Cabra Corral Dam is the largest reservoir in northwestern Argentina and one of the most extensive man-made lakes in the country, with a surface area of 13,160 hectares (115 km2) and a capacity of 3,130 cubic hectometers. Located 80 km southwest of Salta city at 1,037 meters elevation, at the confluence of the Guachipas and Arias rivers which form the Juramento River (later becoming the Salado), it is Salta's top destination for water sports and sport fishing. Activities include fishing for pejerrey, trout and dorado, kayaking, windsurfing, kitesurfing, boat tours, waterskiing, Class II-III rafting on the Juramento River, bungee jumping from the dam bridge (50m free fall), trekking, horseback riding and mountain biking. Access from Salta is via National Route 68 (the same scenic road to Cafayate), with a signed turnoff at Coronel Moldes. The drive takes 1 to 1.5 hours on excellent paved road.
Water Sports — The Main Attraction
Rafting on the Juramento River
Class II-III rapids downstream of the dam. 10 Class III + 5 Class II rapids over a 12-km descent. Suitable for beginners, from age 5 (Salta Rafting), no weight limit. Duration: 2-3 hours on the water. Season: September to May. Equipment provided. Price: USD 35-55 per person including transport from Salta, equipment, certified guide and insurance. Salta Rafting (km 34 RP 47, Coronel Moldes), founded in 1997 -- pioneers of rafting in northern Argentina. Full day includes rafting + traditional asado barbecue.
Sport Fishing
Pejerrey (year-round, best autumn-winter), rainbow trout (river mouths, 1-3 kg), dorado (October-April, 3-8 kg, catch-and-release mandatory). Provincial fishing license required (available online or at fishing shops in Salta, USD 5-25). Professional guides: USD 80-150 per day including boat and equipment.
Bungee Jumping
~50m free fall from the dam bridge over turquoise water. USD 40-60 per jump (includes video and photos). Weekends and holidays; weekdays by reservation. Ages 14+, weight 40-110 kg.
Combining Cabra Corral with Cafayate
Cabra Corral is on Route 68, the same road to Cafayate. Perfect 2-3 day combination: Day 1 water sports at the dam, Day 2 Route 68 + Cafayate wineries, Day 3 return to Salta.
Best Season
- Spring-Summer (September-March): Best for water sports. Warmer water, long days, good rafting flow.
- Autumn (April-May): Excellent fishing. Pleasant climate.
- Winter (June-August): Good for fishing and trekking. Cold water for swimming. No rafting (low flow).
