Argentina’s sere and volcano-dotted far north, on the other side of the Andes from the Atacama Desert, is little-known and less traveled. Which strikes us as one good reason to explore it. Other reasons: the landscapes up here are massive, the villages are remote and inviting, and the red rock canyons rising from earth are breathtaking.

We begin by flying north from Buenos Aires to Salta, just on the edge of the high country. Salta is one of the most well preserved colonial cities in Latin America with an incredible backdrop of mountains and valleys westward. Then off we go to the cactus-studded landscapes of Los Cordones National Park; to verdant Colome after stopping to admire the talents of local weavers along the way; and south to the brilliantly-colored hills of Calchaquíes Valley and some invigorating tasting at the region’s renowned wineries.

To extend the trip we’ll travel even further afield; we’ll jump north to the province of Jujuy, to explore its rich pre-Hispanic traditions and stunning, otherworldly landscapes. The town of Purmamarca, situated in the shadow of the vivid Hill of Seven Colors, beckons with its serene adobe ambiance, vendor-filled plaza, and exquisite colonial Iglesia. After wandering its quiet streets or strolling its multihued hills, we’ll wend our way up to the salt flats and extraterrestrial landscapes of the puna, gazing at snowcapped behemoths like Cachi and Llullaillaco (at 22,109 feet the highest active volcano on the planet).

Day 1: arrive Buenos Aires • Day 2: fly to Salta, historical tour • Day 3: drive to Cachi, visit Los Cordones National Park and the tiny colonial village of Cachi • Days 4 & 5: Colome for day hikes, horseback riding, and spa appointments • Day 6: Cafayate, wine tasting • Day 7: return to Salta, visiting red rock canyons and local ranches en route • Day 8: horseback riding and hiking at House of Jasmines • Day 9: Fly back to Buenos Aires in time for your international flight home

Purmamarca and Atacama Desert Extension
Days 9 & 10: Purmamarca and Quebrada de Humahuaca • Day 11: drive to San Pedro de Atacama, visit Salinas Grandes salt flats en route • Days 12 & 13: exploring moonscapes, sand dunes, geysers, salt flats and desert lagoons • Day 14: fly to Santiago to connect with international flight home.

Departures:

• Offered Daily. Please call us to schedule your Private Departure.

Trip Length: 9 Days

Activity Type: Touring

Trip Price:From $5995

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