Cafayate Trips & Tours

On the utterly picturesque drive from Salta, you'll be amazed by the deep, earthy cliffs of the Quedbrada de las Conchas (Shell Gorge), so named for the 15-million-year-old stromatolites and other fossils found in its ravines, crevices and caves. Hop out at well-positioned lookout point to take in the view from the 'sky' and hike across the otherworldly terrain, ogling bizarre formations and ancient 12-foot-tall cardon grande cacti. At your journey's end is Cafayate town, which sits at 5,000 feet above sea level and provides charming walks past artisanal shops, and a visit to the Museum of the Vine and Wine. On that note, if the thought of sipping on Argentina's signature Torrontés wine or horseback rides surrounded by towering terracotta mountains tickles your fancy, then the nearby Calchaqui Valleys is where you need to be.