Salta & the Northwest
The less-well-visited northwest corner of Argentina offers stunning landscapes
Salta City is the hub of the Andean northwest and before proceeding elsewhere one ‘must see’ attraction is the Museo de Archeologia de Alta Montana, considered by many to be one of the best and most deeply moving museums of Inca culture in South America. And afterwards, take advantage of the sunny weather and enjoy the lively outdoor café society in one of the squares.
The drive from Salta up to Cachi, Molinas and on to the salt plains witnesses a dramatic change of scenery from verdant green agriculture in the plains, through semi arid rocky gorges and peaks up to the arid white salt plains of the Altiplano. Every corner presents a photo opportunity – we will factor this into your journey time!
Cafayate is dominated by the surrounding vineyards running from the town up to the base of the mountains and the whole area is developing a reputation as a serious alternative wine destination to Mendoza. There are opportunities for wine tasting, walking, playing golf or just relaxing in one of the hotels in the midst of the vineyards.
Humahuaca The Quebrada de Humahuaca is a river valley which has cut a route through jagged and folded rock formations of vividly differing colours, which have earned it a UNESCO World Heritage listing. Stop en route at the delightful village of Purmamarca and view the celebrated ‘Hill of Seven Colours’, best viewed in the early morning sunlight.
For travellers wishing to combine a trip to Argentina with Chile, Purmamarca is an overnight stop before proceeding by road to the border and on to the Atacama Desert.
However, for the ultimate otherworldly desert landscapes and off-road adventure travel spend a few nights in the Puna Desert. Read Jonathan Bastable’s Trip Out in Salta article in Conde Nast Traveller magazine for an idea of what this is like.
To discover more about the northwest of Argentina and how best to see its amazing landscapes, give us a call or send us a message.