El Mollar - Tafí del Valle Trail (Long circuit through Las Carreras Estate)

Description:

The route offers beautiful landscapes that compensate for the physical effort required. It is an ideal route to enjoy with friends or family, as long as participants are prepared for the challenge. The El Rincón meadows are a prominent attraction, especially in summer.

Route details:

• Elevation: 940 m
• Minimum altitude: 1,857 m
• Maximum altitude: 2,370 m
• Approximate duration: 3:30 hours
• Total distance: 43 km
• Start and end point: La Angostura Inn (El Mollar, Tucumán)

Coordinates of the start and end point:

• Start point: 3878+XH El Mollar, Tucumán
• End point: Circular route (same start point)

Access to the trail:

Access to the trail begins in El Mollar, at the La Angostura Inn. The circuit is circular and the complete route can be consulted on Wikiloc here.

Main tourist attractions on the route:

1- El Mollar: Picturesque town with viewpoints and rest areas.

2- El Rincón: Meadows that offer an impressive landscape, especially in summer.

3- Mirador del Cóndor (Condor's Viewpoint): Rest point with panoramic views of the valley.

4- Las Carreras Estate: Rest and entertainment place, with picnic and recreational areas.

5- Astronomical Observatory: Facilities for those who want to enjoy the night sky.

Points of interest on the route:

• Small chapel: Information and rest point.
• Diaguita Calchaquí Ayllu El Rincón Native Community: Community with great cultural value and supply place.
• Condor's Viewpoint: A prominent point with panoramic views that give the sensation of flying over the valley.
• Las Carreras Inn: Perfect for resting and enjoying the tranquility.
• Tafí Village: Last point with all services, ideal for stocking up.

Distinctive features of the trail:

• Mostly gravel road, with narrow sections between km 12 and 16, where caution is recommended.
• Mountain landscapes with spectacular views are ideal for those who enjoy nature.
• The route has several areas to rest and make photo stops.

Tourist equipment:

• There are food supply points in El Rincón and Villa de Tafí.
• Public transport options are not detailed; access is by private vehicle.
• Accommodation can be found in El Mollar and Tafí del Valle.
• In El Mollar and Tafí del Valle there are tourist information points.
• In Tafí del Valle you can find all the services (banks, ATMs, shops).
• There are picnic areas and rest areas along the route.

Type of environment to travel through:

• Summer: Hot and humid, with high temperatures during the day.
• Winter: Cold and dry, with temperatures below 0 in the valleys.

Safety and emergency aspects:

• Elías Medici Hospital - Tafí del Valle:
• Address: 572Q+4P Tafí del Valle, Tucumán.
• Telephone: 107 (Emergencies).

Best time to visit:

All year round

Remarks: In winter, temperatures can drop below 0°C, especially in the valleys, so it is recommended to bring a coat.

Type of entry:

• Free: No ticket is required, although the suggested schedule must be respected.
• Suggested hours:
• Summer: 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
• Winter: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Difficulty:

• Moderate to difficult: The route has sections with steep slopes and narrow paths. It is ideal for experienced cyclists.

Condition of the access roads:

• Access roads: Good condition, without problems for transit.
• Road signs: Good signage along the route.
• Tourist signs: Clear signs along the route.

Services in the vicinity:

• Picnic areas: especially at Las Carreras Inn and other rest points.
• Camping areas: In El Mollar and Tafí del Valle.
• Shelters: In Las Carreras Inn.
• Supply points: Supply points in El Rincón and Tafí del Valle.
• Drinking fountains: At some points along the route.
• Rest areas: Various areas along the route.
• Tourist information posts: In El Mollar and Tafí del Valle.

General recommendations:

1- Use a mountain bike with a suitable transmission to overcome the steep climbs on the route.

2- Bring a coat, especially for the descent, as temperatures can be cold.