Quebrada de las Flechas Scenic Loop
God's sculpture garden in sandstone
North of Angastaco, Ruta Provincial 40 splits off into one of Argentina’s most photogenic detours — the Quebrada de las Flechas. The gravel road winds through towering sandstone spires that jut skyward like massive arrowheads, carved by millions of years of wind and flash floods. Local guides call it “Dios jugando con piedras” — God playing with rocks. The technical highlight comes at Km 18 where you navigate a narrow gap between two leaning towers called Las Ventanas.
Moderate difficulty for stock high-clearance vehicles, though recent rains can make the clay sections slippery as hell. The 52km loop reconnects with RN40 near Molinos, making it perfect for day trips from Cachi or Cafayate. March through November offers the best conditions — avoid January’s summer storms that turn arroyos into chocolate rivers. Pack water and spare tires; the sharp volcanic rock loves puncturing sidewalls. Worth every kilometer for the Instagram shots alone.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Scenic Drive |
| Surface | Gravel |
| Features | Camping, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 32 mi / 52 km |
| Duration | Half day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 7220 ft |
| Best season | March-November |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock high-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Angastaco, Salta |
| Land manager | Secretaría de Turismo de Salta |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Hilux or 4Runner handle this without any modifications?
Yes. Stock high-clearance 4WD is the minimum requirement and it's sufficient for the maintained gravel surface. Low-range isn't usually needed, but engage 4WD for the rougher sections and any water crossings.
When does the trail close, and is it passable in December–February?
There's no official closure, but December through February is summer in northwest Argentina and brings heavy rains that can wash out gravel sections and make water crossings unpredictable. Best season is March through November — dry, stable, and the light on those sandstone formations is exceptional.
Do I need a permit or pay any fees to drive this route?
No permit is currently required to drive the loop. The land falls under Salta's Secretaría de Turismo jurisdiction — check in Angastaco if regulations have changed, as rural Argentine admin can shift without much notice.
What's the hardest section and what should I actually expect?
The trail is rated moderate with no genuinely technical obstacles, but the water crossings are the wildcard — depths vary by season and recent rainfall. The elevation gain is gradual; the bigger challenge is rocky wash crossings that can hide soft bottoms after rain.
How far is the nearest fuel from the trailhead, and is dispersed camping actually viable out here?
Angastaco is the closest fuel stop — fill up there before heading out, as 32 miles of gravel plus detours can add up and there's nothing on the loop. Dispersed camping is viable among the formations, but bring all your water; there are no potable sources on route and cell service is spotty at best.
Trail track
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