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El Cadillal Dique Celestino Gelsi

4.5
·2k reviews·, Argentina

A stunning reservoir and dam offering natural beauty, water activities, and scenic views, often called Tucumán's tourist oasis.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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El embudo de la represa

El Cadillal Dique Celestino Gelsi

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning reservoir and dam offering natural beauty, water activities, and scenic views, often called Tucumán's tourist oasis.

4.5
(2k reviews)

"Bellisimo! A beautiful place to hang out, drink mate, and eat. It's incredibly beautiful."

Vertical photo
TIP

Pack for the elements

Bring sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring! :athletic_shoe:

Check water levels

Water levels can vary, affecting swimming and water activities. Inquire locally before your visit. :informationdeskperson:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Dique Celestino Gelsi

Dique Celestino Gelsi

The dam itself

A stunning reservoir offering water activities and scenic views, perfect for a refreshing dip or watersports.

El Cadillal Beaches

El Cadillal Beaches

Along the reservoir

Relax on the shores, enjoy a picnic, or simply soak in the natural beauty surrounding the water.

Chairlift Ride

Chairlift Ride

Near the reservoir

Ascend for panoramic views of the landscape and the impressive dam structure.

Waterfalls and Natural Scenery

Waterfalls and Natural Scenery

Surrounding areas

Explore the lush surroundings, discover hidden waterfalls, and immerse yourself in the 'Garden of the Republic'.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Avoid Crowds

El Cadillal can get busy, especially during peak season. Consider visiting on weekdays or during shoulder seasons for a more relaxed experience. Early mornings or late afternoons offer cooler temperatures and fewer people.

Budgeting for Your Trip

While El Cadillal offers natural beauty, some activities and dining can add up. Research current prices for attractions like the chairlift and factor in food costs to plan your budget effectively.

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Early mornings
Why
Cooler temperatures, serene views
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light, fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

argentina ,Tucumán cadillal ,lugar para descansar...
@verozoelmariana
28K likes • 876.7K views

Pack for the elements

Bring sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring! :athletic_shoe:

Check water levels

Water levels can vary, affecting swimming and water activities. Inquire locally before your visit. :informationdeskperson:

ABRIERON LAS COMPUERTAS DEL CADILLAL, UN EVENTO MUY LLAMATIVO EN LA PROVINCIA DE TUCUMAN #AGUA #elcadillal #tucuman
@tucumanalmundo
13.8K likes • 572.9K views
El cadillal Tucuman, tobogán dique Celestino Gelsi
tucumanalmundo
76 likes • 779 views

Consider a picnic

Enjoy the scenery with a packed lunch. Dining options can be pricey. :sandwich:

Explore from above

The chairlift offers stunning aerial views of the dam and surrounding landscape. :camerawithflash:

¿Conoces? ¿Estuvo en tu recorrido? ⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ 📍El Cadillal, Tucumán Es una villa turística ubicada sobre el Dique Celestino Gelsi, que permite el baño en sus playas y deportes acuáticos, además de un paisaje rodeado de selva y varios cursos de agua. ¿Subiste a las Arrodillas? ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ 👇👇❤️👇👇⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ #Repost @tucumanfotos ...⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ #elcadillal #diquecelestinogelsi #tucuma...
volarentucuman
308 likes • 7.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Pack for the elements

Bring sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring! :athletic_shoe:

Check water levels

Water levels can vary, affecting swimming and water activities. Inquire locally before your visit. :informationdeskperson:

Consider a picnic

Enjoy the scenery with a packed lunch. Dining options can be pricey. :sandwich:

Explore from above

The chairlift offers stunning aerial views of the dam and surrounding landscape. :camerawithflash:

Be mindful of cleanliness

Some visitors note litter. Help keep this beautiful place clean by disposing of trash properly. :wastebasket:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

El Cadillal is praised for its stunning natural beauty and the impressive Dique Celestino Gelsi, offering a refreshing escape with opportunities for relaxation and water activities. However, some visitors note concerns about cleanliness and the cost of certain attractions and dining options.

"Nice place for a casual visit. But it's very dirty, full of garbage everywhere."

Roberto Paul Pickett

"Bellisimo"

Ricardo Adolfo Herrera

"Bellisimo"

Alejandra Perez

What People Like

Beautiful natural scenery
Impressive dam and reservoir
Refreshing water activities

What People Dislike

Cleanliness issues
High prices for some services

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

El Cadillal is conveniently located about 25 kilometers from San Miguel de Tucumán. You can reach it by car via Route 307, which is a scenic drive. Public transportation options might be available, but renting a car or using a taxi/ride-sharing service offers more flexibility for exploring the area. TikTokInstagram

Parking availability can vary, especially during peak times and weekends. It's advisable to arrive early to secure a good spot, particularly if you plan to visit popular areas like the beaches or the dam. TikTok

For the best experience, consider renting a car to explore at your own pace. This allows you to easily access different viewpoints, trailheads, and less crowded spots. Biking is also a popular option for those who enjoy active exploration. TikTok+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, access to the natural areas and beaches of El Cadillal is free. However, specific attractions like the chairlift or any organized events may have separate admission fees. It's always a good idea to check for any updated information on local tourism websites. Reddit

El Cadillal is an outdoor natural attraction, so it's generally accessible throughout the day. However, specific facilities like restaurants, the chairlift, or any event venues will have their own operating hours. It's best to check these individually if you plan to use them. TikTok

For general access to the natural areas, advance booking is not usually required. However, if you are planning to attend a specific event or use a particular service like the chairlift, it's wise to check if advance booking is recommended or necessary. TikTok

While not always advertised, local guides may be available, especially during peak tourist seasons. Inquiring at local tourist information points or with accommodation providers could help you find guided tour options for a more in-depth experience. TikTok

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy swimming and sunbathing at the beaches, take a scenic chairlift ride for panoramic views, go hiking in the surrounding natural areas, and explore the Dique Celestino Gelsi. Watersports like jet skiing have also been hosted here. TikTokInstagram+1

Swimming is generally permitted in designated areas of the reservoir. However, always be aware of local conditions, water quality, and any posted safety guidelines. It's advisable to swim in areas supervised by lifeguards if available. Instagram

The 'opening of the gates' refers to a spectacular event where water is released from the dam, creating a powerful jet. This is a notable natural phenomenon that attracts visitors and is a significant event in the region. TikTok

Absolutely! The dam itself, the reservoir, and the surrounding lush landscape offer numerous stunning photographic opportunities. The chairlift provides an excellent vantage point for aerial shots. Instagram+1

The area is known for its natural beauty, and you might spot various bird species. Some visitors have also noted seeing fish like 'bagres' (catfish) in the reservoir. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are dining establishments in El Cadillal, including restaurants and ice cream shops. However, some visitors have noted that prices can be on the higher side, so budgeting accordingly is recommended. Reddit

While specific recommendations vary, dishes like 'matambre al verde' and pork loin are mentioned. Many places offer local Argentine cuisine. Bringing your own food for a picnic is also a popular and cost-effective option. Reddit

Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is a great way to save money and enjoy a meal with a view. Many visitors opt for picnics by the reservoir. Remember to dispose of your trash responsibly. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The dam itself, the expansive reservoir, and the surrounding green hills are prime photo locations. The chairlift offers a unique aerial perspective, and the 'opening of the gates' event provides dramatic shots. TikTokInstagram+1

Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. The 'golden hour' before sunset can create magical scenes. Instagram

Regulations regarding drone usage can vary and may be subject to local restrictions. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the park administration before flying a drone to ensure compliance. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

El Cadillal offers a refreshing escape for families. The beaches provide a safe and fun environment for children to play and swim, while the open spaces are perfect for picnics and outdoor games. The chairlift can be an exciting experience for kids, offering a unique perspective of the area. Instagram+1

To make the most of your family outing, consider packing plenty of snacks and drinks, as dining costs can add up. Comfortable clothing and sun protection are essential. If your children enjoy nature, exploring the surrounding trails can be an educational and enjoyable activity. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, El Cadillal can be enjoyed affordably. The main attraction – the natural beauty and the reservoir – is free to access. Packing your own food and drinks for a picnic is highly recommended to save on dining expenses, as restaurant prices can be significant. Reddit

Opting for a weekday visit can also help avoid peak season crowds and potentially higher prices for any paid activities. Focus on enjoying the natural scenery, swimming, and exploring the accessible areas to get the most value from your visit. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

El Cadillal is a photographer's dream, offering diverse subjects from grand landscapes to dynamic water features. The Dique Celestino Gelsi itself provides a striking architectural element against the natural backdrop. Capture the expansive reservoir from various angles, especially during the 'golden hour' for dramatic lighting. TikTokInstagram+1

The chairlift offers a unique aerial perspective, perfect for sweeping panoramic shots. Don't miss the chance to photograph the powerful water release during the 'opening of the gates' event. The surrounding lush vegetation and potential for wildlife sightings add further photographic opportunities. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Majesty of Dique Celestino Gelsi

The Dique Celestino Gelsi, commonly known as El Cadillal, is a significant engineering marvel and a central feature of the region. This impressive dam creates a vast reservoir that serves multiple purposes, including water supply and hydroelectric power generation. Its construction has transformed the landscape, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and human ingenuity. TikTokInstagram

Visitors are drawn to the dam for its sheer scale and the stunning vistas it provides. The reservoir itself is a hub of activity, offering opportunities for swimming, boating, and other water sports. The surrounding area, rich with vegetation, complements the man-made structure, creating a picturesque setting that has been compared to other famous natural attractions. Instagram+1

Recent efforts have focused on repairs and maintenance of the dam's infrastructure, ensuring its continued functionality and safety. These ongoing works highlight the importance of this landmark to the province of Tucumán. Instagram

Activities and Adventures at El Cadillal

El Cadillal is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. The beaches along the reservoir are perfect for relaxing, picnicking, and enjoying the sun. For those seeking a bit more adventure, the chairlift offers a thrilling ride with breathtaking panoramic views of the dam and the surrounding lush landscape. Instagram+1

Water activities are a major draw. Visitors can swim in the reservoir's clear waters or engage in various watersports. The area has also hosted significant events like the South American Jet Ski and Watercraft Championship, showcasing the reservoir's suitability for high-octane aquatic sports. Instagram

Beyond the water, the natural surroundings invite exploration. Hiking trails wind through the verdant hills, potentially leading to hidden waterfalls and offering opportunities to connect with nature. The 'opening of the gates' event, where water is dramatically released from the dam, is a unique spectacle that draws crowds and offers incredible photo opportunities. TikTok+1

Planning Your Visit: Practical Tips from Travelers

When planning your trip to El Cadillal, remember that while the natural beauty is abundant, some amenities and activities come with a cost. The chairlift, for instance, has a notable price, and dining at local establishments can also add up. Many visitors recommend bringing your own food for a picnic to enjoy the scenery without breaking the bank. Reddit

Cleanliness is a point of feedback from some visitors, with mentions of garbage in certain areas. To help preserve the beauty of El Cadillal, it's crucial for everyone to practice responsible waste disposal. Packing out what you pack in is a simple yet effective way to contribute. Reddit

For the best experience, consider the timing of your visit. Weekdays and early mornings or late afternoons tend to be less crowded and offer more pleasant temperatures for exploration. Comfortable footwear is essential for navigating the terrain and enjoying any hiking opportunities. TikTok+1

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