Located at the foot of Cerro Parkinson, in the middle of the desert, you can find the Environmental Complex Anchipurac in San Juan. The park has become a reference for environmental education and sustainable tourism in Latin America.
What was once the largest open-air dump in the province of San Juan is now an innovative center for environmental awareness, a true example of ecological and social transformation.
From dump to ecological park model
The reconversion of this property in Rivadavia is a success case recognized internationally. The process began with the closure and remediation of the old dump, which posed a serious environmental and health risk.
The environmental complex of San Juan. (Photo: anchipurac).
Subsequently, a sustainable construction was undertaken, creating a space that not only restores a degraded area but also gives it new meaning as a living laboratory of sustainability.
The facilities of the complex were designed based on principles of bioclimatic architecture, using local materials and renewable energies such as photovoltaic solar and geothermal. The design includes features such as:
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Thermal insulation: 40% of the main building is underground to maintain an optimal temperature.
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Natural lighting: solar light is maximized thanks to its location and ventilation systems.
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Resource management: gray water is reused and clean energies are used.
Anchipurac: more than a visitor center
How the transformation was. (Photo: anchipurac).
Beyond its educational tours and workshops for schools, Anchipurac is a hub for research and development. It collaborates with institutions such as CONICET to host projects of great relevance, including:
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An Environmental Monitoring Center that collects data on San Juan’s natural resources.
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A Climate Change Agency that studies its impacts and proposes mitigation strategies.
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An Urban Solid Waste Observatory focused on innovation for waste management.
Additionally, the property has an Environmental Technologies Park where waste from nine municipalities is managed and recycled. Soon, companies and cooperatives will be incorporated to create products from recycled materials, promoting the circular economy.
Plan your visit to this sustainability example
The Anchipurac Environmental Complex is open to the general public and to scientists. It is a perfect destination for an educational and leisure outing, demonstrating that it is possible to turn waste into opportunities.
How to get there
You can access by private vehicle, by transportation from the Ministry of Tourism and Culture of San Juan, by bicycle, or by walking from the Jardín de los Poetas.
Hours and tickets
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Monday to Friday: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm.
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Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays: 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm.
Tickets for the indoor tour are purchased online, with affordable costs ranging from $1000 to $3000. The outdoor tour is free and can be done with the assistance of a guide.
It is recommended to book in advance and consider that the indoor tour is suitable for ages 12 and older.
