Andean Northwest

4 days, starting and ending in Salta, Argentina
$1440

Salta province in Northwest Argentina has the culture and scenery to fascinate any inquisitive traveler. Explore the stunning rock formations of Valles Calchaquies, the colonial history of Salta, the archeology of Cachi, and Cafayate's rich wines and cuisine.

Full Itinerary Additional Details
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Summary

  • Day 1 : Arrive Salta - city tour
  • Day 2 : Las Conchas Gorge and Cafayate
  • Day 3 : Vineyard Hike and Cooking Class
  • Day 4 : Cachi - Fly Buenos Aires
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Travel Highlights
  • Salta
  • Las Conchas Gorge
  • Cafayate
  • Cachi
  • Cultural Activities
    Cultural ActivitiesIncludes cultural activities such as a visit to a traditional village or a local market to give a unique perspective.
  • History
    HistoryVisit ancient ruins and historical sites.
  • Gourmet
    GourmetIncludes components to suit fine tastes, such as luxury options or a specific gourmet culinary focus.
  • Hiking
    HikingIncludes guided hiking excursions. Hikes may vary from easy and optional three hour hikes to more difficult multi-day treks.

Details

Day 1 Arrive Salta - city tour lodge

Arrive Salta. After settling in at the hotel, take an afternoon tour of the city commonly referred to as "Salta the Beautiful." True criollos (native Argentineans of Spanish parentage) reside in colonial Salta and uphold a culture that has remained traditionally strong. Visit the famous Iglesia Cathedral, San Francisco church, San Bernardo Convent and more. After touring the city, admire Salta and its surrounding landscape from the view at San Bernardo Hill. You will also spend some time enjoying the village charm of nearby San Lorenzo. Finish the day with a visit to a handicraft market before relaxing at the hotel.

Day 2 Las Conchas Gorge and Cafayate lodge

(B,L,D)

The morning begins at Las Conchas Gorge. This narrow valley with its red sandstone walls is one of the most picturesque areas in Salta. This area not only offer impressive natural beauty, but also has a ancient stretch of the Inca path that amazed Spanish conquerors and modern travelers alike. In the afternoon, arrive in Cafayate - one of the most important wine regions in South America. Here you'll find a tiny colonial town dotted with vineyards, bodegas (wine cellars), and countless archaeological remains. After lunch, travel to Quebrada de la Flecha (Flecha Gorge), where a collection of sandstone spikes often appear like moving figures due to the play of natural light. This area holds much historical evidence of aboriginal settlements - adobe huts stand on sand dunes here. Tonight enjoy the local cuisine and relaxing atmosphere of the luxurious and remote Estancia Colome.

Day 3 Vineyard Hike and Cooking Class lodge

(B,L,D)

After breakfast, explore the fields and vineyards surrounding the estancia. This 3-hour hike is at a relaxed-pace. In the afternoon, return to the estancia - the afternoon is free to spend as you wish. As dinner time approaches, prepare your palette with an Argentine cooking class, where an expert chef will share the secrets behind the Northwest's local dishes and delicacies. Dine on your creations! Complement your meal with the rich flavors of Estancia Colome wines.

Click here for activities at Estancia Colome

Day 4 Cachi - Fly Buenos Aires

(B)

In the morning, your guide will meet you at the estancia to transfer you back to Salta city. On the way, stop to visit the charming town of Cachi. Wander the cobblestone streets, visit an ancient chapel made from cactus wood, and discover one of the best archaeological museums in Argentina, Museo Arqueologico Pio Pablo Diaz. In the evening, catch your flight to Buenos Aires and connecting flights homeward or continue to another destination in Argentina, such as Iguazu Falls. With more time in Salta, spend an extra night and do the Train to the Clouds excursion to witness beautiful landscapes and scenery as you travel on one of the world's most amazing railways.

Accommodations:

1 night comfortable hotel, 2 nights luxury estancia

Single Supplement: $375

Meals Included:

All meals as indicated (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner); most of our hotels offer free continental breakfast.

Transportation:

private vans

Notes:

Flights Buenos Aires-Salta-Buenos Aires are not included. Please add US$590/person (flight cost subject to change).

Group & Staff:

Min 2, Max 12; Argentine guide throughout

Personal Budgeting:

Allow $100 for meals not included.

Pre & Post Tour Accommodations:

Buenos Aires: Share US$55, Single US$110

Is it for Me?

Itinerary for the culturally adventurous into some rarely visited areas of Argentina. Plenty of time to explore the superb natural surroundings of Salta province.

Arrival / Departure Transfers:

1 person US$50 each
2 or more people US$25 /person

Weekly Departures
Any day of the week

Hotels

Map

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