Argentina - Los Cardones National Park

Los Cardones is a national park in the province of Salta, between the city of Salta and Cachi. The park has an area of more than 65.000 hectares, with hills and ravines at elevations between 2.700 and 5.000 meters. This national park was created in 1996, when it was acquired by the park administration from private owners.

The national park got its name from the cardón (candelabra cactus or thistle), which is its dominant plant species. The column-like cactus plant has long been an important source of timber for rafters, doors, windows and more in the region. During its lifetime of 250 to 300 years the cactus can grow up to 12 meters.

From Salta the park is accessible through the wonderful Cuesta del Obispo
( www.ipernity.com/doc/294067/48959158 ); after passing Piedra del Molino the straight road called Recta del Tin-Tin crosses the park with cactus groves on both sides of the road.