Salta, Argentina
Salta is a charming city in northern Argentina known for its colonial architecture, lively nightlife, and stunning natural beauty. Travelers can enjoy exploring the city's museums, churches, and marketplaces, or venture outside to experience the beautiful landscapes of the surrounding countryside.
Trip to Salta, Argentina
Day 1: Exploring the Historic City Center
Your first day in Salta will be spent exploring the city’s historic center. Start by visiting the iconic 18th-century Salta Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral Basilica of Salta. The cathedral’s architecture is a mix of neoclassical and baroque styles, and the building houses many important works of art and historical artifacts. From there, visit San Francisco Church and Convent, which dates back to the 16th century, and is one of the most significant historical landmarks in Salta. Admire the architecture and marvel at the stunning colonial artwork and iconography found throughout the church and convent. Finally, end your day with a stroll around the main square, Plaza 9 de Julio, which is surrounded by charming colonial buildings, cafes, restaurants, and street performers.
Day 2: Explore the Cafayate wine region
Today you’ll be taking a scenic road trip to Cafayate, a charming town in the valleys of the Calchaquíes Mountains, known for its vineyards and wineries. Enjoy the stunning scenery and taste some of Argentina’s best wines along the way. Upon arrival, take a tour of one of the most famous wineries such as Bodega Colomé, Bodega El Esteco or Bodega Piattelli to learn about the wine-making process and sample some of the region’s best wines. Afterward, spend some time exploring the small but beautiful town of Cafayate, and enjoy its charming streets, friendly locals, and lively artisan markets.
Day 3: Discovering the natural wonders of Salinas Grandes
Take a day trip to the stunning salt flats, Salinas Grandes, located between Salta and Jujuy. The salt flats cover an area of 3,200 square miles, and their unique landscape features a mix of stunning colors, including white, blue, and pink. Take a guided tour of the salt flats to learn about their formation and geology, and take time to explore on foot. Don’t forget to snap some great photos of this stunning natural wonder.
Day 4: Hiking in the Quebrada de las Conchas
Spend your fourth day hiking through the stunning Quebrada de las Conchas, a natural reserve known for its unique formations of sedimentary rocks that date back millions of years. The reserve features an abundance of hiking trails that offer stunning views of the area’s rugged terrain, unique geological formations and creeks. Be sure to stop at viewpoints such as La Garganta del Diablo, Los Castillos and El Anfiteatro to appreciate the unique landscapes offered by these formations.
Day 5: Enjoying a Musical Evening with the Locals
Head for Peña Balderrama, a popular social club in Salta, where you can enjoy an evening of traditional Argentinean folk music. You’ll find locals playing guitars, singing and dancing, and you can get involved and show off your moves too. Enjoy a selection of traditional Argentinean dishes paired with plenty of wine and good company. Peña Balderrama is an authentic and immersive cultural experience that you won’t want to miss.
Day 6: Exploring the Humahuaca Gorge
Today you’ll set off on a journey to Humahuaca Gorge, located in the province of Jujuy. The gorge features stunning landscapes with multicolored rock formations, mountains, and lush vegetation. Along the way, stop at the picturesque town of Purmamarca, where you can take in sights such as the Cerro de los Siete Colores, a mountain range featuring seven different colors, and the stunning Valle de Los Molinos, also known as the Valley of Windmills.
Day 7: Shopping and Departure
Spend your last day shopping in one of Salta’s vibrant markets. The city’s markets are a great place to find unique souvenirs, handcrafted products and locally made goods. You can visit San Miguel Market, where you will find many boutiques, shops, and authentic Argentinean products like mate gourds. Other popular markets to explore include the Mercado Artesanal Salta, known for its handmade crafts, and the Mercado San Francisco, which offers everything from textiles and jewelry to food and antiques. Don’t forget to pick up some souvenirs for your loved ones back home before departing Salta.
