Northwest Argentina Self-Drive: Landscapes, Culture and Freedom to Explore
The Andean plateau of northwest Argentina is a region defined by scale, colour and deep-rooted cultural traditions. High-altitude deserts sit alongside fertile valleys, while ancient trade routes and geological forces have shaped landscapes that feel both vast and intimate. Beginning with your journey from the UK to Buenos Aires, this self-drive itinerary then takes you north to one of Argentina’s most visually distinctive and rewarding regions.
Over nine days behind the wheel, you will explore the heart of the northwest at an unhurried pace, travelling between Salta, Purmamarca, Cachi and Cafayate. Each stop reveals a different side of the region, from colourful mountain landscapes and Andean heritage to vineyard-lined valleys and quiet rural communities. Travelling independently allows the freedom to pause where the scenery invites, whether at a roadside viewpoint, a local village, a winding mountain pass or the dramatic white expanse of the Salinas Grandes salt flats.
The routes linking these towns are among Argentina’s most memorable, passing through high-altitude deserts, multi-coloured canyons and remote landscapes shaped by the Andes. Vast salt flats, sculpted rock formations and sheltered valleys unfold along the way, with opportunities to explore places such as Los Cardones National Park and the striking landscapes of Quebrada de las Flechas. Together, these experiences create a journey that balances scenery, culture and a genuine sense of discovery before concluding in Salta for your onward flight to the UK.
Visit several regions in Northwest Argentina
Accommodation detailed in itinerary
All included as per below
12 breakfasts 1 lunch and 2 dinner included
What you'll experience
- Take a guided tour of Buenos Aires: Explore the city’s historic districts with insight into its architecture, culture and the stories that have shaped Argentina’s capital
- Self-drive through Argentina’s northwest: Travel along some of the country’s most striking roads, where high-altitude landscapes, open valleys and changing colours define the journey
- Relax in Argentina’s wine regions: Spend time in vineyard country, enjoying a slower pace and learning how climate, altitude and tradition shape local wines
- Explore Quebrada de las Conchas: Discover a dramatic canyon landscape known for its remarkable rock formations, shaped over millions of years by wind and water
What's Included in our Argentina self drive 12-day itinerary
International flights
12 nights’ accommodation
13 meals;12 breakfasts 1 lunch & 2 dinners
Half-day Buenos Aires and Salta city tours
- Dinner and Tango Show
Transfers & domestic flights as per itinerary
9 days of car hire with unlimited mileage (4WD), full cover insurance, GPS, 1 additional driver
Prices from £4,949pp
Excludes:
Meals not indicated in your itinerary
Local departure taxes payable locally
Items of a personal nature such as laundry and drinks etc
Tips for guides and drivers (discretionary)
Camera or video fees at any sites
Quick Itinerary
Northwest Argentina Self-Drive 14-day Itinerary
Days 1-3 UK - Buenos Aires
Arrive in Buenos Aires from the UK, where you'll spend two days.
The next day, embark on a morning guided tour of the city. Admire the emblematic Plaza de Mayo; the bygone era neighbourhood of San Telmo, with its cobbled streets and neoclassical architecture; the rhythmic district of La Boca; and the characterful docklands of Puerto Madero. The tour concludes at the resting place of Eva Perón (Evita) in the affluent neighbourhood of Recoleta.
This evening, visit one of the city’s finest tango venues and enjoy a cabaret show accompanied by an authentic Argentine dinner.
Days 4-5 Purmamarca
Take a morning flight to Salta in north-west Argentina to begin your self-drive adventure. After collecting your vehicle, take a leisurely four-hour drive through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Humahuaca Gorge to the small town of Purmamarca, famous for the Cerro de los Siete Colores (Hill of Seven Colours).
The next day is at leisure to explore the area at your own pace. It is abundant with colourful mountains, remarkable geological formations, historical villages and pre-Inca ruins.
Day 6 Salinas Grandes
This morning, journey along the Lipán Pass, a breath-taking winding mountain road that climbs towards the high-altitude Salinas Grandes salt flats. Upon reaching Tres Morros, leave your vehicle in secure parking and transfer to your lodging for a magical overnight stay at Pristine Luxury Camp.
Days 7-8 Rural Salta
Collect your vehicle and enjoy a scenic four-hour drive through the foothills of the Andes, passing wide valleys, rugged rock formations and sweeping open landscapes, returning to the Salta region for a stay at exclusive estancia, House of Jasmines.
The following day is at leisure to enjoy the facilities of the estancia or explore the surrounding countryside.
Day 9 Cachi
Approximately four hours from Salta is the idyllic small town of Cachi, characterised by its colonial architecture and laid-back ambience. The drive is regarded as one of the finest journeys in the north-west, passing through the mountain and desert terrain of the Calchaquí Valley and home to wild donkeys and giant cacti. There is no rush today, so stop and marvel at the views or take a gentle hike along the scenic paths of Cardones National Park. Overnight in Cachi.
Days 10-11 Cafayate
Today you’ll take a five‑hour drive to reach the wine region of Cafayate. The journey is beautiful, with numerous viewpoints and photo stops along the way. You will pass rural hamlets, vineyards and farms, and a short detour to the town of Seclantás is highly recommended to visit artisans who produce some of the finest ponchos in the country. Much of the route crosses the Quebrada de las Flechas, a desert landscape shaped by limestone and quartz, eroded over time into thousands of dramatic arrow‑like peaks. Arrive in Cafayate in the late afternoon.
The next day is at leisure to explore Cafayate independently, or speak to one of our Travel Specialists if you would like a guided tour and tastings at one of the region’s exceptional vineyards.
Days 12-13 Salta
As you drive back to Salta, stop at the Quebrada de las Conchas, a beautiful canyon with remarkable geology. Due to the ferric oxide in the mineral basin, the rocks take on an intense reddish hue. A hike through the gorge is a wonderful way to experience its magical atmosphere. Drop off your vehicle upon arrival in central Salta.
The next day, embark on a morning guided tour of the city. Discover Salta’s distinctly Hispanic character, with its colonial churches, neo‑colonial main square and charming Andalusian‑style streets. Visit the baroque Cathedral, the Cabildo Museum with its sacred art, and the striking San Francisco Church, whose colourful tower rises above the city’s historic skyline.
Day 14 Salta - UK
You will be transferred to Salta Airport for your onward flight.
Speak to a dedicated Argentina Holiday Specialist
All our Argentina itineraries can be tailored to your unique requirements. Enquire about our Northwest Argentina Self-Drive holiday and let us plan your perfect Latin American adventure.What Makes a Latin Routes Holiday Truly Unforgettable?
Every journey we plan is truly individual – created just for you, by our expert team. Whether you’re dreaming of wildlife, culture, food or landscapes, 5* luxury or off-grid adventure, we’ll design a Latin American holiday that’s truly unforgettable for all the right reasons.
We’re recognised by both the industry and our clients for our outstanding personalised service.
We design every trip around you: your interests, your must-sees, your perfect holiday.
Every recommendation is shaped by real experience, true passion and specialist care.
Consistently rated ‘Excellent’ by our clients for our expert planning and personalised attention.
Our 5 top tips for a great driving holiday in Argentina
1. Learn a bit of the Language
Many people in Argentina speak English, particularly in Buenos Aires, but it’s less commonly spoken elsewhere so learning simple phrases like ‘¿Dónde está la gasolinera más cercana?’ (where is the nearest petrol station?) will certainly help you on your way. It’s also wise to familiarise yourself in advance with Argentine road signs.
Here are some of the most important ones:
2. Fill up on petrol when you can.
Petrol stations are limited outside of Salta, and smaller ones may run out of fuel entirely, especially in more remote spots. Fill your tank at every reasonable opportunity, even if you’re only halfway down. Don’t rely on the next town always having a working station. It’s also smart to carry some cash, as card payment isn’t always accepted. Running low on fuel in the middle of the Quebrada is not a situation you want to face.
3. Check you have the right international driving permit.
You will need to have both the 1949 international driving permit (IDP) and your UK driving licence with you in the car. You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel to Argentina.
4. Have plenty of bottled water with you in the car and take regular breaks
Parts of the northwest sit well over 3,000 metres above sea level. Altitude symptoms include headaches or fatigue so it’s important you keep hydrated and take regular rest stops.
5. Respect local driving customs and road rules
While driving is generally straightforward, local habits vary. Expect sudden stops, few indicators and the occasional wandering goat. Drive cautiously, especially on winding mountain routes or gravel tracks. Keep headlights on even during the day (it’s the law) and watch your speed. Police checkpoints are common, so carry your passport, driving licence and car documents.