Salta to Cafayate Wine Route

5 Days / 4 Nights

Discover the wines of Cafayate in the Valley of the Calchaquies - Tour Extension

Discover the wines of Cafayate in the Valley of the Calchaquies, nestled in the Northwest of Argentina. Many wine lovers know about Argentina's Malbec in Mendoza, but the Torrontes in Cafayate near Salta holds its own with thriving vineyards in the Valley of the Calchaquies. First, visit the colonial city of Sala, then venture into the semi-arid northwest region, where strange rock formations like "the windmill rock" dots the landscape. Wine taste in Colomé and Cafayate, admiring the breathtaking colorful scenery along the way.

Note: This is a tour extension, combine this tour with one of our full package tours or create a custom tour itinerary.

Download itinerary as pdf Customize this trip

Salta City Tour

Day 1

Upon arrival at Salta Airport, meet your guide, who will transfer you to your hotel. In the afternoon, take a half-day city tour to discover Salta, one of the most important cities in Northwest Argentina. Founded in 1582, this city still has a Hispanic character that distinguishes it from the rest of the Argentine capitals. Its skyline is outlined by the colonial façades of its houses and churches framed by the surrounding hills. Visit its churches, the National University, and its museums to learn about the 'Salteño' culture. Transfer to the San Bernardo Hill, which offers panoramic views of the city.

Afterward, drive 10 km (6 mi) to arrive in the summer village of San Lorenzo, located at the foot of the San Lorenzo 'Quebrada' (ravine). Contemplate the verdant landscapes offered by San Lorenzo and the nearby town of Lesser, ideal for taking pictures.

Finish off the tour at the fascinating artisan market before returning to your hotel, where you will spend the night.

Calchaquíes Valleys & Arrival in Cafayate

Day 2

Depart from Salta to start the Calchaquíes Valleys tour, known for its fascinating and ever-changing colors and terrains. Ascend the Cuesta del Obispo with its magnificent landscapes and hit a high altitude of 3400 meters above sea level at a point called Piedra del Molino (Stone Mill). As you descend, enter into the Recta del Tin Tin and go through the Cardones National Park until arriving in Cachi.

Take the Route 40, the most emblematic route in the west of Argentina, and arrive at Cafayate, and check in at your hotel, where the last Realist Governor of Salta Province lived.

Cafayate

Day 3

In the morning, you can book a visit to the Quilmes's Ruins, excursion to the last indian settlement in Calchaquí Valley. It is an anthropological, historical and scenic walking through the ruins.

Cafayate Wines

Day 4

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and then go on a tour to try Cafayate's world-class Torrontés wines!

This tour to two wineries of Cafayate positioned as ones of the best of the Calchaqui Valley. 
These could be San Pedro de Yacochuya & Piattelli Vineyards on the west and El Esteco & El Porvenir de los Andes on the east. The tour could not be complete if we do not visit the Museum of the Vine and Wine.

In each winery we do a tour by the facilities and a tasting of the best wine produced in the winery. The tour and the tasting are guided by a sommelier that explains the particularities of the wine, the vine and cellar as well.

In the afternoon, return to your hotel in Cafayate, where you will spend the night.

Return to Salta

Day 5

Today's return journey takes you back to Salta via the Gorge of Cafayate. Make stops at some of the rock formations the route offers, such as the amphitheater, the Road, the Castles, and the Devil's Throat among others.
Once back in Salta, your driver will take you to the airport for your flight to your next destination, or to your hotel if you wish to extend your stay.