Mallku Experience 4x4
4 days exploring the Catamarca Puna
A unique expedition in the NOA
Mallku Experience 4x4 is our most ambitious expedition: four days traversing the Catamarca Puna in 4x4 vehicles, accompanied by local expert guides who know every corner of this extreme territory.
From geological formations unique on the planet like the Pumice Stone Field, to the largest volcanic caldera in the world at Galan Volcano. From archaeological sites dating back 10,000 years to the southern capital of the Inca Empire at Shincal.
This is not a conventional excursion. It is a deep immersion into one of the most remote and awe-inspiring landscapes in Argentina, where the high plateau, volcanoes, high-altitude lagoons, and ancestral history converge.
Day-by-day itinerary
Four days of adventure in the Catamarca Puna
Day 1 Pumice Stone Field
Pumice Stone Field
Sites to visit:
- Belen Gorge
- Puerto Viejo
- Randolfo Dune
- Laguna Blanca Biosphere Reserve
- Pasto Ventura Viewpoint
- El Penon (lunch)
- Carachi Volcano Viewpoint
- Carachi Volcano lava field walk
- Laguna Carachi
- Wave Field
- Pumice Stone Field (40 min free time)
Night at: Antofagasta de la Sierra
Day 2 Archaeological Sites
Archaeological Sites
Sites to visit:
- Antofagasta Volcano (optional trekking)
- Puraca
- Confluencia
- El Coiparcito
- Punta La Pena Archaeological Site
- Penas Coloradas Archaeological Site
Night at: Antofagasta de la Sierra
Day 3 Galan Volcano
Galan Volcano
Sites to visit:
- Tobas Field
- Mirihuaca Canyon
- Real Grande
- Real Grande Canyon
- Ojos de Pirica
- West Rim Viewpoint - Galan Volcano
- Laguna Diamante
- Galan Volcano Geysers
- South Rim Viewpoint - Pabellon and Laguna Negra Lagoons
- Laguna Grande
- Laguna Cavi
- Vicuna Field
- El Penon
- Cerro La Herradura Viewpoint
- Antofagasta-Alumbrera Volcanoes Viewpoint
Night at: Antofagasta de la Sierra
Farewell dinner included (local barbecue or trout)
Day 4 Return to Belen and Shincal
Return to Belen and Shincal
Sites to visit:
- Return trip to Belen
- Lunch in Belen
- Shincal Ruins (afternoon slot)
Inquire about this experience
Includes all excursions, 4x4 transport, local guide and farewell dinner. Accommodation not included (3 nights in Antofagasta de la Sierra).
Check available datesWhat's included
- ✓ 4x4 vehicle transportation for all 4 days
- ✓ Specialized local expert guide
- ✓ All excursions detailed in the itinerary
- ✓ Admission to archaeological sites
- ✓ Farewell dinner (Day 3)
- ✓ Liability insurance
Not included
- ✗ Accommodation in Antofagasta de la Sierra (3 nights)
- ✗ Meals not mentioned (breakfasts, lunches)
- ✗ Transfer to Belen
- ✗ Tips (optional)
- ✗ Personal expenses
Travel recommendations
Prepare for a high-altitude, extreme weather experience
Bring plenty of water (minimum 2 liters per day)
Layered clothing: cold in the morning, warm at midday
Light but effective jacket (wind at altitude)
Hat or cap and sunscreen (extreme UV radiation)
Sunglasses with good UV filter
Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes
Mate thermos if you wish (optional)
Altitude medication if you have a history of altitude sickness
Camera with extra battery (the cold drains them quickly)
Practical information
Meeting point
The experience starts and ends in Belen, Catamarca. You can get there by car, bus, or fly to Catamarca city and then take ground transport.
Accommodation
All 3 nights are in Antofagasta de la Sierra. There are inn and cabin options available. We help you coordinate the booking.
Weather
High-altitude climate: sunny days with wind, cold nights (can drop below 0°C / 32°F). Extreme temperature range. Bring layered clothing.
Local operator
We work with Aventura Extrema Catamarca, local guides with years of experience in the Puna region.
Ready for the adventure?
Write to us via WhatsApp to check dates and availability.
Check availability