Northwest Argentina, Chasing the Clouds, Iguassu Falls and Buenos Aires

Upon arrival at Buenos Aires International Airport, you will be greeted by your guide and assisted with your connection to Salta. Nestled in the picturesque Lerma Valley, Salta is considered the most charming city in Argentina’s northwest, where colonial architecture blends seamlessly with modern life. After check-in at your hotel, embark on a guided city tour to discover its highlights. Visit the striking Cathedral and the ornate San Francisco Church, then ascend San Bernardo Hill for sweeping views over the city and valley. Return to your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.
 

Maximum altitude: 1,454 m / 4,798 ft.

After breakfast, meet your guide for an early departure along the legendary “Train to the Clouds” route. Journey through the dramatic Quebrada del Toro (Bull’s River Gorge), marveling at impressive engineering feats of viaducts, loops, and switchbacks accomplished without cogs. Visit the ancient pre-Inca ruins of Santa Rosa de Tastil, perched at 9,842 feet, before arriving at the remote village of San Antonio de los Cobres for lunch. Continue across the high-altitude Puna to the striking salt flats of Salinas Grandes, then descend via the scenic Cuesta de Lipán to Purmamarca at the foot of the Seven Colors Hill, ending the day in Tilcara for overnight. (b)

Maximum altitude: 4,200 m / 13,776 ft | Distance: 316 km / 198 mi

Meet your guide for a full-day journey through the stunning Humahuaca Gorge, exploring vibrant Andean villages. Begin in Tilcara, visiting a partially restored pre-Columbian fortress, the Pucará, and the local museum. Continue to Uquía to see the parish church with its remarkable Cuzco-era paintings of harquebusier angels. In Humahuaca, founded in 1594, explore the historic church, old town hall, and Independence War monument. After lunch on your own, stop at Maimará to admire La Paleta del Pintor and at Purmamarca to marvel at the Seven Colors Hill. Conclude with a short tour of San Salvador de Jujuy before returning to Salta. (b)

Altitude: 3,000 m / 9,840 ft | Distance: 267 km / 167 mi

Depart for Cachi, passing through Cerrillos, El Carril, and Chicoana, ascending the scenic Escoipe River Gorge to the dramatic Cuesta del Obispo (Bishop’s Slope). Continue to Piedra del Molino, the highest point at 3,600 meters (11,808 ft), then travel along the “Recta de Tin Tin,” a road designed by local aborigines that creates the optical illusion of ascending while actually descending. Journey west across the high plateau, marveling at the towering Cardón cacti within Los Cardones National Park, established to protect these majestic plants and local wildlife. Upon arrival in Cachi, explore the church and museum, then enjoy a relaxing evening at leisure. (b)

Altitude: 3,620 m / 11,874 ft | Distance: 157 km / 98 mi

After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely morning exploring the charming town of Cachi at your own pace. In the afternoon, depart for Cafayate, traveling along scenic mountain roads that pass through the quaint villages of Seclantas, Molinas, and Angastaco. Along the way, marvel at the dramatic Quebrada de las Flechas (Arrow’s Ravine), a striking geological formation with 20-meter-high rock walls lining the winding route. Arrive in Cafayate, a tranquil colonial-style town renowned for its vineyards, including the signature Torrontés white wine, celebrated for its aromatic and crisp character, uniquely tied to the region.
 

Altitude: 2,500 m / 8,200 ft | Distance: 192 km / 120 mi

After breakfast, explore the town of Cafayate and visit a local wine cellar, sampling the region’s renowned wines. Enjoy lunch on your own before departing for Salta. Along the way, take in breathtaking panoramic views of the valleys and the spectacular Quebrada de las Conchas (Cafayate’s Gorge), with its striking reddish sandstone cliffs and uniquely eroded rock formations. Locals have named these natural wonders according to their shapes, including the Amphitheater, Devil’s Throat, Obelisk, and the Castles. Continue the scenic drive to Salta, where you will check into your hotel for the evening. (b)
 

Altitude: 2,000 m / 6,560 ft | Distance: 192 km / 120 mi

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Puerto Iguazú. Upon arrival, meet your guide and transfer to your hotel for check-in. Iguazú Falls is one of the world’s most spectacular waterfalls. Stretching nearly two miles, the falls comprise over 275 cascades set within lush subtropical rainforest, home to toucans, coatis, and vibrant butterflies. The highlight is the Devil’s Throat, a U-shaped chasm where immense volumes of water plunge with thunderous force. Elevated boardwalks and viewing platforms provide up-close views of the falls’ power, mist, and breathtaking natural beauty. (b)

After breakfast, visit the Argentine side of Iguazú Falls within Iguazú National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of South America’s first protected areas. Take the park train to Garganta Station and walk to the Devil’s Throat balcony to witness the awe-inspiring power of this iconic waterfall. Continue along the upper and lower trails for close-up views of the cascades, surrounded by lush rainforest and abundant wildlife. For adventure seekers, opt for the “Great Adventure” tour, combining a boat ride to San Martín Falls with a thrilling 4WD jungle safari. Evening at leisure. (b)

After breakfast, depart for Brazil’s Foz do Iguaçu National Park, one of the largest protected rainforest reserves in the country. Stroll along scenic trails offering breathtaking panoramic views of the falls, culminating at Floriano Fall. Here, descend via elevator to street level while continuing to marvel at the cascading water and surrounding lush vegetation. After the tour, return to Puerto Iguazú and transfer to the airport for your scheduled flight to Buenos Aires. Upon arrival, a guide will meet you and escort you to your hotel, marking the start of your stay in Argentina’s vibrant capital. (b)

Spend a leisurely morning in Buenos Aires before embarking on an afternoon guided city tour. Explore the historic Plaza de Mayo, the Government House, the Cabildo, and the Metropolitan Cathedral, then stroll along bustling Mayo Avenue. Visit the iconic Colon Theater, the colorful La Boca neighborhood, the chic Palermo district, and Recoleta, where you tour the cemetery and see Evita’s grave. In the evening, enjoy a captivating dinner and tango show, witnessing the sensual artistry of top dancers and singers while learning the history of this passionate Argentine dance. Return to your hotel for the night. (b, d)

You will have some time at your leisure before your departure time for the airport to board for your scheduled flight home or to your next adventure in Argentina or other destinations in South America. (b)