A single, long day that traces Route 68 and Route 40 through Cuesta del Obispo, Los Cardones and the Quebrada de las Conchas — ending with vineyards in Cafayate. Expect panoramic viewpoints, colonial towns and a winery tasting.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step into the van at dawn in Salta and the city slides away: serrated ridgelines sharpen as Route 68 climbs into Cuesta del Obispo, a road that seems to chisel the sky. Wind scours the windshield with bone-dry air, and the first light paints the cardón cacti black against ochre slopes. This is the Vuelta a Los Valles — a one-day sweep through the Calchaquí Valleys that stitches together high Andean villages, sculpted canyons and vineyards that lean into sun like old men toasting the morning.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
14 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers in good general health who can handle a long day of travel with short walks; basic mobility is required for winery tours and village streets.
Wildlife
History
The Calchaquí Valleys were home to indigenous Calchaquí communities before Spanish colonization; colonial-era churches and adobe architecture reflect layered cultural influences.
Conservation
Los Cardones and the Quebrada de las Conchas are fragile landscapes—stay on roads and trails, buy locally produced goods to support small communities, and avoid touching cactus or wildlife.
Reserve your spot on the Tour of the Cafayate and Cachi Valleys in 1 Day today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize before the tour
Spend a day in Salta to adjust to altitude—Cachi can exceed 2,500 m and sudden headaches or breathlessness are common if you arrive from low elevation.
Bring sun protection
High-altitude sun is intense; pack SPF 50, a wide-brim hat and UV-blocking sunglasses for the long stretches between shade.
Reserve winery choices early
Tastings are included but the specific bodega can change — specify your preferred winery when booking to secure a particular visit.
Carry a small daypack
Short walks, camera gear and snacks are best managed in a compact pack—there are multiple photographic stops but limited storage on short detours.
Layered clothing
Mornings and evenings are cool at altitude while midday can be hot—layers make the day comfortable.
Sun hat and sunscreen
Protects against strong UV at high elevations, especially on exposed viewpoints.
summer
Comfortable walking shoes
Streets in Cachi and small winery grounds are uneven; supportive shoes make short walks easier.
Reusable water bottle
Hydration is essential across long stretches of driving and when adjusting to altitude.