A route that's infectious with adventure
The Sierras Grandes of Cordoba, or Sierras de los Comechingones, have always been a huge draw for hiking lovers. It's the highest summit in Cordoba province. 80% of ascents of the Champaqui are done via its eastern slope, from the Calamuchita Valley, generally starting from Villa Alpina. However, the routes that let you reach the upper ridge of the hills from the west, that is from Traslasierra, have a much more adventurous, special character, and the difficulty increases due to the large elevation gain to overcome (around 1500 m from the base).
In this case, the plan is to complete a beautiful traverse, linking the two valleys and, in the middle, reaching the province's highest summit, connecting the mountain village of Los Hornillos, very close to the La Vina Dam, with La Cumbrecita, the village that always brings to mind the Europe of the Swiss and Austrian Alps, very close to Villa General Belgrano, the end of the adventure.
Day-by-day itinerary and information
Map:
In Red: The first day
In White: Second day
In Green: Third day
Purple and yellow: other routes from the west
Day 1: Meeting point in Los Hornillos, exact spot to be agreed. Gear check and departure for the first leg of the route. A significant climb into the hills that slowly reveals great views of the vast Traslasierra Valley, including the towns of Nono, Villa Las Rosas, Los Hornillos, Los Molles and the La Vina Dam. Once we reach the highest point of the route, we enter a flat area, even with some descent, until we reach the outpost and mountain refuge.
Starting elevation: 1000 masl
Maximum elevation: 2500 masl
Refuge elevation: 2300 masl
Net trekking hours: 10
Day 2: We'll dedicate this day to a loop route, including ascents of Cerro de la Totora, the Champaqui, and other peaks on the range's summit circuit. We'll see the Champaqui's summit lagoon and enjoy the whole high-sierra area; possible condor sightings. Return to the refuge via the base and an area with numerous classic refuges. Rest and a farewell dinner in the mountains, at the refuge.
Starting and ending elevation: 2300 masl
Maximum elevation (Champaqui summit): 2780 masl
Trekking hours: 5
Day 3: We'll cross a long stretch of the large flat area known as PAMPA DE ACHALA, with high-altitude vegetation and striking geological formations with rocks combining mica, feldspar and quartz (granite). We'll then begin a descent through a valley toward the La Cumbrecita area. Along the way we'll visit some waterfalls and get other great views of the region. Pine forests, more fertile valleys and numerous streams fill the landscape. We finally reach the beautiful village of La Cumbrecita. Transfer to Villa General Belgrano. End of the route and of our services.
Starting elevation: 2300 masl
Maximum elevation: 2500 masl
Final elevation (La Cumbrecita): 1350 masl
Net trekking hours: 10
