PUNA ARGENTINA
The Argentine Puna reaches an average altitude of 3,800 meters, making it the second-highest plateau in the world after Tibet. Its approximately 9,300,000 hectares extend from Jujuy to north of San Juan, dotted with salt flats and shallow brackish lagoons. A large number of aquatic birds congregate in these bodies of water, including three species of flamingo. The typical vegetation of the region is a steppe of low shrubs dominated by tola and tolilla trees, where vicuñas and rheas can be seen. On the slopes and ravines, areas with greater humidity, grows the queñoa, the Puna's only native tree.
PLAN
DAY 1
Departure from the city of Salta after breakfast, taking the Camino de Cornisa — a scenic mountain road crossing the forest towards Tilcara (180 km, about 4 hours by car).
Once in Tilcara, after lunch we head to Hornocal (4,200 m), where you’ll enjoy a spectacular view of nature’s “watercolor” mountains.
Short walk, then return to Tilcara. Overnight in hotel.
DAY 2
After breakfast, visit the Pucará de Tilcara (about 40 minutes).
Then we drive to the village of Purmamarca (2,300 m) and hike for about an hour on the famous Hill of Seven Colors.
In the village there is also a local handicraft market to explore.
Afterward we continue to Salinas Grandes, driving over the Cuesta del Lipán mountain pass (4,200 m) before descending to the salt flats (3,400 m) for a visit.
We then continue by car (about 1 hour) to San Francisco de Alfarcito, where we spend the night.
DAY 3
After breakfast, we head toward Barrancas and Susques, where we can visit a small historic church.
At midday we take the legendary Route 40 to reach Volcán Tuzgle (5,600 m) — about 3 hours by car.
We’ll take a short trek near the volcano, and afterward you can relax in the thermal waters located at its base.
Overnight in tents near the hot springs (altitude: 4,000 m).
DAY 4
Early morning ascent of Volcán Tuzgle up to 5,000 m, where there is an old abandoned sulfur mine.
At midday we return to our vehicle and continue along Route 40 to the La Polvorilla Viaduct, then on to San Antonio de los Cobres (3,600 m) — about 50 minutes by car.
We continue to Santa Rosa de los Pastos Largos (3,900 m) and visit the Santa Rosa salt flat (2 hours by car).
Overnight in tents by the salt flat.
DAY 5
After breaking camp, we head toward Tolar Grande (3,500 m) — about 2.5 hours by car.
Midway, we stop for a walk in Los Colorados, a place that looks like Mars.
If time allows, we’ll trek up to the astronomical observatory (4,400 m).
Arrival in Tolar Grande and overnight in hotel.
DAY 6
Departure from Tolar Grande and crossing of the Salar de Arizaro, with a stop at the Cono de Arita — a unique conical formation in the middle of the salt flat (about 2 hours’ drive).
We continue toward Antofagasta de la Sierra (6 hours by car), passing several “Ojos de Mar” (blue water pools) along the way.
Overnight in Antofagasta.
DAY 7
Morning departure toward Volcán Galán and Laguna Diamante.
This is a full-day excursion.
Arrival in El Peñón, overnight stay.
DAY 8
After breakfast, we drive to the Dunas de Tatón for a trek on the great dune.
Then visit the Campo de Piedra Pómez (Pumice Stone Field).
Picnic lunch, then visit Laguna Carachipampa, and return to El Peñón for the night.
DAY 9
6-hour drive along Route 40, passing through typical small Andean villages before arriving at Cafayate (1,700 m, Salta).
We’ll visit Garganta del Diablo and El Anfiteatro; if there’s time, a short trek (about 3 hours total).
Overnight in Cafayate.
DAY 10
After breakfast, departure toward Cachi (2,500 m) — about 4 hours by car.
Lunch in the village, then a relaxed return to Salta, where our adventure ends.
Overnight in Salta.
INCLUDED
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4x4 Amarok vehicle with diesel included
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North Face and Mountain Hardwear high-altitude tents
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Large Ferrino base camp tent (for the 2-day base camp) with full kitchen equipment, stoves, chairs, tables, etc.
NOT INCLUDED
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All hotel nights mentioned in the itinerary
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All meals (picnics and restaurant meals)