The Valley of the Moon, located in the province of San Juan, Argentina, is a fascinating place that is part of the Ischigualasto Provincial Park. This site, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2000, stands out as an open-air natural museum with unique rock formations that have been shaped over thousands of years by erosion.
One option to reach this incredible place is to take a bus to San Agustín del Valle Fértil, located 80 km from the park, and from there hire a tour or a taxi. Another alternative is to drive along National Route 40 from San Juan Capital, covering approximately 330 km, or from La Rioja Capital, with a journey of about 250 km.
Traveling along National Route 150 offers a surreal landscape with ancient rock formations, fossilized remains of dinosaurs, and mountains that change color with the sunlight. One of the most notable spots in the park is the Bochas Court, where perfectly round rock spheres can be observed, a result of erosion and sedimentation over the years.
Additionally, in the Valley of the Moon is The Submarine, a rock formation resembling a submarine emerging from the earth, with layers of different colors revealing the geological history of the place. Another iconic formation is The Mushroom, a rock with a narrow base and broad top sculpted by natural elements, resembling a giant petrified mushroom.
Despite the richness of this site, access to Ischigualasto Park via public transport is not possible, so it is necessary to coordinate in advance with local agencies to enjoy this natural and paleontological wonder.
