Northwest & Mendoza Winelands
Private Independent Touring
BUENOS AIRES | SALTA & JUJUY | CAFAYATE | CACHI | MENDOZA
Experience the vibrant essence of Argentina on this 13-day journey through its rich culture, dramatic landscapes, and culinary delights. Begin with the historic streets and elegant architecture in Buenos Aires before travelling to Salta and Jujuy. Traverse the Andes aboard the legendary Train to the Clouds, visit ancient ruins, remote villages, and the dazzling Salinas Grandes and Seven Colours Hill. Explore the vineyards of Cafayate and Mendoza and stroll the cobblestone streets of the charming Andean town of Cachi, blending history, nature, and local traditions.
Your Itinerary
-
Day 1&2
-
Day 3
-
Day 4
-
Day 5
-
Day 6
-
Day 7
-
Day 8
-
Day 9
-
Day 10
-
Day 11
-
Day 12
-
Day 13
-
Day 14&15
Day 1&2 : UK - Buenos Aires
Arrive in Buenos Aires where a private transfer with English-speaking guide will take you to your hotel. Check in for your 3-night stay. The remainder of the day is at your leisure.
Day 3 : Buenos Aires
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before embarking on a half-day city tour. Your journey begins in the trendy Palermo neighbourhood, with quiet streets, parks, rose gardens, and city mansions. You’ll then head to the Recoleta district, to stroll Avenida Alvear, the most palatial street in Buenos Aires with tree-lined promenades that were once home to the aristocracy. A visit to the Recoleta Cemetery is a must, which is the final resting place of Eva Duarte. The rest of your tour will take in the historical and architectural gems of the city, before exploring the banks of the river, which was once the old city docklands, now renovated into modern buildings and avant-garde restaurants. You may wish to visit the world-famous Colón Theatre and Opera House, famed for its flawless acoustics. This evening, experience how the tango became an important hallmark of Argentine culture, with dinner and a tango show, or a Milonga where you can practice with the locals.
Day 4 : Buenos Aires
Today is free for you to explore the city at your own pace.
Day 5 : Salta
After breakfast, take a private transfer to the airport for your departure flight to Salta. After checking in to your hotel, a Salta city tour is included. The city of Salta was founded in 1582 and still retains its colonial spirit. Stroll 9 de Julio Square, visit the Cabildo and the pink cathedral with its golden altar, and admire the neoclassical Iglesia San Francisco, South America’s tallest church tower. Discover the historic San Bernardo Convent, with its 1762 hand-carved wooden door. At the Museum of High Altitude Archaeology (MAAM), see the world-famous mummified Incan children of Llullaillaco Volcano, along with 146 ceremonial objects. Modern exhibits, multimedia presentations, and immersive music bring Incan culture to life, offering a unique glimpse into ancient rituals and Salta’s rich heritage.
Day 6 : Salta & Jujuy
An early departure today for your journey aboard the ‘Train to the Clouds’ – one of the world’s engineering marvels that weaves through the Andes at 4,200 metres above sea level, making it the third highest train system in the world. Pass the Quebrada del Toro and the ancient Ruins of Santa Rosa de Tastil before visiting the remote mining town of San Antonio de los Cobres. Cross the Puna to the dazzling Salinas Grandes salt flats, perfect for creative photos and local crafts. Descend the scenic Cuesta del Lipán to Purmamarca, home to the stunning Seven Colours Hill and vibrant artisan markets, before returning to Salta.
Day 7 : Cafayate
Lerma Valley and its tobacco plantations on your way to Cafayate. Enjoy spectacular rock formations shaped by the wind over thousands of years, as the landscape gradually changes to vineyards. At the southern end of the province of Salta, Cafayate is a haven for wine lovers. Explore the sidewalk cafes, restaurants and shops and picturesque colonial architecture as you spend the night here.
Day 8 : Cachi
Drive north along Route 40 – one of the most famous and longest roads in the world. Passing desert scenery, small ranches and vineyards, you will arrive in Cachi for the night. Nestled in the Calchaquí Valleys, Cachi is a charming Andean town where time seems to slow. Discover local crafts, regional cuisine and the cobblestone streets.
Day 9 : Salta
Travel from the green jungle of the Yungas to the semi desert of the Calchaquí Valley today as you make your way back to Salta. Expect to see guanacos and wild burros (donkeys) among thousands of Cardones, the local species of cacti, on your drive. Arrive in Salta for an overnight stay.
Day 10 : Mendoza
Today take a private transfer to the airport for your flight to Mendoza. Transfer to your hotel for a 3-night stay.
Day 11 : Mendoza
Mendoza is Argentina's premier wine producing region, the climate and soil have made it the perfect enviroment for wineries to flourish. Today, there is chance to delve deeper into this lovely region with a wine tour that includes 2 or 3 wineries with guided tastings and lunch.
Day 12 : Mendoza
Enjoy a day of discovery. Begin with a scenic walk where you’ll explore mangroves, basalt cliffs and spot iconic Galapagos wildlife. Then, visit the Charles Darwin Research Station for a guided tour of the tortoise breeding centre and learn about groundbreaking conservation work protecting the islands’ unique ecosystems and species. (B,L,D)
Day 13 : Buenos Aires
Transfer back to the airport for your flight back to Buenos Aires. Check into your hotel for one last night in the city.
Day 14&15 : Buenos Aires departure
After checking out, a private transfer will take you back to the airport ahead of your departing flight.
