Dique Las Pirquitas is the largest reservoir in the province of Catamarca, located approximately 25–30 kilometers north of the city of San Fernando del Valle de Catamarca in the department of Fray Mamerto Esquiú. It sits at an average elevation of around 690 meters above sea level, flanked to the west by the Sierra de Fariñango and to the east by the Sierra de Gracián. The reservoir stretches roughly 7 kilometers in length and was formed by impounding the Río del Valle, which also receives the waters of the Río Ambato upstream near La Puerta. The dam itself is a notable engineering and cultural landmark, constructed using the traditional "pirca" technique — stacked, compacted stone without mortar or concrete — making it one of very few structures of its kind in the world and the only dam in Argentina built using pre-Hispanic construction methods. This unusual origin is the source of its name.

Kayaking and rowing are among the primary water activities on the reservoir. Club Náutico Los Talas operates on the water and offers kayak rentals as well as a camping area with asadores (grills); contact is available at +54 9 383 425-8046. The reservoir also supports jet skiing and motorboat excursions, which paddlers should be aware of when planning routes. Sport fishing for trout and pejerrey is popular, adding additional boat traffic to consider.

The surrounding village of Villa Las Pirquitas offers a municipal hostería with bar and restaurant service, open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:00 to 20:00 (reservations: 3834414903). The Paseo Las Moras, a cultural and tourism center inaugurated in 2021, is also located in the village. Hiking and cycling routes exist in the area for those combining paddling with land-based activities.

The climate in the zone is temperate, with warm summers and cool winters. The recommended visiting periods are spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May), when temperatures are more moderate. The reservoir reaches maximum capacity during the summer wet season, with water levels and access conditions varying accordingly. Access from San Fernando del Valle de Catamarca is via the paved Ruta Provincial 1, or alternatively via the unpaved Ruta Provincial 106, passing through Collagasta and Pomancillo Oeste.