
See the star formations clearly
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique landing site for UFOs, built by a Swiss visionary in the heart of Salta's stunning Calchaquí Valleys.
"No point in visiting in my opinion. Better to look at it from further up and higher point of view."
View from Above is Key
Many visitors suggest viewing the Ovni Puerto from a distance or higher vantage point for the best appreciation of its design.
Embrace the Story
Understand Werner Jaisli's unique vision; it adds depth to this unusual creation.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Star of the Show
The central star formation
A massive, multi-pointed star built from white stones, designed as a beacon for extraterrestrial visitors.
Aerial Perspective
Viewpoints overlooking the site
The intricate patterns of the star formations are best appreciated from a higher vantage point.
The Story of Werner Jaisli
The site itself
Learn about the Swiss clockmaker's unique mission to build a landing space for UFOs.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Extraterrestrial Encounter
Understanding the Vision
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
View from Above is Key
Many visitors suggest viewing the Ovni Puerto from a distance or higher vantage point for the best appreciation of its design.
Embrace the Story
Understand Werner Jaisli's unique vision; it adds depth to this unusual creation.
Sunrise Hike Option
Consider a hike to Mirador de la Cruz for stunning sunrise views that include the Ovni Puerto.
Unique Construction
Marvel at the large stones and the sheer effort involved in building this site at high altitude.
Tips
from all over the internet
View from Above is Key
Many visitors suggest viewing the Ovni Puerto from a distance or higher vantage point for the best appreciation of its design.
Embrace the Story
Understand Werner Jaisli's unique vision; it adds depth to this unusual creation.
Sunrise Hike Option
Consider a hike to Mirador de la Cruz for stunning sunrise views that include the Ovni Puerto.
Unique Construction
Marvel at the large stones and the sheer effort involved in building this site at high altitude.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Ovni Puerto de Cachi is a unique and intriguing site, largely defined by the visionary story of its creator, Werner Jaisli. While some visitors find its impact is best appreciated from a distance or from higher viewpoints, others are captivated by its unusual concept and the mystery it represents. It's a memorable stop for those interested in local legends and unconventional landmarks.
"Sept.25: we didn't visit the actual place, we had nice views of it from Mirador de la Cruz on an early morning hike with a beautiful sunrise."
Petra (Pitch)
"Werner Jaisli arrived in Cachi in 2008 with one purpose in mind: to create a landing space for the extraterrestrials with whom he was in telepathic communication. He obtained a field on the outskirts of town and set to work building a beacon that could guide the aliens to Earth. Supposedly, interplanetary beings contacted Jaisli one night in November 2008. While illuminated by the light of a UFO’s beam, he received a telepathic message from the aircraft’s captain. "If you build it, we will go," it purportedly said, sounding like a character from an otherworldly version of Field of Dreams.
So build it Jaisli did. As per the aliens’ instructions, he created a cluster of enormous, multi-pointed stars built from piles of rocks. The largest stars are white, but there are some smaller dark brown ones in the mix as well. The site boasts a few other landmarks, like a stack of scorched wood.
From the ground, it's hard to appreciate how striking the patterns look from the air. But on the other hand, this vantage point lets you get a close look at just how large those rocks are and be amazed that one person built all of this while working at an elevation of more than 7,200 feet. It’s unclear whether the aliens appreciate the landmark, though, as they have yet to be sighted."
Brett Horting
"No point in visiting in my opinion. Better to look at it from further up and higher point of view."
Dainius M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Ovni Puerto de Cachi is located about 4 kilometers northwest of the main plaza in Cachi, in the Fuerte Alto area. It's accessible by car or a hike. Some visitors recommend viewing it from higher points like Mirador de la Cruz for a better perspective.
While the site is marked, some visitors find it more impactful when viewed from a distance. Consider using GPS coordinates or asking locals for directions to the Fuerte Alto area.
Cachi is accessible via Route 40, a scenic route through the Calchaquí Valleys. Many travelers arrive by car or bus from Salta city.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are typically no entrance fees for the Ovni Puerto de Cachi itself, as it's an open site. However, any associated viewpoints or guided tours might have costs.
The Ovni Puerto de Cachi is an outdoor site and is generally accessible at any time. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best viewing experience.
No, typically there is no admission fee to visit the Ovni Puerto de Cachi. It's an open-air site.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the large, multi-pointed star formation built from stones, designed as a landing pad for UFOs. There are also smaller star formations and other unique elements.
Opinions vary. Some find it a unique and fascinating site, especially with knowledge of its backstory. Others suggest it's best appreciated from a distance or a higher viewpoint.
The Ovni Puerto is located at an elevation of approximately 2,400 meters (7,874 feet) above sea level.
Yes, you can walk around the site to see the stone formations up close. Be mindful of the terrain and the size of the rocks.
It's a monument built by Werner Jaisli, who believed he was creating a landing site for extraterrestrials based on telepathic communication. It's considered a unique piece of art and local lore.
📸 📸 Photography
For the most striking photos, try to capture the entire star formation from a slightly elevated position. Nearby viewpoints like Mirador de la Cruz offer excellent panoramic shots, especially at sunrise.
Regulations regarding drone usage can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and respect any signage. Some videos show drone footage, suggesting it's possible.
Daylight hours provide the best illumination for the stone formations. Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light and interesting shadows.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 While the site itself is made of stones, the concept of UFOs and extraterrestrial visitors is often a hit with younger audiences. Consider making it a stop on a scenic drive through the Calchaquí Valleys. While exploring the site up close, supervise children closely due to the uneven terrain and large stones. For a more engaging experience, discuss the story beforehand and encourage them to imagine what it would be like to see a real UFO.
🌌 UFO Enthusiasts & Mystery Seekers
+1 Dive into the lore, learn about Jaisli's telepathic encounters, and ponder the possibility of visitors from other worlds. Engage with the local stories and legends surrounding the site. While direct evidence of alien visitation remains elusive, the Ovni Puerto serves as a powerful symbol and a focal point for discussions about the unknown.
🚗 Road Trippers & Adventure Seekers
The surrounding landscape of the Calchaquí Valleys is breathtaking, offering stunning vistas and opportunities for exploration. Combine your visit with a hike to Mirador de la Cruz for panoramic views of Cachi and its surroundings, especially beautiful at sunrise.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Visionary: Werner Jaisli
+1This profound experience, which supposedly occurred during a blackout on a November night in 2008, inspired Jaisli to dedicate himself to this ambitious project. He acquired a field on the outskirts of Cachi and began the arduous task of building the 'port.' The site is a testament to his dedication, built at an elevation of over 7,200 feet, a challenging environment for any construction project.
Jaisli's story is a fascinating blend of personal conviction and local legend. While the extraterrestrials he anticipated have yet to make a public appearance, his creation has become a unique landmark, drawing visitors intrigued by its unusual origins and the mystery it represents.
Understanding the Design and Construction
+1 These formations are not merely decorative; they are integral to Jaisli's vision of guiding extraterrestrial visitors. The sheer scale of the stones and the effort required to move them at such a high altitude are impressive aspects of the construction. Beyond the main star, the site features a cluster of other star patterns, some smaller and in darker hues, adding visual complexity to the landscape. While the aerial view best showcases the geometric precision of these designs, a ground-level exploration allows visitors to appreciate the texture of the stones and the magnitude of the undertaking.
It's important to note that the site has also been referred to as 'La Estrella La Esperanza' (The Star of Hope) and is considered by some to be an energetic center for Andean spirituality and quantum healing. This dual interpretation adds another layer to the site's mystique, blending cosmic aspirations with earthly spiritual practices.
Community Perspectives and Visitor Experiences
Some visitors find the experience underwhelming when viewed up close, suggesting it might be more suited as an exhibit at an event like Burning Man, highlighting its unconventional and artistic nature.
+1For those planning a visit, managing expectations is key. Understanding the backstory and considering viewpoints like Mirador de la Cruz for sunrise photography can significantly enhance the experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit