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Why This Underrated Region of Argentina Deserves More Attention, According to a Travel Advisor
What to See
In northwest Argentina, the landscapes are unlike any other.
Starting in the Jujuy province, at the border of Chile and Bolivia, the Quebrada de Humahuaca valley winds through candy-striped mountains and adobe villages. In nearby Purmamarca village, visitors can take in the multi-colored hues of the Cerro de los Siete Colores, or the Hill of Seven Colors. This rock formation receives its coloring due to thousands of years of geological history and its unique mineral composition. Just further north, the Serranía del Hornocal mountain range, often another favorite, displays shades of rose, gold, and gray.
Head south into Salta's Calchaquí Valleys, where red-rock canyons burn at sunset, and the whitewashed towns of Cachi and Molinos welcome you with quiet plazas, adobe walls, and delicious high-altitude wine.
Further west, Catamarca brings you into the true wilderness. Here, you'll find the Campo de Piedra Pómez, a nature preserve of white, volcanic rock. Near the village of Tolar Grande, there are shimmering salt flats and flamingo-filled lagoons to explore, too.
What to Do
The Arita Cone in Puna, Argentina.Northwest Argentina is a place to slow down, take a deep breath, and reconnect—with the land, the people, and yourself.
Wander ancient valleys still threaded with original Inca trails. Ride horseback with local gauchos (skilled horsemen) near the quaint towns of Cachi or Cafayate. Cross the surreal Arisaro salt flat and snap a picture at the Arita cone, or ride a 4x4 up the surrounding hills. Another great site to visit is Puna plateau, the high-altitude region in the Central Andes.
Keep in mind, however, there are no signs in this area—just vicuña tracks, rock cairns, and instinct—so it's best to travel with a guide when visiting the region.
Where to Stay
Private outdoor seating at the Terraza Suite at House of Jasmines.
House Of Jasmines
While remote, there are a few great accommodations in the region. Just 15 minutes from downtown Salta, one of my favorite properties is the House of Jasmines. There are just 14 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, a spa, an outdoor pool, and the acclaimed La Table restaurant, which only serves traditional dishes from the north of Argentina, like tamales.
In Cafayate, about a three-hour drive south of Salta, there is Patios de Cafayate. This resort combines colonial charm with modern luxury.
In the other direction, a three-hour drive north of Salta, is Las Marias hotel, which is located just a few blocks from the main square in the city of Tilcara, where you can explore Andean culture. This boutique offers a serene escape with breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains.
Where to Eat
Food in Argentina's northwest is hearty, and a culmination of Andean and indigenous influences. A few highlights of the cuisine include locro, a slow-cooked stew of corn, beans, and beef; humitas, which consists of fresh choclo (a large field corn) steamed in corn husks; and llama meat, which is tender and becoming a staple in the northern regions. Another must-try includes empanadas with a splash of lemon and a glass of local torrontés, an aromatic white wine.
In the city of Salta, enjoy a contemporary take on traditional cuisine at El Baqueano, a restaurant situated atop the scenic San Bernardo Hill. El Bodeguero Hotel, set in a restored neo-colonial mansion, is another spot that serves delicious bites.
Final Takeaways
The northwest of Argentina isn't just a destination—it's a rhythm full of deep tradition.
Bring your dustiest boots and an adventurous spirit because up here, where clouds drift below you and volcanoes stand in silence, you'll find something most travelers never experience.
Carola Fresno is a member of Travel + Leisure's A-List and specializes in Argentina and Chile trips. You can create a tailor-made itinerary with Fresno by contacting her at [email protected].
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