A Little-Known National Park In Argentina Boasts Otherworldly Landscapes Without Crowds

There are places on Earth where time seems frozen, and Talampaya National Park in Argentina is one of those places. In this otherworldly gorge, condors soar overhead, and a barren riverbed hides a treasure trove of dinosaur fossils. Petroglyphs decorate the burnt-orange cliffs, remnants of ancient civilizations that once called this canyon home. Because its Triassic Period fossil set is one of the most extensive in the entire world, Talampaya was actually named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000. 

Nature lovers exploring Argentina's spectacular national parks should consider a visit to this hidden gem tucked away in the country's northwest corner, 283 miles from the city of Córdoba. One drawback is that self-tours of the park are not permitted. You must pay to enter the park and then shell out an additional fee for a guided tour. However, many visitors seem to think that the experience was worth what they paid for. Tripadvisor reviewer tim252 wrote, "There is a strange system whereby you pay 400 pesos to enter the park but this does not actually get you anything. You then have to book a tour at an additional cost. Do not let this put you off as the visit is really good with fantastic geology and land forms. After our tour we had lunch in the park restaurant and it was very good and excellent value. Do not miss a chance to visit Talampaya, it is worth a long journey." This tour-focused system might see odd, but it helps to keep the park from getting overly crowded (and straining resources or damaging parts of the park).

Guided tours of Talampaya include transportation to several different areas to see striking rock formations, carob forests, and impressive petroglyphs. Depending on the tour you choose, the touring vehicle may be a van, bus, or a 4x4 truck for a more exciting off-road adventure. Tours also include short walks, during which Spanish-speaking guides explain the area's fascinating geological and anthropological history. 

Camping is available at the park for those who want to experience the surreal landscape by moonlight and take advantage of amazing stargazing opportunities in the arid climate. The campground features bathrooms, hot-water showers, grills, picnic tables, and electricity hook-ups. An onsite restaurant, Resto, serves regional dishes as well as salads, sandwiches, and a variety of beverages.  

Regardless of the season, check the weather forecast before your visit, and on sunny days, be prepared with sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water. In winter, be sure to bring or wear some thermal layers. One local tip is not to visit the park during the summer, when it can be searingly hot. Keep in mind that summer in the southern hemisphere where Argentina is located is from December through March, during the northern hemisphere's winter. If you have your heart set on a trip to the continent in January, here are some alternative South American destinations to consider adding to your list.