Full Moon & Colored Mountains: A Journey Through La Rioja

Travel diary of our adventure in La Rioja (Argentina): moonrise over the Ischigualasto desert, geology and silence in Talampaya, altiplano lagoons, the ochre canyon of Famatina, and a group that turned the journey into something unforgettable.

La Rioja - Valle de la Luna

? From Moonlight to Painted Mountains

Nature, history, and a community of travelers made it unforgettable

Each journey has its own rhythm. In this case, La Rioja welcomed us with otherworldly landscapes, stories of land defense, hidden vineyards between mountains, and a group that embraced it all with emotion, awareness, and joy.

Day one set the tone: after hiking the Valley of the Moon in Ischigualasto Provincial Park, a full moon rose slowly behind the ridges at sunset. We stood still in silence. And that was only the beginning.

Talampaya National Park

Talampaya by Daylight... and the Promise of the Night

On day two, we explored Talampaya National Park. We walked through Don Eduardo’s Canyon and admired its majestic geology. That night, we had planned a full moon walk, but clouds had other plans. Still, the group embraced the calm and got some well-deserved rest — day three promised intensity.

Laguna Brava: The High Plateau’s Silence

Day three took us to the highlands of La Rioja. Over 4000 meters above sea level, Laguna Brava revealed its turquoise mirror surrounded by snow-capped peaks, Andean flamingos, and skies that felt within reach. It was a moment for quiet awe and deep breaths. Cameras clicked, but many chose to simply take it in.

That evening, relaxed and happy, we enjoyed a wine tasting at the hotel. A toast to what we’d lived — and what was yet to come.

Cañón del Ocre - Famatina

Famatina: Earth, Color, and the Strongest Day

This journey taught us that there’s always room for one more unforgettable day. For us, that was Famatina.

We hiked through the Ochre Canyon, a canvas of reds, yellows, and oranges under a clear sky. But beyond beauty, we discovered its people’s fight to protect their mountains from mega-mining — a powerful story of resistance and love for the land.

Our group — a beautiful mix of photographers, nature lovers, and curious souls — found something special. Conversations flowed. So did laughter. A perfect ending.

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