Standing at the Devil’s Throat: Salta’s Red-Rock Amphitheater
A compact red-rock theater where wind and water read the script—short hikes, bold views, and a taste of Cafayate wine country.
You arrive by road through an unspooling landscape of rust and ocher—long, low ridges scoring the horizon, baked scrub clinging to shallow soil. The Ruta 68 shoulder widens into a small pullout, and the first look is cinematic: a yawning cleft in a sandstone wall, vertical and narrow, the rock face smoothed by millennia of wind and water into a throat that seems to inhale the sky. Up close the Devil’s Throat (Garganta del Diablo) feels less like a monument than a diplomat: stern and eloquent, inviting a conversation about time, water, and tectonics.
Trail Wisdom
Start early or late
Golden-hour light brings out the canyon’s reds; mornings and late afternoons are quieter and cooler.
Bring 1–2 liters of water
There’s no reliable water on site—hydrate before and carry enough for the walk and heat.
Good footwear matters
Packed dirt and loose rock require trail shoes with grip—avoid flip-flops.
Watch the weather
Summer storms can produce flash floods—avoid narrow gullies if storms are forecast.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Walk to adjacent ridgelines for quieter panoramas away from the main viewpoint
- •Stop at the lesser-known Los Castillos formation nearby for sculpted spires and unique angles
Wildlife
Andean condor (occasionally), Guanacos and small ground-dwelling birds like the rhea in open flats
Conservation Note
Erosion is ongoing; stick to established trails and avoid climbing fragile formations—tourism that respects paths helps preserve the geology and supports local conservation efforts.
The formations are part of Quebrada de las Conchas, a corridor shaped by ancient river systems and used historically by indigenous Diaguita-Calchaquí communities and, later, Spanish colonial routes.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: mild hiking, wildflower display, photography
Challenges: variable temperatures, windy afternoons
Spring (Sept–Nov) offers comfortable temps and clear light—ideal for hiking and photography, though wind can be brisk.
summer
Best for: lush canyon contrasts, long daylight, birdwatching
Challenges: afternoon storms, higher temperatures
Summer brings intense sun and the chance of quick storms; plan hikes for early morning to avoid rush-hour weather.
fall
Best for: stable weather, clear skies, vineyard visits
Challenges: cooler nights, shorter days
Autumn is settled and scenic—vineyards around Cafayate are active and the air is crisp for afternoon exploration.
winter
Best for: solitude, clear, dry days, sharp photographic light
Challenges: cold mornings, limited services in small towns
Winter delivers cold mornings but excellent visibility; pack warm layers for early starts and evenings.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Trail shoesEssential
Grip and ankle support on sandy, uneven trails make the short hike safer and more comfortable.
Sun protectionEssential
Wide-brim hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses protect against intense high-altitude sun.
Water reservoir or bottlesEssential
Carry at least 1–2 liters per person—no reliable water sources at the viewpoint.
Light wind jacket or layers
Temperatures swing quickly; thin, packable layers keep you comfortable from dawn to dusk.
Common Questions
How long is the walk to Devil’s Throat?
The most-used viewpoint is about 800 meters round-trip with roughly 50–80 meters of elevation gain; more extensive circuits through the amphitheater can take 2–3 hours.
Can I visit Devil’s Throat on a day trip from Salta?
Yes—many guided and self-drive itineraries include Devil’s Throat on the route between Salta and Cafayate; expect a full-day outing if you include multiple stops.
Is the trail suitable for kids or older visitors?
The short viewpoint is family-friendly but involves uneven ground; watch small children near drop-offs and choose a shorter route if mobility is limited.
Are there entrance fees or permits?
There’s no formal entrance fee for the viewpoint, but some nearby protected areas may charge; check local tourist information and respect signage.
When is the best time of day to photograph the formation?
Early morning and late afternoon golden hours provide the richest colors and longest shadows; midday light is harsher and flattens textures.
Are there guided tours available?
Yes—local operators in Salta and Cafayate run guided land-tour stops and interpretive walks; hiring a guide supports local communities and enhances understanding of the geology and culture.
What to Pack
Water (1–2 L), sun protection (hat/sunscreen), trail shoes (traction), light layers (temperature swings)
Did You Know
Quebrada de las Conchas’ dramatic sandstone shapes were carved by rivers and wind over millions of years and form part of a geological corridor studied by paleontologists for Cenozoic-era deposits.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Hire a local guide for deeper context; 2) Plan stops along Ruta 68 to spread visits and avoid crowds; 3) Carry cash for small shops in Cafayate; 4) Top up fuel—services are sparse between towns.
Local Flavor
Pair canyon visits with a stop in Cafayate to taste Torrontés wines and enjoy regional empanadas; small family-run bodegas and artisan markets provide a direct cultural connection.
Logistics Snapshot
Getting there: drive Ruta 68 from Salta or Cafayate; parking at pullouts; trail type: short dirt paths and viewing platforms; services: limited—bring water and snacks; best time: early morning or late afternoon.
Sustainability Note
Stay on marked paths, avoid touching fragile sandstone, and choose local guides and lodging to keep economic benefits in nearby communities and reduce pressure on the landscape.