Andean Trails: 3 Day Cafayate, Hornocal and Salinas Tour
What your day looks like
This three-day trip invites you to discover the best of northern Argentina. On the first day, you'll travel through the spectacular Quebrada de las Conchas (Shells Gorge) to Cafayate, a land of sun, wine, and vineyards, surrounded by natural formations like the Garganta del Diablo (Devil's Throat) and the Amphitheater. On the second day, you'll explore the Quebrada de Humahuaca in Jujuy, visiting iconic towns such as Purmamarca, Tilcara, and Humahuaca, as well as ascending the imposing Cerro de 14 Colores (Hornocal) in a 4x4 vehicle. Finally, the third day will take you to the Salinas Grandes, an immense white salt flat, with stops in Purmamarca and its famous Cerro de los Siete Colores (Hill of Seven Colors). An ideal tour for those seeking to combine nature, culture, and the most breathtaking landscapes of northwestern Argentina.
The experience, in brief
- Discover the highlights of northern Argentina on a threeday journey
- Explore the Quebrada de Humahuaca and visit iconic towns
Your day, step by step
Cafayate
Sightseeing. Day 1 – Cafayate & Quebrada de las Conchas Depart Salta and travel through the Lerma Valley along the famous Wine Route (National Route 68), crossing the spectacular Quebrada de las Conchas. Witness dramatic rock formations created by wind and water erosion, including Devil’s Throat, the Amphitheater, the Frog, the Friar, the Obelisk, and the Castles. Continue to Cafayate, one of the most important towns in the Calchaquí Valleys, surrounded by vineyards and sun-soaked landscapes. Visit a local winery to taste regional wines, including Torrontés, Malbec, Tannat, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Enjoy free time to explore the town’s colonial and baroque architecture before returning to Salta.
Salta
Overnight.
Humahuaca
ATV/UTV & Off Road Tours. Day 2 – Quebrada de Humahuaca & Hornocal Travel north from Salta into the Quebrada de Humahuaca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, rich in culture and stunning landscapes. Visit picturesque towns such as Purmamarca, with the iconic Hill of Seven Colors, Tilcara, home to the ancient Pucará, and Uquía, known for its historic church and traditional ceramics. From Uquía, take a 4x4 vehicle up to the breathtaking Hornocal (Hill of 14 Colors) for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. On the return journey, stop briefly in Humahuaca, and enjoy photo opportunities at the Painter’s Palette and the Tropic of Capricorn before heading back to Salta.
Salta
Overnight.
Purmamarca
Sightseeing. Day 3 – Salinas Grandes & Purmamarca Depart Salta toward the province of Jujuy, passing through scenic villages and entering the northern section of the Quebrada de Humahuaca. Stop in Purmamarca for panoramic views of the village and its famous Hill of Seven Colors. Ascend the winding Cuesta de Lipán, reaching 4,170 meters above sea level, and enjoy high-altitude landscapes with unique flora and fauna. Arrive at the Salinas Grandes, one of South America’s largest salt flats, with free time to walk among the salt pools, sculptures, and take stunning photos. Return to Purmamarca for free time to explore the town, enjoy lunch, and admire its narrow cobblestone streets, adobe houses, and the vibrant Hill of Seven Colors before traveling back to Salta.
Salta
Tour ends.
What to know before booking
Included
Vehicle with air conditioning Entrance fee Visit the Quebrada de Humahuaca and Serranías del Hornocal and its magnificent 14-color hill Visit to the Quebrada de las Conchas and entrance to a winery with wine tasting. Visit Purmamarca with its hill of 7 colors and Salinas Grandes
Not Included
Meals
Meeting & Pickup
Pick-up takes place between 7:00 a.m. and 7:45 a.m., within a 15-block radius of Plaza 9 de Julio.
Languages Offered
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Planning Notes
Hotel pickup offered: Yes Confirmation: Automatic