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9 Day itinerary in Argentina, South America

Crossing Northwest Argentina's Valleys and Ravines

Embark on a captivating 9-day journey through Northwest Argentina, where you will encounter stunning natural landscapes and vibrant cultural sites. From the bustling colonial city of Salta to the tranquil, picturesque towns of Cachi and Cafayate, this trip offers a rich tapestry of experiences. Trav... Read More

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Maria ConstanceQwerty Travel Argentina

By Maria Constance and Qwerty Travel Argentina

Overview

Physical Difficulty

Light
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Recommended Age

Minimum 2

Maximum 80

Operated in

English, Spanish

GUIDANCE

On Some Day Trips

starting point

Salta

trip type

Private

trip attributes

Indigenous culture

Hiking

Adventure

Jeep & 4WD

Landscapes & Sceneries

Photography

Culture & History

Meet local people

Purposeful Travel

Nature & Wildlife

Start/End

Night

Highlights

1

Explore Cachi via Lerma Valley

2

Taste renowned Torrontes wines in Cafayate

3

Marvel at Quebrada de Humahuaca's beauty

4

Experience vastness at Salinas Grandes Salt Flat

Itinerary

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Day 1

place Arrival in Salta: Gateway to Northwest

Arrive in Salta, the vibrant heart of Northwest Argentina. Your adventure begins with a private transfer from the airport to Hotel Inkai. This colonial city, brimming with history and culture, invites you to explore its cobblestone streets lined with enchanting Spanish architecture. Upon arrival, enjoy a leisurely day to immerse yourself in the city's rich heritage and local ambiance. Salta sets the perfect stage for your journey, offering a blend of tradition and modernity integral to Baboo’s curated travel experiences.


Accommodation:

  • Double Room: Hotel Inkai
Day 2

place Salta to Cachi: Through Lerma Valley

Embark on a journey through the picturesque Lerma Valley, passing expansive tobacco fields and charming colonial towns like Chicoana. As the scenery shifts, delve into Escoipe Gorge with its lush subtropical greenery. Conquer the winding Cuesta del Obispo to reach the scenic viewpoint of Piedra del Molino at 3,348 meters. Adventure continues through Los Cardones National Park, famous for its towering cacti, before arriving in the serene town of Cachi. Here, visit the archaeological museum and the historic church against the stunning backdrop of Nevado de Cachi. Enjoy a restful night at La Merced del Alto Hotel Boutique, complete with breakfast.


Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

  • Double Room: La Merced del Alto Hotel Boutique
Day 3

place Cachi to Cafayate: Vineyards and Villages

Begin your day departing Cachi, driving towards Cafayate through the historical village of Molinos and the dramatic Quebrada de las Flechas, where narrow passages cut through towering rock formations. Just a short drive from Cafayate lies San Carlos, known for its preserved colonial architecture. Arriving in Cafayate, you'll discover lush vineyards that produce the renowned Torrontes wine. Settle in for the night at Hotel Los Sauces Cafayate, followed by a leisurely breakfast to begin another day of exploration.


Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

  • Double Room: Hotel Los Sauces Cafayate
Day 4

place Return to Salta: Natural Marvels Unfurled

Retrace your steps through the Valley of Lerma, visiting colonial towns like Cerrilos, La Merced, and El Carril. Delight in the vibrant hues of the Concha’s Gorge, where centuries of wind and water have carved stunning formations such as the Devil’s Throat and the Amphitheatre. Back in Salta, bask in the welcoming atmosphere of Hotel Inkai, relishing the opportunity to reflect on the day's sights.


Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

  • Double Room: Hotel Inkai
Day 5

place UNESCO Heritage: Quebrada de Humahuaca

Hit the road via Route 34 through the fertile Valle de Siancas, en route to the province of Jujuy. Enter the UNESCO-listed Quebrada de Humahuaca, framed by the vibrant Seven Colors Hill in Purmamarca and the artisan markets. Explore historic villages like Tumbaya, Posta de Hornillos, and Tilcara with its ancient Pucara ruins. The majestic Painter’s Pad in Maimará and the Capricorn Tropic mark your path as you arrive in Humahuaca. Overnight at Hotel Huacalera includes breakfast.


Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

  • Double Room: Hotel Huacalera
Day 6

place Explore Salinas Grandes: Salt Flats

Leave early in the morning for an exhilarating ascent up the impressive Lipan slope to reach 4,000 meters above sea level. Here, you'll visit Salinas Grandes, Argentina's main salt flat. This natural wonder transforms into a turquoise spectacle during the rainy seasons, the shallow water perfectly reflecting the sky and the snowy peaks of Chañi in the backdrop. With the road cutting through this vast landscape, it feels like you’re driving over a mirror. Located between the provinces of Jujuy and Salta, these salt flats are among the largest in the country and are harvested traditionally. The immense beauty of this landscape provides a quintessential Puna de Jujuy experience. After a day of visual marvels, unwind at Hotel Huacalera.


Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

  • Double Room: Hotel Huacalera
Day 7

place Scenic Iruya: Mountains and Culture

Set off for Iruya, a secluded town nestled between the dramatic escarpments of Quebrada de Humahuaca and the lush Yungas. Despite being in Salta province, it's accessed from Jujuy, offering a journey through mesmerizing mountain landscapes. Perched at 2,780 meters, Iruya seems suspended, offering breathtaking views from its natural balcony overlooking the Iruya River. With about 1,500 residents, this town provides a peaceful retreat. Spend the night in Iruya, absorbing its distinct charm.


Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

  • Double Room: Iruya
Day 8

place Returning to Salta: Reflect and Relax

Shift back to Salta's embrace as your journey winds down. Enjoy another scrumptious breakfast at Hotel Inkai, then take the time to revisit the city's artful blend of history and culture. This day allows for personal reflection and relaxation amidst the enchanting setting that first welcomed you.


Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

  • Double Room: Hotel Inkai
Day 9

place Farewell Salta: Endless Memories

Following a hearty breakfast, transfer to Salta's airport for your departure. With memories of stunning vistas, cultural encounters, and Baboo's considerate travel philosophy, leave with a heart full of the unforgettable charm of Northwest Argentina.


Meals: Breakfast

What’s Included

Accommodation expand_less

  • La Merced del Alto Hotel Boutique
  • Hotel Los Sauces Cafayate
  • Hotel Inkai
  • Hotel Huacalera
  • Iruya

Meals expand_less

  • Breakfast (8)

Transport expand_less

  • Private car with a Spanish/English speaking driver/guide
  • Transfer Airport - Hotel - Airport in each destination

Activities expand_less

  • Private sightseeing as outlined in the itinerary

Not Included expand_less

  • Personal expenses
  • Any meals not specifically mentioned
  • Travel Insurance
  • International and Domestic flights
  • Optional Tours (inquire for details)

About Maria Constance

TEAM LEAD

+1 Local experts

verified Baboo Certified

star_outline 4.94 (18 reviews)

Expertise: 

Meet local people

Rural home stays

Indigenous culture

Culture & History

Purposeful Travel

Nature & Wildlife

Water & Coastline

After my degree in tourism (2000) I went to Europe to experience new adventures. Always working in the tourism industry. Once I return, we start our own project, our travel agency, offering since 2015 our experience and knowledge to personalize trips

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FROM PRICE PER TRAVELER

$3,909.00 USD