Things to Do in Northwest Argentina

Located in northwestern Argentina, the Calchaquí Valley is famous for its wineries, waterfalls and myriad red rock formations. One of the most famous sits just west of Tilcara and is known as the Devil's Throat (Garganta del Diablo). This red rock gorge has walls 160 feet (49 meters) high with waterfalls trickling down depending on the season.

Devil's Throat and the nearby Amphitheater formation are the two most iconic red rock formations in the valley, an area on UNESCO's list of possible World Heritage sites.

San Salvador de Jujuy is the capital city of the Jujuy province in Argentina. The city is more culturally indigenous than any other city in Argentina. It is surrounded by mountains and located near the southern end of a gorge called Quebrada de Humahuaca. The city was founded in the late 1500s, and there is a mix of modern and colonial buildings. The city center has many modern hotels, restaurants and cafes, and there are many shops where you can buy local products. 

The neighborhoods within the city have their own character which can be seen while wandering through the streets. A few of San Salvador de Jujuy's important sights include the Cathedral, the Cabildo (town hall building) and the French-Baroque hall of flags. The city hosts several festivals throughout the year to celebrate holidays and one in particular that is an annual remembrance of their part in the war of independence. 

The San Francisco Church and Monastery in Salta, Argentina was originally built in the early 1600s, but it has been reconstructed and remodeled several times. In 1870, architect Luis Giorgi constructed a tall tower on the front of the church, and at 174 feet (53 meters) tall, it is the highest tower of its kind in South America. In 1909, a clock was added to the tower. In 1915 marble floors were installed and the church was set up to start receiving electricity. It has a long, narrow nave that is ornately decorated. The church's facade designed in a Baroque style and is distinct in its red and yellow color scheme. 

The church has an important library where old books are kept, including rare and priceless antique editions. Several pieces of valuable art can also be found in the church and in its small museum. The San Francisco Church was declared a National Historical Monument on July 14, 1941. 

Some 150 years ago, European immigrants discovered the excellent high altitude wine growing conditions of Salta. In 1857 a pair of Spanish families joined forces to found La Banda Winery, the oldest winery in the Calchaquí Valley. 

The name has since changed to Vasija Secreta, and today visitors can learn about wine production — both traditional and modern — in the winery’s small museum. Vasija Secreta also organizes wine tastings; as with many wineries in this part of Argentina, Vasija Secreta Winery is known for its Torrontés, but also produces notable Cabernet sauvignon, Merlot and Malbec.

The Historical Museum of the North in Salta, Argentina is one of the most important museums in the country. The building was once the town hall building and is a true example of colonial architecture. The original building dated back to 1626, but its structure did not hold up, and new construction began in the late 1700s. The building was remodeled and renovated in 1945, and the museum opened in 1949. It is a National Historic Landmark. 

Centuries of Argentinean and South American historical treasures are housed here, including items from the indigenous culture and the colonial period. The rooms are arranged throughout two floors in chronological order starting with the pre-Hispanic era. Displays include art, furniture, artifacts, documents and transportation. A changing of the guard ceremony with gauchos takes place at noon on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays in front of the building. 

One of the world’s greatest train rides, the Train to the Clouds (Tren a las Nubes), takes visitors on a scenic 269-mile (434-kilometer) journey, ascending 13,842 feet (4,220 meters), passing through 21 tunnels and crossing over 29 bridges and 13 viaducts. The climax of the trip comes as the train crosses La Polvorilla viaduct, which pans a massive desert canyon. 

 

Departing from the city of Salta, the train makes its way through the Cordillera de los Andes, passes through the Valle de Lerma and Quebrada del Toro and finishes in La Puna. Bilingual guides in each car offer insight into the surrounding topography and help with any altitude 

sickness. 

 

Along the way, the train makes a stop at the small town of San Antonio de los Cobres, where you can get out, stretch your legs and purchase handicrafts and souvenirs from the indigenous locals. 

San Lorenzo is a village just outside of Salta, Argentina. It is home to some of the region's best hiking spots and beautiful scenery. One exceptional place to hike is el Duende de la Quebrada. Hiking up this mountain is sure to take some effort, but once you're at the top, you'll enjoy the gorgeous views of the surrounding landscape while being almost level with the clouds. San Lorenzo also offers lots of opportunities for horseback riding, renting an ATV or bicycle, or whitewater rafting to enjoy being out in nature. 

The village is also known for its unusual subtropical micro climate. This used to be a summer retreat for wealthy families, but many people now come here to enjoy a quick escape from the city. There are also shops selling good handicrafts here.