Upon arrival, your local driver will be waiting for you at the airport to take you to your hotel and provide useful tips for exploring the city at your own pace. Spend the rest of the day visiting museums, savoring local cuisine, or immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere of traditional peñas, where you can enjoy folkloric music and dance. And after a glass of fine Argentine wine, don’t be surprised if you find yourself joining in on the dance floor!
Embark on an unforgettable journey to the Salinas Grandes (Great Salt Flats), traveling along the scenic “Train to the Clouds” route. Begin in Campo Quijano, gateway to La Puna, and drive through the stunning Quebrada del Toro. Visit Santa Rosa de Tastil, a tiny village with ancient ruins, before reaching San Antonio de los Cobres. Continue to the dazzling white expanse of the Salinas Grandes, where the horizon blends with the sky. Cross the Cuesta de Lipán at 4,170 meters before descending to Purmamarca, home to the striking Hill of Seven Colors and a vibrant handicraft market. Encounter llamas, vicuñas, and condors as you explore this remote Andean region—an unforgettable mix of breathtaking scenery and rich local culture.
Continue your Northwest Argentina adventure by heading north into Jujuy Province to explore the stunning Quebrada de Humahuaca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its colorful rock formations and rich culture. Visit Purmamarca’s iconic Hill of Seven Colors, the ancient Pucará de Tilcara fortress, and Maimará’s striking Painter’s Palette Hill. Stop in Uquía to see 17th-century Cusqueña paintings inside its historic church, then pass through Huacalera, crossing the Tropic of Capricorn and admiring the multicolored La Pollera de la Coya Hill. End your journey in Humahuaca, a picturesque town of cobbled streets, vibrant markets, and delicious regional cuisine an unforgettable immersion into the landscapes, traditions, and spirit of Andean culture.
Begin the day exploring the picturesque Laureles and Escoipe Gorges before ascending the winding Cuesta del Obispo, a 20 km zigzag road reaching 3,620 meters at Piedra del Molino. From the top, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the valley before continuing toward the Calchaquí Valley wine region. Travel along the perfectly straight Recta del Tin Tin, built by ancient peoples and crossing Los Cardones National Park, a protected area filled with giant cacti and desert landscapes. Continue to Cachi, a charming town blending Spanish and native traditions, then visit Molinos and Angastaco before reaching Las Flechas Gorge, known for its striking rock formations. End the day in Cafayate, surrounded by vineyards and majestic mountain scenery.
On the second day of your Calchaquí Valley adventure, visit Cafayate’s top wineries, El Esteco, Piatelli, or El Porvenir, to taste local wines and learn about their production. Then, journey into the dramatic Las Conchas Gorge, where erosion has sculpted striking red rock formations. Explore the Natural Reserve’s colorful hills and iconic landmarks, including the Frog, Obelisk, Castles, Amphitheater, and the famous Devil’s Throat. Conclude the day returning to Salta, ending your Northwest Argentina itinerary. In the evening, experience a traditional peña, mingle with locals, enjoy live folk music, and savor regional cuisine, a perfect finale blending natural beauty, culture, and authentic Argentine traditions.
Bid farewell to Northwest Argentina as you prepare for your next destination. Your driver will pick you up at your Salta hotel and transfer you to the airport.