Cerro Uritorco
The highest hill of the Sierras Chicas (1980 m). Spiritual and UFO center of Argentina. The iconic trekking of the region.
Cerro Uritorco is the highest point of the Sierras Chicas and the most recognizable sight in Capilla del Monte. At almost 1,950 meters above sea level, it dominates the landscape of the Valle de Punilla and stands out against the Calabalumba River as an imposing granite mass that is impossible to ignore. Climbing it is one of the great classics of Córdoba tourism: a moderate-difficulty trek that starts through native forest, continues along rocky trails, and ends at a summit where, on clear days, you can see Capilla del Monte, the area's reservoirs, and mountain ranges that stretch to the horizon. But Uritorco is not just nature and hiking. It is, above all, a magnet for the curious: sightings of strange lights, legends of underground cities, and a mystical fame that have made the hill a destination as sought after by hikers as by those who come looking for something hard to explain.
What makes this place unique
- It is the highest peak of the Sierras Chicas, with panoramic views of the Punilla Valley
- Classic trekking in Córdoba, accessible for those with average physical fitness
- Its mystical fame: UFO legends, energies and the city of Erks
- Starts by crossing the Calabalumba River among native forest
- Ideal summit for photos with the dams and mountain ranges in the background on clear days
A bit of history
Long before the UFO fame, the hill was sacred to the Comechingones, who associated it with water and their ceremonies; the name is interpreted as 'male hill' in their language. Modern mystique exploded in 1986, when a huge scorched grass mark appeared on a nearby elevation, an event that triggered stories of UFOs and energy fields. Added to that was the legend of Erks, a supposed underground or inner-earth city that enhanced the esoteric aura of the place.
URI's tips
Get there as early as possible: entry closes before noon and you have to be back down by mid-afternoon, so it's best to start at 7. Plan for a full day for the activity and don't underestimate the descent, which is hard on the knees. Bring all the water you'll need from the base, because none is available up top, and check updated prices and hours before you go, as they vary by season.
What to bring
At least 2-3 liters of water per person, trekking shoes with good grip, hat and high-factor sunscreen, windbreaker jacket or warm clothing for the summit, energy snacks, and ID. There is no shade or sales stalls along the way.
This is what Uritorco looks like
How to get to Cerro Uritorco
3 km from downtown Capilla del Monte. 10-15 min by car.
From the center of Capilla del Monte, head northeast toward the La Toma neighborhood, following the streets that border the Calabalumba River; it's about 3 km of street and dirt/gravel road in the final stretch. You can walk, take a remis or taxi, or an urban bus that leaves from the vicinity of Plaza San Martín in season. By car, you get to the base area, where there is paid parking. The trailhead is at the base office: there you cross a bridge over the Calabalumba River, pay the entrance fee, and register your details before starting the climb.
Hiking routes around Uritorco
Data from the Wikiloc community. Always check conditions and entry hours.
What everyone asks
How much does it cost to go up Uritorco?
Adult tickets cost ARS 50,000 when purchased online and ARS 42,000 when paying at the base ticket office. For children aged 8 to 15, ARS 45,000 online and ARS 37,000 in cash. Children under 8 cannot go up, and you need to bring an ID to verify age. Parking is paid separately (verified on 14/09/2026).
How long does it take to go up and down?
At a normal pace, the ascent takes about 4 hours and the descent about 3, so you should set aside practically the whole day for the full hike.
Do you need a guide or reservation to go up?
No guide or reservation is required; you can go up on your own by registering at the base. Guide services are available for those who prefer them, and you must respect entry times.
Who takes you
Operators licensed to run activities at Cerro Uritorco.