The Quebrada de las Flechas is a unique geological formation on National Route 40 between Angastaco and Molinos, in the Calchaqui Valleys, Salta province, Argentina (lat -25.62, lng -66.05). The "arrows" are sedimentary rock strata tilted at 70 degrees, creating a surreal landscape of pointed rock slabs extending for several kilometers. These formations are approximately 10 million years old and were shaped by Andean tectonic activity that folded and tilted originally horizontal marine sediments. The most impressive stretch covers 15 km of Route 40 (gravel) between km 4,380 and km 4,395. It is a mandatory stop on the Calchaqui Valleys circuit between Cachi and Cafayate. Altitude is approximately 2,000-2,500 m and the climate is dry and sunny most of the year.
Getting there — distances & times
| From | Distance | Flight | Bus | Drive |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buenos Aires (EZE) | 1500 km | 2 h 20 | 20–22 h | 15–17 h |
| New York (JFK) | 9400 km | 12 h + 2 h 20 layover | — | — |
| Madrid (MAD) | 11300 km | 14 h + 2 h 20 layover | — | — |
| São Paulo (GRU) | 2800 km | 4 h 30 | — | — |
| Córdoba | 890 km | 1 h 30 | 11–13 h | 9–10 h |
| Mendoza | 1200 km | 2 h | 17–19 h | 13–15 h |
Month-by-month climate
| Month | Temp. | Rain | Crowds | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 16° / 28°C | 180 mm | Rainy summer | |
| Feb | 15° / 27°C | 155 mm | ||
| Mar | 14° / 26°C | 110 mm | ||
| Apr | 11° / 24°C | 30 mm | Dry season starts | |
| May | 8° / 22°C | 8 mm | ||
| Jun | 5° / 20°C | 3 mm | ||
| Jul | 4° / 20°C | 3 mm | Winter break | |
| Aug | 6° / 22°C | 5 mm | ||
| Sep | 9° / 25°C | 10 mm | Clear skies | |
| Oct | 12° / 27°C | 25 mm | ||
| Nov | 14° / 28°C | 60 mm | ||
| Dec | 16° / 28°C | 140 mm | Holidays |
Typical prices by category
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel/night | USD 15–25 | USD 50–90 | USD 150–350 |
| Food/day | USD 12–18 | USD 25–40 | USD 60–120 |
| Day tour | USD 40–55 | USD 60–90 | USD 120–200 |
| Car rental/day | USD 30–45 | USD 50–70 | USD 90–150 |
Approximate ranges in USD as of April 2026. May vary with Argentine peso exchange rate.
How to Get There
The Quebrada de las Flechas is on Route 40, between Angastaco and Molinos.
From Cafayate
Take RN 40 north. Pass San Carlos (25 km), Angastaco (75 km) and the arrows begin at km 85 approx. Total from Cafayate: 85 km, 2.5 hours (gravel). The road is consolidated gravel passable with a high-clearance vehicle.
From Cachi
Take RN 40 south through Seclantes and Molinos. The arrows are 70 km south of Cachi, about 2 hours on gravel.
Tips
High-clearance vehicle essential. 4WD recommended in rain. No regular public transport on Route 40 in this section. 2-3 day organized tours from Salta or Cafayate include the Quebrada de las Flechas. Bring enough fuel (no gas stations between Cafayate and Molinos/Cachi, 157 km).
What to See and Do
The Rock Formations
Rock slabs tilted at 70 degrees rise like pointed arrows on both sides of the road. The strata vary in color from ochre to gray and red depending on mineral composition. The road winds between the formations, creating an immersive experience. There are several stopping points to walk among the rocks. The silence and scale are striking.
Main Viewpoint
An elevated point above the road offers a panoramic view of the arrow field extending to the horizon. The best spot for photography and understanding the scale of the geological phenomenon. Parking available.
Walking Among the Arrows
You can walk between the rock formations leaving the road. No formal trail, but the terrain is accessible. Walking between 10-15 meter rock slabs gives a different perspective than the view from the car. 30-60 minutes is enough to explore.
Geology
The formations are sandstone and shale layers deposited in a marine environment over 10 million years ago. The Andean orogeny folded and tilted them nearly vertical. Differential erosion (softer layers erode faster) created the pointed slabs. An open book of Andean geology.
When to Visit
- Fall (March-May): Ideal. Dry climate, golden light, roads in good condition.
- Winter (June-August): Dry and sunny. Cold nights but perfect days for exploring. Best light for photography.
- Spring (September-November): Pleasant temperatures, good roads, few tourists.
- Summer (December-February): Risk of rain deteriorating Route 40 gravel. Strong heat. Not recommended.
Practical Information
Services
No services at the Quebrada de las Flechas: no water, food, fuel or cell signal. Bring everything you need. Nearest towns with basic services are Angastaco (15 km south) and Molinos (20 km north).
Accommodation
No lodging at the gorge. Options: Angastaco (basic lodging), Molinos (historic Hacienda de Molinos inn), Cachi (varied) or Cafayate (widest selection).
Budget
Free access. The cost is transport. Organized Cachi-Cafayate tour via Route 40 (includes the arrows): USD 80-120. Car rental: USD 30-50/day plus fuel.
Safety
Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, good tires, spare tire. Let someone know your itinerary. No cell signal. Respect the environment: do not remove rocks or climb the formations.
