In the northeastern part of the Province of Salta, there is a world were natural magic and culture combines to offer travellers unique experiences of relaxation, learning and searching within themselves.

Tartagal, along with Orán and Embarcación, constitute the most important urban sub-system of the Salta's northeast. It is an important centre in the relations with Bolivia, which is connected by the road to Yacuiba bound to Santa Cruz de la Sierra.

It was founded in July of 1924 and formally declared a City the 12th of September of 1949. Its name comes from the abundant tártago (Castor oil plant) in the area. It has a big commercial and industrial movement, where the forest exploitations and oil fields stand out.

Tartagal an its surrounding areas have a great natural and historical potential for tourism. Regarding its events, we can talk about consecrated acts summoning multitudes from all over the province, the country, and even neighbouring countries.

The numerous indigenous missions around it spark curiosity. Craftsmanship made by natives out of Palo Santo and balsa wood, can be purchased; as well as textiles and pottery. During the carnival celebrations curiously arranged masquerades take part.

Artistic groups from different places gather together to celebrate the Palo Santo Festival in July. Going through an asphalted road travellers arrive at the Río Bermejo River, where they can practice sport fishing. Those interested can be advised at the Club de Caza y Pesca Tartagal.

Pre-Columbian natives and post-war immigrants set roots in here, leaving an unequalled mixture; they built a typical Latin American bhold. Rich in flavours, colours, artists and stories. It has abundant gas and oil and is eager to develop and progress. Without being officially recognized, we are talking about the economic engine of the Province of Salta.

Lastly it has become the noose of the wide metric international railway axis, connecting the port of Antofagasta, in Chile, with Sao Paulo and Santos in Brazil, running through Argentina, Bolivia and Paraguay. Population: 106580 inhabitants according to the 1991 census made by the General San Martín Department to which it belongs.

SEVEN ABORIGINAL ETHNIC GROUPS
The aboriginal communities, that sum up to seven well identified ethnic groups, are unique in the national ambit for their grade of authenticity; and are extremely valuable as a great American anthropological walking treasure. To appreciate and enjoy their dances, languages, natural dishes, festivities and ceremonies, habits, garments, music and exquisite craftsmanship, allow visitors to be part of these unaltered societies living in a world parallel to ours. History and tradition kept along nomad peoples (hunters and gatherers): Wichi-Matacos, Chorote, Chulupí and Tobas; and sedentary communities (farmers): Guaranies, Chaneses and Chiriguenos.

ACCESS
Tartagal is 350 kilometres away from the City of Salta. It can be accessed by the Ruta Nacional Nº 34 National Route, train or airplane. Bus connections with the provincial capital city and the rest of the country are scheduled daily. There are direct flights from Buenos Aires, Córdoba and other parts of the country to Salta.

EXCURSIONS
The Campamento Vespucio Oil Field (16 Km)
Access is through the Ruta Nacional Nº 34 and the Ruta Provincial Nº 142. It is a petroleum locality head of the Yacimiento Norte (Northern Deposit), belonging to the YPF S.A. oil company.

The Dique Itiyuro Dam
Located in a panoramic area, access is through the Ruta Nacional Nº 34 (46 Km), and then through the Ruta Provincial Nº 56 (4 Km). It has sport fishing and camping areas alongside the Río Caraparí riverbanks.

Profesor Salvador Mazza -Estación Pocitos Station- (54 Km)
Typical frontier town. Access is through Aguaray, and it is an oil field with picturesque places and much visited hot springs. Oil and gas deposits lie under Campo Durán, Icúa and Madrejones.