Dique El Cajón
Reservoir surrounded by mountains. Kayaking, sport fishing and beaches with spectacular views.
El Dique El Cajón, whose official name is Embalse Heralio Argañaraz, is a mountain reservoir nestled north of the Valle de Punilla, a few kilometers from the center of Capilla del Monte. It is a double-curvature arch concrete dam that impounds the waters of the río Dolores, surrounded by a landscape of sierras and native vegetation. It is a quiet place, still not as crowded as other Córdoba reservoirs, ideal for those seeking nature and non-motorized water sports. Its waters are used for fishing silverside and carp, kayaking, canoeing, windsurfing and stand-up paddleboarding, while on the shore there are beach areas, lakeside trails for walking, and birdwatching spots. It combines the function of a drinking water reserve with a growing tourist attraction.
What makes this place unique
- Quiet mountain reservoir surrounded by hills
- Fishing for silverside, carp, and catfish
- Kayaking, canoeing, windsurfing, and stand-up paddleboarding (non-motorized navigation)
- Lakeside trail and beach areas for walking and relaxing
- View of the dam wall and the rock formation El Zapato
A bit of history
The dam project was born with the idea of ensuring drinking water for Capilla del Monte and San Marcos Sierras, optimizing irrigation in the area, and controlling floods of the Dolores River, which during rainy seasons could be dangerous. The construction of the wall was carried out between 1987 and 1993, the year the reservoir was inaugurated. The structure is a concrete arch dam supported on granite terrain, with a height of about 39 meters and a crest length of around 67 meters. Its official name, Embalse Heralio Argañaraz, pays tribute to that local figure, although it is popularly known simply as Dique El Cajón.
URI's tips
Motor navigation and the use of flammable liquids are not allowed, so it is a place designed for non-motorized water sports like rowing or sailing. It is best to approach via El Zapato Complex, where you can park for free and get a good viewpoint. If you go fishing or kayaking, check beforehand about rentals at the local fishing club. Bring everything you need, as services in the area are basic.
What to bring
Sunscreen, hat, and water, comfortable footwear for walking along the shore, fishing gear if you plan to fish, a change of clothes and swimsuit in summer, and your own kayak or board if they are not rented on site.
This is what El Cajón looks like
How to get to Dique El Cajón
3 km from downtown Capilla del Monte. Between 5 and 10 minutes by car; about 40 to 50 minutes on foot.
It is about 3 km from the center of Capilla del Monte. It can be reached by car, walking or biking, as the distance is short. The main access is via Ruta Nacional 38; from the downtown area, head towards the Complejo El Zapato sector, where there is free parking and a good view of the wall. The final stretch combines paved road with dirt and gravel roads leading to the shore.
Hiking routes around El Cajón
Data from the Wikiloc community. Always check conditions and entry hours.
What everyone asks
How far is Dique El Cajón from the center of Capilla del Monte?
It is approximately 3 km from the center, about 5 to 10 minutes by car, and you can even get there on foot or by bicycle.
Can you fish and kayak at the dam?
Yes. It is a popular spot for fishing silverside and carp, and kayaking, canoeing, windsurfing, and other non-motorized water sports are practiced.
Are motorboats allowed?
No. Motor navigation and the use of flammable liquids are prohibited; only non-motorized craft such as kayaks, rowboats, and paddleboards are allowed.
