North Argentina Highlights

Day 1: Arrive Buenos Aires

Arrive at any time. Check into the hotel and enjoy the city as there are no planned activities. Explore the nooks and crannies of Buenos Aires and visit some of the many museums, theatres and historical areas. Known as the ‘Paris of the Americas,’ Buenos Aires is a vibrant city full of life. Visit the districts of La Boca, Recoleta and San Telmo, or catch a tango show at one of the many famous tanguerías or tango houses. Wander the pedestrian walkways and see some dancing in the streets. Whatever you do, Buenos Aires is sure to leave lasting memories. The capital city of Argentina, Buenos Aires is the ultimate cosmopolitan city. Travellers find that it has more in common with the cities of Europe than the rest of South America. Nearly 40 per cent of Argentina’s 33 million citizens live in Greater Buenos Aires, and the Porteños are justifiably proud of their home. The city is comprised of a number of distinct neighbourhoods, some of which have become top tourist draws. For many, the highlight of their time in the capital is a visit to San Telmo for the weekend antiques market and street artist's displays. La Boca was originally settled by the successive waves of immigrants, all of whom contributed to the capital’s unique character. Its brightly coloured walls and buildings draw Porteños and tourists alike. Posh Recoleta, with its cafés, museums and cemetery, is a pleasant place to spend an afternoon. During colonial days, Buenos Aires was the seat of the Viceroy of La Plata. Almost completely rebuilt since the turn of the century, the heart of the city is the Plaza de Mayo, with the historic Cabildo (Town Hall), where the Independence movement was first planned, the Casa Rosada (Government Palace) and the Cathedral, where San Martín, the father of Argentine independence, is buried. When you are finished exploring, settle your weary feet and enjoy a drink in one of the many sidewalk cafés and restaurants and you will begin to understand the contemplative Argentine way of life. Buenos Aires will be your last chance, while in Argentina, to try the succulent bifé and parrilladas, so dig in and enjoy!

Day 2-4: Salta

Fly to the city of Salta in Argentina's northwest. Take in the region's spectacular scenery on an included trip across the mountains on the 'Train of the Clouds.' Explore the city by bike by riding to historic San Bernardo Hill. Back in Salta, try Empanadas Salteñas - the delicious local specialty. In the evening, experience the local culture at one of the "Peña" folklore shows. The following day you will have the opportunity to visit the province of Jujuy or to see the "Mountain of Seven Colours" on your way to the salt flats of Pumahuanca. There are also many options for outdoor activities. Please NOTE that the Train to the Clouds has recently returned to service after a two-year interruption in service and the schedule is not consistent. When the train is running we will enjoy this service. If for any reason the train is not running while your group is in Salta we will do the same route by minivan. It is not currently possible to obtain this information in advance.

Day 5-6: Cafayate

Travel by bus through the colourful Cafayate gorge to the small and picturesque town. Take a bike tour to explore the area and to visit some of the many wineries that specialize in white wines made from the Torrontes grape which is endemic to the area. For the active traveler we recommend an optional hike along the Colorado river or for a bit of quiet time a visit the Quilmes Ruins, remnants of the ancient indigenous peoples. Make sure to taste some of the great local wines

Day 7: Tucuman

Travel by bus to Tucumán, the charming city where Argentines proclaimed-and still celebrate-their independence. Here we rest our heads before continuing south to Chilecito.

Day 8-10: Chilecito

Chilecito is a small town in the middle of the Andes. Visit the Cactus Botanical Garden or tour the oldest gold mine in Argentina. We strongly recommend a visit to explore Talampaya National Park where the breath taking scenery and the incredible rock formations, sculpted through thousand of years by water and wind will captivate you as they did the dinosaurs who once roamed this land. Take a night bus from Chilecito to Mendoza on the night of Day 10.

Day 11-13: Mendosa

Finally, the wine capital of Argentina! Take a winery tour and find out why Argentina's wines, especially the Malbec, are renowned by wine experts as some of the world's best. Raft, horse ride, trek or take other optional activity to cap off your day. Finish your day with a city tour or just watch the world go by with a glass of good wine. Board a night bus bound for Buenos Aires this evening.

Day 14: Buenos Aires

It's easy to see why Buenos Aires has been called the 'Paris of South America.' Take time to explore this European-tinted city's diverse neighbourhoods including San Telmo, La Boca, Recoleta and Palermo. Enjoy the last dinner of your trip at one of the local restaurants in Puerto Maderos and head out for a final night on the town.

Day 15: Depart Buenos Aires

Departure day, no planned activities