Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
There's a bank at the corner of General Paz and Lavalle, near the tourist office.
Tourist Office ( 461304; www.turismodebelen.com.ar ; General Paz 180; 7am-1pm &
2-10pm) Also has a small mineral exhibition. There's an irregularly attended office next to
the bus station.
Getting There & Away
Belén's bus terminal (cnr Sarmiento & Rivadavia) is one block south and one west of the
plaza. Catamarca (AR$89, four to five hours) is served several times daily. Night ser-
vices run to La Rioja and Córdoba, and several weekly buses and minibuses go to Santa
María (AR$70, four hours) - a scenic journey.
TOP OF CHAPTER
Around Belén
Londres & El Shincal
Only 15km southwest of Belén, sleepy Londres dates from 1558, though it moved sever-
al times before returning here in 1612, and the inhabitants fled again during the Diaguita
uprising of 1632. Its name (London) celebrated the marriage of the prince of Spain (later
Philip II) to Mary Tudor, queen of England, in 1555.
Seven kilometers west are the Inca ruins of El Shincal (admission AR$5; 8am-sunset)
. Founded in 1470, the town occupied a commanding position in the foothills of the
mountains, surveying the vast valley to the south. The setting is spectacular, with fantast-
ic views and great atmosphere. The ushno (ceremonial platform) and kallanka (possibly
a barracks) have been restored. Two hillocks aligned to the rising and setting sun prob-
ably served as both lookouts and altars. Entrance includes an explanation of the some-
what neglected museum.
Five to six buses Monday to Saturday run from Belén to Londres (AR$5) and the ru-
ins. A remise from Belén with waiting time is around AR$170. There's a campground
between Londres and the ruins, and a cabin complex. Londres also has a couple of basic
residenciales .
Beyond Londres, Chilecito is 200km south in La Rioja province along RN 40, if you
have transportation. The drive is a spectacular one, with the imposing Sierra Famatina to
the west and Sierra de Velasco to the east. The road is excellent.
 
 
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