The Calchaqui Valley Winery and Scenery Tour in Cafayate

The Calchaqui Valley Winery and Scenery Tour in Cafayate promises an enchanting blend of Argentina’s renowned wine country and its breathtaking natural landscapes. Departing from Salta, this full-day excursion takes visitors on a captivating journey through the region’s unique terroir, showcasing the area’s rich cultural heritage and offering a chance to savor the flavors that have made this destination a must-visit for oenophiles and adventure-seekers alike. With a guided winery visit, picturesque scenic stops, and a scenic drive through rural villages, this tour provides an opportunity to delve deeper into the heart of Argentina’s wine country and uncover its remarkable charm.

Good To Know

• The tour offers a full-day excursion from Salta to the Calchaqui Valley, showcasing scenic rural landscapes, notable rock formations, and a winery visit.
• The itinerary includes a scenic drive, stops at landmarks like the Devil’s Throat and Amphitheater, and a guided tour with wine tasting at a local winery in Cafayate.
• Transportation is provided with hotel pickup and drop-off, though the tour is not wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.
• Customer reviews are mixed, with positive feedback on the scenic drive and courteous guide, but some reports of delays, language barriers, and pressure to shop.
• Pricing starts at $64 per person, with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, and a limited group size of 20 travelers.

Tour Overview and Highlights

This full-day sightseeing and wine tasting excursion takes travelers from Salta to the stunning Calchaquí Valley.

Along the scenic drive, you’ll witness rural mountain villages, deep gorges, and notable rock formations like Devil’s Throat and Amphitheater.

The highlight is visiting the winemaking town of Cafayate, where you’ll tour a local winery and sample 3-4 varietals, including the region’s renowned malbec and torrontés.

Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making this a convenient and immersive way to explore the valley’s natural beauty and vibrant wine culture.

Itinerary and Schedule

The day begins with an early 7:00 am departure from downtown Salta hotels, as travelers embark on the roughly 120-mile (190 km) journey south to the winemaking town of Cafayate.

Along the way, there are stops for coffee and snacks at La Viña or Posta de las Cabras.

After arriving in Cafayate, there’s a break for lunch before the winery tour.

The tour includes a visit to the local winery, where visitors can sample 3-4 different wine varietals, such as malbec and torrontés.

Following the winery experience, the group departs Cafayate for the return trip to Salta.

Scenic Stops and Attractions

Along the scenic journey from Salta to Cafayate, travelers encounter a variety of natural wonders and geological formations.

Key stops include the Quebrada del Rio de las Conchas, a stunning river gorge; La Garganta del Diablo, or the Devil’s Throat, a dramatic rock formation; and El Anfiteatro, an amphitheater-like structure carved by wind and water.

Some additional highlights may include:

• Las Tres Cruces, a series of three crosses atop a hill
• Los Medanos, towering sand dunes
• La Yesera, an area with unique white rock formations

The tour ensures ample time to appreciate the region’s captivating landscapes and natural beauty before reaching the winemaking town of Cafayate.

Winery Tour and Tastings

Upon reaching the winemaking town of Cafayate, the tour group enjoys a leisurely lunch break before embarking on the highlight of the day – a guided visit to a local winery.

Here, they learn about the region’s winemaking traditions and techniques. The group tours the facilities, observing the fermentation and aging processes.

They then have the opportunity to sample 3-4 distinctive varietals, including the area’s renowned malbec and torrontés. The tasting allows travelers to appreciate the unique flavors and aromas of the Calchaqui Valley’s terroir.

This winery visit provides an immersive and informative experience, complementing the scenic beauty explored earlier in the day.

Transportation and Accessibility

Typically, the tour departs from downtown Salta hotels at 7:00 AM, enabling guests to embark on the scenic 120-mile (190 km) journey south to the winemaking town of Cafayate.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and children must be accompanied by adults, with infants required to sit on laps. The group size is limited to 20 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Regarding the winery tour and tastings, the minimum age for sampling the region’s signature wines, such as Malbec and Torrontés, is 18 years.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

The Calchaqui Valley Winery Tour has received a mixed set of customer reviews, with an average rating of 3.4 out of 5 based on 13 reviews.

Positive comments praise the scenic drive, courteous guide, and beautiful views. However, some travelers reported delays in pickup, language barriers, and felt pressured to shop.

While the wine tasting was limited, the tour does offer free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

At a price starting from $64.00, the Calchaqui Valley Winery Tour provides a unique opportunity to explore the region’s natural wonders and sample locally produced wines.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Travelers can book the Calchaqui Valley Winery Tour online or by contacting the tour operator directly.

The tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts. Key details about the booking and cancellation policy include:

• Travelers can cancel their reservation for a full refund up to 24 hours prior to the tour’s start time.
• No refunds are provided for cancellations within 24 hours of the tour.
• Group size is limited to 20 participants, so early booking is recommended to secure a spot.
• Pricing for the tour starts from $64.00 per person.

Pricing and Package Details

The Calchaqui Valley Winery Tour costs start from $64.00 per person.

This full-day sightseeing and wine tasting excursion from Salta includes hotel pickup and drop-off. The tour features a scenic drive through the Calchaqui Valley, with stops at notable landmarks like the Devil’s Throat and Amphitheater.

Visitors will also enjoy a winery tour in Cafayate, where they can sample 3-4 varietals such as malbec and torrontés. The minimum age for wine tasting is 18 years, and the group size is limited to 20 travelers.

While the tour has received mixed reviews, the scenic landscapes and wine tasting experience make it a popular option for those visiting the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

According to the tour overview, it doesn’t specify if travelers can bring their own food and drinks. However, there’s a lunch break in Cafayate, so participants can purchase meals and refreshments during this time.

How Much Time Is Allotted for Free Time in Cafayate?

The tour includes a 3-hour stop in Cafayate, providing ample time for visitors to explore the town and have lunch on their own. The schedule allows for a balance of guided activities and free time during the day.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available?

The tour doesn’t mention any special discounts, but travelers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts. Group pricing for 10 or more may be available upon inquiry.

Can I Request a Customized Tour Itinerary?

Customers can request a customized tour itinerary, though this may incur additional fees. The tour operator is generally flexible and willing to accommodate specific requests within reason to enhance the overall experience.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but visitors should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes. Casual attire is recommended, as the tour involves walking and moderate physical activity.

The Sum Up

The Calchaqui Valley Winery and Scenery Tour in Cafayate offers an immersive experience, blending stunning landscapes and exquisite wine tastings. Departing from Salta, the full-day excursion showcases the region’s unique terroir, including breathtaking rock formations and a guided winery visit. With hotel pickup, scenic drives, and the opportunity to sample renowned varietals, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Argentina’s renowned wine country.