Planning Your Hike to Los Gigantes

Getting to the mountains requires a bit of planning from Córdoba city. Most hikers start their journey early in the morning. The drive takes about two hours via Tanti. You will likely need to explore car rental in Cordoba tips to find a reliable vehicle. The roads can be rocky and winding as you climb higher. High-clearance vehicles are often recommended for the final stretch.

Registration is mandatory for all visitors entering the private reserves. You must sign in at the base station, usually at Casas Nuevas or La Rotunda. This ensures safety and helps local authorities track hikers. There is typically a small maintenance fee to enter the trails. This money supports trail upkeep and local conservation efforts. Always check the current status with the Agencia Córdoba Turismo before you depart.

There are two main access points for these trails. Casas Nuevas is the northern entrance and leads to the Valle de los Lisos. La Rotunda serves the southern routes and the classic mountaineering paths. Both spots offer basic amenities like parking and simple food. You can also find lodging options if you plan to stay overnight. Booking ahead is wise during peak weekend periods in 2026.

9 Incredible Los Gigantes Trekking Routes

The massif is famous for its labyrinthine rock formations and high-altitude scenery. Here are the top routes you should consider for your next visit.

1. Name: Cerro Mogote
   Type: sight
   Why go: This is the highest peak in the Los Gigantes massif. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the entire Punilla Valley.
   Best for: Experienced hikers
   Where: Northern Sector (Casas Nuevas)
   Time: 6-8 hours round trip
   Cost: Low entry fee
   Getting there: Start at Casas Nuevas and follow the cairns.
   Tip: Use a GPS as the trail can be hard to find in fog.
2. Name: Valle de los Lisos
   Type: experience
   Why go: A stunning high-altitude valley with over 100 private canyons. The green meadows contrast beautifully with the grey granite.
   Best for: Nature photographers
   Where: Casas Nuevas area
   Time: Full day
   Cost: Moderate (includes guide fee)
   Getting there: Accessible only via private guided tours from the base.
   Tip: This is one of the top attractions near Cordoba for geological wonders.
3. Name: El Gorila Rock
   Type: sight
   Why go: A famous natural rock formation that looks exactly like a gorilla. It is a popular spot for iconic photos.
   Best for: Casual hikers
   Where: Central massif
   Time: 4 hours
   Cost: Included in entry
   Getting there: Follow the main path from La Rotunda.
   Tip: Look for the formation on the skyline as you approach the main valley.
4. Name: Cerro de la Cruz
   Type: viewpoint
   Why go: A shorter summit hike that provides a great sense of the mountain scale. The cross at the top is a local landmark.
   Best for: Half-day trips
   Where: Southern Sector
   Time: 3-4 hours
   Cost: Low entry fee
   Getting there: Begin the ascent from the La Rotunda base.
   Tip: High winds are common here, so bring a windbreaker.
5. Name: Cascada de los Cóndores
   Type: experience
   Why go: A beautiful waterfall where you can often spot Andean condors soaring above. It is a peaceful spot for a picnic.
   Best for: Wildlife enthusiasts
   Where: Eastern slopes
   Time: 5 hours
   Cost: Low entry fee
   Getting there: Accessible via the Sendero Norte.
   Tip: Bring binoculars to see the condor nests on the cliffs.
6. Name: Refugio Nores
   Type: sight
   Why go: An iconic mountain shelter that serves as a hub for climbers. It represents the history of mountaineering in Córdoba.
   Best for: History buffs
   Where: High plateau
   Time: 4 hours
   Cost: Free to visit (fee for overnight)
   Getting there: Follow the primary trail from the southern base.
   Tip: Check if the refuge is manned if you plan to stay.
7. Name: Sendero del Condor
   Type: activity
   Why go: This route focuses on the high ridges where condors are most active. The views into the deep ravines are spectacular.
   Best for: Bird watchers
   Where: High ridges
   Time: 6 hours
   Cost: Included in entry
   Getting there: Connects various high paths from the northern entrance.
   Tip: Patience is key; condors usually appear after midday warmth.
8. Name: Quebrada de la Luna
   Type: activity
   Why go: A narrow gorge that offers a different perspective of the granite walls. It feels like a hidden world away from the peaks.
   Best for: Those seeking solitude
   Where: Western edge
   Time: 5 hours
   Cost: Low entry fee
   Getting there: Requires a short drive from the main Tanti road.
   Tip: Wear waterproof boots as you may cross small streams.
9. Name: Cerro el Galo
   Type: viewpoint
   Why go: Offers a unique perspective of the "Gigante" profile from the south. The trail is less crowded than Cerro Mogote.
   Best for: Families with teens
   Where: Southern sector
   Time: 4 hours
   Cost: Included in entry
   Getting there: Departure from the La Rotunda area.
   Tip: This is a great alternative to Quebrada del Condorito hiking if you want more rocks.

Essential Gear and Safety for 2026

The weather in the Sierras Grandes can change in minutes. Even in summer, temperatures can drop rapidly at night. You must carry a waterproof jacket and extra layers. Sturdy trekking boots with good grip are essential for the granite. The rock can be very slippery when wet or icy. Always carry at least two liters of water for the day.

Navigation can be tricky because of the many rock labyrinths. Low clouds often reduce visibility to just a few meters. If you are not experienced, consider hiring a local guide. Guides know the secret paths and safe passages through the rocks. They also provide interesting stories about the local geology and history. Many guides are based in Villa Carlos Paz or Tanti.

Always tell someone your planned route before you start. Mobile phone signal is very weak or non-existent in the valleys. Bring a physical map or a downloaded offline GPS track. If you get lost, stay in one place and seek shelter. The terrain is complex and it is easy to become disoriented. Following the stone cairns is helpful but not always reliable in fog.

Best Times to Visit the Sierras Grandes

Spring and autumn are the best seasons for Los Gigantes trekking routes in 2026. From September to November, the wildflowers begin to bloom. The temperatures are mild and perfect for long days on the trail. Autumn, from March to May, offers stable weather and clear skies. You will see the landscape turn golden and orange during these months. It is the most photogenic time to visit the massif.

Summer can be very hot, especially during the midday sun. Sudden thunderstorms are common and can make the trails dangerous. However, the mountain streams provide a refreshing break from the heat. Winter brings the possibility of snow and freezing temperatures. Trekking in winter requires specialized cold-weather gear and more experience. Always check the official Visit Argentina site for seasonal travel alerts.

Weekends are the busiest times for these popular routes. Many locals from Córdoba city visit the mountains on Sundays. If you prefer peace and quiet, try to visit during the week. You will likely have the summits and valleys to yourself. Early morning starts are always recommended to beat the heat and crowds. Aim to be on the trail by 8:00 AM for the best results.