Spectacular Outback views of La Rioja, Argentina

In the west of Argentina lies the province La Rioja with its capital having the same name.

The western part surrounds the Andes, whilst the central part sees various mountain chains of the Sierra Pampeanas. The east features wide, dry Pampa plains. The climate is very dry, in the south where there are deserts and dry bush land (the so called "Monte").

Many descendents from Syrian and Lebanese immigrants live in this region called La Rioja. The most famous Argentinian that descended from Lebanese ancestors was the former president of the province, Carlos Menem, who also came from La Rioja.

The Natural Park Talampaya with its bizarre rock formations is worth a visit, as well as the Cuesta de Miranda, which is a long, winding mountain road. The colonial small town La Rioja and the various housing estates give the whole place a traditional flair, which is quite typical for the whole northwest of the Andes region, especially in the area of Chilecito the province of La Rioja that is an important wine region.