Parque Provincial Ischigualasto

Table of Contents

Introduction

The Parque Provincial Ischigualasto, also known as Ischigualasto Provincial Park, is located in the north‑eastern region of San Juan Province in Argentina. Nestled across the departments of Valle Fértil and Jáchal, and edging the province of La Rioja to the north, this remarkable site—commonly referred to as the “Valley of the Moon”—offers visitors an extraordinary opportunity to step back into prehistoric times and marvel at landscapes that echo the dawn of the Triassic era.

About the Museum

Within the park’s traditional three‑hour circuit—travelling approximately forty kilometres and featuring five scenic stops—lies the WILLIAM SILL Site Museum, also known as the Interpretation Centre. This museum is named in honour of Dr. William Dudley Sill, the pioneering researcher instrumental in the park’s creation and its eventual recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Inside the museum, visitors encounter real fossils and gain insight into the meticulous processes of scientific preparation and paleontological work, right “in situ”. Beyond this, the museum’s Interpretation Centre—affiliated with the National University of San Juan—presents the scientific significance of Ischigualasto and visualises the timeline from the Triassic era to present day. Guided by knowledgeable hosts, guests can truly appreciate how fossils are discovered, prepared, and displayed, bridging scientific research with tourist experience.

Interesting Facts

The park was officially declared a protected area by the San Juan provincial government on November 3, 1971, and was later recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site on November 30, 2000.
Visitors embark on the traditional circuit by vehicle and enjoy five distinct stops featuring famous rock formations such as the Mushroom, the Submarine, the Bocce Court, and Painted Valley.
The WILLIAM SILL Site Museum lies midway through the circuit, where real fossils are displayed and the science behind them can be witnessed firsthand.
The Interpretation Centre, managed by the National University of San Juan, provides a vivid educational experience—from the Triassic era up to modern times—through engaging exhibits.
Unique accommodations at the park’s base include mobile‑phone signal (Movistar), Wi‑Fi, restrooms, showers, a confectionery, a craft centre, and a camping area—offering comfort amid rugged beauty.
An exclusive Full Moon Circuit is offered four nights each lunar cycle, combining vehicular travel and trekking through the park’s otherworldly terrain under moonlight.
Other adventurous routes include trekking to the summit of Cerro Morado—at approximately 1790 or 1800 metres—and exploring the Rio Salado trail that leads to a striking waterfall and emerald‑coloured lagoon.

Photo Gallery

Physical Location

Contact Details

Phone: +549 264 457 0879

Website: ischigualasto.gob.ar/en/

Facebook: facebook.com/ppischigualasto/

Conclusion

Exploring the Parque Provincial Ischigualasto is an unforgettable journey that seamlessly blends natural wonder with scientific discovery. From the vividly coloured geo‑formations that earned it the moniker “Valley of the Moon,” to the hands‑on paleontological exhibits housed in the WILLIAM SILL Site Museum and Interpretation Centre, the park invites guests of all ages to witness Earth’s ancient story come to life. Whether traversing its five‑stop traditional circuit, basking in the lunar glow during a full‑moon excursion, ascending Cerro Morado for panoramic views, or discovering the hidden beauty of the Rio Salado trail, visitors are guaranteed an enriching and immersive experience. With modern comforts at hand and world‑renowned scientific heritage underfoot, the Parque Provincial Ischigualasto stands as both a window to our planet’s distant past and a beacon of accessible exploration for today’s traveller.