Exploring Northern Argentina: Two Days of Wonders from Salta

When planning a trip to Salta, Argentina, chances are you want more than just city sights — you’re craving natural beauty, authentic culture, and memorable flavors. This two-day tour package, offered at $63.50 per person, does just that. It takes you through iconic landscapes like the Quebrada de las Conchas, the charming town of Cafayate, and the vast Salinas Grandes salt flats, all with the convenience of pickup and an engaging guide.

What we love about this experience is how it balances the awe-inspiring scenery with cultural touches — like visiting a local winery and tasting regional wines, or wandering colorful market stalls in Purmamarca. The guides, Rocio, Santiago, Ximena, and Pablo, receive praise for their warmth and professionalism, making each stop informative and lively.

A potential consideration is the packed schedule, which leaves little free time at some stops, especially in Cafayate and Purmamarca. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, this might feel a bit rushed. But if you’re eager to see as much as possible in two days, this tour offers good value and a rundown.

This tour is best suited for travelers who are excited by natural landscapes, interested in local wines, and enjoy guided stories along the way. It’s also ideal if you want a hassle-free way to cover diverse highlights without worrying about transportation logistics.

Key Points

Comprehensive Itinerary: Combines natural wonders, cultural sights, and wine tastings.
Expert Guides: Friendly, informative guides enhance the experience.
Breathtaking Landscapes: From the Devil’s Throat to Salinas Grandes, scenery is spectacular.
Efficient Schedule: Visits are well-planned but may be a bit rushed for some.
Value for Money: At around $63.50, it includes transportation, taxes, and entrance fees.
Ideal for Active Explorers: Those eager to see many highlights in a short time.

An In-Depth Look at the Two-Day Adventure

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Day 1: From Salta to the Calchaquí Valleys and Cafayate

The first day begins early, with a pickup around 7:00 am, and takes you on a journey that marries自然景观with cultural insights. The drive starts in the Valle de Lerma, the wine-growing hub of the province. Crossing the Las Conchas gorge, you’ll appreciate the lushness contrasted with the arid landscape to come. The route along National Road 68 is scenic and historically significant, giving insight into Argentina’s viticultural roots.

What makes this part special? We loved the way the guide explained the significance of the Lerma Valley and its role in local wine production. It’s not just a drive; it’s a quick lesson in regional agriculture, with a technical stop in La Merced or Coronel Moldes to stretch your legs.

Next, the Quebrada de las Conchas reveals natural sculptures carved by wind and water. The Devil’s Throat is a deep canyon that’s as dramatic as its name suggests, while the Anfiteatro offers perfect natural acoustics for a quick photo and awe. The formation known as Los Castillos gives a fairy-tale feel with its multicolored, castle-like peaks.

Authentic experiences: Over 10 stops, you’ll see famous formations like La Garganta del Diablo and Las Ventanas, each with its own unique pattern and color palette. The landscape here is a photographer’s dream.

Cafayate arrival: Around mid-afternoon, you reach this charming town of one-story, colonial-style houses. You get a short visit to a winery, where we sampled some of the region’s renowned Torrontés, alongside other red grapes like Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon. One reviewer praised the guide Ximena and driver Fede, saying they made the day “spectacular and unforgettable.”

Free time in Cafayate: You have about two hours to explore and grab lunch — not included in the tour, so you can choose local eateries or pick up a snack. Walking through the town’s streets, you’ll notice the blend of colonial and baroque architecture, giving a real sense of place.

Day 2: From Salta to the Salinas Grandes and Quebrada de Humahuaca

The second day kicks off with a drive north through Jujuy, passing through picturesque towns like Yala and Purmamarca, where the iconic Cerro de los 7 Colores dominates. This mountain’s layered hues are a must-see photo opportunity, especially in the morning light.

The Cuesta de Lipán is a highlight — a winding mountain road climbing over 4,170 meters. Here, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the puna landscape and observe the hardy flora and fauna adapted to this high-altitude environment.

Salinas Grandes: The salt flats are the day’s crown jewel. Spanning a vast 2,300 square kilometers, they’re the third-largest in Latin America. You’ll have about an hour to walk among salt sculptures, take iconic photos, and perhaps visit the salt restaurant. One reviewer called this “spectacular scenery,” noting the perfect opportunity for memorable photos.

Purmamarca and the return journey: After a leisurely exploration of this small, colorful town, you’ll retrace your route back through the Quebrada de Humahuaca, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The landscape continues to impress with its striking hills and cultural richness.

The return drive is long (about four hours), but there are multiple technical stops for snacks, bathroom breaks, or spontaneous photo sessions.

Authentic touches: Many travelers appreciated the guides’ stories and the opportunity to buy local crafts at the Purmamarca market — a chance to pick up keepsakes from your journey.

Transportation and Group Size

Travel is in an air-conditioned vehicle, comfortable for the long drives through varied terrain. With a maximum group size of 23, the tour strikes a good balance between social atmosphere and personal space — plenty of room to relax or chat with fellow travelers.

What to Expect in Terms Timing and Pacing

The schedule is tightly packed but thoughtfully designed for maximum exposure. You’ll start early, and while some stops are brief, they’re enough to give you a taste of each location. Expect a mix of sightseeing and free time, particularly in Cafayate and Purmamarca, where you can choose to explore or relax.

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Price and Value

At $63.50, including all entrance fees, transportation, and guided commentary, this tour offers solid value. The inclusion of wine tasting and scenic stops makes it an economical way to see a lot without the stress of navigating alone. Keep in mind that lunch is not included, so budget for a meal in Cafayate or Purmamarca.

Authentic Experience and Reviews

The positive reviews highlight the guides’ friendliness and expertise. One reviewer said, “They did even better with their work providing excellent information,” which reflects the value of a knowledgeable guide in enhancing your understanding of the scenery.

Travelers also praised the stunning views and unforgettable scenery, emphasizing how these landscapes are a highlight for anyone visiting northern Argentina.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

If you’re an active traveler eager to see a broad spectrum of landscapes — from dramatic canyons and colorful mountains to salt flats and lush vineyards — this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy guided experiences with friendly, professional staff.

However, if you prefer a slower pace or more time at each location, this might feel a bit rushed. The itinerary is ideal for travelers wanting a rundown in a limited amount of time.

Final Thoughts

This two-day tour from Salta offers a well-rounded taste of northern Argentina’s natural beauty and cultural richness. The scenic drives, geological marvels, and chance to sample regional wines make it an engaging experience for curious explorers. The guides are praised for their warmth and knowledge, making each stop both informative and enjoyable.

The value is hard to beat, especially considering the inclusion of entrance fees and transportation. While the schedule is tight, it’s designed to maximize your exposure to the most iconic sights efficiently. For those who love landscapes that seem almost otherworldly and want to learn about local traditions and crafts, this tour is a solid choice.

If you’re looking for a way to see a lot without fuss, and you’re excited by natural beauty and cultural discovery, this trip will deliver. Just pack your camera, your curiosity, and a sense of adventure.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle for all drives and stops.

How many stops are there each day? There are numerous stops, including scenic lookout points, natural formations, and towns. Day 1 has around six main stops, while Day 2 includes about seven, with some technical breaks.

Are meals included? Lunch and drinks in Cafayate and Purmamarca are not included, so plan to bring some snacks or dine at local eateries.

What is the group size? The maximum group size is 23 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience with plenty of space and interaction.

Is there free time during the tour? Yes, especially in Cafayate and Purmamarca, where you can explore independently for about two hours at each location.

What should I wear? Dress comfortably for outdoor sightseeing, including sun protection, sturdy shoes, and layers — temperatures can vary, especially at higher altitudes.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing flexibility in your travel plans.

This tour offers a memorable way to experience northern Argentina’s diverse landscapes, friendly guides, and authentic towns. Whether you’re a landscape lover, a wine fan, or a cultural explorer, it’s designed to give you a well-rounded taste of everything this beautiful region has to offer.