Trip Report Argentinas Northwest Travel Tips
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Trip Report: Argentina's Northwest
01/30/2023Posted by Vincent Vacations
Of all of Argentina's many regions, none is more underrated than the Northwest, (Noroeste, in Spanish), unknown to most American travelers. This is a region of colorful panoramas, red rock formations, dry river canyons, snow-covered mountains, charming colonial towns, spectacular deserts, vast salt flats, and most of all, the living heritage of indigenous civilizations (including the Incas) going back centuries. The region is perfect for outdoor adventures (hiking, biking, rafting, mountain climbing), history buffs, shoppers in search of authentic handicrafts, wine enthusiasts (the region has some of Argentina's best white and red wines), and curious travelers in search of new horizons.
Because of long distances, stretches of unpaved roads, and the altitude (in some cases above 14,000 feet over sea level), the best way to see Argentina's Northwest is with an expert guide and driver who knows the area and navigate the changing landscape. I traveled with Argentina Activa, Vincent Vacations Destination Specialist, who organized a great itinerary for me with an experienced driver/guide. 
Here are my notes about the Northwest, which I wanted to share with you:
Salta - Premier Gateway to the Northwest
Salta, the capital of Argentina's northwest province with the same name, has the main airport (SLA) and is the usual start/end of itineraries in this part of the world. The region has some of Argentina's oldest colonial settlements. Salta has a wealth of well-preserved colonial architecture, great museums and restaurants, and a main plaza where locals gather day and night. A few highlights:- The pink-colored cathedral, a massive building on the main square.
- The MAAM (Museo de Alta Montana), focused on Inca culture and indigenous civilizations. The main attraction is the perfectly preserved mummy, discovered at a high Andean peak in 1999.
- San Francisco church, painted magenta and yellow, with a bell tower that is one of the highest in Latin America.
- For a great view of the city, take the cable car to Cerro San Bernardo.
Salta: Where to stay?
Legado Mitico Salta (in the city center)
A charming boutique hotel, housed in a historic mansion. The hotel has only 11 spacious guestrooms, each decorated individually to reflect the lives of notable figures from Salta's past. Some of the guestrooms have balconies and/or private patios. There is a breakfast room, several living rooms, and a communal patio. The vibe is authentic and intimate, as if you were staying in someone's home.
House of Jasmines (20 minutes' drive from the city center, in the outskirts)
A peaceful and elegant oasis within a 250-acre countryside estate, dating back to the 18th century. House of Jasmines is a member of Relais & Chateaux, with a superb restaurant. Guests can stay in the main building or in a nearby villa cluster with private entrance. The hotel has a swimming pool, wellness center, and many activities on property.
Beyond the city of Salta & Jujuy Province
As soon as you leave Salta, you are in another world of dramatic landscapes, high mountains, and stunning vistas.
Highlights:
- Angastaco. A region known for otherworldly landscapes, enormous boulders, weathered rock formations, and striking vistas.
- Cafayate. One of Argentina's premier wine-growing regions, set in beautiful valleys with views of the Andes.
- Valles Calchaquies. Visit authentic adobe villages where you'll meet artisans and weavers that keep ancient traditions alive.
- Parque Nacional Los Cardones. A vast national park with hundreds of 'cardones' (Candelabra cactus) and hiking trails
- Quebrada de Humahuaca (Jujuy province). This North-South valley was a key trade route during the colonial period. Visit charming towns and local markets, and take in the colorful mountain ranges.
- Salinas Grandes (Jujuy Province). A spectacular salt plain, about 11,000 feet above sea level. Very Impressive. (Photo above right)
- Tren a las Nubes (Train to the Clouds) - Argentina's most famous rail journey, departing from San Antonio de los Cobres for an amazing one-day adventure. The main attraction: an amazing viaduct over a deep canyon, 14,000 feet over sea level.

Salta & Jujuy Provinces: Where to stay?
My two top recommendations in this area:
Grace Cafayate Hotel (Cafayate, Salta)
Surrounded by vineyards, Grace Cafayate is a luxury, full-service hotel within a large residential property. The hotel has two restaurants, a spa, swimming pools, and a golf course. Stay in a guestroom in the main building or in a free-standing villa with one or two levels. 
Estancia Colome (Molinos, Salta)
Set in a beautiful valley at 9,000 feet above sea level, Estancia Colome is a quiet nine-guestroom retreat surrounded by lavender and cactus gardens. The property is set within a Vineyard, Argentina's oldest. Guests enjoy gourmet dining, wine tastings with resident experts, and a wide range of activities on/off property. Don't miss the James Turrell Museum on property, featuring the artist's unique creations of light and space. I was unfamiliar with this artist, and have to say, I was blown away.
A great resource: Argentina Activa (Signature Destination Specialist)
I traveled through the Northwest with Argentina Activa. The company organized a great itinerary, visiting the most beautiful landscapes and staying at the best hotels in the region, in the company of an expert driver/guide. I don't recommend renting a car and going off on adventure in this part of the world. There are many stretches of road that are unpaved, unmarked, and hard to navigate. You also have big drops/rises in altitude, going from 2,0000 feet over sea level to over 14,000 in less than an hour. I was in good hands from start to finish. For more information, visit Vincent Vacations / Suppliers / Destination Specialists / Argentina Activa.
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