Locations Salta & Jujuy

The adjoining provinces of Salta and Jujuy in the northwest of Argentina are possibly the most stunning and varied of all. They are predominantly mountainous and as you travel from one place to the next you will be treated to the most incredible contrasting landscapes of lush green jungle in the lower valleys and arid multicoloured peaks and canyons, scattered with enormous cacti, as you climb higher and higher above the cloud line.  Both the lively cities and small primitive villages are full of culture, history and charm, with the sound of local folklore music and packed artisan markets in every corner. Here you really do feel like you are in the heart of South America.

The city of Salta is usually the starting point for those visiting the area and it is an ideal place to spend a couple of days.  Known in Argentina as “Salta la linda” (“Salta the beautiful”), with its attractive colonial architecture, picturesque main square and usually warm and sunny climate, it is the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely stroll around the streets, stopping at outdoor cafes to soak up the atmosphere and watch the world go by. In the evening a visit to a peña (live folklore music show, reminiscent of the Spanish Flamenco) should not be missed and we will give you tips on the best shows to entertain you whilst dining at a local restaurant or bar.

The real highlight of this area, however, is when you leave the city for the surrounding countryside and you will see how the province really does live up to its name.

Heading south, a fantastic destination is the small town of Cafayate, set within the wine country of Salta.  Famous for its white wine, Torrontes, Cafayate is a wonderful base for visiting the surrounding vineyards with their stunning mountainous backdrop and learning about the wine produced within this high altitude region. As well as this, a trip to the Quebrada (Canyon) de Cafayate, is a must.  The red hot colours of the rocks jutting high up into the deep blue sky, often forming such characterful shapes as steam trains and animals, make it seem like you are on a different planet.

Heading north to the province of Jujuy and up to the enchanting Humahuaca canyon  you can do a round trip which is without doubt one of the most impressive drives imaginable; passing through sweet smelling sub-tropical rainforest, right up into the richly coloured mountains with their high altitude deserts and salt flats.  The roadside is scattered with tiny indigenous villages and settlements, inhabited by friendly, humble people whose families have been living and working there for generations. The rich history and culture stretching back to the Incas and the Indians before them is apparent all around.

Exploring the region is what it’s all about in Salta and Jujuy and we can arrange this in any way that suits you, whether at your own pace in a hire car, a private trip by 4x4 with an English speaking guide or as part of a small group tour.  In our opinion the more time you have here the better as the list of places to go and things to see is endless!

Who should go

Everyone we know who has been to Salta and Jujuy has loved it!  It’s hard not to. Comments like "it feels like a different world" and "I’ve never seen landscapes change so dramatically in such close proximity" are common. You don’t have to be outdoorsy, energetic or adventurous, just happy to drive or be driven.  It is a place to go if you want to be blown away by scenery and engulfed in culture; the colours, the food, the people, the music and the overall atmosphere are all factors which make this region a highlight of Argentina.

Accommodation

The small towns and villages in Salta and Jujuy have had a revamp in recent years in terms of accommodation.  There are some wonderful small boutique hotels which ensure a relaxing stay at the highest comfort.  But what really makes them special is the focus to integrate them within the natural surroundings using local materials and products, such as adobe and stone, and decorating them with artisan crafts specific to the region, including cactus furniture and llama hair rugs. Hotels vary from midrange to 5-star luxury in prime locations, such as the village of Purmamarca and its dramatic Cerro de los Siete Colores (Hill of the Seven Colours), with fantastic options for a romantic getaway or honeymoon.