The Great Northwest

.The Salta.

Northwestern Argentina offers a variety of famous attractions including the legendary Humahuaca Ravine, the "Tren a las Nubes" or Train to the Clouds, as well as numerous virgin landscapes. With the breathtaking Andes mountains in the backgroud, one can observe the blend of ancient Indian culture, with its music, religion and art, with that of the Spanish conquest and colonization. Visitors are still looked upon with certain curiosity in the charming villages that line the vast white salt fields within the colorful mountains and twisting ravines. National parks preserve the wildlife in this region, rich in Rodoerosita or "Inca Rose" gems, a typical Argentinean semi-precious stone. The "Train to the Clouds" is one of the three highest railroads in the world. It seems to be hanging from the giddy mountains, while the visitors feel as if they were hanging from the clouds! The track runs across some of the region's most spectacular scenery. During the season that goes from April to October, the train leaves the city of Salta every Saturday along its zigzagged trip of 135 miles. The train passes by San Antonio de los Cabres and climbs to almost 12,600 feet as it reaches the La Polvorilla Viaduct. During the 15 hours of the total jouney, the train offers a buffet-car, audio sound, video, folk groups and English speaking guides. The "Train to the Clouds" has become one of the most important railroads built during the first half of last century, and it is one of the most important tourist attractions in Argentina.

7 Days - The Great Northwest Sunday Departures

Day 1 - San Miguel de Tucuman

Upon arrival at Tucuman airport, transfer to the Metropol Hotel. Take an afternoon city tour including a visit to Villa Nogues and Mount San Javier.

Day 2 - San Miguel de Tucuman/Quilmes

Depart on a tour to the Quilmes ruins, pass the "Quebrada de los Sosa", viewing the Indian Monument and Mollar with its "Menhires" and the Tafi del Valle summer resort, by an artifical lake. Visit to the Indian ruins of Quihues. Overnight at the Quilmes Inn.

Day 3 - Quilmes/Molinos

Departure to Cafayate, through the Calehaqui valleys, passing Colalao del Valle at Tolombon. Visit to Cafayate, located at 5000 feet above sea level. This town is one of those peaceful, colonial settlements, that evokes the feeling of a time long past.

Day 4 - Molinos/Cachi/Salta

Drive to San Jose de Cachi, at the foot of the white snow-covered peak of Cachi, with its magnificent view of the surroundings. Visit the archaeological museum and church in the ancient town, founded in the XVII century. Follow the route through Los Cardones National Park, where there is an abundance of giant cactus.Continue to Cuesta del Obispo, called the Condor’s Home, reaching 11,200 feet above sea level. From here, enjoy a view of the Calehaqui Valley, a natural treasure located in one of the most beautiful landscapes of the country. Continue to Salta and the Hotel Salta.

Day 5 - Humahuaca/Jujuy/Salta

Drive along the historic Humahuaca Gorge. Pass Leon, Volcan, Tumbaya, Purmamarea and its seven-color mountain. Tileara, with its archaeological museum, the Indain fortress (Pucara), and the Uquia Church. Visit the handicrafts fair and the Belgrano Belvedere. Enjoy a city tour of Jujuy before driving along the mountain roads to La Ceinega Dam and Santa Laura Valley. Arrive at today's destination, Salta, in the late afternoon. Accommodations are at theSalta or the Portegnelo Hotel.

Day 6 - Salta

Take a spectacular ride on the Tren a las Nubes (Train to the Clouds), to the Viadneto La Polvorilla (The Polvorilla Viaduct), 135 miles away, at 12,600 feet above sea level! The highpoint of this trip is the amazing crossing of the viaduct.

Day 7 - Depart Salta

The morning is at leisure until time for the transfer to the airport.