Yacoraite Formation, Sedimentary rock formation in Jujuy Province, Argentina.
The Yacoraite Formation consists of alternating layers of sandstone and limestone stretching from Salta through the Quebrada de Humahuaca toward the Bolivian Altiplano. The rocks contain fossilized footprints and remains of marine creatures from the Mesozoic era.
These rock layers formed about 75 million years ago during the Late Cretaceous period, when a sea still covered this region. The arrangement and composition of the layers show how the marine environment changed over time.
Researchers from around the world come to study the preserved traces of dinosaurs and marine creatures found in the rocks here. These investigations help people understand how this region was once covered by an ancient sea.
The site sits at high elevation in the mountains and can be reached through several observation points that let visitors view the different rock layers. Good footwear and preparation for thin air matter, since the area lies at considerable elevation.
Here you find dinosaur footprints next to traces of sea creatures like ancient sharks and fish in the same rock layer. This rare mixing shows how quickly life and the environment shifted in this region.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
