At 2000 m.a.s.l. Ocloyas is a typical village of the Jujuy valley, in the mountainous part of Zapla surrounded by a mountainous area which shields it, keeping its climate mild and temperate. It soil is rich in iron and contrasts with the exuberant vegetation.

It is very difficult to describe the landscape of Ocloyas. It is framed by steep mountains with cascading rivers running downhill, and the hills blend in with the mountain streams, all making a picture of splendid beauty.

There is a great variety of tree species: walnuts, ceibas, Tipas, mountain pines, alders and lapachos which give way to pines and eucalyptus trees which permit the exploitation of timber and charcoal.

As to wildlife you will find wild boars, agoutis, Cay monkeys, guans, pumas, foxes, partridges, chalchaleros, humming birds and baker birds (Furnarius rufus). Both animals and plants find here an ideal habitat to develop their lifecycles. .

In short, Ocloyas is an ideal region for the promotion of activities such as sport fishing, water sports and tourism. Among many activities we can but mention walks, horseback rides, Mountain Bike and Photo safaris.

We recommend those travellers that want to travel into the area to hire the services of a professional local guide.

HOW TO GET THERE
Leaving San Salvador de Jujuy down Ruta Nacional Nē 9 National Route (or the Ruta Provincial Nē 35 Provincial Route) and then down Ruta Provincial Nē 29 Provincial Route, a gravel road. If you want to go by bus you should go to the bus terminal in San Salvador de Jujuy, where there are daily departures to Ocloyas by the following bus companies: Mariscal and 23 de Agosto.

TOURIST SERVICES IN THE AREA

The Barro Blanco Complex
It is located 18 kilometres from Ocloyas. It offers camping sites, bathrooms, picnic tables and barbecue grills, and all the necessary to enjoy a sunny day in the countryside. Among the activities that you can practise here there is horseback riding, trekking, observation of flora and fauna and photography.

Contact person: Mariano Berrastro. Tel.: 0388-4238292.

The Tata Balta Complex
It is located at 36 kilometres from Ocloyas. It offers mountain slope paths, covered with vegetation; or walking or horseback excursions by the riverside, ideal for photography buffs and birdwatchers. There are also opportunities for sport fishing and the opportunity to taste and buy handmade products from the region in the so-called area of "El Quirusillal".

Contact person: Santos Suruguay. Tel.: 0388-4262127 / 4226413.

The Trigo Pampa Complex
An ideal area for walks, horseback rides, photo safaris, the opportunity to get close to the original inhabitants at an archaeological site and the possibility to take energising baths.

Contact person: Elva Bedia. Tel.: 388-4263249.