3 Days, 3 Full Excursions from Salta: Cafayate, Humahuaca & Salinas Grandes
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 days (3 full days)
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness—comfortable with long days of sitting in transit and short walks at altitude
Overview
Three full-day tours from Salta fold Argentina’s north into a compact, three-day loop: vineyards and red rock at Cafayate, the chromatic heights of Humahuaca and Purmamarca, and the otherworldly Salinas Grandes salt flats. Travel by minivan with guides, tastings and national park fees included.
3 Days, 3 Full Excursions from Salta: Cafayate, Humahuaca & Salinas Grandes
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The minivan leaves Salta before sunrise, tires whispering over the pavement as the city bleeds amber into the high desert. By midmorning the valley opens into the Quebrada de las Conchas: red-brown cliffs carved into ribbed spires that seem to measure the patience of wind and water. That first day ends in Cafayate, glasses clinking over torrontés so bright they could be mistaken for sunlight.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Acclimatize before heading north
Spend at least a day in Salta (≈1,200 m) to reduce altitude sickness risk before visiting Humahuaca and Salinas Grandes (≈3,000–3,500 m).
Start early—pack water and snacks
Pickups begin around 6:30 a.m.; bring a 1–2 L water bottle and snacks for long stretches between towns.
Sun protection is non-negotiable
High-altitude sun and reflective salt demand SPF 50, a wide-brim hat and sunglasses even on cool days.
Wear grippy shoes
Viewpoints and village streets are often uneven and dusty—trail shoes with good traction are best.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Andean fox (culpeo)
- Various raptors such as caracaras
History
The Quebrada de Humahuaca has been a trade and pilgrimage corridor for millennia and is recognized by UNESCO for its cultural landscape and Andean heritage.
Conservation
Visitor pressure is concentrated at viewpoints and Salt Flats—stay on designated paths and support local guides and wineries that practice water-conscious viticulture.
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Adventure Hotspots in Salta
Recommended Gear
Layered outerwear
Mornings can be chilly and afternoons hot—layers let you adapt quickly.
Reusable water bottle (1–2 L)
Hydration is key at altitude and in arid valleys.
Sun protection kit (SPF 50, hat, sunglasses)
High UV exposure at elevation and on the salt flat.
Sturdy trail shoes
Provides grip on uneven viewpoints, town streets and light trails.