Salta Mountains and Wine Road Trip Itinerary
Experience the beauty of Argentina with the Salta Mountains and Wine Road Trip. This 1341km journey starts and ends in Salta, and passes through San Salvador de Jujuy, La Quiaca, Susques, San Antonio de los Cobres and Cafayate. Along the way, you'll be able to take in the stunning mountain views and experience the unique culture of the region. The best time to take this road trip is during the spring and summer months, when the weather is milder and the roads are less crowded. Be aware that the roads in Argentina can be quite curvy, so be sure to take extra care when driving. However, the stunning landscapes and views make the journey well worth it. With a bit of planning and a fair budget, you can enjoy an unforgettable road trip that will provide you with a lifetime of memories.
3
number of days
1,340 km
route length
moderate
budget
tourist
good for
on the right
traffic direction
fair
accident level
START
Earth
Distance 1,340 km
Driving time 36.0 h
Pace: slow
308.2 kWh
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Salta is a charming city in the northwest corner of Argentina, nestled in the Lerma Valley and a great starting point for the "Salta Mountains and Wine Road Trip". It is filled with culture, history and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for any traveler.
The city is home to several historical buildings, such as the Cabildo and the San Francisco Church, both of which offer a glimpse into the city's colonial past. Salta is also home to a number of museums, including the Museo de Arqueología de Alta Montaña, which houses artifacts from the Inca civilization. The city also boasts several parks and plazas, ideal for a leisurely stroll.
For those who want to explore the region further, Salta is the gateway to the Calchaquí Valleys, the Cafayate wine region, and the Puna de Atacama desert. All of these destinations are accessible via car. The closest international airport is Martín Miguel de Güemes International Airport (SLA), located just 10 kilometers from the city center. Car rentals are available at the airport for those who wish to explore the region at their own pace.
Salta is an ideal starting point for a road trip filled with stunning views, delicious wines, and cultural experiences. Whether you are looking for a leisurely stroll through the city or an off-road adventure in the surrounding valleys, Salta is sure to provide the perfect beginning to your journey.
1
Salta
- San Salvador de Jujuy
Distance 109 km
Driving time 2.5 h
Pace: modest
28.4 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Salta to San Salvador de Jujuy! This 112 km journey is a great opportunity to explore the beautiful landscapes of Northern Argentina. The drive will take you less than two hours, and you'll be mesmerized by the winding roads and stunning scenery. Don't forget to take a few pictures along the way!
Once you reach San Salvador de Jujuy, you'll be able to visit the Cabildo, the city's main square, and the Cathedral of San Salvador. You'll also find several museums, including the Provincial Historical Museum and the Museum of High Mountain Archeology. You'll also have the opportunity to explore the nearby Humahuaca Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along this route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
San Salvador de Jujuy - Argentina - South America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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2
San Salvador de Jujuy
- La Quiaca
Distance 286 km
Driving time 4.2 h
Pace: fast
85.8 kWh
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip from San Salvador de Jujuy to La Quiaca? This 286km route is only 4 hours of driving time and it is full of breathtaking views and interesting places.
Starting from San Salvador de Jujuy, you can visit the ancient ruins of the Incan Empire at Pucará de Tilcara and explore its fascinating history. Then, make sure to stop at the picturesque Yungas Valley, where you can take a stroll and admire the lush vegetation.
The next stop is La Quiaca, a small village located at the border of Argentina and Bolivia. Here, you can visit the historic church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción and explore the local markets.
Along the way, make sure to take your time and enjoy the scenic views of the mountains and valleys.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the “Itinerary” of this stage.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey from San Salvador de Jujuy to La Quiaca!
La Quiaca - Argentina - South America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
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3
La Quiaca
- Susques
Distance 324 km
Driving time 11.5 h
Pace: slow
74.4 kWh
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Embark on an exciting road trip from La Quiaca, Argentina to Susques, a 324 km journey that can be completed in less than 13 hours. This is one of the most beautiful and scenic roads in the region, and a 4WD car is advisable for the drive. Be aware that there may be a lack of gas stations in some sections, and the road is quite winding in some areas.
A few of the most interesting places to visit in La Quiaca include the local market, the San Francisco Church, and the archaeological site of Las Pinturas. Once you reach Susques, you can take a tour of the local museum, visit the San Francisco de Asis Church, and explore the nearby archaeological sites.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Susques - Argentina - South America - Road Trip - Flickr
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4
Susques
- San Antonio de los Cobres
Distance 126 km
Driving time 4.4 h
Pace: slow
28.9 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Susques to San Antonio de los Cobres. This 126km journey will take you through the stunning landscapes of the Argentinean highlands. It is advisable to use a 4WD car for this journey, as some of the roads are winding and there may be a lack of gas stations.
Start your adventure in Susques and take in the historical and cultural sites. Then, take a break at the Salar de Pocitos, an amazing salt lake surrounded by the Andes Mountains. After that, you will reach the town of El Toro, where you can visit the local church and the nearby archaeological sites.
Continue your journey to San Antonio de los Cobres, where you can explore the local attractions. Take a tour of the old railway station and admire the stunning views of the mountains. Visit the nearby Salinas Grandes and marvel at the beautiful salt flats.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
San Antonio de los Cobres - Argentina - South America - Road Trip - Wikipédia
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5
San Antonio de los Cobres
- Cafayate
Distance 305 km
Driving time 9.5 h
Pace: slow
70.3 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an exciting road trip from San Antonio de los Cobres to Cafayate! This 303km journey will take you less than 10 hours, and you'll get to experience some of the most stunning views Argentina has to offer. For this trip, we'd recommend you to use a 4WD car, as some parts of the route can be quite winding. As you drive, take time to admire the beautiful landscape, and don't forget to take some photos!
Your first stop should be the stunning Salinas Grandes, a massive salt flat with a mesmerizing white color. Then, you can visit the gorgeous Quebrada de las Conchas, a canyon with colorful rock formations and a picturesque river. After that, you'll get to see the amazing Amphitheater, an impressive rock formation with a natural amphitheater shape. Finally, you'll get to Cafayate, a charming city with lots of wineries, restaurants, and attractions.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Cafayate - Argentina - South America - Road Trip - Wallpaperflare
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6
Cafayate
- Salta
Distance 190 km
Driving time 3.8 h
Pace: modest
49.3 kWh
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Embark on a thrilling 189km road trip from Cafayate to Salta, Argentina! This journey will take you less than 4 hours and will be filled with amazing sights. As you drive along, take in the breathtaking views of the scenic roads and the lush vegetation. Make sure to take a few stops along the way to admire the beauty of the landscape.
Once you reach Cafayate, be sure to visit the Calchaquí Valleys, known for its stunning mountains, vineyards, and colonial churches. The Quebrada de las Conchas is also a must-see. This area is known for its unique rock formations and is a great spot for photography.
When you arrive in Salta, make sure to check out the colonial-style architecture, the San Bernardo Hill, and the vibrant nightlife. The city is also home to many museums, galleries, and parks, such as the El Balcón de La Plaza 9 de Julio.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, make sure to check out the itinerary for this stage of your road trip. Enjoy your journey!
Salta - Argentina - South America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
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Salta
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Salta, located in the northwest of Argentina, is the perfect ending point for the "Salta Mountains and Wine Road Trip". It is a great place to explore and relax after a scenic journey through the Argentinian landscape.
The city of Salta is full of colonial charm, with its cobblestone streets, ornate buildings, and a vibrant culture. The 18th-century Cabildo, the Plaza 9 de Julio, the Cathedral of Salta and the San Francisco Church are some of the main attractions of the city. The San Bernardo Convent and the Museum of High Mountain Archaeology are also worth visiting.
For those who want to explore the outdoors, the Cerro San Bernardo cable car offers spectacular views of the city and the surrounding mountains. The nearby Calchaquí Valleys and the High Andes are also great places to visit, with their vineyards, colonial-era churches, and stunning landscapes.
Salta is also a great place to enjoy some delicious local dishes. The city's traditional empanadas, tamales, and locro are just some of the delicious local dishes that visitors should try.
For travelers arriving by air, the closest international airport is Martín Miguel de Güemes International Airport (SLA).
The "Salta Mountains and Wine Road Trip" is a great way to explore the beautiful landscapes and culture of Argentina. And after a long journey, Salta is the perfect place to relax and enjoy all the city has to offer.
Salta - Argentina - South America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
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Salta Mountains and Wine Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Salta
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End:
Salta
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Distance:
1,340 km
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Stay:
3 days
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When to drive:
January, February, March, April, November, December
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
The Salta Mountains and Wine Road Trip is a mesmerizing 1341km (833 miles) journey that offers travelers the chance to immerse themselves in the beauty of Argentina's northwest region. This route is not just a drive through scenic landscapes but an exploration of Argentina's rich history, indigenous cultures, and the renowned wine country. Starting and ending in Salta, the circuit encompasses a diverse range of environments from the vibrant city of Salta to the high-altitude deserts and the lush vineyards of Cafayate.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Salta: This city is not only the starting point but a destination in itself, with its well-preserved colonial architecture and the MAAM museum, which houses Inca artifacts, including the famous Llullaillaco mummies.
- San Salvador de Jujuy: A charming city where the fusion of Spanish colonial and indigenous cultures is evident, offering a rich cultural tapestry and traditional crafts.
- La Quiaca: This border town is a melting pot of Argentine and Bolivian cultures, offering unique opportunities to experience the blend of traditions and customs.
- Susques: Known for its picturesque church and proximity to the otherworldly salt flats of Salinas Grandes.
- San Antonio de los Cobres: Aside from the famous Train to the Clouds, this town is a gateway to the high Andean Puna with its breathtaking landscapes and traditional llama herding communities.
- Cafayate: Not just famous for its high-altitude wines, particularly Torrontés, but also for the stunning rock formations of Quebrada de Cafayate, such as the Amphitheatre and Devil's Throat.
Best Time to Go:
Traveling during the spring (September to November) and fall (March to May) is ideal to avoid the heat of summer and the crowds of high season. The vineyards are particularly beautiful during the harvest season in March and April.
Potential Risks:
The route includes winding mountain Roads that require careful driving, especially during the rainy season (December to March) when landslides can occur. High altitude areas such as San Antonio de los Cobres might induce altitude sickness; it's essential to acclimatize and stay hydrated.
Facts for Roadtrippers:
- Budget for fuel, accommodations, dining, and wine tastings, as well as entrance fees for certain attractions.
- Local driving regulations include mandatory insurance and carrying a fire extinguisher and two warning triangles.
- Basic Spanish phrases will be invaluable, as English is not widely spoken in the more remote areas.
Interesting Facts:
- The Train to the Clouds is one of the highest railways in the world, reaching an elevation of 4,220 meters (13,850 feet) above sea level.
- Cafayate's high-altitude vineyards are among the highest in the world, contributing to the unique taste and quality of its wines.
- The Calchaquí Valleys, through which the Road passes, are known for their distinct landscapes and are home to some of the oldest pre-Columbian settlements in Argentina.
A good choice for:
A blend of awe-inspiring nature, cultural richness, and the pleasures of wine tasting make the Salta Mountains and Wine Road Trip a journey that caters to diverse interests. With thoughtful preparation and a zest for discovery, travelers will be rewarded with an unforgettable Argentine adventure.
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