The environment and geography of Salta couldn't be more different than what we experienced in Iguazu Falls. We moved from humid, overgrown jungle to arid, mountain landscapes.
Gustavo met us at the hotel, and we enjoyed a morning walking tour of the old city. First stop was the old covered market, where we saw a large variety of vegetables and every imaginable kind and cut of meat. We saw bags of coco leaves, which can only be purchased in bags totaling less than 1 kilo. It's chewed as a digestive and stimulant! The center square retains much of the Spanish colonial architecture, and the old churches, houses and balconies all looked like something right out of Spain. It was lovely.
Gustavo dropped us off at the entrance to the gondola ride up to the top of the nearest "hill," where we had a great perspective of the city and its location in the valley surrounded by mountains. We had lunch at the restaurant at the top, and spent the rest of the afternoon exploring the city on our own. The highlight was visiting the museum dedicated to "high altitude archeology" and featured three Inca mummy children found in 1999 at the top of a nearby mountain. They were selected from high-ranking families in different areas of the Inca empire. It was considered a privilege to "go live with the gods" and they were buried alive (though drugged)with special artifacts meant to appease the gods. The museum was very well done but it was a little creepy to see the mummy on display -- a 7-year old boy, completely dressed and not looking like he died 500 years ago.
A rest at the hotel and then out to dine at the "Old Station" restaurant, where we had a chance to see a lively folkloric music and dance program while we ate. Sure, it was touristy, but we enjoyed it all the same.
For our first trip to Costa Rica, Adventure Life designed a tour that meets the interests, ecological and adventure, of our party; but also takes into account our physical limitations sine we are all septuagenarian. We are looking forward to the trip.
John Zent
1 day ago
Adventure Life is my favorite travel company due to their genuine care for their customers. They make every effort to ensure a wonderful travel experience for you. Their personal touch really gives the customer a lot of confidence with their travel plans and the trip leaders are always outstanding. They are truly consistent and accountable with the great service they provide. I can't thank Adventure Life enough for the incredible trips I have enjoyed thanks to them and their attention to detail.
Tim Duffy
2 days ago
Kevin Moore working with me and providing very timely answers to all my questions.
Sharon Worsham
2 days ago
Adventure Life coordinated all our domestic air travel in Argentina as well as
Multiple tours in four cities. Every thing went perfectly smooth. All the local companies were on schedule and very professional. We will surely use Adventure Life on future travels.
customer
3 days ago
Franny helped us put together a great itinerary, was very responsive and so helpful. We ended up not being able to use Adventure Life for our trip, but would definitely use them in the future.