Cerrillos to Antofagasta de la Sierra

Cerrillos to Antofagasta de la Sierra

Antofagasta de la Sierra is a small town in the Puna de Atacama, in the province of Catamarca, Argentina. It is located at an altitude of 3,512 meters (11,522 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest towns in Argentina.

The town is a popular starting point for expeditions to the nearby Salinas Grandes, the world's third largest salt flat. Antofagasta de la Sierra is also home to a number of historical sites, including the ruins of the Inca settlement of Quilmes.

Language

The official language of Argentina is Spanish. However, many people in the Puna de Atacama also speak Quechua, an indigenous language.

Currency

The official currency of Argentina is the Argentine peso (ARS).

Distance

The distance from Cerrillos to Antofagasta de la Sierra is approximately 300 kilometers (186 miles).

How to Reach

The most common way to get from Cerrillos to Antofagasta de la Sierra is by bus. There are several buses that depart from Cerrillos each day, and the journey takes about 6 hours.

You can also get to Antofagasta de la Sierra by car. The drive takes about 4 hours, but the road is not in good condition and can be dangerous in bad weather.

Expenses

The cost of getting from Cerrillos to Antofagasta de la Sierra will vary depending on the mode of transportation you choose. Bus tickets typically cost between ARS 500 and ARS 1,000, while car rentals cost between ARS 1,500 and ARS 2,500 per day.

Once you are in Antofagasta de la Sierra, the cost of living is relatively low. Food and accommodation are both affordable, and there are a number of free activities to enjoy.

Best time to go

The best time to visit Antofagasta de la Sierra is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. During this time, the weather is mild and sunny, and there is less chance of rain.

What to Eat

Antofagasta de la Sierra is home to a number of traditional Andean dishes. Some of the most popular dishes include:

• Pachamanca: a stew made with meat, vegetables, and potatoes cooked in a hole in the ground
• Humitas: cornmeal dumplings filled with meat or cheese
• Tamales: cornmeal dough filled with meat or vegetables, wrapped in corn husks and steamed
• Locro: a thick soup made with corn, beans, and meat

Where to Go

There are a number of things to see and do in Antofagasta de la Sierra. Some of the most popular attractions include:

• The Salinas Grandes: the world's third largest salt flat
• The ruins of the Inca settlement of Quilmes
• The Laguna Blanca: a salt lake with a high concentration of minerals
• The Ojos del Salar: a series of salt lakes located in the middle of the Salinas Grandes

FAQ

1. What is the altitude of Antofagasta de la Sierra? 3,512 meters (11,522 feet) above sea level.
2. What is the best way to get from Cerrillos to Antofagasta de la Sierra? By bus.
3. How much does it cost to get from Cerrillos to Antofagasta de la Sierra? Bus tickets typically cost between ARS 500 and ARS 1,000.
4. What is the best time to visit Antofagasta de la Sierra? During the dry season, which runs from April to October.
5. What are some of the most popular dishes in Antofagasta de la Sierra? Pachamanca, humitas, tamales, and locro.