Flanking the winding RP 33 from Salta to Cachi across the Cuesta del Obispo, this takes its name from the cardón (candelabra cactus), the park’s most striking plant species. The most picturesque part is the Valle Encantado, accessed via a 4km track (driveable) at Km61. A few further miradores (viewpoints) are signposted along the road, and a couple of short interpretative trails from along the straight stretch Recta de Tin-Tin. There's a modern park office in Payogasta, 11km north of Cachi.
Take plenty of water and protect yourself from the sun. Buses between Salta and Cachi will stop for you, but verify times in advance.
In the treeless Andean foothills and puna, the cardón has long been an important source of timber for rafters, doors, windows and more. You see it often in the region’s traditional buildings.
