ANIMANA

Set into a picturesque area of the Calchaquí Valley, where grapes are grown with very successfully, Animaná is a town that enjoys the particularity of possessing one of the most traditional wine cellars, established more than seventy years ago: the so called Bodeguita Don Andrés, with a homemade winegrowing and bottling production.

Animaná means "Heaven's Place" in Kakana. It has a dry and arid weather, and stands at 1695 m.a.s.l., 200 kms away from Salta, and 15 kms north of Cafayate, going through the Nº 40 National Route.

The zone's economy revolves around the winegrowing industry, manifest in the vineyards surrounding it, and in its small wine cellars. Textiles and pottery are outstanding craftsmanship's in the area.

At Animaná, travellers have the chance of taking hikes and horseback rides visiting the ranches, in addition to having a look at the pottery, basket and textile artisans from neighbouring Cafayate. The Fiesta Patronal (Patron Fiesta) to honour the Virgen de la Merced is celebrated on the 24th of September. And in February, the Fiesta Provincial de la Vendimia (Grape Harvesting Festival) takes place.

The most recommendable way of visiting the area is by hiring a tour guide, who besides knowing the routes will be also capable of showing travellers the attraction of this city, which is undoubtedly one of the most important of the Calchaquí Valley.