Argentina and Chile Puna & Atacama Experience

Argentina and Chile Puna & Atacama Experience

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14 Days From

$8198

Argentina and Chile Puna & Atacama Experience

14 Days Starting and ending in Buenos Aires, Argentina

Visiting: Buenos Aires, Salta, Argentina, Quebrada of Humahuaca, San Pedro de Atacama, Tolar Grande, Antofagasta de la Sierra, Campo de Piedra Pómez, Cafayate, Salta

Tour operator:

Undiscovered Destinations

Tour code:

PAE

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 12

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

18-99

Special diets catered:

Please advise requests

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Small Group

Activities:

Sightseeing

From: $8198

NB: Prices correct on 01-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Come and discover the hidden beauty of the North West of Argentina and Chile. Located between Salta to the west and the borders of Chile and Bolivia this elevated plateau of wildly striking and desolate landscapes is filled with the sights of salt flats, flamingos, ancient Inca trails, desert labyrinths and herds of llamas and vicuñas. We travel through the magnificent Puna from Tolar Grande right down to the frontier-town of El Penon, stopping at the various sights. From salt lakes to extraordinary colours, flamingos, clay deserts, dunes, strangely eroded atolls and pumice fields you will feel like the only people in this Mars- like landscape.

Highlights

  • Discover the hidden beauty of Argentina’s north west

  • From the timeless colonial elegance of Salta and its surrounding wine-growing regions, head up to the Puna high-altitude plains, a world rarely frequented by others than the local shepherds

  • Visit the Salinas Grandes, a salt mirror stretching for more than 30,000 acres

  • Cross the border into Chile at the 4,200m Jama Pass and head to San Pedro de Atacama in time for sunset

  • Visit Geyser del Tatio with over 80 active geysers, the largest geyser field in the southern hemisphere and the third largest in the world

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Arrival In Buenos Aires

Location: Buenos Aires

Accommodation Name: Dazzler Recoleta Hotel or similar

Arrival at Buenos Aires and transfer to your hotel. Overnight Dazzler Recoleta Hotel or similar. No meals are included today.Note: If you are arriving in Buenos Aires early we would be happy to arrange any sightseeing activities or perhaps you may wish to take in a Tango show with dinner. Please contact us for details.

Day 2 : Buenos Aires - Salta

Location: Salta, Argentina

Accommodation Name: Design Suites or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Salta, and check in to your hotel on arrival. This afternoon we will embark on a walking tour of the city visiting the Main Plaza and the historical colonial buildings in town, including the Cathedral, the Church of San Francisco and the San Bernardo Convent. We will also tour the extraordinary MAAM (Museum of High Altitude Archaeology) to find out more about the High Altitude Sanctuaries of the Andes and the Inca footprint in Salta. Overnight Design Suites or similar (BD)

Day 3 : Salta – Tilcara – Humahuaca – Purmamarca

Location: Quebrada of Humahuaca

Accommodation Name: Manantial Del Silencio or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Journey to the Quebrada of Humahuaca, a long valley that ends near the border with Bolivia, located in the Jujuy Province, the most Andean territory of Argentina. It is famous for its beautiful coloured mountains, its geological formations and historic villages. During the journey, enjoy the best of the authentic atmosphere of this area of Argentina including the food market of Humahuaca, a small hike in an amazing hidden red gorge and the Sacred Garden of Cardones situated at 3200m. We explore the towns of Tilcara, Purmamarca and Humahuaca with their colourful craft markets, before returning to Salta. Overnight Manantial Del Silencio or similar (BL)

Day 4 : Purmamarca - Cuesta De Lipan - Salinas Grandes - Susques - Paso De Jama - San Pedro De Atacama

Location: San Pedro de Atacama

Accommodation Name: Hotel Terrantai or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Revel in a fantastic drive on a perfectly paved road navigating us across the Andes, through dry salted lakes, volcanoes, groups of wild vicunas, and the almost endless landscape of the Puna Plateau. Visit the Salinas Grandes, a salt mirror stretching for more than 30,000 acres and the old capital of the Puna, Susques with its church dating from 1598. Cross the border into Chile at the Jama Pass. At sunset, we will arrive in San Pedro de Atacama, after a thrilling 50 km downhill drive with expansive views over the Atacama Desert and the perfect cone-shaped Licancabur Volcano. Overnight Hotel Terrantai or similar (BLD)

Day 5 : Full Day Tour To Geysers Del Tatio And Sunset In Valle De La Luna

Location: San Pedro de Atacama

Accommodation Name: Hotel Terrantai or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

A very early departure today will take us to Geyser del Tatio. El Tatio Geyser Field (locally known as Los Geysers del Tatio) is located within the Andes Mountains of northern Chile at an altitude of around 4200m. With over 80 active geysers, El Tatio is the largest geyser field in the southern hemisphere and the third largest in the world. Return to San Pedro de Atacama for some rest and in the afternoon we experience the sunset at Vallecito at Cordillera de Sal, in the Salt Mountains Range. Overnight at Hotel Terrantai or similar. (BLD)

Day 6 : San Pedro De Atacama - Lagunas Miscanti & Miniques - Paso De Sico - Pocitos - Desierto Del Laberinto - Tolar Grande

Location: San Pedro de Atacama

Accommodation Name: Casa Andina or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today will be one of the most intense days of the whole Trip. We follow one of the ancient routes made by llama’s caravans trading goods between the Oases of the Puna. Over Sico Pass, Miscanti & Miniques lagoons offer dramatic scenes, with dark blue water under a cobalt sky, flamingos and sacred Volcanoes. Back on the Argentine Plateau, the landscape changes. The labyrinth Desert, a fossil dunes desert, made by clay and gypsum crystals, is the only maritime sediment deposit of the Puna. This area is actually studied for its similarities to other planets physical characteristic (Planetary Geology). Arrive by late afternoon in the tiny village of Tolar Grande, one of the most remote places on earth. Overnight Casa Andina or similar (BLD)

Day 7 : Tolar Grande - Ojos Del Mar - Hidden Dune - Tolar Grande - Caipe - Sunset In Tolar Grande

Location: Tolar Grande

Accommodation Name: Casa Andina or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The morning is dedicated to exploring the surroundings of Tolar Grande. The Ojos del Mar are Blue Holes in the middle of a white salt lake, where in Feb. 2009, researchers discovered a huge colony of living stromatolites. The surroundings of Tolar Grande offer opportunities for small hikes, the best one being a hike to a hidden sand dune in the middle of the desert. From the top of the dune, be rewarded by a 360° view over the area, from the Sacred Macon Mountain to the Llullaillaco Volcano, where National Geographic discovered in 1999, situated at 6.735 meters, an Inca treasure including the bodies of 3 Inca children perfectly preserved by ice and the arid atmosphere. We head back to Tolar Grande for lunch and afterwards we will have time to relax at the hotel. This afternoon, continue to Caipe. Caipe has an old railway station where minerals processed in the Mine city were carried by cargo train and then transported to Salta. From the abandoned station, enjoy views of the giant Salar de Arizaro. On our return to Tolar Grande, we will stop on top of a hill just outside of the village where weather permitting, we will enjoy a beautiful sunset and some of the Puna’s best scenery. Overnight Casa Andina or similar (BLD)

Day 8 : Tolar Grande - Cono De Arita - Oasis De Antofallita & Antofalla - Antofagasta De La Sierra - El Peñón

Location: Antofagasta de la Sierra

Accommodation Name: Hosteria El Penon or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The crossing of the Arizaro salted dry lake resembles the ancient journey of the Arrieros (shepherds guiding caravans of animals to Chile). Arizaro meaning Vultures Cemetery comes from a period when many animals (cows and horses) perished during the crossing of the salt flat. Antofalla is an important and spectacular example of a Puna Oasis; in the middle of a high altitude desert there is a green valley, thanks to a natural pure water spring, comprising of Poplar, Molle and Willow trees. Antofalla, together with Antofagasta and Santa Rosa, were important stations for Llama caravans connecting this part of the Andes with the Oasis of Atacama. The oasis is located at the border of the longest salt flat in the world, set amongst vivid red mountains and lava strips. Antofalla is still inhabited by a tiny community of shepherds numbering around 60 people. We will stop for lunch, and then travel across the salt lake. Above 4.200 meters with wide views over the Antofalla Volcano (6.400 metres) lays a kind of green field (Vega Colorada) home for llamas, suris (Andean ostrich), wild donkeys and vicuñas. The valley of Calalaste, just a few kilometers away from Vega Colorada is the best spot to find wild camelids. Antofagasta de la Sierra, was the biggest Oasis on the path connecting this side of the Andes with the Oasis of San Pedro de Atacama (Chile), it is a big village with only around 800 inhabitants who maintain their ancient traditions and culture. The name Antofagasta means “place where the sun shines” and it is surrounded by many volcanic peaks. We continue to the next town, El Peñón where we will be staying the next two nights. Overnight Hosteria El Penon or similar (BLD)

Day 9 : Full Day Tour To Volcán & Laguna Carachi Pampa - Campo De Piedra Pómez - Dunas Blancas

Location: Campo de Piedra Pómez

Accommodation Name: Hosteria El Penon or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Our adventure starts today at the edge of Campo de Piedra Pómez, as we reach the Carachi Pampa basin, where therein lies a volcano of the same name, surrounded by black lava fields and a lagoon, where the Andean flamingo, and the James' (or Puna) flamingo can be found. During the dry season a small salt lake is formed around the lagoon. Later, our journey will continue into the Natural Reserve Campo de Piedra Pómez, a strange and stunning landscape carved into the rock that gives rise to its name: The Pumice. Of purely igneous origin, it was produced from a massive volcanic explosion so powerful that if one could have seen it, it would be similar to the mushroom cloud produced by a nuclear bomb. This cloud has spread the ash and debris in large areas and in different directions, which crystallized by the effects of the temperature giving shape to these wonderful rocks with special features and with plenty of holes produced by the escape of gases during the cooling stage. This degassing phenomenon made the rock very easy to carve by the arid harsh winds of the Puna. Return to the Hotel, just on time to enjoy stunning sunset views from the village. Overnight Hosteria El Penon or similar (BLD)

Day 10 : El Peñón - Hualfin - Santa María - Quilmes - Cafayate

Location: Cafayate

Accommodation Name: Wine Resort or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

After days of intense travel on the High Desert Plateau, the North West still has plenty of surprises. The paved road from El Peñón to meet Route 40 is a 150 km long yellow field of Paja Brava, white lagoons and a deserted narrow canyon filled with rich vegetation. Visit the Quilmes Ruins, probably the most interesting Pre Inca archeological site with a dramatic story that paved the way for the end to this ancient population. Continue to Cafayate. Overnight Wine Resort or similar (BL)

Day 11 : Cafayate - Quebrada De Las Conchas - Quebrada De Las Flechas - Molinos

Location: Cafayate

Accommodation Name: Hacienda de Molinos or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Cafayate will be a perfect place to visit a winery since it is the capital of the Northern wine region, most famous for its “Torrontés” variety of white wine. Visit the Quebrada de las Conchas gorge, 55 km of scenic sedimentary rock formations dating back a hundred million years. Continue along Ruta 40, one of the most famous and longest roads in the world. The route between Cafayate and La Paya passes through the desert dotted with small ranches of local campesinos, vineyards and giant coloured mountains. The Quebrada de las Flechas is a desert of quartz ash and rocks covered by the mud of an ancient lake, the result of 500 million years of geological history. Overnight Hacienda de Molinos or similar (BL)

Day 12 : Molinos - Cachi - Los Cardones National Park - Cuesta Del Obispo - Salta

Location: Salta

Accommodation Name: Finca Valentina or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

The road from Molinos to Salta is one of the most scenic drives in North West Argentina. We’ll travel through four different eco systems; from the Green Yungas to a semi-deserted dry valley. A further 50 km’s will take us from the Piedra del Molino Pass at 3.457 meters down to Salta’s Valle de Lerma at 1.200 meters. View condors flying in the dark blue sky, guanacos and wild donkeys, as the stunning landscape of thousands of cardones – the local protected species of giant cactus – passes by. We have time to enjoy the view, take some amazing pictures and to go on a short walk in the unique red desert inside Los Cardones National Park. Overnight Finca Valentina or similar (BL)

Day 13 : Salta - Buenos Aires (2 Hours Domestic Flight)

Location: Buenos Aires

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today we travel to Salta airport for a flight back to Buenos Aires. On arrival in Buenos Aires, you will be transferred to the hotel for an overnight stay. (B)

Day 14 : Buenos Aires Departure

Location: Buenos Aires

Meals Included: Breakfast

At a suitable time, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight (B)

What's Included

  • Arrival and departure transfers

    Transfers from and to the airport at the beginning and end of the tour.

  • Overland transport

    Overland transport throughout the tour with a professional driver.

  • Domestic flights

    Domestic flights as outlined in the tour itinerary.

  • Accommodation

    All accommodation as per the tour itinerary.

  • Guide

    Services of an English-speaking guide / tour leader.

  • Meals

    Meals as listed in the itinerary (B – Breakfast, L – Lunch, D – Dinner).

  • Entrance fees

    Entrance fees for sites listed as part of the tour itinerary.

What's Not Included

  • International flights

    International flights are not included.

  • Airport taxes

    Any airport taxes are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel Insurance is not included.

  • Visa

    Visa fees are not included.

  • Drinks

    Drinks are not included.

  • Personal items

    Items of personal nature are not included.

  • Tips

    Tips are discretionary and not included.

Mode of Transport

Travel with ease across breathtaking landscapes, utilizing overland transport with a professional driver, ensuring a seamless and enriching travel experience through Argentina and Chile.

Accommodation

Experience a variety of accommodations tailored to the itinerary, including charming hotels and unique local stays, ensuring a comfortable and immersive experience throughout your journey.

Check out our Q&As

  • Where does the Argentina and Chile Puna & Atacama Experience tour start and end?

    The tour starts and ends in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

  • What countries does the Argentina and Chile Puna & Atacama Experience tour visit?

    The tour visits Argentina and Chile.

  • What are the highlights of the Argentina and Chile Puna & Atacama Experience tour?

    Highlights include discovering the hidden beauty of Argentina’s northwest, visiting the Salinas Grandes, crossing into Chile at the 4,200m Jama Pass, visiting Geyser del Tatio, and more.

  • What are the exclusions of the Argentina and Chile Puna & Atacama Experience tour?

    Exclusions include international flights, airport taxes, travel insurance, visa fees, drinks, personal items, and tips.

  • What kind of transport is provided on the Argentina and Chile Puna & Atacama Experience tour?

    Overland transport throughout the tour with a professional driver is provided.

  • What are the inclusions of the Argentina and Chile Puna & Atacama Experience tour?

    Inclusions are arrival and departure transfers, overland transport, domestic flights, accommodation, guide services, meals as listed in the itinerary, and entrance fees for sites listed as part of the tour itinerary.

  • What does the accommodation include on the Argentina and Chile Puna & Atacama Experience tour?

    All accommodation as per the tour itinerary is included.

  • I’m a single traveller – will I feel out of place?

    In a word, no. We get a good mix of single travellers and couples on our group tours.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    We are happy to allocate a twin room to two single same-sex travellers. If there is no one else to travel

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    No, sorry this is not possible.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    We offer fully transferable group tour deposits (excluding any flight payments which are always non-refundable). You can change your group tour booking up to 10 weeks before departure and not lose your deposit – we will put your deposit towards any new group booking as long as you travel within 2 years of the original departure date.

  • Can I alter the tour?

    On our scheduled departures this isn’t possible, simply due to the fact that you’ll be travelling with other people. However, if you like the look of one of our advertised trips but want to tweak it slightly, then we can offer tailor made itineraries just for you, to accommodate your specific requirements.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    There are no hard and fast rules about what type of people travel on Undiscovered Destinations’ group tours – we attract people from all ages, nationalities and walks of life. What you are likely to find though is that travellers share a similar outlook about travel. We tend to attract people with a curiosity about the lesser visited corners of our planet.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    We have been going since 2004.

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We did an Undiscovered Destinations...

23-Jul-2014

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Julia Johnston (Google Reviewer)  

We booked through UD for...

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We booked through UD for our first family worldwide trip to Sri Lanka. We have always been keen travellers, and what an introduction for our 6 year old son, to the amazing world of travel. The destinations, the recommendations, the guide, the itinerary, the balance, all was faultless for a memorable trip. The sound knowledge given by the UD consultant was what made us book, and on returning from the trip, has given us the confidence to book again. WE as a family are back on the travelling circuit.

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1 Select your preferred date

Tuesday - Monday

May 06, 2025 - May 19, 2025
$8198

Tuesday - Monday

Sep 09, 2025 - Sep 22, 2025
$8198
Prices last published on 30-May-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Undiscovered Destinations allows you to make 2 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 70 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Undiscovered Destinations allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform undiscovered destinations, 70 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Undiscovered Destinations requires a minimum deposit of 350 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of undiscovered destinations charges.

    Up to 71 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 40% of booking price.

    At 34 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 20 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.

    At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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