From Salta: Full-Day Excursions Through Cafayate and Cachi

Salta, the captivating city in northern Argentina, serves as the perfect gateway to explore the region’s natural wonders. Just a short distance away lies Cafayate and Cachi, two charming destinations that promise an unforgettable day of adventure. Whether you’re drawn to the stunning geological formations, the rich winemaking heritage, or the well-preserved colonial architecture, this full-day excursion offers a diverse array of experiences that showcase the best of Argentina’s diverse landscapes. As you embark on this journey, prepare to be enchanted by the breathtaking vistas and immersed in the unique cultural fabric of these remarkable towns.

Key Points

• Full-day excursions from Salta visiting La Cuesta del Obispo, Los Cardones National Park, Las Conchas Gorge, and local wineries, priced from $56 per person.
• Itinerary includes stops at geological formations in Las Conchas Natural Reserve, wine tasting at a Cafayate winery, and exploring the colonial town of Cachi.
• Scenic 180 km route from Salta to Cafayate features winding roads through ochre-hued hills, sprawling vineyards, and unique rock formations.
• Tour of Las Conchas showcases towering ravines, natural amphitheaters, arched openings, and vibrant sedimentary rock formations.
• Return journey through Escoipe Gorge, Cuesta del Obispo, and Enchanted Valley offers breathtaking views of the Calchaquíes Valleys and Cachi peaks.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Excursion Overview

The full-day excursions from Salta to Cafayate and Cachi offer an immersive exploration through the stunning Calchaquí Valley.

Priced from $56 per person, these 2-day tours include visits to breathtaking natural wonders like La Cuesta del Obispo, Los Cardones National Park, and Las Conchas Gorge.

Travelers can also enjoy a wine tasting at a local winery.

The excursions provide free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.

With a bilingual guide, scenic photo stops, and hotel pickup, these excursions promise an unforgettable adventure through the region’s captivating landscapes and cultural highlights.

Itinerary Highlights

Travelers embarking on these full-day excursions from Salta can expect an immersive journey through the captivating Calchaquí Valley. The itinerary highlights include a visit to Las Conchas Natural Reserve, known for its unique geological formations like La Garganta del Diablo and El Amphitheatre. They’ll also explore a winery in Cafayate for wine tasting. The return route takes them through the scenic Escoipe Gorge, Cuesta del Obispo, and Enchanted Valley, before reaching the charming town of Cachi with its colonial-style facades and cobbled streets.

Key Locations	Highlights
Lerma Valley	Calchaquís Valleys
Recta del Tin Tin (Inca road)	Cachi’s Snowpeaks (6,380 m)
Las Conchas Natural Reserve	Winery in Cafayate
Escoipe Gorge	Cuesta del Obispo
Enchanted Valley	Cachi town

Travel to Cafayate

The journey to Cafayate begins as the excursion departs Salta, traversing the captivating Calchaquí Valley over a distance of 180 km.

Travelers will be treated to a scenic route showcasing the region’s diverse landscapes:

• Winding roads that snake through rugged, ochre-hued hills
• Sprawling vineyards and orchards that dot the valley floor
• Towering rock formations and unique geological formations
• Glimpses of traditional adobe villages and colonial architecture
• Opportunities to stop and capture breathtaking vistas along the way

This journey immerses visitors in the heart of the Calchaquí region, setting the stage for the exploration of Cafayate and its renowned wineries.

Tour Las Conchas

Arriving at the mesmerizing Las Conchas Natural Reserve, visitors find themselves surrounded by a labyrinth of unique geological formations. Carved by wind and water over centuries, the reserve showcases a diverse array of striking rock formations, each with its own captivating story.

Geologic Feature	Description
La Garganta del Diablo	A towering, sculpted ravine
El Amphitheatre	A natural amphitheater of layered rock
The Windows	Intricate, arched openings in the cliff faces
The Castles	Towering, castle-like rock structures
Colorful Striations	Vibrant bands of sedimentary rock

Visitors can explore these wonders, marveling at the power of nature and the region’s rich geological history.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Visit a Winery

One of the highlights of the excursion is visiting a winery in Cafayate. Here, travelers can enjoy a guided tour and wine tasting.

The experience offers:

• Insight into the region’s renowned Torrontés and Malbec grape varieties
• Exploration of the winemaking process, from grape selection to fermentation
• Opportunity to savor the complex flavors and aromas of the locally-produced wines
• Knowledgeable staff who share the history and traditions of Cafayate’s winemaking heritage
• Chance to purchase bottles to enjoy back home and relive the flavors of the region.

This winery stop provides a delightful complement to the stunning natural landscapes explored throughout the day.

Return via Escoipe

Returning through the Escoipe Gorge, the journey continues along a scenic route that winds its way through the Cuesta del Obispo and the Enchanted Valley.

This stretch offers breathtaking views of the Calchaquí Valleys, with the towering Cachi peaks as a stunning backdrop.

The Cuesta del Obispo, a winding mountain road, provides an opportunity to admire the unique geological formations and indigenous flora.

The Enchanted Valley, with its sculpted rock formations and vibrant colors, adds to the visual splendor of the return trip.

Throughout the journey, the guide shares insights into the region’s history, culture, and natural wonders, enriching the overall experience for the travelers.

Visit Cachi Town

The excursion then leads the travelers to the charming town of Cachi, renowned for its well-preserved colonial-style facades and winding cobblestone streets.

Cachi’s captivating historic center invites visitors to explore at their own pace, uncovering the town’s rich heritage.

Some highlights include:

• Admiring the impressive Iglesia San José, a 17th-century church with striking adobe architecture.
• Strolling along the main square, Plaza Cobos, and browsing the artisanal shops and local markets.
• Discovering the regional flavors at the town’s cozy cafes and restaurants.
• Visiting the Museo Arqueológico de Cachi to learn about the area’s indigenous history and culture.
• Marveling at the towering Nevado de Cachi, the snow-capped peak that serves as a stunning backdrop to the town.

Included Services and Important Information

The full-day excursion includes a variety of services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Guests will be transported via sprinter or minibus, accompanied by a bilingual guide who can provide information in both Spanish and English. Hotel or central pickup is offered within 15 blocks of the main square.

Throughout the tour, the group will stop at scenic points to take photographs. The excursion also includes a visit to a local spice grocer.

While food, drinks, and tips aren’t included, the tour operates regardless of rain or bad weather, so travelers can explore the region’s stunning landscapes without interruption.

Participants should bring a passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and sports shoes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Group Size for the Excursions?

The excursions have variable group sizes, often ranging from small groups to larger tours. The exact group size is not specified in the overview, as it may depend on the number of participants booked for each excursion.

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

The price listed includes the excursion cost, but does not cover additional expenses like food, drinks, or tips. There are no other fees or taxes mentioned in the description.

Can the Excursion Be Customized to My Preferences?

The excursion can be customized to the traveler’s preferences. While the standard itinerary is provided, the tour operator is often flexible to accommodate special requests within the given duration and locations.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?

The excursion offers discounted rates for children under 12 and seniors over 65. However, specific pricing information is not provided in the details given. Customers should inquire about any available discounts when booking the tour.

How Reliable Is the Transportation and Is It Comfortable for the Long Drives?

The transportation for this excursion is reliable, with comfortable sprinters or minibuses used for the long drives. Customers can expect a smooth and enjoyable journey through the scenic landscapes.

Recap

This full-day excursion from Salta offers a captivating journey through the stunning landscapes of Cafayate and Cachi. Visitors will explore natural reserves, savor local wines, and admire the colonial charm of Cachi. With breathtaking vistas and cultural insights, this adventure showcases the best of Argentina’s picturesque Calchaquí Valleys, making it an unforgettable experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: