Quebrada de las Flechas Cachi
An otherworldly stretch of Ruta 40 in Salta, Argentina, featuring unique, arrow-shaped rock formations sculpted by erosion.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Dramatic light, fewer crowds
Quebrada de las Flechas Cachi
Best Time
Dramatic light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An otherworldly stretch of Ruta 40 in Salta, Argentina, featuring unique, arrow-shaped rock formations sculpted by erosion.
"This entire section of Ruta 40 is just stunning! We kept stopping to take photos and do mini-hikes whenever we saw something we liked."
🚗 Drive the Ruta 40
The journey along Ruta 40 is as spectacular as the destination. Allow ample time for stops!
📸 Capture the 'Arrows'
The unique rock formations are the main attraction. Stop often for photos!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Arrow-Shaped Formations
Along Ruta 40
Towering, eroded sandstone cliffs resembling giant, pointed arrows piercing the sky. A truly otherworldly landscape.
Mirador El Ventisquero
Ruta 40, km 4406 (from Cafayate)
A designated viewpoint offering some of the most spectacular panoramic vistas of the Quebrada.
Ruta 40 Drive
Between Cafayate and Cachi
The scenic drive itself is a highlight, with the unique geological formations flanking the road at every turn.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Journey on Ruta 40
Timing is Key for the Best Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive the Ruta 40
The journey along Ruta 40 is as spectacular as the destination. Allow ample time for stops!
📸 Capture the 'Arrows'
The unique rock formations are the main attraction. Stop often for photos!
📍 Find Mirador El Ventisquero
This viewpoint offers the best panoramic views of the Quebrada. 
🌙 Night Photography Potential
Consider staying in Angastaco for incredible night sky photography opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive the Ruta 40
The journey along Ruta 40 is as spectacular as the destination. Allow ample time for stops!
📸 Capture the 'Arrows'
The unique rock formations are the main attraction. Stop often for photos!
📍 Find Mirador El Ventisquero
This viewpoint offers the best panoramic views of the Quebrada.
🌙 Night Photography Potential
Consider staying in Angastaco for incredible night sky photography opportunities.
🥾 Mini-Hikes Encouraged
Don't just drive by; hop out and explore the unique landscape on foot.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Quebrada de las Flechas for its breathtaking and unique geological formations, often described as otherworldly. The drive along Ruta 40 is a major highlight, with many travelers enjoying spontaneous stops to admire the scenery and take photos. While some find it less dramatic than other quebradas, the 'arrow' rocks are a standout feature.
"This entire section of Ruta 40 is just stunning! We kept stopping to take photos and do mini-hikes whenever we saw something we liked (which was a lot!)."
Emilie
"Although quite nice on its own, after visiting the awesome quebrada de las Conchas, the quebrada de Calchaqui pales in comparison. Except for this area: las Flechas. Named so for the rock formation resembles arrows speering out of the ground, this area has breathtaking beauty. It is not a large area, but you will want to spend some time here if traveling on ruta 40 north of Cafayate. So plan for it."
Pierre Bergeron
"This place doesn't even seem like it could be possible with the rock jutting out from every side of the road. We loved this landscape on our drive because it was quite different from most things we had seen! We even got out to snap some photos at the lookout point!
Photo taken by @alejandroseveriniph (Instagram)"
Acrotravels Acroyoga
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Quebrada de las Flechas is located along the famous Ruta 40 in Salta province, Argentina. It's situated between the towns of Cafayate and Cachi. If coming from Cafayate, it's about 30 km of asphalt followed by 30 km of gravel. From Cachi, the journey is approximately 90 km of gravel road.
Many travelers opt for a road trip along Ruta 40, using cars or motorcycles. Some suggest a 4x4 or a vehicle with good clearance due to potential gravel sections, especially if coming from Cachi.
Public transport options are limited for direct access to the Quebrada itself. It's best explored with your own vehicle or as part of a guided tour that includes this route.
The Quebrada de las Flechas extends for about 20 km along Ruta 40. However, you'll want to factor in significant time for stops to admire the views and take photos, so plan for at least 1-2 hours for this section alone.
Yes, the Quebrada is located between Cafayate and Cachi. Angastaco is one of the closest towns and is recommended for overnight stays, especially for photographers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to visit the Quebrada de las Flechas. It's a natural formation along a public road.
The Quebrada de las Flechas is accessible 24/7 as it is part of Ruta 40. However, the best times for viewing and photography are during daylight hours.
There isn't a single designated entrance. The Quebrada is a stretch of Ruta 40, and you'll start seeing the unique rock formations as you drive through the area between Cafayate and Cachi.
Yes, many tours operating along Ruta 40 between Cafayate and Cachi will include stops at the Quebrada de las Flechas. These can be booked in Cafayate or Cachi.
Absolutely! There are numerous pull-off points and informal spots where you can safely stop your vehicle to get out, walk around, and take photos of the incredible rock formations.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting, casting long shadows and highlighting the textures of the rock formations.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes, while a telephoto lens can help isolate the unique arrow shapes. A tripod is useful for low-light conditions, especially for night photography.
Mirador El Ventisquero is a well-known viewpoint offering stunning panoramic shots. However, many informal pull-offs along the road also provide excellent photographic opportunities.
Yes, if you stay in a nearby town like Angastaco, you can drive out at night for incredible astrophotography opportunities with the unique rock formations silhouetted against the stars.
The 'arrow' formations, the unique erosion patterns, and the vastness of the landscape create a surreal and otherworldly scene that is highly photogenic.
🎫 🚗 Onsite Experience
The road (Ruta 40) is a mix of asphalt and gravel. The section from Cafayate is generally better, with some gravel parts, while the stretch from Cachi is predominantly gravel and can be rougher.
Yes, you can get out of your vehicle and walk around the formations. Be mindful of uneven terrain and wear sturdy shoes.
While the drive-through might take an hour, most visitors spend 2-3 hours or more to stop, take photos, and do short walks to fully appreciate the unique landscape.
There are very limited facilities directly within the Quebrada itself. It's advisable to use restrooms and stock up on water and snacks in Cafayate or Cachi before you go.
Yes, there are designated and informal pull-off areas where you can safely stop your vehicle. Always be aware of other traffic when exiting your car.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Plan for frequent stops so children can safely explore the immediate surroundings of the road. Pack plenty of snacks and water, as facilities are scarce. Ensure children wear comfortable shoes for any short walks. The experience is best enjoyed during daylight hours when visibility is good and the landscape is vibrant.
🏍️ Motorcycle Adventurers
+1Be prepared for the gravel sections, especially if coming from Cachi, and ensure your bike is in good condition. The numerous pull-offs are perfect for quick photo stops and to appreciate the otherworldly landscape. Consider staying in Angastaco to experience the area's tranquility and potentially capture some stunning night shots.
📸 Photographers
Scout for viewpoints like Mirador El Ventisquero for panoramic shots, but also explore the informal pull-offs for more intimate perspectives. Consider bringing a tripod for low-light conditions and a drone for aerial views if regulations permit. The surreal, almost lunar landscape provides a dramatic backdrop for any photography enthusiast.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of the 'Arrows'
This natural phenomenon makes the Quebrada a must-see for geology enthusiasts and anyone fascinated by the power of natural forces. The sheer scale and variety of these formations mean that no two views are exactly alike, encouraging visitors to stop and observe the intricate details. The colors of the rock, ranging from ochre to deep red, further enhance the visual spectacle, especially under the changing light of the day.
Experiencing Quebrada de las Flechas by Motorcycle
While the asphalt sections are enjoyable, be prepared for gravel and potentially rougher patches, especially if approaching from Cachi. This adds to the adventure for experienced riders. The ability to easily pull over and dismount allows for quick photo opportunities and a chance to truly soak in the unique atmosphere.
+1Photography Tips for the Quebrada
Utilize a wide-angle lens to encompass the vastness of the landscape and the road winding through it. For more intimate shots, a telephoto lens can isolate the unique textures and shapes of individual formations. Don't overlook the potential for astrophotography if you're staying nearby at night; the dark skies combined with the silhouetted rock formations can yield spectacular results.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit