Calchaquí Valleys
Argentina
Through the high-altitude Andes of northwestern Argentina, the world's highest vineyards at Cafayate, the sculpted red rock canyons of Quebrada de Cafayate, pre-Inca ruins at Quilmes, and the colonial splendour of Salta.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Salta
The Beautiful city: Baroque cathedral, cable car views, and Argentina's finest empanadas and locro stew.
- Quebrada de Cafayate
Fifty km of wind-carved red sandstone: the Amphitheatre, Devil's Throat, and the Castles, all roadside on RN68.
- Cafayate
World's highest vineyards at 1,683m. Torrontés grapes yield a floral white unique to these Andean valleys.
- Quilmes Ruins
A pre-Inca citadel that once held 3,000 people, terraced into a hillside above the Calchaquí Valley.
- Santa María
Adobe-walled market town in Catamarca province, hub of the southern Calchaquí valleys and local weaving traditions.
- Tafí del Valle
A cool highland valley scattered with menhirs, standing stones raised by the Tafí culture 2,000 years ago.
- San Miguel de Tucumán
Argentina declared independence here in 1816. The Casa Histórica is the nation's most significant building.
Where to Eat
- Pacha Resto BarArgentinian
Offers traditional Argentinian dishes with a modern twist, set in a cozy atmosphere in the heart of Cafayate.
- La Casa de la BodegaGourmet
Fine dining experience featuring local ingredients and wines, located within a picturesque vineyard near Cafayate.
- El HornitoEmpanadas
Renowned for its variety of freshly baked empanadas, a must-try local specialty in Tafí del Valle.
- Los HornitosTraditional
Serves authentic regional cuisine in a rustic setting, popular among both locals and tourists in San Miguel de Tucumán.
Things to Do
- El AnfiteatroNatural Formation
A natural rock formation with exceptional acoustics, resembling an amphitheater, located within Quebrada de las Conchas.
- Museo de la Vid y el VinoMuseum
Explores the history and culture of wine production in the region, offering interactive exhibits in Cafayate.
- La Garganta del DiabloNatural Formation
A striking narrow gorge with towering red rock walls, a highlight along the route through Quebrada de las Conchas.
- Pachamama MuseumMuseum
Showcases indigenous art and culture, featuring sculptures, tapestries, and artifacts in Amaicha del Valle.
Travel advisory
Several secondary roads to key sites such as Quilmes ruins and high-altitude salt flats are unpaved and corrugated. Altitudes exceed 3000m on some passes so acclimatise before driving. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended even if AWD is not strictly required.