Duration: 15

Capacity: 5 per person

More on Bolivia, Chile and Argentina

We start in Salta in northern Argentina. We explore this stunning part of the country, passing colourful cultures and rock formations including Purmamarca, a rainbow mountain of seven colours.

Towns such as Humahuaca – with frequent street music – Tilcara, Uquía and Purmamarca thrive among the amazing multi-coloured mountains, salt plans and lakes.

Next, it’s Bolivia – Uyuni and its famous alt lakes and volcanoes. From Uyuni, we head out into the vast southern desert to enjoy the starkly beautiful landscapes of this dramatic desert wilderness.

Lakes that change colour, geysers and bizarre rock formations are just some of the highlights of this enormous salt plain.

Atacama desert

From here, it’s to Chile and San Pedro de Atacama desert.

One day you are floating around in the salty Laguna Cejar, the next, gazing at the awesome scenery from atop an Andean peak.

Prices From $ / £0 per person

Dates: October 2024

Duration: 3

Capacity: 5 per person

Setting

The setting is stunning on the lake shore surrounded by glacial peaks. Here you are away from it all surrounded by the majestic Patagonian scenery and immersed in the history of this remote location.

Facilities and package

The estancia has 5 cottages which comprise of a lounge and 4 en-suite bedrooms with stunning panoramic views. The “Octagon” is an exclusive facility for overnight guests which comprises a bar, restaurant and lounge.

Overnight stays include full board, a choice of activities chosen from an extensive menu of horseback rides, 4×4 vehicle excursions and guided hikes.

Prices From $3750 / £3048.75 per person

Dates: October 2024

Duration: 12

Capacity: 5 per person

More on Route 40 Road Trip

We visit Los Alerces National Park, home of the endangered alerce (Fitzroya cupressoides), 2nd longest living tree species. Here dense temperate forests give way to alpine meadows and high Andean peaks.

We drive across the immense Patagonian steppe to visit the Sarmiento Petrified Forest and the Cave of Hands, cave paintings on the Pinturas River Canyon, declared World Heritage by UNESCO in 2017.

From there we will go west to Los Antiguos, by the huge Buenos Aires lake, the second-largest lake in South America. From Los Antiguos we cross to Chile for a day tour to the Marble Caves, in General Carrera Lake.

Next on our journey we go to Lago Posadas on Route 41, the scenic Mount Zeballos Road, through lunar type landscapes. We resume driving the Route 40, staying one night at Estancia La Angostura, a typical Patagonian ranch.

We then drive on to El Chaltén, the Argentinian capital of trekking. Say goodbye to your driver here.

You spend a couple of nights here, giving you time to trek to the granite spires of Fitzroy and Cerro Torre.

The journey continues by minibus to El Calafate for two nights and a chance to set eyes on the vast sparkling glacier of Perito Moreno.

Duration: 4

Capacity: 5 per person

The Wines and Fine Dining of Cafayate

The area’s famous fruity white, Torrontes Rioja, or the world-renowned Malbec, are just two of Cafayate’s star wines. Many bodegas offer wine-tasting experiences paired with snacks like the famous local empanadas or cheeses.

There are plenty of fine dining experiences to enrich your stay in an area big on colour and vibrant with life. Spend sunny days exploring Andean villages replete with history and art. Indeed, it will be hard to leave without some artisanal textiles, ceramics, or paintings.

Our example itinerary is just that; extend it, lengthen the driving distances, or hire a guide. Just let us know how you’d like to explore Cafayate.

Check our seven-day self-drive Jujuy trip for a more in-depth exploration of Argentina’s northwest wine region.

Duration: 7

Capacity: 5 per person

Self-drive road trip around Jujuy

You can explore the spectacular Humahuaca Gorge, which lies at the foot of the Hill of Seven Colours.

There are pre-Inca ruins, enormous salt flats at Salinas Grandes, and Andean cultures aplenty to see. Cachi sits among beautiful vineyards, while Cafayate is an excellent base for exploring vineyards.

You can take the famous Train to the Clouds at San Antonio de Los Cobres, zig-zagging over viaducts. Drivers love the chance to take on the curves. The winding Cuesta de Lipán and Cuesta del Obispo are just two highlights that pass through beautiful Andean scenery.

There are numerous stops, walks, and viewpoints throughout this self-drive trip. Explore the mountains, vineyards, and incredible geography of the Jujuy province the way you want.

The Bodegas, Wines, and Fine Dining of Cafayate

The Jujuy region is replete with bodegas, from rustic to charming, with chances for wine tastings. Try the area’s famous fruity white, Torrontes Rioja, or the world-renowned malbec. Find your favourite and order it at one of the many fine restaurants.

There are lovely museums that complement the modern artistry of artisans who produce beautiful textiles, ceramics, and paintings.