DURATION

9 Days

DIFFICULTY

Moderate

From Wetlands to Mountains: Wild and Andean Souls

Far from the usual routes, this itinerary invites you to explore the most authentic side of Argentina: from the unspoiled landscapes of the Iberá Wetlands to the rich cultural heritage of the Andean North. A perfect blend of raw nature, abundant wildlife, soulful towns, and otherworldly scenery.

Over nine days, the journey takes you through vibrant wetlands, rural backroads, high-altitude vineyards, and villages rooted in ancient traditions. A travel experience that connects you with the country’s essence—through charming lodges, local flavors, and genuine encounters with Argentina’s living history.

Highlights

  • Ibera Wetlands

  • Cafayate

  • Purmamarca

  • Quebrada de Humahuaca

  • Quebrada de las Conchas

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Itinerary

Itinerary

Welcome to the Wetlands!
Arrival at Posadas Airport and overland transfer to Aguapé Lodge, nestled on the shores of Laguna Iberá. The drive itself is part of the experience, crossing open grasslands, scattered palm trees, and endless skies. Once at the lodge, you’ll be welcomed by the serene rhythm of the wetlands and the scent of homemade cooking. The afternoon is free to settle in, explore the surroundings, or simply watch capybaras grazing as the sun sets.

Overnight at Aguapé Lodge.

Begin the day with one of the included activities: a guided walk through the native landscape or a boat safari through the channels of Iberá, where caimans, marsh deer, and vibrant birds roam freely. Each excursion offers a different window into this rich and untouched ecosystem.

Overnight at Aguapé Lodge.

The morning can start early with birdwatching or a peaceful canoe outing across calm waters, where floating plants and mirror-like reflections create a dreamlike atmosphere. In the afternoon, choose another activity or relax at the lodge—take a dip in the pool, read in a hammock, or simply let the stillness soak in.

Overnight at Aguapé Lodge.

Last Glimpses of Iberá
At the agreed time, transfer to Posadas airport to board your flight to Salta.

Type of service: Shared
Upon arrival at Salta’s international airport, we will transfer you by private vehicle to your hotel.

Known as “La Linda” (The Beautiful), Salta blends colonial architecture, mountainous landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. Its historic center features baroque churches and museums that tell the story of the Andes. From here, scenic routes lead to the Calchaquí Valleys and the famous Train to the Clouds, ascending over 4,000 meters. The city also serves as an ideal starting point to explore the diversity of northwestern Argentina.

Calchaquí Valleys Loop – Day 1
We’ll pick you up from your hotel to begin a two-day journey through some of the most captivating landscapes of northwest Argentina. We set out from the Lerma Valley, passing through the Laureles and Escoipe Gorges, and begin climbing the impressive Cuesta del Obispo, a winding road with sweeping views of the Enchanted Valley, dotted with tiny farms growing corn and fruit trees.

We cross Los Cardones National Park via the legendary Recta de Tin-Tin, once part of the Inca Trail, and arrive around midday at the charming adobe town of Cachi.

After lunch, we continue along Route 40, surrounded by mountain scenery and historic towns like Seclantás, Molinos, and Angastaco, nestled beside the Calchaquí River.

As the sun begins to lower, we travel through the surreal Quebrada de Las Flechas, passing San Carlos and Animaná, until we reach Cafayate, where you’ll spend the night.

Meals and museum entrance fees are not included.

During the morning of the last day, we will visit one of the many wineries that produce wine in the area, including wine tasting. After lunch, we will continue with the tour through the wonderful Quebrada de las Conchas: 83 kilometers in which the view does not give respite, due to the colors of its hills and the incredible shapes drawn for thousands and thousands of years by the erosion of water and wind. The Amphitheater, the Devil’s Throat, the Obelisk, the Toad, the Monk, the Castles and the Tres Cruces viewpoint are the most recognized attractions, although every meter of this road is unmissable. Further on, towards the east, the gigantic mirror of the Cabra Corral reservoir can be seen and finally the city of Salta is reached again.

Meals are not included.

Total distance: 520km (Asphalt: 360km – Ripio: 160km)
Difficulty: Low

Highland Loop & Quebrada de Humahuaca with Hornocal
This two-day journey offers a spectacular immersion into Argentina’s northwest, where ancient history, soaring altitudes, and surreal landscapes come together.

We begin by tracing the route of the legendary Train to the Clouds, crossing the Quebrada del Toro and visiting the mysterious Tastil ruins, once a major pre-Incan settlement. We then climb to 4,080 meters above sea level at Abra Blanca, where the vast Puna plateau opens before us and San Antonio de los Cobres appears in the distance.

We stop for lunch (meals not included), and continue along Route 40 to the dazzling Salinas Grandes, a shimmering salt flat that stretches to the horizon on the border between Salta and Jujuy.

From there, we take Route 52, reaching the 4,170-meter Alto El Morado before descending the winding Cuesta de Lipán into the Quebrada de Humahuaca. By late afternoon, we arrive in Purmamarca, where you’ll have free time to explore the village, browse the artisan market, and admire the famous Hill of Seven Colors.

We spend the night in Purmamarca.

Meals are not included.

Distance: 320 km
Asphalt: 220 km
Gravel: 100 km

In the morning, before leaving for Tilcara, we can take advantage of the best time of the day to photograph the Cerro de los Siete Colores. Once in Tilcara, we will visit the Pucará, a renowned archaeological site built around the 8th century. Back on the road, we will cross the imaginary line of the Tropic of Capricorn and enjoy views of multicolored hills, such as La Pollera de la Coya and Las Señoritas. The town of Humahuaca is left behind to face the incredible mountain range El Hornocal, also known as Cerro de los 14 Colores. On the way back, you will have time for lunch in Humahuaca and stroll through the historic center, where the Cathedral, the Cabildo and the Independence Monument, also called El Indio, stand out. On the way back to Salta, we will stop at the chapel of Uquía and the afternoon sun will give us beautiful views of the hills of the eastern range, particularly the Paleta del Pintor, which frames the town of Maimará.

Meals and museum entrance fees are not included.

Distance: 308 km
Asphalt: 260 km
Gravel: 48 km

At the appropriate time, we will transfer you by private vehicle from your hotel to the airport for your return flight.

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