Exploring Northern Argentina’s Wonders: 2-Day Guided Trip to Cafayate and Cachi

If you’re looking to see some of the most breathtaking scenery and charming towns of Salta Province, this 2-day guided tour to Cafayate and Cachi offers a well-rounded experience for around $56 per person. Starting early from Salta, this trip takes you through stunning rock formations, lush valleys, and picturesque colonial streets—all with a knowledgeable guide who can bring the landscape and history to life.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances spectacular views with cultural insights. We loved that it includes a winery visit in Cafayate—perfect for wine lovers wanting to taste the famed Torrontés—plus a chance to walk through the well-preserved streets of Cachi, a town that feels like stepping into a living postcard.

A small consideration is that part of the journey involves around 2 hours of travel on low-quality dirt roads, which might be uncomfortable for some travelers with back issues or those who prefer smoother rides. However, the scenery more than makes up for it. This tour suits travelers who enjoy both natural beauty and cultural charm, especially those eager to see iconic landscapes and sample local wines.

Key Points

Stunning Landscapes: Experience the dramatic red rock formations and sweeping valleys that define this part of Argentina.
Cultural Towns: Explore well-preserved colonial streets in Cachi, with its charming town square and local museum.
Wine Enthusiasts: Visit a reputable winery in Cafayate to learn about the regional wine production and taste local Torrontés.
Scenic Drives: Drive along famous routes such as the Cuesta del Obispo and through the Gorge of Escoipe for unforgettable vistas.
Authentic Experience: Travel in a high-quality, air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz minivan, with a bilingual guide providing background.
Flexible Options: Book now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the 2-Day Tour Experience

While in Salta, here are other experiences we've covered

Day 1: From Salta to Cafayate through Spectacular Landscapes

The adventure kicks off early, with pickup between 07:00 and 07:40 AM from your hotel in downtown Salta. As we leave the city behind, the scenery shifts quickly to panoramic views of farms and tobacco plantations in the Lerma Valley. The journey along Provincial Route 68 offers a treat for the eyes. We loved watching the old and new tobacco chimneys, made from adobe and clay, standing as relics of the area’s agricultural past. It’s a subtle reminder of how local industry shapes these landscapes.

Passing through the small town of Alemania, we are surrounded by towering red mountains and intricate rock formations. Here, the famous landmarks like the “Devil’s Throat” and “House of the Parrots” capture your imagination. These names aren’t just poetic—they’re truly jaw-dropping sights, with dramatic cliffs and arches that seem to defy gravity.

Arriving in Cafayate, the highlight is visiting a winery to learn about Argentina’s renowned wine industry. Our guide explained the significance of Torrontés, the locally celebrated white wine, and we even got to sample some. After a relaxed lunch, we took a different route back, revealing a contrasting landscape—this time greener and more gentle, illustrating the diversity of the region.

Day 2: From Cachi to Salta through Majestic Natural Wonders

The second day starts with a scenic drive through Cerrillos, La Merced, and El Carril, small towns that give a glimpse into rural life in Argentina. We then crossed the Gorge of Escoipe and Las Laureles, where the landscape transforms into skyscraper-like rock walls and lush greenery.

The highlight is undoubtedly the Cuesta del Obispo, a winding road climbing to over 3,300 meters above sea level. The views here are nothing short of spectacular—think towering rock formations and expansive valleys. Keep an eye out for condors soaring above; their majestic flight is a real treat. Our guide pointed out the “King of the Sky” in flight, making it more than just a pretty sight.

Descending into El Valle Encantado, the scenery seems straight out of a fairy tale, with giant cactus formations and strange rock shapes. The journey then takes us to Recta del Tin Tin, built during Inca times, which adds a dash of history to the landscape.

Next, we visit Los Cardones National Park, famous for its large cactus bushes—a unique sight that makes you appreciate the desert-adapted flora of the area. After a hearty lunch in Cachi, we walk through the town’s well-preserved colonial streets. The central plaza’s church and local museum offer a glimpse into the town’s history, and there’s time for shopping at local craft markets.

The return trip to Salta wraps up a full, enriching experience. The journey includes about 2 hours on dirt roads—a bumpy but scenic ride that travelers who enjoy rugged landscapes will appreciate.

Authenticity and Practical Tips

This tour offers authentic Argentina—from the landscape to the towns, and even the wine tasting. The use of a Mercedes-Benz minivan ensures comfort despite the occasional rough road. The bilingual guide provides a good balance of information, though some reviews mention that not all guides are equally attentive; one review noted a guide who was “very rude” and poorly organized. This highlights the importance of choosing a reputable provider, but overall, the positive reviews focus on the knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery.

Given the price point, the value is quite good, especially considering the inclusion of a winery visit and hotel pickup/drop-off. Keep in mind that entrance fees, food, drinks, and personal expenses are not included, so budget accordingly.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for nature lovers, history buffs, and wine enthusiasts. It’s suited for travelers who don’t mind a bit of rough road and are eager to see iconic landscapes and colonial towns in one trip. If you’re after a more relaxed experience with smooth rides, some parts might feel a bit bumpy, but the scenery compensates.

Appreciate having local insight? Here are other guided experiences in Salta we've examined

Final Thoughts

This 2-day guided trip from Salta offers a well-balanced mix of stunning natural scenery, cultural exploration, and wine tasting, all at a reasonable price. The highlights—like the Garganta del Diablo, the winding Cuesta del Obispo, and the historic streets of Cachi—are unforgettable.

The experience shines brightest when you’re with a knowledgeable guide who can explain the landscape’s significance and help you appreciate the region’s diversity. Despite a few mixed reviews about guide organization, the majority of travelers rave about the breathtaking views and authentic feel of the towns.

For those wanting to connect with the region’s scenic beauty and cultural roots, this tour provides a practical, engaging way to see Argentina’s north without the stress of planning every detail yourself. It’s particularly good for first-timers eager to hit the highlights or those looking for a value-packed experience with plenty of photo opportunities and local flavor.

FAQs

How long is the tour each day?
Each day involves about 7-8 hours of travel, including stops, with pick-up between 07:00 and 07:40 AM.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and suitable clothing for varying weather conditions—layers are recommended since it can be cooler at higher elevations.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, but there will be time for lunch in Cafayate and Cachi, where you can enjoy local cuisine.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the trip uses high-quality, air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz minivans, with some parts on dirt roads that might be bumpy but manageable.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with health issues?
It’s not recommended for people with back problems due to the bumpy dirt roads and prolonged travel.

How much free time is there at each stop?
You’ll have some free time in Cachi for shopping and exploring, and in Cafayate, after the winery visit and lunch.

What’s the main highlight of the tour?
Many travelers mention the spectacular views at Cuesta del Obispo and the charming colonial streets of Cachi as the most memorable.

Is the guide bilingual?
Yes, guides are certified bilingual speakers providing explanations in both Spanish and English.

This 2-day tour from Salta offers a chance to witness some of Argentina’s most iconic landscapes, charming towns, and renowned wines. Whether you’re after natural beauty, cultural charm, or a bit of both, it’s a journey worth taking—just be ready for some bumpy roads and a full, rewarding adventure.