From Salta: Cafayate, Land of Wines and Imposing Ravines

Nestled in the heart of Argentina’s famed Calchaquies Valley, the journey from Salta to Cafayate promises an unforgettable adventure. Celebrated as the "Land of Wines," this 12-hour tour unveils the region’s breathtaking landscapes, from vibrant ravines to remarkable geological formations. Visitors can indulge in a delightful wine and cheese tasting at a local winery before exploring the charming town of Cafayate, where the stunning scenery and culinary delights await. With a wealth of natural wonders and cultural treasures to discover, this tour offers a captivating glimpse into the region’s rich heritage and unparalleled beauty.

Key Points

• Set out on a 12-hour tour from Salta to Cafayate, the renowned "land of wines," covering 180 km through the captivating Calchaquies Valley.
• Explore geological wonders like La Garganta del Diablo, El Anfiteatro, and Las Ventanas, showcasing the region’s diverse and vibrant landscapes.
• Enjoy a 45-minute wine and cheese tasting at a local winery, enjoying the local wine culture and traditions.
• Spend 2 hours in the charming town of Cafayate, allowing for leisure time to explore, dine, and further appreciate the scenic surroundings.
• The tour, priced from £22.28 per person, offers a high-value experience with a 4.2/5 rating based on 33 reviews, particularly for transportation and overall value.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Tour

The article provides an overview of a 12-hour tour to the picturesque town of Cafayate, known as the "land of wines."

The tour departs from Salta, traversing the Calchaquies Valley, a scenic 180 km journey. The price starts from £22.28 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour includes a visit to a local winery for wine and cheese tasting, photo stops at natural landmarks, and 2 hours in Cafayate for lunch and exploration.

Transportation is provided in a sprinter or minibus, with a bilingual guide.

Based on 33 reviews, the tour has an overall rating of 4.2/5, with high marks for transportation and value for money.

Pricing and Booking Details

From the overview, let’s move on to the pricing and booking details.

The tour to Cafayate, the land of wines and impressive ravines, is priced from £22.28 per person. It’s a 12-hour excursion with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Booking is easy – you can reserve now and pay later with no upfront payment required. The tour includes a visit to a winery in Cafayate, a bilingual guide, transportation, and photographic stops at natural landmarks.

Food, drinks, and tips aren’t included. Based on 33 reviews, the overall rating is 4.2/5, with 4.5/5 for transportation and 4.2/5 for value for money.

Highlights of the Itinerary

Typically, the tour begins with a pickup from Salta, setting out to explore the captivating Calchaquies Valley, located 180 km from the city.

The journey through the colorful hills showcases the region’s geological wonders, including iconic landmarks like:

1. La Garganta del Diablo (The Devil’s Throat)
2. El Anfiteatro (The Amphitheater)
3. Las Ventanas (The Windows)

The highlight of the day is the visit to a winery in Cafayate, where visitors can indulge in a 45-minute wine and cheese tasting.

After the vineyard, there’s ample time to stroll through the charming town of Cafayate and enjoy a leisurely 2-hour lunch and exploration.

Scenic Journey Through Calchaquies Valley

Leaving the highlights of the itinerary behind, the scenic journey through the Calchaquies Valley unfolds before travelers.

The route covers 180 km from Salta, taking them through the colorful hills of the region. Unique geological formations like La Garganta del Diablo, El Anfiteatro, Las Ventanas, and Los Castillos dot the landscape, showcasing the area’s natural beauty.

The striking orange and red hues of the hills provide a picturesque backdrop for the journey. As the tour makes its way to Cafayate, the heart of Argentina’s wine country, travelers are treated to a visual feast of the Calchaquies Valley’s rugged yet captivating scenery.

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Natural Wonders and Geological Formations

Along the scenic journey through the Calchaquies Valley, travelers encounter an array of captivating natural wonders and geological formations.

The tour highlights several must-see attractions, including:

1. The Devil’s Throat, a breathtaking natural amphitheater carved by erosion.
2. El Anfiteatro, a stunning rock formation resembling a natural amphitheater.
3. Las Ventanas and Los Castillos, unique and colorful rock formations that showcase the region’s diverse geology.

These impressive landscapes showcase the power of nature, leaving visitors in awe of the Calchaquies Valley’s beauty and geological history.

The vibrant colors and distinct shapes of the rock formations contribute to the overall enchantment of this remarkable destination.

Vineyard Visit in Cafayate

The tour includes a visit to a winery in Cafayate, allowing travelers to explore the region’s renowned wine culture.

During the 45-minute stop, visitors can sample fine local wines and cheeses. This intimate encounter provides insights into the wine-making practices that flourish in the valley’s unique terroir.

While some reviewers found the vineyard tour disappointing due to language barriers and limited time, the majority appreciated the opportunity to experience Cafayate’s vibrant wine scene firsthand.

The visit complements the tour’s focus on the area’s striking natural landscapes, offering a well-rounded exploration of this captivating destination.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes a visit to a winery in Cafayate, allowing travelers to explore the region’s renowned wine culture.

Plus, the tour provides:

1. A bilingual guide (Spanish and English) to enhance the experience.
2. Transportation in a sprinter or minibus, with pickups from hotels or central addresses within 15 blocks of the main square.
3. Photographic stops at the natural landmarks that dot the Calchaquies Valley.

However, the tour doesn’t cover the costs of food, drinks, or tips.

Travelers are responsible for these expenses to fully enjoy the day’s activities.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

According to the customer feedback, the overall rating for this tour is 4.2 out of 5 based on 33 reviews.

Guests particularly appreciated the scenic beauty of the Calchaquíes Valley and the natural landmarks along the route. The transportation received a high rating of 4.5 out of 5.

However, some found the vineyard visit in Cafayate to be a bit disappointing due to language barriers and limited time in the town.

The tour provides good value for money, with a 4.2 out of 5 rating in this category.

The feedback suggests this is a worthwhile excursion for those seeking to explore the stunning landscapes and wine region around Salta.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Available in Other Languages Besides Spanish and English?

The tour is available in Spanish and English. There’s no indication it’s offered in other languages based on the provided information. Customers should check with the tour company if they require a language not mentioned.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes Not Included in the Listed Price?

The listed price does not include any additional fees or taxes. It only covers the specified inclusions, such as the winery visit, transportation, and guide services. Any other expenses like meals, drinks, and tips are the responsibility of the customer.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Suit Individual Preferences?

The tour can’t be customized, but travelers can request additional stops or adjust time spent at certain locations by communicating their preferences to the guide. Flexibility is limited within the set itinerary.

How Accessible Are the Hiking Trails and Viewpoints for Those With Mobility Issues?

The tour includes several short hikes and viewpoints, some of which may be challenging for those with mobility issues. However, the main stops are generally accessible by vehicle, allowing participants to enjoy the scenery without extensive walking.

Are There Any Safety Precautions or Recommendations for the Winery Visit?

The winery visit generally has safe, level walking paths. Visitors should exercise caution when sampling wines, as tastings can affect balance. The tour provides ample time for wine and cheese enjoyment in a relaxed setting.

Recap

This captivating tour from Salta to Cafayate offers an unparalleled exploration of Argentina’s renowned "Land of Wines." Travelers will be mesmerized by the Calchaquies Valley’s breathtaking landscapes, including the awe-inspiring La Garganta del Diablo and El Anfiteatro. The highlight is a delightful wine and cheese tasting at a local winery, followed by free time to take in Cafayate’s charming ambiance and culinary delights amidst the stunning scenery.

You can check if your dates are available here: