ITINERARY

In this northern Argentinian province, landscapes are unusual and breathtaking: a road trip down the main route will offer memorable sights and stops, like the Quebrada de las Conchas and its incredible Anfiteatro or the Garganta del Diablo (Devil’s Throat). The deserted land is covered in cacti and reddish rock formations that transport you to an altogether different time and place. Alpacas roam freely and locals dress in the typical and colorful clothing of the altiplano (high plain).

Salta, and more specifically Cafayate, is the land of Torrontés, the only 100% Argentinian grape variety, which produces an incredibly perfumed dry white wine. The world’s highest vineyards (at 3111 m.a.s.l.) are located in the Calchaquí Valleys, in the heart of Salta’s Wine Route. The country’s most recognized grape, Malbec, is also king in this region that has fantastic sun exposure and little UV protection due to the altitude, which results in thick-skinned grapes and incredibly rich and fruit-forward red wines.

Day 1: Colonial Salta

Transfer from Salta airport to your centric boutique hotel to freshen up and check-in at Legado Mítico Boutique Hotel. Then, an afternoon walk through the City's historical district will reveal true colonial treasures: among them the striking red-and-gold baroque San Francisco Church built in 1625, the café terrace-lined 9 de Julio Square, and the Cathedral. Discover Salta's lively streets and food markets in search of unique Andean spices and local aromatic herbs.

Visit the MAAM, the High Altitude Archaeological Museum, built to preserve and display the outstanding archaeological findings of the “Children of Llullaillaco”, the mummified bodies of three Inca children found at the peak of Mount Llullaillaco at above 22,000ft (as of today acknowledged as the highest burial site in the world). The displays also bring amazing insight to the ancient customs and traditions of the Incas.

In the evening, enjoy traditional dishes at Casona del Molino, an authentic and animated local restaurant.

• Explore Salta city
• Visit the MAAM, the High Altitude Archaeological Museum
• Traditional diner at Casona del Molino

Day 2: Wines and Crafts at Cafayate​​​​​​​

In the morning enjoy a scenic drive across multicolor sedimentary formations of Quebrada de las Conchas (Las Conchas Gorge) to the town of Cafayate, known for its superb artisans and high altitude vineyards. We stop on the way for easy hikes, amid the arid, almost moonlike formations of the Quebrada. Enjoy a private lunch of traditional asado (BBQ) at El Porvenir Hacienda & Vineyards, producers of outstanding Malbecs and Cabs in the picturesque village of Cafayate.

Check-in and dinner at Patios de Cafayate, the wine resort located at the grounds of El Esteco Winery, your home for the next two nights.

• Scenic drive of the Quebrada de las Conchas
• Traditional asado lunch at El Porvenir Hacienda & Vineyards
• Dinner at your hotel, Patios de Cafayate

Day 3: Cafayate

In the morning we will enjoy a fine wine tasting at familia Etchart's San Pedro de Yacochuya Winery (Michel Rolland's first involvement with Argentinian producers). The family has been involved with wine production since the 1850's . After a short drive, we will arrive to Bodega Piatelli, where we will learn about their production and enjoy a delicious lunch, while enjoying one of the best sights of the Calchaqui valleys.

During the afternoon, as we return to our wine resort, we will delight our palates once more with a quick visit to the local goat cheese factory. The rest of the afternoon is yours to relax at the lodge.

• Visit and wine tasting at San Pedro de Yacochuya Winery
• Visit, wine tasting and lunch at Bodega Piatelli
• Visit and tasting at a local goat cheese factory

Day 4: Cafayate to Salta

This morning we head back to Salta Airport (3-hour scenic drive) to board connecting flights.

All our tours are private and depart daily. They can be fully customised, lengthened or shortened according to the number of participants and to suit individual interests and schedules.