Wine and Landscapes of Argentina's Northwest
Wine and Landscapes of Argentina's Northwest
Wine and Landscapes of Argentina's Northwest
14 Days Starting in Mendoza, Argentina and ending in Buenos Aires, Argentina
Visiting: Mendoza, Luján de Cuyo, El Leoncito National Park, Talampaya National Park, Ischigualasto National Park, Belen, Cafayate, Salta, Polvorilla Viaduct, Humahuaca Gorge
Tour operator:
Tour code:
NWA
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
16-
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, Ruins-Archaeology
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Argentina's northwest with the "Wine and Landscapes of Argentina's Northwest" tour. This adventure begins in Mendoza, the heart of Argentina's wine country, where you'll savor the region's renowned wines amidst the stunning backdrop of the Andes. Traverse through the breathtaking Aconcagua Provincial Park, explore the unique geological formations of Talampaya and Ischigualasto National Parks, and visit the indigenous Quilmes ruins. Experience the vibrant culture of Buenos Aires, with its eclectic architecture and lively neighborhoods. From the colorful mountains and cactus-strewn deserts to the cosmopolitan charm of Buenos Aires, this tour offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural exploration, and culinary delights. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or a nature lover, this tour promises an enriching experience in one of Argentina's most captivating regions.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Join Trip In Santiago
Location: Mendoza
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Fuente Mayor Hotel
Join trip in Santiago.
Day 2 : Explore Santiago On Foot; Walk Up To The Viewpoint At Santa Lucia Hill
Location: Luján de Cuyo
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Fuente Mayor Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Explore Santiago on foot; walk up to the viewpoint at Santa Lucia Hill.
Day 3 : Traverse The Andes From Santiago To Mendoza (Argentina); Hike To The Horcones Lagoon
Location: Mendoza
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Fuente Mayor Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Traverse the Andes from Santiago to Mendoza (Argentina); hike to the Horcones Lagoon.
Day 4 : Bike Trip Around The Wineries, With Included Wine Tasting
Location: El Leoncito National Park
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Acrux Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Bike trip around the wineries, with included wine tasting.
Day 5 : El Leoncito National Park And Visit To Observatory
Location: El Leoncito National Park
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Pircas Negras
Meals Included: Breakfast
El Leoncito National Park and visit to observatory
Day 6 : Explore The Red Deserts Of Talampaya National Park
Location: Talampaya National Park
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Pircas Negras
Meals Included: Breakfast
Explore the red deserts of Talampaya National Park
Day 7 : Hike In The Lunar Landscape Of Ischigualasto National Park
Location: Ischigualasto National Park
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Belen Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Hike in the lunar landscape of Ischigualasto National Park
Day 8 : Drive To The Sleepy Town Of Belen Via Local Villages
Location: Belen
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Los Sauces
Meals Included: Breakfast
Drive to the sleepy town of Belen via local villages
Day 9 : Wine-Tasting In Cafayate And Visit To Indigenous Quilmes Ruins
Location: Cafayate
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: ACA Cachi
Meals Included: Breakfast
Wine-tasting in Cafayate and visit to indigenous Quilmes ruins
Day 10 : Walking Tour Of Cafayate And Drive To Cachi Through 'Broken Arrow Gorge'
Location: Cafayate
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Caseros
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Walking tour of Cafayate and drive to Cachi through 'Broken Arrow Gorge'
Day 11 : Drive To Salta Through High Arid Cactus Deserts Down To Fertile Forests On The 'Bishop's Hill Road'
Location: Salta
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Caseros
Meals Included: Breakfast
Drive to Salta through high arid cactus deserts down to fertile forests on the 'Bishop's Hill Road'
Day 12 : Walking Tour Of Salta; Optional Walk Through San Lorenzo Gorge
Location: Salta
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Principado
Meals Included: Breakfast
Walking tour of Salta; optional walk through San Lorenzo Gorge
Day 13 : Follow The Rails Of The Train To The Clouds; Visit Polvorilla Viaduct (4220M Altitude)
Location: Polvorilla Viaduct
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Principado
Meals Included: Breakfast
Follow the rails of the Train to the Clouds; visit Polvorilla Viaduct (4220m altitude)
Day 14 : Discover Humahuaca Gorge; Visit Local Villages
Location: Humahuaca Gorge
Meals Included: Breakfast
Discover Humahuaca Gorge; visit local villages
What's Included
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Accommodation
Standard -
Wine-tasting in Argentina's famous vineyards
Enjoy wine-tasting experiences in the renowned vineyards of Argentina, including visits to two wineries in Lujan de Cuyo.
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Visit to Aconcagua Provincial Park
Experience a full-day trip to Aconcagua Provincial Park, including a 90-minute hike to the Horcones Lagoon.
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Visit to El Leoncito National Park
Explore El Leoncito National Park, known for its breathtaking scenery and opportunities for night sky watching.
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Exploration of Ischigualasto and Talampaya National Parks
Discover the unique landscapes and geological wonders of Ischigualasto and Talampaya National Parks.
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Visit to indigenous Quilmes ruins
Explore the Quilmes ruins, learning about the indigenous heritage and history of resistance against invasions.
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Walking tour of La Boca and Plaza de Mayo
Experience Buenos Aires like a local with a walking tour of the vibrant neighborhoods of La Boca and Plaza de Mayo.
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Meals
The tour includes 13 breakfasts and 1 dinner.
What's Not Included
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Airport Transfers
Airport transfers are not included unless specified for specific arrival or departure times.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities such as tango shows or additional tours are not included in the tour package.
Meals
Breakfasts: 13
Dinners: 1
Mode of Transport
Travel through Argentina's northwest by road, with scenic drives through mountain landscapes, deserts, and national parks. Enjoy a mix of private and local transport, including a flight from Salta to Buenos Aires, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of the region's diverse terrains.
Accommodation
Stay in comfortable accommodations throughout the tour, including Fuente Mayor Hotel in Mendoza, Acrux Hotel in Barreal, Hotel Pircas Negras in Villa Union, Belen Hotel in Belen, Los Sauces in Cafayate, ACA Cachi in Cachi, and Hotel Caseros in Salta, ending at Hotel Principado in Buenos Aires.
Check out our Q&As
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What is the starting point of the tour?
The tour starts in Mendoza, the heart of Argentina's wine country.
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What can I expect on the first day of the tour?
On the first day, you will join the tour in Mendoza. There are no planned activities, so you are free to arrive at any time. A welcome meeting is scheduled at 6pm at the hotel reception.
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What activities are included on the second day of the tour?
On the second day, you will visit two wineries in the Lujan de Cuyo wine-growing region, known for its red wines, particularly Malbec. The afternoon is free to explore Mendoza.
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What is the highlight of the visit to Aconcagua Provincial Park?
The highlight is a 90-minute hike to the Horcones Lagoon, offering outstanding views of the mountains, including Aconcagua, the tallest peak in the Americas.
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What unique experience does El Leoncito National Park offer?
El Leoncito National Park offers the opportunity for night sky watching due to its strict regulations on air pollution, providing breathtaking scenery.
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What is special about the drive to Villa Union?
The drive to Villa Union includes passing through the Las Burras Gorge and the Jachal River Gorge, with a stop to view the red formations of Talampaya and Ischigualasto National Parks.
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What can I expect to see in Ischigualasto and Talampaya National Parks?
You will explore moonlike landscapes and red rock towers, with a chance to see fossilized remains and geological wonders. The parks are known for their complete fossil record from the Triassic Period.
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What cultural experience is included in Belen?
In Belen, you will visit a women's weaving co-operative, learning about the traditional weaving process using sheep, llama, or alpaca wool.
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What is the significance of the Quilmes ruins?
The Quilmes ruins are significant as they represent the Quilmes people's resistance to Incan and Spanish colonization, offering insights into the indigenous heritage of the region.
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What is the highlight of the drive to Cachi?
The drive to Cachi takes you through the 'Arrows Gorge', a dramatic landscape of sharp, pointed rock formations, with the road piercing through this surreal scenery.
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What is unique about the Bishop's Hill Road to Salta?
The Bishop's Hill Road features 20 kilometers of hairpin bends, offering views from cactus-filled deserts to lush green mountains, showcasing a dramatic change in scenery.
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What cultural experiences are included in the visit to Humahuaca Gorge?
In Humahuaca Gorge, you will explore colorful towns like Purmamarca and Tilcara, with opportunities to hike, explore local markets, and experience traditional northern Argentine cuisine.
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What can I do during the free afternoon in Buenos Aires?
During the free afternoon in Buenos Aires, you can explore the elite northern neighborhoods, visit Recoleta Cemetery, or relax in Palermo Park. You may also enjoy the city's nightlife.
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What is the focus of the walking tour in Buenos Aires?
The walking tour focuses on exploring neighborhoods like La Boca and San Telmo, experiencing local culture, architecture, and cuisine, including a traditional Porteno elevenses.
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I'm going on a walking/cycling trip-do I need to train?
It will depend on the grade and how fit you already are. Check the trip page for details of the walking or cycling grade and how far you’ll be walking/cycling each day. For moderate or challenging trips in particular we’d recommend doing some walks or cycles before you leave to build up your fitness and prepare you for the distances being covered.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
We have a wide range of ages nationalities on our small group trips and they come from all walks of life.
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Should I get travel insurance?
Yes–it is a condition of booking that you are fully insured when travelling with us
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How long has the tour company been trading?
At Explore, we're the experts in adventure travel. Our small group adventure holidays have been running since 1981. Today, Explore is one of the most trusted travel companies in the UK with over 500 trips to more than 120 countries.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
Yes, but there are no concessions for doing so, and we must have a record in your booking advising as such before the trip departs.
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Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?
Being a responsible company is a large statement, something that has to be entwined within the very fibre of a company. Discover the charities and partnerships we support as part of this at https://www.explore.co.uk/about/sustainability/charities-and-partners
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
We want to be as clear as and as honest as possible about what happens if you decide to that you no longer wish to travel on your trip. Our booking conditions have details of the costs you’ll incur when you cancel-these charges depend on how long it is before your planned departure.
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What is the accommodation like?
We choose comfortable accommodation in the best locations possible. We opt for small, local and family-run accommodation where we can, as opposed to large chain hotels. We typically use hotels that are the equivalent of European 3-star, and you’ll usually have an en suite room. Occasionally, where we want to get off the beaten trail we may stay in more basic accommodation.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Sustainability is embedded within the fibre of Explore, it emanates from the inside out. But as we enter a new decade it is clearer than ever that our world needs help, and Explore has created a sustainability strategy based on the 2015 UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Our flexible booking and safety policies mean you're protected before and during your travels with us. Receive a full refund if your trip is cancelled, transfer your trip free of charge up to 10 days before departure minus any irrocoverable costs.
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Do I need to be very fit to book with you?
All our trips require some level of active participation. This could be on a cultural trip, trek, safari, expedition or voyage. It is in the interests of all members of the group that everyone should be capable of fully participating in the activities of their chosen trip.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Final documents will include a comprehensive trip itinerary, climate and country information, budgeting and packing advice visa and passport information and details on optional activities available.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Yes on most of our trips. Most trips are based on customers sharing twin-bedded rooms. If you book a group trip as an individual, you will share a room with someone of the same sex. However, on many trips we offer the opportunity to pay a supplement to pre-book a single room, known as our single room option. On some trips a single room will be provided every night, on others it will be provided o
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Do we have to be vaccinated against Covid-19 to travel
It’s now a condition of booking a trip with us that customers should have one of the following before they travel - — Be vaccinated against COVID, having received the full recommended course, and allowing enough time for immunity to take effect. Full vaccination includes any booster required to keep the vaccine valid. — Have taken a negative test (rapid antigen or PCR) within 72hrs of departure.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Explore will only offer hotels that have specific COVID-19 protocols in place and comply with local government guidelines. We will ensure these measures include; enhanced room cleaning, ventilation, social distancing, regular cleaning and disinfection of high frequency touch points in public areas, food safety, staff re-training and minimising contact within the properties.
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Free Date Changes
Explore! allows you to make 1 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 70 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
Explore! requires a minimum deposit of 10% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of explore! charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.
At 41 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.
At 27 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.
At 13 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.