Mysteries surround 1949m Cerro Uritorco, the highest peak in the Sierras Chicas range, a green giant looming large above Capilla del Monte's landscape. Uritorco’s mystical energy, coupled with the beliefs surrounding the Huella del Pajarillo – the site of an alleged 1986 UFO landing – attract hikers to the challenging 11km trail to the summit, a roundtrip typically taking seven to 10 hours.
Planning for the Summit
The ascent starts 3km east of Capilla del Monte. A blue-colored public bus shuttles between the bus stop at the corner of Plaza St Martín and the reserve roughly once an hour from 9am to 8:10pm. An Uber is best for early-morning departures, but when returning, note that cell-phone coverage is poor at the foot of the mountain. The last bus to town leaves at 8:40pm.
Climbing Uritorco
You’ll need to register and pay the entry fee at the Uritorco Information Point before starting. The 5.5km trail is well-marked and has six rest areas. People over 60 can only go beyond the fifth rest stop, Valle de Espiritus, with a licensed guide; they can be booked via WhatsApp at 3548-608093. Uritorco’s peak is reached with a final slog after the sixth rest stop, Descanso Pampilla. The views are well worth the effort.
Other Activities
Other guided Uritorco experiences include sunset at the top with a night descent, and the "Magical Night," including sunset, camping at the top and sunrise. Non-hikers can enjoy lighter activities such as forest bathing, yoga, meditation and guided walks, which must be prebooked via cerrouritorcoam.com.ar.