During this culture-rich trip, travel back in time to discover the cultural legacy of the ancient Incas, Diaguita, and the Spanish conquistadors, set against the backdrop of the magnificent peaks of the Andes. Hike among an array of strangely shaped and polychromatic desert landforms created from the primeval seabed. Hike through deep gorges, visit the famed vineyards of Cafayate and climb dramatic mountain passes as we trek across Northwestern Argentina!
Tour Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrive Buenos Aires
Day 2: Travel to Cafayate (B)
Take a morning flight to Northwestern Argentina, the most traditional region of the country where the indigenous population still influences the region. After arriving in the vibrant city of Salta, you'll continue your Argentina travels on a drive of discovery through the northwest as you make your way south to the wine country of Salta province.
Along the way enjoy views Las Conchas Gorge, of pre-Andean mountain vistas and the lush Calchaquies Valley. You'll stop at the ruins of Quilmes, the last stronghold of the Calchaquis people in their resistance against the Spanish. Dating from around 1000 A.D., Quilmes was a complex urban settlement with a population of roughly 5000 people. Here you'll see an excellent example of pre-Hispanic urban architecture.
In the late afternoon you'll continue on to 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. Settle into your lovely bodega lodge and enjoy dinner complete with a superb local wine.
Day 3: Las Conchas Gorge (B,L)
Today you'll enjoy a full day of hiking through the breathtaking Las Conchas gorge. This narrow valley with its red sandstone walls is one of the most picturesque areas in Salta. Feast your eyes on the fantastic shapes produced by eons of wind and water erosion. This region has a spectacular, colorful landscape and a rich history - an this stretch of the Inca trail amazed even the Spanish conquerors. This afternoon you'll return to your lodge retreat for a tour of the wine cellar.
Day 4: Cafayate to Cachi (B)
Passing villages full of colonial architecture and Hispanic art, you'll drive north along the Calchaquies Valley. The road soon takes you into the impressive Quebrada de la Flecha (Flecha Gorge). This area holds much historical evidence of aboriginal settlements - adobe huts stand on sand dunes here.
In Molinos you'll visit a large adobe church, and in the center of town you can still see the old water-driven mill that was used to grind maize. This is a great spot to search out a unique gift - you'll find many local craftsmen selling only handmade goods. You'll end your day at the most picturesque place along the windy Calchaqui road - Cachi. Wander the cobblestone streets, visit an ancient chapel made from cactus wood, and discover one of the best archaeological museums in Argentina.
Day 5: Cachi Mountains (B,L,D)
This morning start out with a leisurely walk through the Cachi Adentro valley in the foothills of the snowcapped Cachi Mountains. After lunch you'll take a brief drive to Belgrano Ranch to load up for your 3-day hike. For your trek, You'll be accompanied by packhorses and baquianos. Embark from Finca Belgrano on a winding trail that gradually ascends the Belgrano River gorge.
The end of this 4-hour hike will find you at the adobe farm of Corralito just in time for tea. Settle into camp and then treat yourself to a walk to a viewpoint and enjoy a stunning sunset over the Cachi range and the southern end of the Pukamayu (Red) valley. (Total hiking distance- 7 miles).
Days: 6-7 Pukamayu Valley Trekking (2B,2L,2D)
Today is a day of discovery as you continue your journey through the Cachi Mountains. Explore the cultural and natural heritage of the region with visits to ancient native ruins and marvel at fantastically eroded colored sandstone landforms. Crossing several valleys, you'll gradually ascend to Patahuasi (3,400m), a cultivated plateau perched high above the valley with stunning views of Pukamayu and Vallecitos surrounded by snowy mountains.
Descending into Vallecitos you'll pass an ancient Indian shrine where it is easy to imagine former worshippers overcome with the grandeur of their surroundings. The air quickly warms as you enter the a myriad of rock coloar and forms in the astounding Pukamayu Valley. Tonight you'll meet up again with your pack train and camp at Vallecitos along the natural valley terraces with spectacular views of this magical landscape (Total hiking distance- 11 miles).
On Day 7 you continue trekking with a relaxed pace, taking a circuit of the Pukamayu Valley with its fantastic landforms. Even though there are no visible roads, the valley is dotted with fascinating cultural sights. Along the way you'll have a chance to view intriguing petroglyphs, stop at an ancient water mill, and visit native dwellings to learn about local cultivars such as potatoes, corn, quinoa, and fruits. Before returning to your camp at Vallecitos, wash off the dust from your journey with a refreshing dip in the Capillas River, its waters reflecting the red valley surrounding it (Total hiking distance- 11 miles).
Day 8: Salta (B,L)
You'll start out the day with the challenge of crossing over the mountains, ascending to 3,000 meters, enjoying some of the best views of the Calchaquies Valley. Entering the valley to meet your transport to Salta, you'll pass by traditional small towns and farms inhabited by local artisans and farmers. From the Calchaquies Valley it is on to the city of "Salta the beautiful", a gem of a colonial town set in the lovely Lerma Valley.
The city is home to true criollos (native Argentineans of Spanish parentage) with a culture that has remained strong even with the introduction of generations of immigrants. Wander through the shops and the markets discovering works by local artisans, delicious local cuisine, art and history museums, and the grand colonial architecture. This last evening is yours to explore as you like.
Day 9: Return Home
Catch your flight to Buenos Aires and connecting flights homeward, or with more time, visit Iguazu Falls.
Accommodations: 5 nights comfortable hotels/lodges, 3 nights camping.
Food Includes: All meals as indicated (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner); most of our hotels offer free continental breakfast.
Transportation: 2 local flights, private car or van, ....and your own feet while hiking!
An active itinerary for the culturally adventurous into some rarely visited areas of Argentina. Trekking is moderate and there are some long driving days.
Start Dates 2008: Sep 26, Oct 24
Start Dates 2009: Apr 10, May 8, Jun 5, Jul 3, Jul 31, Aug 28, Sep 25, Oct 23
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Single Supplement: US$175
US$1785 4 or more travelers
US$2270 2-3 travelers
Note: Flights Buenos Aires-Salta-Buenos Aires are not included. Please add US$590/person (flight cost subject to change).
Personal Budgeting: Allow US$160 for meals not included, US$18 International airport departure tax, US$60 optional excursions
Arrival/Departure Transfers: 1 person US$50 each, 2 or more people US$25 /person.
Pre & Post Tour Accommodations: Share US$75, Single US$150
Prices are based on a 3% cash discount
Also see tour packages in:
South America
Argentina
Cultural Journey
Hiking & Trekking
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