Day 1: Arrival reception at San Juan Airport or Bus Terminal. Check-in at your selected hotel. At 2:30 PM, the Grand City Tour begins—a comprehensive urban and scenic immersion that invites you to discover the main landmarks of San Juan's capital. This includes the valuable historical legacy of Sarmiento's Birthplace (Casa Natal de Sarmiento) and the imposing architecture of the Cathedral. The circuit continues with a panoramic view of the avant-garde Teatro del Bicentenario, followed by a deep dive into traditional local flavors with a guided tour and tasting at either the Campo de Olivos olive oil facility or the picturesque Finca Sierras Azules winery. The day culminates by skirting the impressive waters of the Ullum Dam (Dique de Ullum), an oasis nestled between hills that offers unique sunset views before returning to the hotel.Note: The mentioned sites may be replaced by others depending on availability and operating hours.
Day 2: The day begins with breakfast and a morning departure to the charming town of Barreal, traveling along a scenic route that offers stunning, majestic Andean views throughout the entire journey. Upon arrival, check-in at your selected hotel to rest and prepare for a truly unforgettable evening. In the mid-afternoon, we will ascend toward the peaks of El Leoncito National Park to visit either the prestigious CASLEO Astronomical Complex or the CESCO Observatory, world-renowned scientific sanctuaries situated under one of the cleanest, clearest, and most light-pollution-free skies on the planet. The technical tour includes an exciting walk through their state-of-the-art facilities to see the massive main telescope, the sophisticated control room, and various scientific research offices. After enjoying a comforting packed dinner (included) in this privileged setting, the highlight of the night arrives with the long-awaited Stargazing activity: a fascinating astronomical observation session through high-powered equipment, fully accompanied and guided by the observatory's specialized staff, who will reveal the secrets of planets, constellations, and galaxies visible in the breathtaking Cuyo sky before heading back to the hotel in Barreal.
Note: The activity takes place outdoors at the Observatory. We highly recommend bringing adequate warm clothing. If night observation at the Observatories is not possible, the activity will be conducted by a qualified local provider with the same equipment but at a different location in town. This activity is subject to favorable weather conditions.
Day 3: Free day to take an optional excursion, go horseback riding, practice land sailing (carrovelismo), or simply enjoy this beautiful pre-Cordillera town and the surroundings of your inn. After dinner (not included), depart toward Pampa El Leoncito for a Stargazing session under one of the clearest skies in Argentina—this time without equipment, simply embracing the magic of a starlit sky stretching from horizon to horizon. Return to Barreal.
Day 4: Breakfast. In the morning, visit local producers of aromatic herbs and jams, or tour a high-altitude winery. Afterward, depart for San Juan and take your outbound transfer to San Juan Airport.