The Northwest
Once regarded as a distant craggy outpost in comparison to its more affluent regions further south, Northwest Argentina is fast emerging as a sought after destination. Its rugged scenery, more affiliated with its Andean neighbours, is a dramatic expanse of ochre deserts studded with cacti and cut with steep ravines interlaced by the ancient ruins of civilisations past or their descendants amongst the occasional adobe settlement.
Marvel at the famous rainbow-coloured strata of Quebrada de Humahuaca in Jujuy and experience the shimmering salt-encrusted lakes of Salinas Grandes in the high puna. Head to the serene town of Cafayate nestled in the Valles Calchaquies where vineyards flourish with the distinctive flavour of torrontés grapes.
Perhaps board one of South America’s greatest engineering feats; the Tren de las Nubes (train of the clouds) for an exhilarating journey that clambers to over 4,475 metres through numerous tunnels, loops and switchbacks, pass the ancient fortress of Santa Rosa de Tastil before reaching the spectacular La Polvorilla viaduct. Explore the subtropical lowlands southeast of Salta, encompassing the small but bustling Argentinean province of Tucuman home to a thriving sugar industry, and the province of Santiago del Estero blanketed by the startling arid plains of Gran Chaco.
The profusion of historic and scenic appeal in northwest Argentina is only surpassed by its cheery people and genuinely warm hospitality.