Parque provincial Laguna Pintascayo

Parque Provincial Laguna Pintascayo is a protected area in Salta Province featuring subtropical forests, wetlands, and the Pescado River running along its western edge. Dense riverside woodlands of native willow and cherry trees line the waterways throughout the park.

Laguna Pintascayo was created by artificial diversion of the Iruya River in the 1800s, which generated erosion patterns that carved out the canyon seen today. This river engineering altered the landscape permanently and continues to shape water conditions in the park.

The name Pintascayo comes from the Quechua language and refers to reed beds or fishing tools used by indigenous communities. This meaning shows how closely local people have always been connected to the waters that define this region.

The park is accessible year-round, with temperatures varying between cool winters and warm summers. Visitors should prepare for wet conditions and frequent rainfall that keep the ground soft and vegetation abundant.

The protected area is home to jaguars, tapirs, caimans, and capybaras living in the dense forests. These large animals are rarely spotted, but their presence shows the park remains a vital refuge for endangered species.