Parcs naturels d'Ischigualasto et Talampaya

Merveilles géologiques des parcs naturels d'Ischigualasto / Talampaya

Geological Wonders

This collection highlights the unique geological formations of Ischigualasto Provincial Park and Talampaya National Park, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. These arid landscapes preserve a complete continental sequence of fossiliferous sediments from the Triassic Period. Visitors can observe massive red sandstone walls, sculpted rock formations like the spherical stones of Cancha de Bochas, and towering peaks including Cerro Morado and Cerro Tarjado. The area serves as one of the world's premier paleontological sites, revealing the evolution of early dinosaurs.

Geological Wonders — Carte

Alonso.julito / CC BY-SA 4.0

A

Ischigualasto Provincial Park

Ischigualasto Provincial Park, also called Valle de la Luna, due to its moon like appearance, is a provincial protected area in the north…

Mauricio V. Genta / CC0

B

Talampaya National Park

Talampaya National Park is a national park located in the east/centre of La Rioja Province, Argentina.

C

La Catedral

A massive red sandstone wall within Talampaya National Park, sculpted by wind and water erosion into vertical columns that resemble a Gothic cathedral.

D

Bocce court

A natural field featuring hundreds of perfectly spherical rock concretions. These stones were formed by a unique process of sedimentary accumulation during the Triassic period.

E

Painted valley

An expansive area in Ischigualasto characterized by multi-colored sedimentary layers in shades of gray, ochre, and red, revealing millions of years of geological history.

F

Cerro Bayo

A prominent peak within the Ischigualasto-Talampaya basin, offering views of the surrounding desert landscape and distinct sedimentary strata.

G

Cerro Morado

The highest peak in Ischigualasto Provincial Park, this ancient volcanic chimney provides panoramic views of the Valley of the Moon and the surrounding red cliffs.

H

Cerro Tarjado

A distinct mountain peak located near the Talampaya National Park boundary, known for its rugged terrain and geological significance within the Triassic basin.

I

Cerro Caballo Anga

A peak situated on the western edge of the Ischigualasto region, contributing to the dramatic topography of the San Juan province desert.

J

Mogote del Toro

An elevated landform and peak located in the northern section of the protected area, characterized by arid vegetation and eroded rock formations.