El Anfiteatro Quebrada de las Conchas
A breathtaking natural reserve along Route 68, famous for its vibrant red rock formations and unique geological wonders.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden light
El Anfiteatro Quebrada de las Conchas
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking natural reserve along Route 68, famous for its vibrant red rock formations and unique geological wonders.
"The Quebrada de las Conchas offers spectacular landscapes that feel like you're on another planet."
🚗 Drive the Scenic Route 68
Route 68 between Salta and Cafayate is incredibly scenic. Allow ample time to stop at viewpoints.
👟 Wear Closed-Toe Shoes
Essential for exploring the rocky terrain and trails like Los Colorados.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
El Anfiteatro
Route 68
A stunning natural amphitheater with incredible acoustics, often featuring live musicians.
Garganta del Diablo
Route 68
A dramatic, narrow canyon with towering red rock walls, offering a unique geological spectacle.
Los Colorados
Near Route 68
A short hike through vibrant red rock formations, leading to hidden caves and stunning vistas.
La Ventana
Route 68
An iconic natural archway carved into the rock, perfect for a quick photo stop right by the road.
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Road Trip Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive the Scenic Route 68
Route 68 between Salta and Cafayate is incredibly scenic. Allow ample time to stop at viewpoints. +1
👟 Wear Closed-Toe Shoes
Essential for exploring the rocky terrain and trails like Los Colorados.
🎶 Experience El Anfiteatro's Acoustics
If you're lucky, you'll catch musicians playing here. The natural acoustics are amazing! 
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
It can get hot and dry, especially during hikes. Stay hydrated!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive the Scenic Route 68
Route 68 between Salta and Cafayate is incredibly scenic. Allow ample time to stop at viewpoints. +1
👟 Wear Closed-Toe Shoes
Essential for exploring the rocky terrain and trails like Los Colorados.
🎶 Experience El Anfiteatro's Acoustics
If you're lucky, you'll catch musicians playing here. The natural acoustics are amazing!
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
It can get hot and dry, especially during hikes. Stay hydrated!
📸 Capture the Colors
The vibrant red and ochre hues of the rock formations are breathtaking.
⏳ Allow Half a Day
A half-day is usually sufficient to enjoy the main stops along the Quebrada.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the spectacular, otherworldly landscapes of Quebrada de las Conchas, calling it one of Argentina's most scenic drives. The unique rock formations like El Anfiteatro and Garganta del Diablo are consistently highlighted as breathtaking. Some note that it can get crowded at popular spots, and recommend visiting during off-peak hours or seasons for a more serene experience.
"National Route 68 is one of Argentinas most scenic drives. Imposing mountains and amazing rock formations are spread all along this incredible road. There are several well publicised stops along the way. Photos just never seem to do these places justice. Fans of argentine cinema can also visit the bridge made famous from the film Relatos Salvajes."
Britvolante
"Beautiful place full of spectacular landscapes, full of color and history."
Javier Alvarez
"Uma linda estrada, o turismo está forte ai, a garganta del diablo e o anfiteatro terá que dividir com muuuitas pessoas.
O anfiteatro pra mim é a cereja do bolo de lá!
Mas se for para recomendar uma estrada, eu indicaria a quebrada de las flechas do que as conchas. Mas as pessoas não se deslocam para lá, não é tão turístico, acredito que por não ser asfaltada.
No percurso das conchas pode reservar meio dia no máximo, passeio bem tranquilo, estrada boa.
Recomendo usar calçado fechado!!"
Bruna Eidt
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular way to explore Quebrada de las Conchas is by car, driving south on National Route 68 from Salta towards Cafayate. The drive itself is a significant part of the experience, offering stunning landscapes. You can rent a car in Salta or join an organized tour. +2
Yes, you can join organized day tours from Salta or Cafayate that cover the main attractions. Some travelers also use buses to get between Salta and Cafayate, but this limits your ability to stop at specific points of interest.
Driving Route 68 is highly recommended for its scenic beauty and the ability to stop at various geological formations. The journey takes about 3-4 hours without stops, but you'll want to dedicate at least half a day to explore the Quebrada.
Direct public transport within the Quebrada is limited. Buses primarily run between Salta and Cafayate. For exploring the specific stops like El Anfiteatro and Garganta del Diablo, a car or a guided tour is most practical.
Yes, National Route 68, which passes through the Quebrada de las Conchas, is a well-maintained paved road, making it accessible for most vehicles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Quebrada de las Conchas is a natural reserve along a public road, so there are no entrance fees to drive through or access the main viewpoints like El Anfiteatro and Garganta del Diablo.
While the main route is free, some specific short hikes or guided experiences might have small local fees, but generally, the natural formations are accessible without charge.
As it's a natural landscape along a public road, there are no set opening or closing hours. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate the scenery.
It is not recommended to visit Quebrada de las Conchas at night due to the lack of lighting and potential hazards on the road and trails. Daylight hours are essential for a safe and enjoyable experience.
There isn't a central visitor center. Information is usually gathered from local guides, online resources, or by stopping at the various marked viewpoints along Route 68.
📸 📸 Photography
El Anfiteatro, Garganta del Diablo, Los Colorados, and La Ventana are prime photo locations. The entire drive offers stunning panoramic views of colorful rock formations.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer colors that highlight the rock formations.
Drone regulations can vary. While some videos show drone footage, it's advisable to check current local regulations before flying a drone to ensure compliance.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for details. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions or capturing the scale of formations.
Absolutely! The unique shapes and colors of the rocks, like those at El Anfiteatro and Garganta del Diablo, make for spectacular photographic subjects.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The absolute must-sees are El Anfiteatro for its acoustics and unique shape, and Garganta del Diablo for its dramatic canyon. Los Colorados and La Ventana are also highly recommended stops. +2
Most visitors spend around 3-5 hours to comfortably visit the main attractions and enjoy the scenic drive. If you plan on hiking Los Colorados, add an extra hour.
Yes, Los Colorados offers a short, scenic hike through red rock formations. Other areas allow for exploration off the main road, but always be mindful of safety and terrain. +1
The terrain consists of desert-like landscapes with sandy paths, rocky areas, and impressive sandstone formations. Comfortable walking shoes are essential.
There are no designated swimming areas within the Quebrada de las Conchas. The focus is on geological sightseeing and short hikes.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dining options are very limited directly within the Quebrada. It's best to pack your own snacks and water or plan to eat in Salta or Cafayate before or after your visit.
Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially if you plan on hiking. Consider sandwiches, fruits, and energy bars.
The towns of Salta and Cafayate offer a wide range of restaurants, from traditional Argentine cuisine to local specialties like empanadas and regional wines.
While there are no designated picnic areas, you can find scenic spots along the route to stop and enjoy your packed lunch. Be sure to take all your trash with you.
Very few, if any, vendors sell food directly along Route 68 within the Quebrada itself. It's advisable to be self-sufficient.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key stops like El Anfiteatro and Garganta del Diablo are easily accessible from the road and provide awe-inspiring sights that can capture children's imaginations. Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, as facilities are scarce. Comfortable shoes are a must for little explorers.
🚗 Road Trippers & Cyclists
Cyclists should be prepared for potential heat and ensure they have adequate water and repair kits. The journey between Salta and Cafayate offers a rewarding challenge with unparalleled scenic beauty.
📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers
Don't miss El Anfiteatro and Garganta del Diablo for their unique textures and scale. +1Nature lovers will be captivated by the raw, untamed beauty of the landscape. The geological diversity and the feeling of being on another planet are truly remarkable.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geological Wonders of Quebrada de las Conchas
Key formations like El Anfiteatro and Garganta del Diablo are prime examples of this geological artistry. El Anfiteatro, a natural amphitheater, boasts incredible acoustics, often enhanced by local musicians sharing their talent, creating a magical experience. Garganta del Diablo, or Devil's Throat, is a narrow, deep canyon that evokes a sense of awe with its sheer rock walls.
+2Other notable sites include Los Colorados, a network of trails leading through vibrant red rock formations and small caves, and La Ventana, a picturesque natural archway directly accessible from the road. These formations are not just visually stunning but also hold a significant place in the region's natural heritage, making the drive along Route 68 an unforgettable journey through geological history.
Experiencing El Anfiteatro: Music and Acoustics
+1 The curved surfaces amplify and carry sound in a unique way, making it a natural stage.It's common for local musicians to perform here, adding a layer of cultural richness to the natural beauty. The spontaneous concerts, often featuring traditional Argentine folk music, create an unforgettable atmosphere where the music resonates perfectly within the stone structure.
+2 Visitors often describe the experience as magical, with the sound traveling clearly and beautifully throughout the space. To truly appreciate the acoustics, it's recommended to listen to any music played or even clap your hands to experience the echo. The sheer scale of the amphitheater, combined with the natural sound amplification, makes it a highlight for many visitors to the Quebrada.
+1The Scenic Drive: Route 68
This route is more than just a way to get from point A to point B; it's an experience in itself. The journey is punctuated by numerous well-marked stops, each offering a different perspective on the region's natural beauty. Drivers are encouraged to take their time, pull over at designated viewpoints, and soak in the dramatic scenery.
For film buffs, a notable landmark along Route 68 is the bridge famously featured in the Argentine film 'Relatos Salvajes' (Wild Tales), adding a touch of cinematic history to the natural wonders.
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