Cafayate and Salinas Grandes: 2-Day Northern Argentina Excursion from Salta

Salta•moderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

2 days (two full-day excursions, 11–13 hours each)

Fitness Level

You should be comfortable with long days of travel and short walks at altitude; minimal hiking demands.

Overview

Two full days from Salta cover Cafayate’s red-rock canyons, a winery tasting, and the high-white expanse of Salinas Grandes via Cuesta del Lipán. Expect long drives, high passes and spectacular light that rewards early starts.

Cafayate and Salinas Grandes: 2-Day Northern Argentina Excursion from Salta

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bus-tour

wildlife

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Date

Mon, Nov 24

Travelers

The bus pulls out of Salta before sunrise and the city shrinks into a ribbon of asphalt while the Andes begin to show their angles—red bands, chalky spires and wind-sculpted amphitheaters that seem to lean forward to be seen. On day one you drive the 360 km loop to Cafayate, through the Quebrada de las Conchas, where roadside formations like the Amphitheater and Garganta del Diablo stand like chapters in a geological book. On day two the road climbs dramatically toward Purmamarca and the Salinas Grandes; at Cuesta del Lipán you cross 4,070 m and feel the air thin and the landscape go suddenly white.

Adventure Photos

Cafayate and Salinas Grandes: 2-Day Northern Argentina Excursion from Salta photo 1

Adventure Tips

Acclimatize before high passes

Spend a night in Salta (≈1,200 m) before the tour; drink water and avoid heavy exertion before Cuesta del Lipán (4,070 m).

Sun protection is non-negotiable

Bring high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses and a wide-brim hat—UV at altitude is intense even on cool mornings.

Comfortable shoes for short walks

Most stops require only brief walks on uneven ground—sturdy walking shoes make photo stops and winery tours easier.

Carry small cash

Local vendors and some restroom stops accept only cash; keep small bills for snacks and tips.

Local Insights

Wildlife

Andean goose
Vizcacha (rock-dwelling rodent)

History

The Valles Calchaquíes were routes for pre-Columbian communities and later Spanish colonists; vineyards were established centuries ago at high elevation for their diurnal temperature swings.

Conservation

The salt flats are fragile—stick to designated viewing areas and avoid disturbing salt crusts; support local artisans and small wineries to sustain traditional economies.