Junín Department: Mountain Trails, Waterfalls and Cultural Heritage

Junín Department brings together natural attractions, outdoor activities and cultural sites, each with its own character. At the Mogote Bayo Nature Reserve, two self-guided trails offer panoramic views of the Valle del Conlara and the Sierras de los Comechingones. For your planning, it is worth first deciding which specific destinations interest you most.

Mountain Scenery, Trails and Water

Los Molles offers clear streams, waterfalls, unspoiled nature and opportunities for outdoor activities. Cascada Anahí is 13 meters high and can be reached on a hike through the mountain forest. At Quebrada del Aguilucho, a climb along Arroyo Los Molles continues on foot; along the way are natural pools with emerald-green water, native flora and fauna. The two destinations offer different highlights: Cascada Anahí centers on the waterfall, while Quebrada also features pools and the surrounding natural environment.

Los Siete Saltos is another excursion destination in Los Molles. The stream’s steep gradient creates tall cascades there. El Talar Complex is also located on Arroyo Los Molles: its eight-hectare park includes native vegetation, day-use facilities, camping, sports courts, a swimming pool and picnic areas. Alongside the natural attractions, there are also several ways to spend time outdoors.

The Mirador del Sol offers a different perspective: this scenic overlook sits at 1,470 meters above sea level and has panoramic views of the city and valley. As access information can change, check the current conditions before visiting.

Paragliding and Religious Sites

Carpintería is known as the “Capital of Free Flight.” Paragliding launches take place from the Filo de los Comechingones. Mountain activities at Filo Serrano include horseback riding, suspension bridges and ziplining; providers and access conditions may change. If one of these activities is central to your travel plans, check the current conditions in advance.

Religious destinations also give Carpintería a distinctive cultural identity. The religious circuit includes the Iglesia de la Virgen de Luján, opposite Manuel Zalazar Main Square. At the foot of the Sierras is the Monastery of Santa María de la Santísima Trinidad. It belongs to the monastic family of Bethlehem of the Assumption of the Virgin and Saint Bruno.

Crafts and Local Specialties

At the Ayflo alfajor factory, visitors can sample specialties at the restaurant and bar. At the El Cimarrón ranch in Carpintería, visitors can watch mate gourds being made. Alongside scenic and cultural attractions, the area also offers everything from sweet specialties to a glimpse of traditional craftsmanship.

Cultural Sites in Villa de Merlo and Beyond

Parque Recreativo is an iconic venue in Villa de Merlo for social, cultural, sporting and artistic activities. As the program may change, check in advance if you want to plan your visit around a particular event. Villa de Merlo is also home to Casa del Poeta Agüero. In 2025, it offered free guided tours and welcomed school groups from across the province each week, as well as tourists from different parts of the country. Casa’s auditorium has 120 seats.

Sights in Villa de Merlo’s historic center include Capilla Nuestra Señora del Rosario. Reserva El Viejo Molino is home to an ancient Comechingón altar and the foundations of Merlo’s first grain mill. Near Cueva del Indio in Los Lobos is an archaeological site with rock paintings and archaeological remains. Capilla Virgen de las Mercedes, also known as Capilla de los Funes, is located in Paraje Punta del Agua and is designated as cultural heritage of San Luis Province.

For getting around Merlo, the local bus El Merlino has two tourist routes. Routes and operating details may change; check the current information before traveling.

Choosing the Right Hotel Location

When choosing a hotel location, it helps to first decide what you want to focus on during your trip. Would you rather explore trails, streams and cascades, or are cultural and religious sites a bigger priority?

Discover more destinations: El Rincón, Cortaderas, Pantanillo.

Back to the main travel overview: San Luis.