From Salta: Full-Day Tour to Cachi and Los Cardones National Park

Set out on a captivating journey from Salta to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Cachi and Los Cardones National Park. This full-day tour offers a chance to take in Argentina’s Andes region, where scenic drives, colonial architecture, and stunning natural wonders await. Traversing through the Valle de Lerma and Quebrada de Escoipe, the tour culminates in the charming town of Cachi, where visitors can stroll through cobblestone streets and marvel at the towering Nevados de Cachi peaks. With inclusion of the picturesque La Piedra del Molino, this adventure promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking to discover the natural and cultural treasures of this remarkable region.

Key Points

• Explore the picturesque Valle de Lerma, with stops at El Carril and Quebrada de Escoipe, during the first 3 hours of the tour.
• Ascend the winding Cuesta del Obispo for breathtaking mountain views and encounter the majestic Nevados de Cachi peaks.
• Discover the colonial charm of Cachi town, with 2 hours of free time to visit historical sites and the panoramic La Piedra del Molino viewpoint.
• Tour includes air-conditioned transportation, entrance fees, and a flexible cancellation policy, starting from $26.45 per person.
• The full-day tour departs from Salta at 7:00 am and is operated by La Quebrada Turismo, with a maximum capacity of 23 travelers.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The full-day tour takes visitors from Salta to the charming town of Cachi and the stunning Los Cardones National Park.

Key highlights include stops at Valle de Lerma, El Carril, Quebrada de Escoipe, Cuesta del Obispo, and Valle Encantado.

Travelers will visit the impressive La Piedra del Molino viewpoint at 3,400 meters and the colonial-style town of Cachi at 6,320 meters.

They’ll also catch sight of the majestic Nevados de Cachi peaks reaching 6,380 meters.

The tour provides 2 free hours in Cachi for independent exploration of its cobblestone streets.

Air-conditioned transportation, entrance fees, and taxes are included in the tour price, which starts from $26.45 per person.

Inclusions and Pricing

This full-day tour includes air-conditioned vehicle transportation, all necessary entrance fees, and applicable taxes.

Lunch isn’t included, but visitors can enjoy drinks and snacks during the journey. The tour price starts from $26.45 per person, with a lowest price guarantee.

Visitors have the flexibility to cancel their booking up to 24 hours before the experience for free. The tour provider, La Quebrada Turismo, aims to offer a competitively priced tour that provides value to customers.

While the tour doesn’t include meals, the overall inclusions and pricing make it an accessible option for exploring the stunning landscapes of Cachi and Los Cardones National Park.

Itinerary and Schedule

The tour starts at 7:00 am, with pickups offered from designated points within 15 blocks of Plaza 9 de Julio. During the journey, the group will make technical stops for bathroom breaks and snacks. The itinerary features key locations including Valle de Lerma, where travelers will spend around 3 hours, and Cuesta del Obispo, with a 20-minute stop.

Location	Duration
Valle de Lerma	3 hours
Cuesta del Obispo	20 minutes

The tour has a maximum capacity of 23 travelers and is operated by La Quebrada Turismo. Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, though the tour is not wheelchair accessible and infants must sit on laps.

Tour Company and Customer Service

La Quebrada Turismo operates the full-day tour to Cachi and Los Cardones National Park. Confirmation is received at booking, though the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.

The company has received 11 reviews with an overall rating of 4.0 stars. While positive experiences were noted for the scenery and exploration time in Cachi, some criticism was directed at the vehicle comfort and guide language skills.

However, the company has indicated a commitment to improving service based on customer feedback.

The key highlights include:

1. Confirmation received at booking
2. Not wheelchair accessible
3. Infants must sit on laps
4. Company responsive to customer feedback

Exploring Valle De Lerma

Valle de Lerma, a picturesque valley nestled in the heart of the Salta province, serves as the first stop on this captivating tour.

Visitors will spend 3 hours exploring this lush, verdant landscape, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding mountain ranges. Along the way, they’ll pass through the town of El Carril, known for its colonial architecture and charming local shops.

The tour then ventures into the Quebrada de Escoipe, a dramatic gorge with towering rock formations. This scenic drive offers ample opportunities to snap photos and soak in the region’s natural beauty before continuing on to the next destination.

Ascending Cuesta Del Obispo

As the tour continues, it ascends the Cuesta del Obispo, a winding mountain road that offers breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscape.

The steep, serpentine route winds its way up the rugged terrain, providing participants with a thrilling drive and unforgettable views.

Along the way, they’ll witness:

1. Towering rock formations that seem to reach for the sky.
2. Lush, verdant valleys dotted with vibrant wildflowers.
3. Distant snow-capped peaks that glisten in the sunlight.
4. A sense of awe and wonder at the sheer grandeur of the natural world.

The Cuesta del Obispo is a highlight of the tour, showcasing the raw, untamed beauty of the Salta region.

Discovering Cachi’s Colonial Charm

After traversing the winding Cuesta del Obispo, the tour arrives at the charming colonial town of Cachi.

With its cobblestone streets and whitewashed adobe buildings, Cachi exudes a timeless elegance. Visitors are given two free hours to explore the town’s historic center, admiring the picturesque plaza and the stunning Iglesia San José, a 16th-century church showcasing the region’s distinct architectural style.

The tour also provides the opportunity to visit La Piedra del Molino, a massive rock formation at an elevation of 3,400 meters, offering panoramic views of the Andes.

The peaceful ambiance and well-preserved colonial ambiance of Cachi make it a highlight of the day’s excursion.

Nevados De Cachi Sighting

Along the journey, the towering Nevados de Cachi (6,380 meters) come into view, their snow-capped peaks commanding attention.

This iconic mountain range is a highlight of the tour, offering a breathtaking sight that leaves visitors in awe. The contrast between the rugged, rocky landscape and the glistening snow-covered peaks creates a stunning visual spectacle.

As the tour approaches the base of the mountains, the scale and grandeur of the Nevados de Cachi become even more apparent.

The experience evokes a sense of:

1. Magnificence
2. Serenity
3. Insignificance
4. Wonder

Capturing the essence of this natural wonder is a cherished memory for all who witness it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Take This Tour?

The best time of year to take this tour is during the dry season from April to October. The weather is mild, making it ideal for exploring the region’s stunning landscapes and colonial-style towns.

Are There Any Opportunities for Hiking or Trekking?

The tour includes some opportunities for light hiking and trekking. Visitors can explore the colonial town of Cachi on foot and take a short hike to La Piedra del Molino viewpoint. However, more extensive hiking options are not a primary focus of this day tour.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

The tour doesn’t include lunch, but guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks for the journey. However, there are technical stops where snacks and beverages can be purchased during the tour.

How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Disabilities?

The tour is not wheelchair accessible. Infants must sit on laps, and the company does not provide special accommodations for individuals with disabilities. Travelers with mobility issues may have difficulty accessing some locations on the tour.

Can I Book Private or Custom Tours Instead of the Group Tour?

Yes, the tour company offers private or custom tours for travelers. Guests can book a private tour with a personalized itinerary and schedule, subject to availability and additional fees. This provides more flexibility compared to the standard group tour.

Recap

This full-day tour from Salta to Cachi and Los Cardones National Park offers a captivating exploration of Argentina’s Andes region. Travelers will be enchanted by the breathtaking landscapes, charming colonial architecture, and the opportunity to marvel at the towering Nevados de Cachi peaks. With scenic drives, a visit to the picturesque town of Cachi, and the chance to take in the stunning views from La Piedra del Molino, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure.