9-Day Argentina Adventure: Buenos Aires, Salta, Cafayate, and Mendoza Tour

Today, you'll hop on a plane to Salta in northwestern Argentina. This area is famous for its wine and breathtaking views. In the afternoon, join a half-day group tour of the city. You'll visit churches and museums, take in the stunning sights from Cerro San Bernardo hill, check out the National University and Vaqueros River, explore Quebrada de Castellanos, and wander through the village of San Lorenzo, where you can find some cool souvenirs at the market. After the tour, we'll whisk you back to your hotel.

After your breakfast, begin your journey by heading west along the renowned Cuesta del Obispo, navigating through breathtaking rock formations into Parque Nacional Los Cardones to explore Valle Encantado. Following that, proceed to the historic town of Cachi, where you'll have some free time to enjoy lunch on your own. Later on, take the opportunity to visit its church and archaeological museum. Continue your southbound journey along Route 40, passing through quaint small villages and towns, including the picturesque colonial town of Molinos and the mesmerizing Quebrada de las Flechas. Finally, your adventure will lead you to Cafayate, the heart of the high-altitude wine country, where 90% of Salta's vineyards are located.

Today's highlight is experiencing the exquisite taste of "Torrontes," one of Argentina's finest wines. The unique climate of Cafayate, characterized by significant temperature fluctuations between day and night and minimal rainfall, allows Torrontes grapes to develop optimal acidity and aroma. Additionally, the infusion of mountain ice-snow melt runoff lends a distinct flavor profile. Cafayate's Torrontes wines are renowned for their intensity, crafting a distinctive style unlike any other in the region.

On the return journey to Salta, you'll traverse the Las Conchas Valley, where natural forces have sculpted rocks into fascinating formations through wind and water erosion. Among these formations are notable landmarks such as the Amphitheatre, Devil's Throat, the Toad, and the Castle, each contributing to the valley's enchanting landscape.

You'll be escorted to the airport by coach or bus for your flight to Mendoza, which is Argentina's largest and a very significant wine region. After arriving, take part in a shared transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure.

Mendoza, known as one of the globe's top eight regions for wine production, boasts nearly 150,000 hectares of vineyards and hosts over 1,200 wineries, making up 70% of Argentina's total wine output. Today's schedule involves touring three carefully selected wineries, where you'll gain insights into the art of winemaking. Furthermore, indulge in a delightful lunch paired with local wines at one of the wineries.

The icy terrain surrounding Aconcagua, South America's loftiest summit, beckons adventure seekers. Exploring the pathways of Aconcagua Provincial Park, you'll be greeted by breathtaking vistas of snow-dusted peaks and the sprawling Andes. A standout attraction within the park is Horcones Lagoon, a serene glacier-fed lake situated just a stone's throw from the trailhead.

Take advantage of some free time to relax before boarding a coach or bus for your transfer to the airport, where you'll catch your flight home.