Department of La Caldera: Valleys, Culture and Nature

Valley, river and changing landscapes

The Siancas Valley runs through La Caldera parallel to Route 9. The Río La Caldera flows through the department from north to south. La Caldera also lies in a transition zone between the Chaco Serrano region and the Yungas. This means different spatial scales come together: the valley and road help you find your way locally, while the river forms a north–south axis through the department. The transition zone places La Caldera between two distinct landscapes. These features provide a starting point for understanding the destination’s natural setting and geographical layout.

Campo Alegre and getting there

The Dique Campo Alegre lies north of the Río La Caldera. The Embalse Campo Alegre “Ing. Alfonso Peralta” was built in the early 1970s and is located 4 km north of the town of La Caldera. It can be reached via a winding mountain road that follows the Río La Caldera along National Route No. 9 toward Jujuy. Road conditions can change, so check them before setting out. The reservoir’s distance north of the town and the direction of the access road provide two practical points of reference when planning a visit.

Activities and observing nature

Sailing, sport fishing, hiking and horseback riding are all suitable activities at and around Dique Campo Alegre. Guided rides are also offered in La Caldera, where cycling is another sports tourism activity. The dam and protected area also offer opportunities for birdwatching across different woodland and forest habitats. Activities on the water and on land can thus be combined with observing a variety of habitats. If you are planning specific activities, check the relevant conditions in advance.

Church and crafts

The Iglesia Nuestra Señora del Rosario was built by the Jesuits in the 17th century and stands beside the former Camino del Inca. Its construction period and location along the old route offer two distinct historical reference points for the town’s history. La Caldera also has a leatherworking tradition linked to colonial-era livestock farming. There is a craft fair opposite the main square, and a workshop selling leather goods, horse tack and wickerwork is located on the road to Cristo. Check current opening arrangements before planning a visit.

Chicha Festival and Pachamama ritual

The Festival Nacional de la Chicha is considered a traditional event in La Caldera. Its 35th edition took place in March 2026. The festival features regional foods for tasting, as well as equestrian demonstrations and folk dancing. At the 2024 event, chicha producers from La Caldera took part with stalls selling the drink. The festival thus brings together regional foods and performances with the drink it is named after. The traditional Pachamama ritual also welcomed visitors in 2024. Its elements included smudging ceremonies, the serving of rue tea and singing by local copleros. If you plan to attend, check the schedule locally.

Find a hotel to suit your travel plans

Tailor your search to the activities you have planned, without conflating the destination’s different themes.

Discover more destinations: La Caldera, Vaqueros, Calderilla, San Carlos, Department of Rosario de Lerma, Department of Capital, Department of Los Andes, La Viña.

Return to the main travel overview: Salta.