Castano River Mines Private Trip

The mines around the Castaño River are a key attraction in the Argentine department of Calingasta. Experience these landscapes with a private trip from Barreal.

Castano River Mines Private Trip

Pickup is at 10 am from your hotel in Barreal in a 4x4 jeep. The journey begins to an old gold mine north of Calingasta, where we will discuss the challenging process miners used to extract gold.

Next, we will ascend Timbirimbas hill in the 4x4, offering views of the Andes. We will then wade through the Castaño River in the vehicle, enhancing the sense of exploration.

At the river's other side, we will visit the Castaño Nuevo mines, where gold and silver were discovered in the late 19th century. These mines experienced significant activity in the 1950s and 1960s, with over 800 houses built for miners and their families. We will also see the dike constructed over the Castaño River gorge for better access.

After exploring the mining history of San Juan, we will have a picada de campo - a picnic lunch in nature. Following lunch, we will return to the city, enjoying more Andean landscapes en route.

A short break for a light snack will be included halfway through the trip. We will conclude our excursion by returning to your hotel in Barreal at 10 pm.