El Encón brings together a clear connection to nature, rural heritage, and Enduro competitions: Finca La Banda is designated as a protected area, the Tambo and Casco at Club de Campo El Encón serve different purposes, and the “Michi Echazú” Circuit is associated with competition dates. When choosing a destination, it helps to distinguish between nature conservation, former agricultural use, and dated motorsport events.
Protected Area and Connection to Nature
Finca La Banda is a private protected area in the “Reserva Natural de Uso Múltiple” category. Its protected status was established by a provincial decree in 2017; the same decree lists its area as 121.27 hectares. The estate borders the Reserva Finca Las Costas and is intended to serve as a buffer zone for the provincial reserve.
Rural Heritage and a Culinary Offering
At Club de Campo El Encón, the old Tambo has been set up as a leisure space. The Casco de Estancia is part of the property’s former agricultural heritage. A specific dining option adds to this rural perspective: a snack for two at Finca Valentina Casa de Campo includes a continental snack to share, two hot drinks, a glass of fruit juice, toast, and a handmade sweet. Check availability before your trip.
Enduro at the “Michi Echazú” Circuit
The “Michi Echazú” Circuit is located in El Encón. In May 2018, it was scheduled to host a round of the Argentine Enduro Championship; the interprovincial Jujeño-Salteño competition was also due to take place there. Three 16-kilometer laps were planned for the races announced for 2018. Another event was scheduled for August 8 and 9, 2026: the first round of the NOA Enduro Clausura competition. Riders from various provinces of Argentina’s northwest were expected to take part. The two dates belong to different competition periods; the lap length refers to the races announced for 2018.
Culture and Cuisine in the Rosario De Lerma Department
The Rosario De Lerma Department offers other distinct topics to explore. The pre-Columbian settlement of Santa Rosa de Tastil dates from the 14th to 15th century; the Museo de sitio Tastil displays pieces and objects from the nearby archaeological site. In Rosario de Lerma, the Cementerio del Pueblo is more than 150 years old. The church there was built in the 18th century; its present-day appearance began to take shape around 1940. A pre-Columbian settlement and a church whose present appearance took shape later offer different ways into the area’s history.
Food and festival culture also have their own forms in the Rosario De Lerma Department. The gastronomic tour in Rosario de Lerma offers live preparation and baking of empanadas and tamales on weekends. “Rosario le Canta a la Patria” takes place annually on the eve of May 25 and is free of charge; the summer corsos feature comparsas, murgas, floats, and costumes. For nature and outdoor activities, the country roads between Carabajal and El Corralito are suitable for trekking; conditions can vary seasonally. From Rosario de Lerma, an old mule or cattle trail leads to Cerro Negro on horseback or by mule; access depends on local conditions.
Discover more destinations: San Juan De Dios, Chicoana, El Molino, San Ramón De La Nueva Orán, Cachí, Cafayate, Antilla, El Chañar
For the broader travel overview: Salta.
