North-western Argentina
Extreme landscapes and indigenous cultures
North-western Argentina, home to the city of Salta, is undoubtedly the country’s most authentic region. The influences of the indigenous pre-Columbian Andean cultures, combined with the region’s extraordinary natural beauty, make for an unforgettable trip of northern Argentina.
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4x4 adventure across the Argentine Puna
The desolate Argentine Puna is sparsely populated. Apart from a few unpaved tracks, there are no roads here. The only way to visit this spectacular landscape is with an experienced guide, who will take you in a four-wheel-drive vehicle equipped with satellite communication.
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Indigenous villages
Hire a car and visit indigenous villages such as Purmamarca, Tilcara and Cachi. The indigenous people still live here, and everything revolves around Pachamama.
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Discover the beauty of Salta
The colonial-style city of Salta is definitely a must-see. Be sure to visit the Maam Museum, a fascinating museum dedicated to the pre-Columbian cultures of the Andes. Take a look at the cathedral and climb San Bernardo Hill, from where you’ll enjoy a magnificent view of the city and the surrounding valley.
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Staying at Finca Valentina
Just outside the centre of Salta lies this charming ‘finca’ on the vine-covered foothills of the Andes. It’s no surprise that the owners, Valentina and Fabrizio, chose this beautiful location. Here, you can go for walks, go horse-riding and enjoy a good glass of wine in complete tranquillity.
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Torrontés, the Malbec of white wines
In Mendoza, they’re proud of their Malbec; in the north-west, it’s the white wine Torrontés. A delicious wine with an aromatic character and a floral bouquet, yet it tastes dry and fresh. Visit Bodega Colomé in the village of Molinos or one of the vineyards in Cafayate for a fine Torrontés tasting.
Explore the unspoilt landscapes and traditional mountain villages in a rental car
The best-known city in north-western Argentina is Salta. The city of Salta was founded on 16 April 1582 by the Spanish explorer Hernando de Lerma. Salta is regarded as one of the most beautiful cities in Argentina and is also known as ‘La Linda’, meaning ‘the beautiful one’. Salta is a beautiful colonial city with a friendly atmosphere and a lovely climate all year round. The Plaza de Armas is the city’s central square, home to a number of good restaurants. Be sure to visit the cathedral, the Church of San Francisco and Mount San Bernardo, from where you can enjoy a magnificent view of the city.
Not only the city, but also the province of Salta in Argentina is exceptionally beautiful. The region boasts stunning canyon landscapes with multicoloured mountains, as well as high plateaus dotted with metre-high cacti. A trip of northern Argentina is best undertaken independently, using a rental car. Drive past snow-capped volcanoes, high-altitude vineyards, gorges and ravines. Visit the villages of Purmamarca and Cachi, far from the major cities. The indigenous people still live here, and everything revolves around Pachamama. We’ll organise your accommodation for you, and you can drive there at your own pace. Along the way, you’re free to stop wherever you like.
Fancy a road trip through Argentina?
Would you like to organise your own trip of Argentina and are you curious about the options available? Then do take a look at the itineraries we’ve put together for inspiration. You can book these tours directly, but we’d also be happy to put together a personalised itinerary based on your wishes and ideas.
Do you have a question? Please feel free to contact us. Call +31 73 610 62 04 or send an email to info@sapapanatravel.nl. We’ll be happy to help.