A few kilometers south of Camarones, in the province of Chubut, the Blue Route unfolds as a road that leads to vastness. 15 kilometers from the town, a century-old willow stands as a witness to time. Here is the Cañadón del Sauce, a rugged camping site that invites you to explore the wildlife and connect with nature in its purest state.
Germán Lafuente, in charge of the Patagonia Azul campings, describes it enthusiastically: “The Cañadón del Sauce is a camping site in a rocky environment with an incredible artificial lagoon. It is free, rustic, and full of wild fauna that can be seen in every corner.”
Cañadón del Sauce: a unique experience under the stars
Camping at Cañadón del Sauce means surrendering to the essence of the universe. Tents are sheltered in corners surrounded by native flora, some even inside caves carved by time in the rock. “Sleeping here is lying down under a blanket of stars that surround the entire canyon. Upon waking up, the birdsong, the humid breeze from the lagoon, and the dew provide you with an unparalleled experience,” details Lafuente.
The public that visits the place is as diverse as its fauna and the possibility to explore it. From Camarones’ neighbors seeking a break to climbers, international travelers, biologists, and families who find here a resting space.
Services and preparation for camping
Although rugged, the camping site has basic services that guarantee a comfortable stay: eight equipped camping areas with tables and benches, dry and wet toilets, hot showers, Wi-Fi connection at the information center, and a community bonfire area styled like an amphitheater under the stars. Additionally, there are four viewpoints with short trails ideal for exploring the lagoon and admiring the stunning canyon landscape.
Visitors are recommended to bring drinking water, suitable clothing to protect themselves from thorns, good footwear for walking on rocky terrain, and a camera to capture the landscapes. “We often think we need a lot to be comfortable in nature, but it’s quite the opposite. The goal is to have the least impact possible while enjoying the experience,” reflects Lafuente.
Exploring and connecting with wild fauna
The true charm of Cañadón del Sauce lies in its vibrant ecosystem. On the cliff walls, hawks and buzzards find refuge, while in the nearby lagoon, less than 300 meters from the camping site, waterfowl create their own sanctuary.
“The willow tree hosts several species such as burrowing parrots, typical owls of the region. It is also common to see guanacos and lesser rheas. Lesser rheas usually rest among the valley’s grasslands, and there is nothing more special than waking up next to one of them,” Lafuente recounts.
An unforgettable scene for campers is the spectacle offered by the guanacos when they form a line on the cliff edges, like a procession of silhouettes seemingly watching over eternity. “It’s an incredible sight when the guanacos contrast with the sky on the cliff edges; it’s a scene that stays with you,” adds Germán.
Living with nature all year round
Cañadón del Sauce is much more than a camping site: it’s an invitation to merge with nature. The cliffs, the whisper of the breeze through the grass, the stars, and the shadow of the century-old willow create a deeply immersive experience. Here, it’s not just about visiting nature, but about being part of it.
From the camping site, various trails can be explored, either on foot or by bicycle, at any time of the year. The place is open permanently, offering continuous opportunities to explore and marvel.
Useful information and how to get there:
Cañadón del Sauce Camping Site: located 14 km south of the town of Camarones on RP1 (gravel road), within the Portal Isla Leones. It has camping sites, dry toilets, hot showers, running water (not potable), bonfire pits, tables with benches, and WiFi.
It is located 259 km from Comodoro Rivadavia, 254 km from Trelew, and 305 km from Puerto Madryn.
Planning in advance is recommended: bring food, water, and everything necessary to enjoy the stay.
For inquiries: @proyectopatagoniaazul
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