Things to do in the Yungas of Jujuy
The Yungas of southern Jujuy, between Santa Clara and El Fuerte on provincial route 6, are one of the least known corners of northwest Argentina: mountain cloud forest, gauchos, rivers and more than 400 bird species. This guide brings together what you can do in the area, from Finca La Fé, a 2,400-hectare nature reserve with two eco lodges.
1. Ride with the gauchos through the jungle
This is the signature experience of the eastern Yungas: following one of the finca's gauchos along hidden trails, past citrus groves, free-roaming cattle and giant trees.
- One-hour ride, easy, for beginners and children from 7.
- Río Colorado ride, 3h30, suitable for beginners from 10: a picnic in the jungle, a prehistoric site and a swim in the river when the weather allows.
- Camino Viejo ride, 4h30, for experienced riders: an old gaucho trail up to a viewpoint over the mountains.
2. Hike the mountain jungle
The self-guided walk along the finca's marked trails to the colorado stream (1h30, easy) is included in every stay. With a guide, the Yungas Immersion trek (3h30) teaches you to recognise the sounds of the jungle and animal tracks, with a picnic and a dip in the river's natural pools when the weather allows.
3. Watch birds and wildlife
The Yungas are home to half of Argentina's biodiversity. Toucans, parrots, hummingbirds and guans can be seen at the finca, which capuchin monkeys (monos caí) also visit regularly. On the Birdwatching initiation outing (3 to 4 hours), the guide shows you how to use binoculars and identify the tracks of tapirs, pumas or capybaras.
4. The Cascada Colorada of El Fuerte
18 km from the finca along route 6, one of the most beautiful roads in Jujuy: you cross the jungle, stop at the viewpoints and at the Abra de los Morteros, a prehistoric mortar by the roadside, then reach a dry landscape of cardón cacti and colourful mountains. The waterfall is a 15-minute walk away; in summer you can swim. Access is through private land, with an entrance fee.
Getting to the Cascada Colorada
5. Experience gaucho culture
In August, every village in the Yungas celebrates the Pachamama, and once a year the patron saint festivities bring gaucho parades, horseback skill games and a traditional dance. At the finca, wood-fired cooking (asado, picada criolla, homemade bread) completes the experience.
6. Day trips from the Yungas
- Calilegua National Park, a 2-hour drive, for hiking.
- Río Jordán hot springs, in San Francisco, 3 hours away: the hike is open from June to November.
- The Yala waterfalls, the Termas de Reyes hot springs and the El Carmen reservoir, along the Yungas corridor.
- Purmamarca and its Hill of Seven Colours (150 km), Tilcara and its pucará (166 km), Cafayate and its vineyards (300 km).
Yungas itineraries
2 days
Day 1: arrive from 2 pm, take the self-guided walk to the colorado stream and enjoy the hot tub at sunset. Day 2: the Río Colorado ride or the Yungas Immersion trek from 10 am, with a picnic in the jungle.
3 days
The same start, plus a third day for the Cascada Colorada and the Abra de los Morteros, or a guided birdwatching outing. The 2- and 3-night packages combine the lodge, meals and excursions.
When to go
The Yungas can be visited all year round. From December to March the jungle is at its greenest, with rain in the late afternoon and excursions in the morning. From April to November, the dry season is the best time to see wildlife. Best time to visit the Yungas.
Frequently asked questions
What is there to do in the Yungas of Jujuy?
Horseback riding with gauchos, guided jungle trekking, bird and wildlife watching, the Cascada Colorada of El Fuerte and gaucho culture. Nearby: Calilegua National Park and the Río Jordán hot springs.
How many days should I spend in the Yungas?
Two nights give you time for one big excursion on horseback or on foot and to enjoy the lodge. With three nights you can add the Cascada Colorada or a birdwatching outing.
Where is El Fuerte?
In the Yungas of southern Jujuy province, Argentina, in the Santa Bárbara department, on provincial route 6. Finca La Fé lies between Santa Clara and El Fuerte, 1 hour from Jujuy airport and 2h15 from Salta.
Are the excursions guided?
Yes: treks are led by a local guide and horseback rides by one of the finca's gauchos, in small groups reserved for guests. The self-guided walk on the marked trails has no guide.
See available dates and book · Our lodges · Excursions · Getting here