Mendoza, Salta & Buenos Aires
Desert landscapes and bustling cities
Be amazed by Argentina's natural and man-made wonders on this 8-night vacation. Travel to the wine capital of Mendoza, the striking desert landscape of Salta and the vibrant metropolis of Buenos Aires.
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare into Mendoza (MDZ), out of Buenos Aires (EZE)
- All airport transfers
- 2 nights in Mendoza at the Huentala Hotel, or similar
- Wine tour in the Maipu or Lujan de Cuyo region, with lunch (7-hours)
- One-way, economy class flight from Mendoza (MDZ) to Salta (SLA)
- 2 nights in Salta at the Hotel Amerian, or similar
- Salta city tour (3-hours)
- San Antonio de los Cobres, Salt Mines and Purmamarca tour (14-hours)
- Day tour to Cachi Village including land transfer to Cafayate
- 1 night in Cafayate at the Wine Resort Vinas de Cafayate, or similar
- Land transfer to Salta
- 1 night in Salta at the Hotel Amerian, or similar
- One-way, economy class flight from Salta (SLA) to Buenos Aires (AEP)
- 2 nights in Buenos Aires at the Hotel Kenton Palace, or similar
- Buenos Aires city tour (3.5 hours)
- Breakfast daily
*Please note: City Tourist Tax is not included and you will be required to pay in destination. City taxes are typically $1.00 USD per person per night
Great Ways to Explore
-
Begin your journey in Mendoza, named one of the nine Great Wine Capitals of the world! Enjoy a tour taking you to several wineries.
- See the mix of Spanish colonial charm and red-rock desert landscapes in Salta. While in town, see the Cathedral, Cabildo and more.
-
Wind your way up some of the highest roads in the world until you reach Salinas Grandes, an expansive salt plain!
-
En route to the town of Cafayate, pass by the magnificent Quebrada de Cafayate - a UNESCO-certified monument.
-
Witness the passion and romance of a traditional tango dance in Buenos Aires. For a true taste of the city, eat at a parrilla (Argentine steakhouse).
As South America's second-largest country, Argentina is blessed with a wealth of incredible landscapes, from red-rock desert to vibrant big cities. On this vacation, experience three of Argentina's must-see places!
Begin your trip in Mendoza. As Argentina's primary wine producing region, you'll have plenty of opportunity to learn about and taste the local wine. On an included tour, head to several wineries in Maipu or Lujan de Cuyo.
See how the scenery transitions from snow-capped mountains and vineyards to striking desert and colonial villages when you fly from Mendoza to Salta. Here in Argentina's northwest province you will find incredible natural wonders mixed in with indigenous culture.
Wrap up your vacation in the capital of Buenos Aires, called the "Paris of South America" for its wide leafy boulevards and renowned arts scene. Indulge in a steak the size of your head at a parrilla, be a spectator at a fiery tango show and stroll the streets of this European-like city.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Round-trip economy class airfare into Mendoza (MDZ), out of Buenos Aires (EZE)
- All airport transfers
- 2 nights in Mendoza at the Huentala Hotel, or similar
- Wine tour in the Maipu or Lujan de Cuyo region, with lunch (7-hours)
- One-way, economy class flight from Mendoza (MDZ) to Salta (SLA)
- 2 nights in Salta at the Hotel Amerian, or similar
- Salta city tour (3-hours)
- San Antonio de los Cobres, Salt Mines and Purmamarca tour (14-hours)
- Day tour to Cachi Village including land transfer to Cafayate
- 1 night in Cafayate at the Wine Resort Vinas de Cafayate, or similar
- Land transfer to Salta
- 1 night in Salta at the Hotel Amerian, or similar
- One-way, economy class flight from Salta (SLA) to Buenos Aires (AEP)
- 2 nights in Buenos Aires at the Hotel Kenton Palace, or similar
- Buenos Aires city tour (3.5 hours)
- Breakfast daily
*Please note: City Tourist Tax is not included and you will be required to pay in destination. City taxes are typically $1.00 USD per person per night
-
Begin your journey in Mendoza, named one of the nine Great Wine Capitals of the world! Enjoy a tour taking you to several wineries.
- See the mix of Spanish colonial charm and red-rock desert landscapes in Salta. While in town, see the Cathedral, Cabildo and more.
-
Wind your way up some of the highest roads in the world until you reach Salinas Grandes, an expansive salt plain!
-
En route to the town of Cafayate, pass by the magnificent Quebrada de Cafayate - a UNESCO-certified monument.
-
Witness the passion and romance of a traditional tango dance in Buenos Aires. For a true taste of the city, eat at a parrilla (Argentine steakhouse).
As South America's second-largest country, Argentina is blessed with a wealth of incredible landscapes, from red-rock desert to vibrant big cities. On this vacation, experience three of Argentina's must-see places!
Begin your trip in Mendoza. As Argentina's primary wine producing region, you'll have plenty of opportunity to learn about and taste the local wine. On an included tour, head to several wineries in Maipu or Lujan de Cuyo.
See how the scenery transitions from snow-capped mountains and vineyards to striking desert and colonial villages when you fly from Mendoza to Salta. Here in Argentina's northwest province you will find incredible natural wonders mixed in with indigenous culture.
Wrap up your vacation in the capital of Buenos Aires, called the "Paris of South America" for its wide leafy boulevards and renowned arts scene. Indulge in a steak the size of your head at a parrilla, be a spectator at a fiery tango show and stroll the streets of this European-like city.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Departure Airport:
Departure Month:
Prices From:
Day 1. Welcome to Mendoza!
Say "hola" to Argentina! Arrive at Mendoza airport and transfer to your hotel. Situated on the western edge of Argentina, Mendoza is home to rivers, valleys, canyons and the imposing Andes Mountains, with the highest peak in the Western Hemisphere, the Aconcagua Mountain at 22,831 ft.
A green oasis in the middle of a desert, Mendoza is the land of sunshine and good wine. Several wineries have settled in the area and produce the famous Malbec grapes.
Transfer to Mendoza hotel
Check-in - Huentala Hotel
This 4-star hotel is located less than a mile from Independencia Square where guests can enjoy the artisan market and charming streets lined with art. The hotel features a swimming pool, wine cellars, a gym, and its very own art gallery. The hotel's on-site restaurant Chimpay Bistro serves a daily buffet breakfast and has a dinner menu as well. Drinks from the poolside Kunuk Bar are available, as well as a selection of local wines from the hotel's wine cellars.
Guests can relax after a long day at the sauna, the hotel's lobby lounge, or their comfortable guest room. Standard guest rooms are decorated in soft, relaxing earth tones and include a coffee maker, room service, and a private bathroom. Additionally, each room has a television and free Wi-Fi.
Huentala Hotel is a great place to stay while on vacation in Argentina and is within close proximity to many great places. Plazoleta Pellegrini is just a one-minute walk away, while the Bus Terminal is under a mile away and can take guests to various destinations.
Day 2. Mendoza
Today, enjoy a full-day tour of Mendoza's famed wineries. As the fifth largest producer of wine in the world, Argentina is home to countless award-winning varietals including Malbec, Chardonnay and torrontés riojano. Enjoy a day of wine with the stunning backdrop of the snow-capped Andes!
Wine tour in the Maipu or Lujan de Cuyo regions, with lunch (7-hours)
Visit one of the best wine areas in Argentina - Mendoza! Learn about the culture of the region and taste different wines as you travel to three wineries. In the morning, meet your guide who will accompany you throughout the tour.
Enjoy a wine tasting session, during which you familiarize yourself with the local wines. (Lunch will be included at a winery). Your guide will explain the technique of wine tasting, wine production, the importance of the cork and the correct way to hold a glass in order to taste wine.
Wineries at Lujan de Cuyo area could be:- Catena Zapata
- Lagarde with lunch
- Luiggi Bosca
- Alta Vista
- Cavas de Weinert
- Belasco de Baquedano
- Achaval-Ferrer
- Sottano
- Finca Decero
- Melipal
- Benegas
- Lopez
- Zuccardi with lunch
- La Rural
- Trapiche
- Vinas del Cerno
- CarinaE
- Vistandes
- Cavas de Don Arturo
Day 3. Mendoza - Salta
Leave Mendoza and fly to Salta! Situated in a fertile valley, Salta is the perfect gateway for tours around the Northwest. Getting its name from the Aymara word meaning “very beautiful,” Salta was officially founded in 1582 and is renowned for its perfectly preserved colonial architecture.
Upon arrival, you will be welcomed at the airport and taken to your hotel. You'll then embark on a 3-hour tour of Salta's highlights.
Transfer to Mendoza airport (MDZ)
Fly to Salta!
Direct flights only on Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays
Transfer to Salta hotel
Check-in - Amérian Salta Hotel
Welcome to the Amerian Salta Hotel! This 4-star accommodation is located in the city center and is within walking distance of various tourist attractions. This hotel is also a 20-minute drive from the nearest airport and a 5-minute walk from the local bus terminal.
Guests can enjoy the Amazon Restaurant & Coffee Bar, a business center, and several meeting rooms onsite. Additionally, there is a swimming pool conveniently located on the hotel's terrace that overlooks the beautiful city of Salta. Guestrooms are equipped with a desk, free Wi-Fi, LCD TV, a comfortable bed, and excellent views of the surrounding landscapes.
Salta city tour (3-hours)
Begin your Salta city tour at the main square 9 de Julio surrounded by colonial buildings, the Cathedral, Archbishop’s Palace, Cabildo (government building) and the High Mountain Archaeological Museum (MAAM). This museum was created to exhibit the “Llullaillaco kids,” one of the most important archaeological discoveries in modern history. These three frozen kids were found at the top of Llullaillaco volcano (21.980 ft.) together with 146 pieces of personal belongings. According to research, they lived more than 500 years ago during the Inca Empire.
Continue to San Bernardo Hill and drive through residential areas built in colonial style and visit San Lorenzo, a small village about 6.3 miles from Salta. The last stop of the city tour is the art and crafts market of Salta where you'll have the chance to pick up unique souvenirs.
*Museum visit not included during city tour, but it's highly recommended on your free time.
Day 4. Salta
Today, enjoy a full-day tour of Argentina's desert landscape and charming villages! Make sure your camera or phone is fully charged to capture the beauty of this region.
San Antonio de los Cobres, Salt Mines and Purmamarca tour (14-hours)
In the early morning, depart Salta and head to the small mining town of San Antonio de los Cobres. Follow the tracks of the Tren a las Nubes (Train to the Clouds) and traverse the Quebrada del Toro gorge where you will witness magnificent mountains and multicolored rocks. Continue to the rural Santa Rosa de Tastil and visit the pre-Incan ruins of Tastil, where a 30-minute walk is planned.
Arrive in San Antonio de los Cobres and have lunch in town. You'll then drive north along National Route 40 and reach the impressive Salinas Grandes (Salt Mines) in the province of Jujuy. This massive salt plain covering around 3,200 square miles was once a lake some 11,000 years ago, but is now used for salt mining.
From Salinas Grandes, descend the winding Cuesta de Lipán road and arrive in the charming village of Purmamarca. Stroll around the colorful handicraft market and see the Cerro de Siete Colores (Seven Colored Hill) before returning to Salta.
Day 5. Salta - Cafayate
On this second full day tour in Argentina's northwestern province, travel across Calchaqui Valleys, wander around Cachi village and end in Cafayate. This tour is packed with one incredible sight after another!
Land transfer to Cafayate
Check-in - Wine Resort Vinas de Cafayate
Enjoy fine wines, magnificent landscapes, and peace and quiet at Wine Resort Vinas de Cafayate. Nestled within a vineyard at the foot of the impressive San Isidro Hill, the Spanish-style resort is located in the town of Cafayate, 1.8 miles from the main square.
Relax in rustic simplicity from 22 single, double and triple rooms. All rooms come equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi, walk-in closets, minibars and private bathrooms with bathtubs. Watch the sunset from your spacious balcony overlooking the vineyards, granite hill or Cafayate Canyon. Enjoy a complimentary breakfast buffet in the gourmet restaurant or in an inner courtyard on those warmer days. Other facilities include an outdoor pool, a wine cellar offering tastings, library and bike rentals.
Day tour to Cachi Village including land transfer to Cafayate
Depart Salta in the morning and head to Calchaqui Valleys, where winding roads take you up and down barren slopes. Pass Cerrillos, El Carril, Pulares, Quebrada de Escoipe and Cuesta del Opispo (Bishop’s Slope). The highest point of Calchaqui Valleys is Piedra del Molino, which represents a gate between two valleys: Lerma Valley (deeper and more temperate) and Calchaquíes Valley (between cordons of the Precordillera, about 4000 ft higher and more arid).
Drive down the impossibly straight Recta del Tin Tin road, cross Los Cardones National Park and pass Payogasta village before reaching the small city of Cachi. Situated 8,304 ft above sea level, Cachi lies at the confluence of Calchaqui and Cachi rivers and is at the foot of the Nevado de Cachi hill.
This picturesque village, surrounded by hills and mountains of the Precordillera, is notable for its colonial architecture mixed with the heritage of its primitive inhabitants. Its main square is surrounded by paved streets, stone houses, adobe walls covered in lime and white sand, wrought iron grids, roofs of cactus or reed covered with mud. While in town, visit the Archaeological Museum and the parochial church (admission not included).
Continue driving through Calchaqui Valleys to Molinos, a typical village from Spanish colonial times. Along National Route 40, you will pass the Quebrada de las Flechas gorge and road framed by steep cliffs. The tour ends in Cafayate.
Day 6. Salta
In the morning, explore Cafayate on your own. Second to Mendoza in terms of wine production, Cafayate has retained its small town feel amidst a stunning backdrop of mountains. To learn more about the region's wine, pay a visit to Museo de la Vid y El Vino (Museum of Wine). Museum admission is not included.
At due time, return to Salta by the National Route 68. See the Quebrada de Cafayate, declared a Natural Monument by UNESCO due to the bizarre formations and colors of its hills. The most spectacular formations are Los Castillos, El Obelisco, El Fraile, El Sapo, El Anfiteatro and La Garganta del Diablo.
Arrive in Salta in the afternoon and spend of the remainder of the day at leisure.
Land transfer to Salta
Check-in - Amérian Salta Hotel
Welcome to the Amerian Salta Hotel! This 4-star accommodation is located in the city center and is within walking distance of various tourist attractions. This hotel is also a 20-minute drive from the nearest airport and a 5-minute walk from the local bus terminal.
Guests can enjoy the Amazon Restaurant & Coffee Bar, a business center, and several meeting rooms onsite. Additionally, there is a swimming pool conveniently located on the hotel's terrace that overlooks the beautiful city of Salta. Guestrooms are equipped with a desk, free Wi-Fi, LCD TV, a comfortable bed, and excellent views of the surrounding landscapes.
Day 7. Salta - Buenos Aires
Say goodbye to Salta as you fly to Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina and the center of the political, economic and intellectual life of the country. Buenos Aires has a strong European influence which is reflected by its refined taste in cooking, its luxury boutiques and in the elegance of its inhabitants. Despite modern developments, Buenos Aires has managed to preserve old traditions and charming neighborhoods.
Check into your hotel and get settled, then embark on a 3.5-hour tour of the city's best landmarks and neighborhoods.
Transfer to Salta airport (SLA)
Fly to Buenos Aires!
Transfer to Buenos Aires hotel
Check-in - Hotel Kenton Palace Buenos Aires
Indulge your senses while staying at the Kenton Palace in Buenos Aires, which features a restaurant and its own wine cellar. International dishes, pizza specialties, a daily buffet breakfast, and of course a wide array of wine choices are all available at the hotel, as well as a spa that offers massages, a fitness center, and a steam room.
Rooms come equipped with free Wi-Fi, a plasma TV, air conditioning, private bathrooms, free toiletries, and a safe. The hotel with within walking distance of Buenos Aires' Main Square and Argentina's Government House, as well as the Plaza de Mayo metro station, which is only 650 feet away.
Buenos Aires City Tour (4 hours)
Your city tour of Buenos Aires starts at the famous 9 de Julio Avenue, known as the widest avenue in the world! Pass by the beautiful Colon Theater, the cultural pride of Buenos Aires, and arrive at the main square Plaza de Mayo, which is surrounded by Casa Rosada (Government House), Metropolitan Cathedral and the Cabildo (first City Hall). Visit the inside of the Metropolitan Cathedral, which holds the remains of General José de San Martín (Argentina's national hero).
Your next stop is La Boca, a colorful neighborhood of painted houses with the famous "Caminito" street.
The tour ends in the city's northern districts. Drive to the green neighborhood of Palermo with its parks and artificial lakes. Then, visit Recoleta with its elegant boutiques and restaurants. At the famous Recoleta cemetery, you will find the grave of Eva Duarte, known as Eva Perón (Evita). The mausoleums and pantheons reflect the architectural diversity from Argentina's different cultures.
Day 8. Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires could rival Paris in terms of its art scene. The National Museum of Fine Arts, Latin American Art Museum of Buenos Aires (MALBA) and Tigre Art Museum are the most renowned museums to peruse some of Latin America’s finest art.
If art isn't your preferred choice, head to Buenos Aires Japanese Gardens, one of the largest Japanese gardens outside Japan. This green oasis is the ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle of Buenos Aires.
In the evening, head for a stroll along Puente de la Mujer (Woman's Bridge) in the Puerto Madero neighborhood. Then head out for a night of dining and tango!
Japanese Gardens • Buenos Aires
Day 9. Depart Argentina
Your Argentine adventure comes to an end today. At the appropriate time, transfer to Buenos Aires airport for your flight home.