Pómez Stone Field

Campo de Piedra Pómez is located in the department of Antofagasta de la Sierra, in the province of Catamarca. The color of the stone and the rock formations carved capriciously by nature make it a dazzling and curious landscape. The Punctual atmosphere brings some spectacularity, whose immensity leaves no one indifferent.


It's all pómez stone
This destination has been a Protected Natural Area since 2012 and is characterized by soil aridity, high thermal amplitude and low rainfall. The territory of the catamaran point is arid, with strong winds, pastel-colored mountains and unrivalled landscape beauty at an altitude of 3300 meters above sea level. Traveling from the south on Route 43, the dunes begin to be projected as a preview of the elongated slopes and valleys of the puna. The must-see places to stop and take photos are Cuesta de Randolfo, Dunes of the Deceased and Laguna Blanca.

On the catamaran point, the landscape could simulate another planet, with pink, ochre and yellow reliefs, silent and solitary, where everything is pómez stone. The territory has an area of 25 km and is the result of volcanic activity thousands of years ago. These wonderful witnesses include Antofagasta, Robledo, Volcán Galán and La Alumbrera. Diamante Lagoon is located at the foot of The Galán Volcano and is a refuge for ducks and flamingos.

The nearest town is El Peñón, on provincial route 43, a haven surrounded by hills and rocks. With the arrival of visitors, it became the hub to make night when visiting the Pómez Stone Field or hiring excursions.

The ways to get to the countryside are vehicle 4×4, high mountain bikes, quad bikes, respecting the indications on the footprints and roads enabled. Once in the countryside, the car is parked and walked. The promenade has several circuits, such as "Giants of Pómez Stone", "La Lagunita Escondida" and "Balcones de Laguna Purulla".

The whole point is sensitive to the passage of tourism and the roads can be more challenging than expected, so it is recommended to start an excursion with guide or Baqueano that can be hired in El Peñón, even in Antofagasta. On the other hand, the climate adds an extra seasoning to resist atmospheric pressure and decreased oxygen by height. To travel to the puna it is necessary to take all the collections and, particularly for this walk to the Pómez Stone Field, give notice of the entry into park rangers of El Peñón.