The first idea
It started with one point on the map: Antofagasta de la Sierra. We wanted to link volcanoes, salt flats, and Campo de Piedra Pómez in a route that was demanding but possible.
Four trips, different answers
Between 2021 and 2023 we rode Catamarca in different seasons, testing roads, river crossings, fuel, and lodging. Each trip showed something new. Sometimes we confirmed. Sometimes we cut.
Before launching Catamarca
Volcanes del Norte had three versions. Real field tests, route notes, and months of planning shaped the final version.
Balanced route
The tour needed contrast. We balanced the route by adding mountain sections and greener landscapes such as Cuesta Minas Capillitas and Cuesta de Chilca, set against the desert vastness of Catamarca. We also adjusted the pace by combining calmer days with more demanding stages.
We came back, adjusted, improved
Routes have a direction. The landscape lands differently, the riding changes, and so does the difficulty. We rode variants, reversed stages, and adjusted the route until it found the right balance. That is how the final route was built.
The route in numbers
4 scouting trips, 5 variants tested, 2 test runs, 4 adjustments, 2 circuits ruled out
Sections ruled out
Campo de Piedra Pómez via the Las Papas sand fields
One of the most spectacular variants to reach Campo de Piedra Pómez. During rainy season, access through Las Papas can become impassable, and the long sand fields require real riding experience. Ruled out for technical difficulty.
Volcán Peinado
One of the most powerful places in Catamarca, ruled out because of extreme conditions. Absolute isolation, high altitude, and an 11-hour riding day over every type of terrain. An incredible experience, but too demanding for this tour.
Laguna Verde
After Balcón del Pissis we explored continuing toward Laguna Negra and Laguna Verde. We ruled out that variant because the day would be too long and physically demanding. We chose to protect the overall pace of the trip and the quality of the ride.
Cuesta de Zapata
A fun section linking Tinogasta with Belén. It was planned for the third day of the tour, but we cut it because the riders needed a recovery day.
Volcán Galán
Riding inside the volcano is a rare feeling. Although we explored adding it to this route, it finally stayed out because of its technical difficulty and physical demand. Today it belongs to our Minas y Arenales tour.
