Northern Argentina Explorer

Northern Argentina Explorer

A whirlwind overview of Argentina's natural highlights, this itinerary begins in Buenos Aires, the Paris of South America, transfers to the jaw-dropping natural wonder of Iguazu Falls, and continues into the beautiful northern landscapes of Salta. End your time in Argentina with a few relaxing days in the winelands of Mendoza. Apart from the popular rugged landscapes of Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego, Argentina is a treasure trove of historic and modern culture. This itinerary focuses on that culture, giving travelers a thorough understanding of why Argentinians are so proud of their heritage.

A whirlwind overview of Argentina's natural highlights, this itinerary begins in Buenos Aires, the Paris of South America, transfers to the jaw-dropping natural wonder of Iguazu Falls, and continues into the beautiful northern landscapes of Salta. End your time in Argentina with a few relaxing days in the winelands of Mendoza. Apart from the popular rugged landscapes of Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego, Argentina is a treasure trove of historic and modern culture. This itinerary focuses on that culture, giving travelers a thorough understanding of why Argentinians are so proud of their heritage.

Quick Summary

Itinerary Detail

Day 1: Buenos Aires Arrival

Buenos Aires
Daily Summary

In the morning, you will be picked up at the airport in 4:00PM and transferred to your hotel. (This service is on a private basis.)

Buenos Aires

The cosmopolitan city of Buenos Aires is the colorful capital of Argentina. Known as the "Paris of South America", Buenos Aires is steeped in culture, unique to this extraordinary country. Feel the rhythm with tango dancers in the streets of La Boca, discover the history behind Recoleta's neighborhood attractions and wake your senses up with delicious flavors in the Palermo district. Buenos Aires is a great base from which to explore a variety of iconic Argentine experiences.

Day 2: Buenos Aires

Half Day City Tour
Daily Summary

Half Day City Tour

Today, you will be taken on a private guided half day tour of the city. During this excursion, you will visit the main attractions, including the Metropolitan Cathedral, Government House, Mayo Square, Congress Hall, Colon Opera Theater, San Telmo, La Boca Italian District and Palermo Park. Your guide can also take you to see the famous cemetery in the Recoleta neighborhood of Buenos Aires. Although the historic cemetery sits in stark contrast to the fashionable nearby streets that are decorated with quaint sidewalk cafes and elegant boutiques, its beauty is worth its own exploration. This tour will last four hours, as you venture through the wonders of this beautiful city! (This service is on a private basis.)

Day 3: Buenos Aires

Argentine Experience
Daily Summary

Argentine Experience

Tonight at 6:15 PM*, be ready for an evening you will never forget! A gourmet 3 course meal with a twist, The Argentine Experience serves up the best of Argentine cuisine and culture, with a slice of international perspective. Argentinian culture is very much centered around communal dining, which is exactly what you will see tonight – a warm, inviting space, where you will meet fellow travelers from all around the world, along with local Argentines, who want to show off their rich culture through food!

Choose from a variety of gourmet fillings and start making your own empanada, learning the traditional ‘repulgue’ technique along the way. In addition to your creations, enjoy an Argentine ‘picada’ and choose from grilled provolone cheese, sliced chorizo sausage and homemade chimichurri. Savor what many are claiming to be the best steak in Argentina, cooked to order and accompanied with velvety mash potatoes and oven roasted vegetables. Vegetarian, pescetarian and celiac options are also available on request.

Over the course of the evening, you will also taste unlimited pours of delicious Argentine wines. From the deceptive Torrentes of Salta, to the ruby red Malbec of Mendoza, the specially chosen wines showcase Argentine food the way it is meant to be enjoyed. Your guides will talk you through the distinct Argentine culture, that will have you acting like a local in no time! And don’t be afraid to ask questions! The guides are a mix of locals and expats who know Argentine culture and cuisine like the back of their hand – they love food, they love Argentina and they love to talk! *Please note that you will need to arrange your own transport to/from this activity. (This service is on a group basis.)

Day 4: Buenos Aires - Iguazu

Iguazu Falls
Daily Summary
  • Transportation: Airport Transfers
  • Transportation (Air): Domestic Flight
  • Accommodation: Posada Puerto Bemberg
  • Meals: B
Domestic Flight
Buenos Aires - Iguazu
Flight #: TBD
Departs: TBD
Arrives: TBD

In the morning, you will be picked up at your hotel in 4:00PM and transferred to the airport in good time to board your domestic flight to 4:00PM. Upon arrival in 4:00PM, you will be greeted at the airport by your driver and transferred to your hotel. (This service is on a private basis.)

Iguazu Falls

The waterfalls of Iguazu are located in northern Argentina, near the border of Paraguay and Brazil. They are made up of 275 falls, some of the cascading waters rushing up to 80 meters high! The 1,000 meter foot bridge on the Argentinian side will lead you to the largest of the falls, La Garganta de Diablo, the Devil's Throat. You can hike the trails on the Argentinean side, as well as the Brazilian side for various perspectives of the breathtaking scenery. Both sides offer exceptional views of the majestic waterfalls and the rich green jungle that surrounds the area. The natural beauty here is simply incomparable.

Day 5: Iguazu

Argentina Side Full Day Tour
Daily Summary

Argentina Side Full Day Tour

After breakfast at your hotel this morning, you will embark on a full day private tour of Iguazu Falls from the Argentinean side. Enjoy the 275 cascades in all of its splendor, as viewed from various access points. In order to get the most out of this experience, follow along the footbridges and the navigation tours, which lead you closer and closer to the waterfalls. Beginning at the Visitors Center, you will venture out into the stunning scenery of the lower circuit. This picturesque route showcases a discovery of the dense jungle, in addition to the falls. But, it is the 1,000 meter footbridge that will take you to the fierce and impressive Garganta del Diablo! (This service is on a private basis.)

Day 6: Iguazu - Salta

Salta
Daily Summary
Domestic Flight
Iguazu - Salta
Flight #: TBD
Departs: TBD
Arrives: TBD

In the morning, you will be picked up at your hotel in 4:00PM and transferred to the airport in good time to board your domestic flight to 4:00PM. Upon arrival in 4:00PM, you will be greeted at the airport by your driver and transferred to your hotel. (This service is on a private basis.)

Salta

With an enticing mix of historical architecture, picturesque views and sprawling vineyards in the Andean foothills, Salta is the main point of access to explore the culturally rich Northwestern territory of Argentina. Simply wandering through the streets of the central city area will take you past a variety of impressive 18th and 19th century buildings, including the neoclassical Cathedral of Salta, the ornate Church of Saint Francis and the Museum of High Mountain Archaeology – housing a collection of ancient Inca relics. A more hedonistic attraction is the area’s array of wineries, while for panoramic views over the region visitors should head to the top of San Bernardo Hill. The trek will be well worth the effort!

Day 7: Salta

Full Day Humahuaca Tour
Daily Summary

Full Day Humahuaca Tour

Today you will enjoy a private guided visit to the region declared a World Cultural and Natural Heritage by UNESCO site, going through the Humahuaca Gorge, marveling at the magnificent views, villages and fascinating cultures.

Your first destination is Purmamarca, a town which has earned a reputation for its Cerro de los Siete Colores (Hill of Seven Colors) which can be viewed from the village streets and the handicraft market bordering the main square. Next, we will visit Maimara, a village at the foot of the dreamy Paleta del Pintor (Painter’s Palette). To the surprise of visitors, its cemetery on the hill can be spotted from the route. Tilcara is famous for its local festivities (Carnival and Holy Week), the Archaeological Museum and the Pucara (aborigine stronghold) with its partially rebuilt ruins from the pre-Colombian times.

Within the Purcara (entrance fee not included), which depicts the lifestyle and development of such times, visitors can appreciate a myriad of cacti specimens at the Museo Botanico de Altura (Botanical Garden). Further to the North, at Huacalera, we will go through the Capricorn Tropic, identified by a white monolith. Uquia is famous for its church built in the 17th century, which has an altarpiece laminated in gold. Interestingly, it is one of the two churches in Argentina decorated with nine Cuzco School paintings of Los Angeles Arcabuceros (angels holding guns), a testimony of the colonial architecture.

Humahuaca, the village the Gorge is named after, has the greatest population. It is also the highest point in our entire journey at 2,940 meters above sea level. Main highlights include: the imposing Independence Monument, the Church and the Town Hall with a tower from which San Francisco Solano comes out every day sharply at noon to give his blessing. After this full day excursion, you will be transferred back to your hotel. (This service is on a private basis.)

Day 8: Salta - Cafayate

Calchaqui Valley Tour
Daily Summary

Calchaqui Valley Tour

Today, you will be picked up by your private guide between 7:00 - 7:45 AM and whisked away on a journey that begins in the Lerma Valley, and all the way up to “El Carrilâ€, where you will start heading west. After Chicoana, the trip will continue along the Quebrada de Escoipe. Look out your window to admire the spectacular scenery and many panoramic views, as your vehicle climbs the Cuesta de Obispo. Following the Tin Tin Straight, you will come upon a small and ancient town called Cachi. This charming little village in the Calchaqui Valleys is where traditions and myths are still very much alive. You will have time to explore the town and visit its famous museum, before continuing your journey to the traditional towns of Seclantas & Molinos Village, Moon Valley of Las Flechas Gorge, Angastaco and San Carlos. Your exploration will officially come to an end in Cafayate. Please note that wine tasting at two wineries will be included with today's tour. (This service is on a private basis.)

Day 9: Cafayate - Salta - Mendoza

Mendoza
Daily Summary
  • Transportation: Airport Transfers
  • Transportation (Air): Domestic Flight
  • Accommodation: Cavas Wine Lodge
  • Meals: B
Domestic Flight
Salta - Mendoza
Flight #: TBD
Departs: TBD
Arrives: TBD

In the morning, you will be picked up at your hotel in 4:00PM and transferred to the airport in good time to board your domestic flight to 4:00PM. Upon arrival in 4:00PM, you will be greeted at the airport by your driver and transferred to your hotel. (This service is on a private basis.)

Mendoza

Mendoza, home to the delicious blends of Malbec wine, is another city that will captivate you. At the base of the Andes Mountains, the climate is well suited to vineyards and the culture is rich and relaxed. Mendoza's tranquil atmosphere allows you to relax and enjoy the beautiful views and charming vineyards. The prestigious vineyards are located in the district of Godoy Cruz, Guaymallén, Luján de Cuyo and Maipú.

Day 10: Mendoza

Half Day  Winery Tour
Daily Summary

Half Day Winery Tour

Today, a private guide will take you on an extensive tour through Mendoza's local wineries. Mendoza has long been the wine capital of Argentina, and has steadily gained recognition as an international destination for wine-lovers. After this half day tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel for an evening at your leisure. Tastings and entrance fees are included. (This service is on a private basis.)

Day 11: Mendoza

Daily Summary
Enjoy this free time at your leisure.

Day 12: Mendoza Departure

Daily Summary
  • Transportation: Airport Transfer
  • Meals: B

Today, you will be picked up at your hotel and transferred to the airport for your flight. (This service is on a private basis.)

Accommodation

Legado Mitico Buenos Aires
Legado Mitico Buenos Aires

Legado Mitico Buenos Aires

The Legado Mitico is a warm and inviting hotel, inspired by the history and culture of Argentina. Designed for travelers who wish to experience the authentic spirit of their destination, the Legado Mitico reflects and celebrates the Argentinean identity. If you are looking for a hotel in Buenos Aires, you will find our hotel at the very heart of the mythical neighborhood of Palermo, right in the center of Buenos Aires, and will be instantly inspired with love. Palermo Soho is a perfect blend of bohemia and modernity, was once known as “Palermo Viejoâ€. Enjoy a strategically placed neighborhood, with its picturesque stone paved streets, which vital force is its avant-garde and eclectic spirit.

Posada Puerto Bemberg
Posada Puerto Bemberg
Posada Puerto Bemberg

Posada Puerto Bemberg

Nestled in the heart of the jungle, the luxurious Posada Puerto Bemberg offers upscale rustic charm perfect for travelers looking for a destination that's off the beaten path. Secluded and quiet, set in the jungles of Argentina, Posada Puerto Bemberg offers an authentic - yet luxurious - taste of rural life. The hotel is full of rustic charm and character, decorated in earth tones that mimic the red earth and green trees outside, and surrounded by lush gardens that attract masses of butterflies. The extraordinary service is evidence of the staff's desire to make every detail of your stay perfect, from how sweet you like your Caipirinha to what kind of pillow you prefer.

Legado Mitico Hotel Salta
Legado Mitico Hotel Salta
Legado Mitico Hotel Salta
Legado Mitico Hotel Salta
Legado Mitico Hotel Salta
Legado Mitico Hotel Salta

Legado Mitico Hotel Salta

The Legado Mitico is a warm and inviting hotel, inspired by the history and culture of Argentina. Designed for travelers who wish to experience the authentic spirit of their destination, the Legado Mitico reflects and celebrates the Argentinean identity. This mansion located in the historic quarter of the city had slowly faded into oblivion until Legado Mitico came to its rescue. After careful renovation, it has regained the charm of its original spirit. Legado Mitico Salta is located just five blocks away from the city's traditional main square.

Viñas de Cafayate-Wine Resort
Viñas de Cafayate-Wine Resort
Viñas de Cafayate-Wine Resort
Viñas de Cafayate-Wine Resort
Viñas de Cafayate-Wine Resort

Viñas de Cafayate-Wine Resort

The Wine Resort is located in the town handcrafts Cafayate, 1,86 miles away from the main square, on 25 de Mayo St., on the way to the Divisadero. It was built amidst a vineyard plantation at the foot of the impressive San Isidro Hill.

Cavas Wine Lodge
Cavas Wine Lodge

Cavas Wine Lodge

Nestled in a 55 acre vineyard, Cavas Wine Lodge is surrounded by wineries and the magnificent Andes Mountain range. Rooms at the lodge have spectacular views of the mountains, each of which include a large private deck, spa style bathroom, outdoor shower, private plunge pool and wood burning fireplace. The restaurant on site offers organically grown food, featuring a seasonal menu that changes every four months and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Guests staying at the lodge are welcome to explore the 25 wineries that are within proximity of the lodge. Exhilarating experiences for the more adventurous guests involve bike rides through the vineyards, white water rafting and hiking through the Andes mountains. The highlight of the lodge is its wine cellar, the ‘cava’ is underground providing the perfect temperature and atmosphere to store the best labels of Argentinean wine. From the cava wine cellar, a circular staircase leads directly to the library, the renowned Cavas restaurant, and the spa.

Details

Details

Price Includes

-All accommodation as mentioned
-Daily breakfast
-All other meals as mentioned
-Tours/activities as mentioned:
*Buenos Aires: Half Day City Tour w/ Private Guide
*Buenos Aires: The Argentine Experience: Cooking Class w/ wine (group basis)
*Iguazu: Full Day Iguazu Falls Excursion (Argentinean Side) w/ Private Guide
*Salta: Full Day Humahuaca Tour w/ Private Guide
*Salta: 2 Day Calchaqui Valleys Excursion w/ Private Guide
*Mendoza: Half Day Wine Tasting Tour w/ Private Guide
-Professional English-speaking guide during tours
-All transport as mentioned with private driver
-Boat transfer to/from Aguas Arriba Lodge is shared with other guests
-Full support before, during & after your trip

Price Excludes

-International & Domestic Flights
-Airport taxes and fees
-Travel insurance (recommended)
-Entrance visas when applicable
-Other services not mentioned
-Tips and gratuities to guides, drivers
-Expenses of a purely personal nature

Why Global Basecamps

Why Global Basecamps

Authentic travel experiences

Authentic Experiences

The perfect trip exists. The perfect lodge, the perfect tour guide, the perfect sunrise hike and the perfect cultural experience are all out there, and we would like to help you find them.

only positive impacts on the destination

UNPRECEDENTED PLANNING

We love logistics and our planning process is second to none. Based on firsthand experience, our travel specialists will design you a customized itinerary ensuring your trip will be memorable and authentic.

extraordinary travel service

Extraordinary Service

Global Basecamps offers the best customer service the specialty tourism industry has to offer. We’re by your side from beginning to end, making sure everything goes perfectly.

only positive impacts on the destination

Positive Impacts

Our trips directly benefit the local communities you visit. We work exclusively with like-minded partners who help ensure tourism has no negative impacts on the environment, culture and economy of your destination.