Self-Driving in Northern Argentina: A Scenic Adventure

Northern Argentina offers some of the most stunning landscapes that change drasticallyfrom valley to valley and it offers easy roads making it an ideal destination for a self-drive adventure. This article highlights key locations and activities to help you make themost of your journey.

Starting the Journey

This adventure can start from either Córdoba, Mendoza, or San Juan cities. The firstmajor stop is Ischigualasto Provincial Park, also known as “Valle de la Luna” due to itsmoon-like landscape.

After approximately six hours of driving (Mendoza & Córdoba) or four hours (from SanJuan), arrive at Ischigualasto and book tickets for the park tour. Visitors must use theirown vehicles to follow the guide’s car. The guide will make several stops to explain thepark’s history and geography, allowing time for photos. The tour lasts about three hoursand covers a 40 km route. Nocturnal visits are also available with Full Moon!

Talampaya National Park

From Ischigualasto, drive for about an hour to reach Talampaya National Park in LaRioja. If arriving late, camping is available at the park entrance, which includesfacilities such as bathrooms and tables.

Tip for Campers: For those who enjoy the outdoors, camping at Talampaya is a rewarding experience.Ensure you bring your own camping equipment.

Exploring Talampaya

The next morning, take the first tour of Talampaya Canyon. Unlike Ischigualasto,private vehicles are not allowed inside the park. The guided tour is conducted on 4x4trucks provided by the park and lasts approximately four hours. Booking the tour onlinein advance is recommended to secure a spot.

Next Stop: Tafí del Valle

Continue your journey to Tafí del Valle in Tucumán, driving along Route 40 for aboutnine hours. The scenic drive offers beautiful landscapes that make the time pass quickly.Arrive at the hotel in the evening and rest for the night.

Spend the morning exploring Tafí del Valle by car and visit the local artisans’ markets.After lunch, head to the Quilmes Ruins, an archaeological site in the Calchaquí Valleys.This site provides insight into the history and culture of the indigenous Quilmes people.

Cafayate: Wine and Scenery

As the sun sets, drive to Cafayate in Salta, known for its vineyards and picturesquelandscapes. Spend two nights in Cafayate, exploring the area by renting bikes from themain square. Visit several wineries for wine tastings, with Piatelli being a standout forits beautiful setting and excellent food and wines.

Journey to Salta

Depart for Salta via Route 68, passing through the Quebrada de las Conchas. Driveslowly (under 60 km/h) to fully appreciate the natural formations such as “TheWindows,” “The Friar,” “The Toad,” and “The Obelisk.” Key stops include the sanddunes near Cafayate, “The Amphitheatre,” and “The Devil’s Throat.”

Exploring Salta

Salta features well-preserved colonial architecture and cultural sites like the neoclassicalCathedral, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Cabildo, and the Museum of High Mountain Archaeology. For a panoramic city view, visit Cerro San Bernardo by cablecar or car.

Evenings in Salta are best spent at “peñas,” where you can enjoy traditional food and folkloric music. Popular spots include “La Vieja Estación” and “La Casona del Molino.”

Visiting Humahuaca and Beyond

Head to Humahuaca in Jujuy, with a detour to the Salinas Grandes via Route 9 andRoute 52. This vast salt flat, at 4,170 meters above sea level, is the second largest in South America. Be mindful of the altitude.

In Humahuaca, visit the “14 Colors Hill” (Hornocal) for spectacular views. The town ofIruya is also worth a visit, though it is best reached by bus due to the challenging road conditions. Iruya offers narrow streets and local accommodations, with the Condorviewpoint providing stunning vistas.

Final Stops: Tilcara and Purmamarca

On the return journey, stop in the towns of Tilcara and Purmamarca. Both towns are known for their colorful streets and craft markets. Purmamarca is also home to thefamous “7 Colors Hill.”

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Northern Argentina offers a journey filled with diverse landscapes and rich culturalexperiences. For more information and assistance in planning your trip, feel free tocontact us