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Argentina🇦🇷 | hikesCircuito Altas Cumbresgranite outcrops, open sierras, condor sightings, remote plateaus | things to do and best time to go

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Backpacking in Circuito Altas Cumbres
👌 Worth visitinghike ranked #12
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated September 4, 2026

Your calves burn as the wind shoves dust into your teeth and a bus growls far below, snaking along the valley floor while you crunch over loose rock toward the next bend in the ridge. This is Circuito Altas Cumbres, in the Sierras Grandes above Córdoba, central Argentina. It’s a medium-length, punchy day hike—steep, exposed, and windy—but the payoff is huge: big-sky plateaus, jagged granite, and that first icy beer back in Mina Clavero. Public transport gets you close enough, though connections can be slow, and trail marking is rough compared with polished Patagonian classics like El Chaltén, which keeps the crowds—and the selfie sticks—way down.

Discover everything you want to know in the 📖 Argentina Travel Guide.
Best time to go: September - April
Duration: 3 to 4 days
Distance: 30 kilometers
Total ascent: 1,200 meters


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✨ Why go?
Ranked #12 hike in ArgentinaThe unique appeal for travelers

The Circuito Altas Cumbres in Argentina is a magnet for backpackers craving a blend of effort and reward. The scenery-to-effort ratio is unbeatable; you’ll traverse rugged trails that unveil breathtaking mountain vistas without needing to be a seasoned climber. Public transport makes access a breeze, so you can hop on a bus and dive right into the adventure.

Costs are low, allowing you to stretch your budget while soaking in the wild beauty. You can tailor your trek with flexible distances, whether you want a quick day hike or a multi-day challenge. This circuit seamlessly fits into a longer backpacking route, making it a perfect stopover. Each step brings you closer to that first cold beer at the end, where the sweat and grit transform into pure satisfaction.
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💡 HighlightsDon't-miss highlights and experiences

  1. Pampa de Achala: a high, windswept plateau of peat bogs, scrub and tiny glacial streams — feels like walking on another planet compared with forested trails. The wide-open light, endemic plants and unexpected little wetlands make for quiet, lonely kilometers and excellent stargazing if you camp.
  2. Quebrada del Condorito: sheer limestone cliffs and thermal columns where Andean condors regularly wheel overhead. The canyon’s viewpoints are famous for close condor encounters and dramatic drops — real hair-raising scenery you don’t see on most lowland treks (personal favorite because nothing beats a condor gliding past within arm’s reach).
  3. Roadside miradores on the Camino de las Altas Cumbres: short detours to cliff-edge lookouts give huge, panoramic views over ravines and patchwork valleys.
… read more 👉
  1. Pampa de Achala: a high, windswept plateau of peat bogs, scrub and tiny glacial streams — feels like walking on another planet compared with forested trails. The wide-open light, endemic plants and unexpected little wetlands make for quiet, lonely kilometers and excellent stargazing if you camp.
  2. Quebrada del Condorito: sheer limestone cliffs and thermal columns where Andean condors regularly wheel overhead. The canyon’s viewpoints are famous for close condor encounters and dramatic drops — real hair-raising scenery you don’t see on most lowland treks (personal favorite because nothing beats a condor gliding past within arm’s reach).
  3. Roadside miradores on the Camino de las Altas Cumbres: short detours to cliff-edge lookouts give huge, panoramic views over ravines and patchwork valleys. The payoff is immediate — you don’t need to hike all day for unforgettable vistas, which is great if you’re on a tight budget or short on time.
  4. Granite escarpments and serranías: rugged rock formations, ridgelines and small towers that invite scrambling and bouldering. The geology here is different from the Andes: exposed granite, pocketed faces and wildflower carpets in spring that make every ridge feel like a new photo-op.
  5. Mountain hamlets and estancia culture: tiny villages, simple refugios and working estancias scattered along the circuit. Affordable lodgings, home-cooked food, mate-sharing and a chance to meet gauchos — a cultural slice that turns the hike into more than just scenery and gives you cheap, hearty stops between trail sections.
Spotted a mistake or missing something? Contact us.

Things to do near Circuito Altas Cumbres

Wine Tour Privado a Colonia Caroya, Córdoba - Argentina

Wine Tour Privado a Colonia Caroya, Córdoba - Argentina

5.0(106) 8h
From €153
per personViator
Wine Tour Privado a Calamuchita, Córdoba - Argentina

Wine Tour Privado a Calamuchita, Córdoba - Argentina

4.9(52) 9h
From €153
per personViator
PRIVATE TOUR: La Cumbrecita & Villa Gral. Belgrano

PRIVATE TOUR: La Cumbrecita & Villa Gral. Belgrano

4.9(33)
From €131
per personViator
La Cumbrecita and Villa General Belgrano Full Day Tour

La Cumbrecita and Villa General Belgrano Full Day Tour

4.3(57) 10h
From €83
per personViator
Cordoba for the curious

Cordoba for the curious

4.9(29)
From €35
per personViator
PRIVATE TOUR: World Heritage Jesuit Museums

PRIVATE TOUR: World Heritage Jesuit Museums

5.0(24)
From €83
per personViator
Cordoba Cumbrecita Tour with Spanish Speaking Guide

Cordoba Cumbrecita Tour with Spanish Speaking Guide

4.4(35) 10h
From €86
per personViator
Private Cordoba City Tour

Private Cordoba City Tour

5.0(19)
From €69
per personViator
Summit and Villa General Belgrano Tour from Cordoba Capital

Summit and Villa General Belgrano Tour from Cordoba Capital

4.7(21) 10h
From €70
per personViator
PRIVATE TOUR: Caroya WineTour HalfDay

PRIVATE TOUR: Caroya WineTour HalfDay

4.7(15) 4h
From €83
per personViator

Ratings based on Tripadvisor reviews. When you book through this link, you support our work at no extra cost to you.

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🌤️ When to go?Choosing the right time of year


  • Weather: The best window is late spring to early fall (October to April). Winters are harsh, with snow and ice making trails slippery and dangerous. Summers bring dry, stable weather but can get hot and dusty.

  • Temperature: Daytime highs range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) in the prime months, perfect for long treks without overheating. Nights can dip to 5°C (41°F), so pack layers.

  • Daylight Hours: Longer days from November to February offer up to 14 hours of light, giving you more time to push through the rugged terrain and savor the views.

  • Crowds: Peak season (December to February) draws more hikers, especially locals on holiday. For solitude, aim for shoulder months like October or March.

  • Seasonal Activities: Spring blooms and fall foliage add color to the landscape, enhancing
… read more 👉

  • Weather: The best window is late spring to early fall (October to April). Winters are harsh, with snow and ice making trails slippery and dangerous. Summers bring dry, stable weather but can get hot and dusty.

  • Temperature: Daytime highs range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) in the prime months, perfect for long treks without overheating. Nights can dip to 5°C (41°F), so pack layers.

  • Daylight Hours: Longer days from November to February offer up to 14 hours of light, giving you more time to push through the rugged terrain and savor the views.

  • Crowds: Peak season (December to February) draws more hikers, especially locals on holiday. For solitude, aim for shoulder months like October or March.

  • Seasonal Activities: Spring blooms and fall foliage add color to the landscape, enhancing the visual payoff after tough climbs. Summer’s dry trails mean fewer mud patches but hotter sun exposure.

  • Price Fluctuations: Accommodation and transport costs spike in peak summer months. Booking in shoulder seasons can save you cash and hassle.


Pro-tip: Start early in the day during shoulder seasons to catch crisp morning air and avoid afternoon heat or crowds—your legs and lungs will thank you.


source: climatestotravel.comJANJanuary: highly recommended for travelingFEBFebruary: highly recommended for travelingMARMarch: excellent for travelingAPRApril: excellent for travelingMAYMay: fair for travelingJUNJune: below average for travelingJULJuly: below average for travelingAUGAugust: fair for travelingSEPSeptember: good for travelingOCTOctober: excellent for travelingNOVNovember: excellent for travelingDECDecember: highly recommended for traveling
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🛏️ Where to stay?Where staying makes the most sense

If you enjoy meeting fellow travelers, consider choosing hostels with high ratings for atmosphere. On the other hand, if you prefer having your own space, a hotel might be a better option.

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🥾 Hike detailsRoute, distance, and difficulty explained

Total Distance: The Circuito Altas Cumbres spans approximately 35 kilometers (about 22 miles) in total.

Estimated Duration: Most hikers take around 2 to 3 days to complete the circuit, depending on their pace and how much time they spend at various scenic spots.

Difficulty Level: This trail is considered moderate to challenging. There are some steep sections and rocky paths that require good physical fitness and basic hiking skills.

Starting Point: The trailhead is located near the town of La Cumbrecita. To get there via public transport, you can take a bus from Córdoba to La Cumbrecita. The … read more 👉
Total Distance: The Circuito Altas Cumbres spans approximately 35 kilometers (about 22 miles) in total.

Estimated Duration: Most hikers take around 2 to 3 days to complete the circuit, depending on their pace and how much time they spend at various scenic spots.

Difficulty Level: This trail is considered moderate to challenging. There are some steep sections and rocky paths that require good physical fitness and basic hiking skills.

Starting Point: The trailhead is located near the town of La Cumbrecita. To get there via public transport, you can take a bus from Córdoba to La Cumbrecita. The bus ride takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. Once you arrive, it’s a short walk to the trailhead.

Major Landmarks Along the Route:
  • Las Altas Cumbres: A high mountain pass offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.
  • Los Gigantes: A stunning rock formation that’s perfect for a photo op.
  • Refugio de Montaña: A mountain hut where you can rest and maybe even grab a bite if it’s open.

Type of Terrain and Scenery: Expect a mix of rocky paths, dirt trails, and some sections with loose gravel. The scenery is a feast for the eyes, featuring towering mountains, lush valleys, and sparkling rivers. You’ll also encounter stunning vistas that make the uphill climbs worth it.

Typical Vegetation and Wildlife:
  • Vegetation: The area is dotted with native shrubs, grasses, and some hardy trees like the lenga and ñire.
  • Wildlife: Keep an eye out for various birds, such as condors and eagles, as well as the occasional guanaco or even a shy puma if you’re lucky.

Pack enough water and snacks, and don’t forget to take your time soaking in the views. Happy hiking!
⚠️ Hiking info can sometimes be outdated or inaccurate. Before you hit the trail, check the latest conditions with locals. If you do spot anything that's off, I'd love to hear from you, so I can update it for fellow travelers.

🛡️ SafetyScams, Hazards, and Annoyances

The Circuito Altas Cumbres offers a thrilling mix of rugged beauty and manageable challenges. Weather can shift quickly; pack layers to adapt from sun to sudden chills. The trails are well-marked but can be steep and rocky, so watch your footing, especially after rain when paths can get slippery.

Wildlife is part of the experience—keep your distance from llamas and guanacos, and don’t feed them. They’re curious but can be unpredictable.

Stay hydrated and pace yourself; the altitude can sneak up on you. A solid pair of boots and trekking poles will make a world of difference. Embrace the grind, and the views at the summit will reward your effort tenfold.
Check Country Safety

FAQTraveler FAQ

The Circuito Altas Cumbres hike typically takes 4 to 5 days to complete, covering around 70 kilometers through the Sierras de Córdoba.
The hike is considered moderate to challenging due to varied terrain, including steep ascents and descents, with altitudes ranging from 1,200 to 2,000 meters.
No guide is strictly required, but hiring one is recommended for safety and navigation. A permit is not mandatory, but registering with local authorities or park offices is advised for environmental protection and emergency tracking.
⚠️ Things can change over time, so always validate details locally before you go.

Other Argentinian hikes near Circuito Altas Cumbres

Explore more nearby:

  • Cerro Uritorco—steep trail, quartz outcrops, folklore sites, panoramic ridge| 76 km away
  • Cerro Champaquí—highest Cordoba peak, grassy slopes, spring-fed pools, broad summit| 94 km away
  • 7-Day Aconcagua Trek—high-altitude camps, scree slopes, glacier views, summit approach| 568 km away

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We 💚 feedbackWhat to keep in mind

The Circuito Altas Cumbres is a wild ride through Argentina’s heart, where the jagged peaks and sweeping valleys ignite your spirit. But be ready for the weather—it’s unpredictable. One moment you’re basking in sun, the next you’re dodging rain. Embrace it. The payoff? Those panoramic views at the summit are worth every drop.

✈️ When did I visit Argentina?
I have visited Argentina, together with Chile, in September 2012.

✍️ Help improve this page!
The information on this page is based on my own backpacking experience in Argentina, supplemented with up-to-date research and feedback from other travelers. Travel details can change, so if you notice anything outdated or incomplete, feel free to let me know.



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Johan, backpacker and founder of TakeYourBackpackHi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.

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