7-Day Tour in Salta, the Calchaqui Valley and Cafayate and San Pedro De Atacama

Set out on a captivating 7-day tour through Argentina and Chile’s stunning landscapes. Discover the colonial charm of Salta, the vibrant Calchaqui Valley, and the breathtaking San Pedro de Atacama. Explore picturesque plazas, savor exquisite wines, and marvel at unique geological formations. This adventure promises an unforgettable experience filled with rich history and natural wonders. With comfortable accommodations and expert-guided tours, you’ll uncover the secrets of this remarkable region. Prepare to be captivated as you learn about the diverse cultures and breathtaking scenery that await.

About Your Stay

• Explore the colonial city of Salta, known for its impressive architecture and vibrant culture, including the Plaza 9 de Julio and the Cathedral of Salta.
• Discover the natural wonders of the Calchaqui Valley, including the UNESCO-listed Quebrada de Humahuaca and the renowned wine region of Cafayate.
• Experience the renowned Cafayate wine region, with guided tours of family-owned wineries and opportunities to sample the best local wines paired with delicacies.
• Journey across the Andes Mountains to San Pedro de Atacama in Chile, where you’ll explore iconic sights like Moon Valley and the Tatio Geysers.
• The 7-day tour includes 6 nights of accommodation, bilingual guides, and transportation, with meals and activities as per the itinerary.

Exploring Salta and Surroundings

Your 7-day tour in Salta and Cafayate begins by exploring the colonial city of Salta, known for its impressive architecture and vibrant culture.

You’ll visit the Plaza 9 de Julio, the city’s main square, and the Cathedral of Salta, which dates back to the 18th century.

From there, you’ll venture out to the Calchaqui Valley, a stunning region known for its dramatic landscapes and rich indigenous history.

You’ll stop at the Quebrada de Humahuaca, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and learn about the local Andean communities and their traditional way of life.

Discovering Calchaqui Valley Wonders

The Calchaqui Valley’s dramatic landscapes unfold as the tour ventures deeper into this captivating region. Traversing the winding roads, travelers witness the vibrant colors and geological formations that define this unique ecosystem. The following table highlights some of the must-see highlights:

Location	Key Attraction	Duration
Quebrada de las Conchas	Striking rock formations	1-2 hours
Cafayate	Renowned wine country	2-3 hours
Bodega El Esteco	Award-winning winery tour	1 hour
Finca Las Nubes	Panoramic views of the valley	1 hour

These diverse natural and cultural wonders showcase the Calchaqui Valley’s remarkable allure, captivating travelers with its unique blend of geological marvels and vibrant local traditions.

Experiencing the Cafayate Wine Region

Cafayate, the heart of Argentina’s renowned wine country, beckons travelers with its picturesque vineyards and award-winning bodegas.

This stop on the tour allows visitors to enjoy the local winemaking culture. They’ll learn about the region’s unique terroir and varietals, such as the renowned Torrontés.

Guided tours of family-owned wineries provide a behind-the-scenes look at the production process, from grape crushing to barrel aging.

Travelers can also sample a selection of the best wines and enjoy local delicacies.

With its stunning landscapes and vibrant wine scene, Cafayate offers a truly unforgettable experience for oenophiles and casual wine enthusiasts alike.

Crossing the Border to San Pedro

After exploring the renowned vineyards and wineries of Cafayate, the tour journeys across the border into Chile, heading for the desert oasis of San Pedro de Atacama.

The journey to Chile takes approximately 11-12 hours, traversing the stunning Andes Mountains.

Upon arrival, travelers will enjoy:

1. 3 nights of accommodation in San Pedro de Atacama, immersed in the desert landscape.
2. Guided visits to iconic sights like the Moon Valley and the Tatio Geysers, marveling at the otherworldly terrain.
3. Free time to explore the charming town of San Pedro, with its adobe buildings and vibrant local culture.

Trekking Through Moon Valley

Stepping into the otherworldly landscape of the Moon Valley, travelers marvel at the surreal lunar-like terrain.

Formed by erosion over millions of years, the valley boasts an array of unique geological formations, including towering rock spires, deep canyons, and sweeping dunes.

The guided trek through this enchanting lunar-scape provides an opportunity to explore this otherworldly environment up close.

Along the way, travelers learn about the valley’s fascinating history and the geological processes that shaped its distinctive features.

The tour also includes a visit to the nearby salt flats, where the dazzling white expanse creates a mesmerizing contrast with the ochre-hued rocks.

A truly unforgettable experience, the Moon Valley trek showcases the raw, untamed beauty of this captivating region.

Marveling at Tatio Geysers

Located high up in the Andes mountains, the Tatio Geysers captivate visitors with their mesmerizing display of natural wonder.

As one of the highest geyser fields in the world, standing at an elevation of over 4,200 meters, the Tatio Geysers showcase an impressive array of steam vents, mud pools, and fumaroles.

To make the most of your visit, consider these tips:

1. Wake up early to witness the geysers at their most active during the cooler morning hours.
2. Dress warmly, as the high altitude and chilly temperatures can be challenging.
3. Explore the various viewpoints to appreciate the scale and diversity of this geothermal wonderland.

Accommodation and Transportation

Throughout the 7-day tour, travelers are provided with 6 nights of accommodation, with 2 nights in Salta, 1 night in Cafayate, and 3 nights in San Pedro de Atacama.

Bilingual guides accompany the group, which is limited to a maximum of 14 travelers. An air-conditioned bus transports the group from Salta to San Pedro de Atacama, a journey of approximately 11-12 hours.

Breakfast is included on 6 days. Hotel pickup and drop-off are provided for afternoon tours, such as the Moon Valley excursion.

However, national park entrance fees, additional food and drinks, and gratuities are excluded from the tour price.

Important Travel Tips

With advance notice, travelers can request infant seats for their little ones on the tour.

Passengers should also keep in mind that this tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems, severe cardiac issues, or expecting mothers. Plus, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

To ensure a smooth experience, travelers should:

1. Provide passport details at the time of booking.
2. Inform the tour operator of any dietary requirements.
3. Communicate any special needs when making the reservation.

Adhering to these important travel tips will help ensure a memorable and comfortable journey through Salta, the Calchaqui Valley, Cafayate, and San Pedro de Atacama.

Questions About Your Stay

Can I Extend the Tour Duration or Add Additional Stops?

Yes, the tour duration and stops can be extended. Travelers can contact the tour provider to discuss customizing the itinerary based on their interests and preferences. Additional fees may apply for any changes to the standard tour package.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Tour?

The tour has no specific age restrictions, but it’s not recommended for travelers with severe health conditions like back problems or cardiac diseases. Infants must sit on laps, and infant seats are available upon request.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for This Tour?

The tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience starts. Refunds are available within this timeframe, but there are no refunds for cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance.

Can I Purchase Additional Services or Activities During the Tour?

Travelers can purchase additional services or activities during the tour, though they may not be included in the initial booking. The availability and cost of these additional offerings will depend on the specific tour operator and itinerary.

How Do I Communicate Special Dietary or Accessibility Needs?

Travelers can communicate any special dietary requirements or accessibility needs at the time of booking. The tour operator will make accommodations for these requests, subject to availability. Advance notice is recommended to ensure a comfortable experience.

Final Verdict On This Stay

This 7-day tour through Salta, Calchaqui Valley, and San Pedro de Atacama offers an unparalleled adventure. Explore colonial architecture, indulge in exquisite wines, and marvel at breathtaking landscapes. With comfortable accommodations and guided excursions, this journey promises an unforgettable experience filled with rich history and natural wonders across Argentina and Chile. Don’t miss the chance to embark on this thrilling exploration.