San Juan in 1 Day for Couples - Casa Natal de Domingo Faustino Sarmiento (microcentro)
In Collaboration with Receptivo Aborigen Tours. Updated on February 16, 2026.
Half-day guided tour around San Juan city center and nearby scenic and agricultural sites. Includes a walking introduction to the microcentro (Casa Natal de Sarmiento and Auditorio Juan Victoria), a guided stop in the Quebrada de Zonda with visit to Bodega Finca Sierras Azules (tasting optional and not included), a visit to Aceitera Campos de Olivos to observe artisanal olive-oil production, and a
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Receptivo Aborigen Tours, inspired by the tour San Juan, City Tour - Half Day Excursion. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Casa Natal de Domingo Faustino Sarmiento (microcentro)
- Auditorio Juan Victoria
- Quebrada de Zonda scenic drive
- Bodega Finca Sierras Azules (guided visit)
- Aceitera Campos de Olivos (olive oil demonstration)
Itinerary
Day 1
Morning half-day tour covering San Juan microcentro, Quebrada de Zonda (winery visit), Aceitera Campos de Olivos, and the Dique de Ullum viewpoint. Total duration approximately 5 hours. Pickup from hotel lobby in the Capital Department San Juan.
Hotel pickup — Capital Department, San Juan
Pickup from the hotel lobby in the Capital Department (San Juan city). Short welcome briefing and safety notes before starting the microcentro walk.
Tips from local experts:
- Be ready in the hotel lobby 5 minutes before the scheduled start (08:00) to ensure timely departure.
- If your hotel is outside the Capital Department, confirm pickup address in advance so the driver can plan the route.
- This tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle; bring a light layer for the cool morning hours.
Microcentro walking tour — Casa Natal de Sarmiento & Auditorio Juan Victoria
Short guided walk through San Juan's microcentro visiting the Casa Natal de Domingo Faustino Sarmiento and the Auditorio Juan Victoria, with commentary on local architecture and the city's 'oasis' character.
Tips from local experts:
- Casa Natal de Sarmiento is closed on Wednesdays — if traveling that day the guide will show the exterior and cover its history from outside.
- Wear comfortable shoes for short stretches of walking on city sidewalks and bring sun protection for exposed plazas.
- Carry a small bottle of water; the guide will pause for photos and brief rests while moving between sites.
Drive west to Quebrada de Zonda
Scenic drive from the city center into the Quebrada de Zonda (western approach). Travel time included to reach the winery area and viewpoint.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect winding mountain roads; if you are prone to motion sickness sit toward the front of the vehicle.
- Windows provide good views of the arid hills and terraced agriculture—have your camera ready for landscapes.
- The guide will advise a short comfort stop if needed during the transfer.
Guided visit — Bodega Finca Sierras Azules (tasting not included)
Guided visit at Bodega Finca Sierras Azules to learn about local viticulture and the winery property. Tasting is optional and not included in the tour price (per tour notes).
Tips from local experts:
- Tastings are optional and not included — if you wish to taste, let the guide know on arrival so the winery can prepare (payment handled on-site).
- Wear closed-toe shoes on the winery grounds where there may be gravel or uneven surfaces.
- If you plan to taste, have a designated driver or confirm transport arrangements since tastings are extra and guests are responsible for their choices.
Transfer to Aceitera Campos de Olivos
Short transfer from the winery area to the local olive-oil producer to observe artisanal production processes.
Tips from local experts:
- Journey time is short but roads can be rural—secure loose items and cameras for the drive.
- If you have strong allergies to olive dust or pollen, mention this to the guide before the visit.
- Restroom stops are limited between sites; use facilities at the winery before departing if available.
Visit — Aceitera Campos de Olivos (olive-oil process)
Observe the artisanal steps of olive harvesting and oil production at Aceitera Campos de Olivos; the visit focuses on process observation rather than a commercial tasting.
Tips from local experts:
- Photography may be restricted in production areas—follow staff instructions during the visit.
- The production area can be cool or have strong food aromas; dress in layers and avoid open-toed shoes if the producer advises.
- This visit is observational; if you are interested in purchasing products, ask the staff directly during the stop.
Transfer to Dique de Ullum
Drive to the Dique de Ullum area for the main panoramic viewpoint and dam visit.
Tips from local experts:
- Road to Dique de Ullum may have short uphill sections; keep personal items secure during the drive.
- If you prefer shade at the viewpoint, bring a sun hat—there is limited shelter at some lookout points.
- Keep water handy; late-morning sun can be strong even in spring.
Dique de Ullum viewpoint & dam — special moment
Short stop at the principal panoramic point overlooking the reservoir and the river with views of surrounding cerros—a recommended spot for photos and a quiet shared moment.
Tips from local experts:
- This is the tour's highlighted 'special moment'—allow time for photos and a short walk to the best viewpoint.
- Mind your step near the dam and lookout edges; surfaces can be uneven and there are limited barriers in places.
- The guide will point out photo angles; if you want a couple's photo, ask the guide to step in as photographer.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | 4 |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 4 |
| Total Places | 4 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Culture, Experience, Attraction, Outdoor |