Day Trip to Cuesta de Miranda & La Mexicana Mine

Discover the process of gold mining in Argentina with this day trip to the mine of La Mexicana and the landscapes of Cuesta de Miranda.

Description

We will pick you up at your hotel in La Rioja and start a 4x4 trip along Ruta Nacional 40 to explore the history of gold mining in Argentina.

Travel along Cuesta de Miranda, a winding stretch of RN-40, making several stops at viewpoints to enjoy the surrounding sierras.

After the views, there will be free time to grab food. We will then continue along a mountain road with views of the Sierra de Famatina and visit the Pesebre and Ocre canyons.

Next, we will arrive at the La Mexicana Mine at 4,200 metres (13,780 feet) above sea level to learn about the gold rush in the 19th century. This site was a significant center for gold and silver extraction in the province.

We will explore how precious metals were extracted and discuss the history of the cable car that transported the metals to the town of Chilecito.

Finally, we will return to La Rioja and conclude the excursion at your hotel after 12 hours of driving.