Road trip from Mendoza to Salta
5 days / 4 nights
DAY 1
Mendoza Welcome to Mendoza!
Many visitors report that it is the most beautiful city in Argentina. Let yourself be seduced by a fine drop of local wine.
DAY 2
Mendoza - Barreal
It climbs steeply along Route 52 in the direction of the Andes Mountains to the Villavicencio Natural Reserve with its thermal baths, the journey takes you via Uspallata to the province of San Juan, also known as the "Land of the Sun". It is worth making a detour to El Leoncito National Park. Steppe landscapes, remains of the Inca Trail and the odd guanaco await you here. The park's isolated location and dry climate also make it an ideal location for astronomical research. In the national park there is also the Pampa del Leoncito, a seemingly infinitely extensive clay desert without vegetation.
DAY 3
Barreal
Take advantage of the day for excursions in the surroundings of El Barreal. In the Los Morrillos reserve to the west, you can marvel at the ancient rock carvings from pre-Inca times and the wonderful landscape. Or explore the magnificent Galingasta Valley at the foot of the Mercedario (6,770 m). In the late afternoon, a walk along the eastern edge of El Barreal is worthwhile: the last rays of the day illuminate the strange rock formations and create a mystical atmosphere ... Overnight as the day before.
DAY 4
Barreal - Villa Union
You leave El Barreal behind and take the legendary Route 40 from Talacasto, arid landscapes in front of impressive mountainous panoramas intersect on the way. On the way you pass through the small town of San José de Jáchal. Then you arrive at your destination today, Villa Unión.
DAY 5
Talampaya and Ischigualsto National Park
Today you must drive south to the impressive Talampaya National Park: you will be impressed by the huge rock faces and the rocky figures formed by nature! In the nearby "valley of the moon" or natural reserve of Ischigualasto the amazement continues. Overnight stays as the previous day in Villa Unión
DAY 6
Villa Union - Bethlehem
Follow Route 40 east. The Cuesta de Miranda winds its way downhill through the picturesque mountains. Drive through the city of Chilecito, a green oasis with many wine plantations, as well as walnut and fruit trees. Then you will arrive at your destination for the day, the small town of Belén in the province of Catamarca. Night in Bethlehem.
DAY 7
Bethlehem - Cafayate
Today you continue your journey north along Route 40. Before reaching your destination today, you travel a short distance through the province of Tucumán. Take the opportunity to stop at the ancient ruins of the Quilmes town. Finally you arrive at the wine town of Cafayate, known for its white wines (Torrontés).