Signature Salta, Uyuni Salt Flats & Atacama Desert

On arrival into Salta you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

Known as ''Salta la Linda'' (Salta the Pretty), Salta is a provincial capital in the mountainous north western part of Argentina. Founded in 1582, it is known for its Spanish colonial architecture and cobblestone streets as well as its Andean heritage. The centre of the city is the Plaza 9 de Julio, an elegant square bordered by the cathedral and El Cabildo, an 18th century town hall that is now a historical museum.

Overnight in Salta

Morning at leisure.

This afternoon, enjoy a walk through the city of Salta, exploring the historical and architectural heritage on our half day city tour. Explore the main highlights of the city, including the fascinating MAAM museum (entrance fee included). Other points of interest include, the main square, the cathedral and historic cabildo, as well as the San Francisco Church and San Bernardo convent. Afterwards you will be returned to your hotel.

Overnight in Salta

Today you will travel to the town of Purmamarca. Located at the base of Seven Colours Hill, the village features a whitewashed adobe church and a handicraft market situated in the main square. You get a quick glimpse of the town, enjoying a walk up a rocky path behind the Seven Colours Hill before continuing to the Salinas Grandes salt flats.

The drive to the Salt Flats along Ruta 52 will take you over Lipan Pass and zig zag to the white mirrored salt lakes that are surrounded by volcanoes and an endless horizon. Returning to Purmamarca, you will have the opportunity to visit the handicraft market to purchase souvenirs in the afternoon.

Overnight in Purmamarca

You will be met at your hotel and transfer to La Quiaca, where you will cross the border to Bolivia. You will farewell your Argentine guide here.

At the appropriate time, cross the border to Villazón and proceed to Colchani (approximately 5 hours). Along the way, explore The Valley of the Machos, nestled amidst stunning hills boasting diverse natural formations, creating a truly spectacular landscape. Finally, transfer to your hotel in Colchani at the end of the day.

Overnight in Colchani

After breakfast, we'll set out from Colchani to witness local artisans' traditional salt extraction methods. Then, we'll explore a different section of the Uyuni salt flats, including a visit to Incahuasi Island, home to towering cacti up to 10 meters high! Lunch amidst the salt flats promises a unique experience.

In the afternoon, our journey takes us north to the base of the majestic Tunupa volcano. We'll visit Coquesa to see the pre-Columbian "mummies" and ensure ample time for exploring the salt flats, with our guides helping capture those iconic photos.

As the day draws to a close, we'll marvel at the sunset over Uyuni, a unforgettable moment enhanced by the interplay of colors between the sun and the salt flats—an ideal time for capturing postcard-perfect photos. As the tour concludes, you'll be transferred back to your hotel to unwind and enjoy a well-deserved night of rest.

Overnight in Colchani

Leaving from Colchani (Uyuni) in the morning as we'll journey to Villamar village. Along the way, we'll stop to visit the San Cristobal church and the charming villages of Alota and Culpina K. Our route also includes a visit to the Stone Valley, renowned for its unique rock formations sculpted by wind erosion.

Continuing our adventure, we'll explore the Catal and Vinto Lagoons, as well as another striking rock formation known as Italia. We'll ensure timely arrivals at each destination. Upon reaching Villamar village, we'll explore the area, including the fascinating cave paintings and ruins near Tomas Lakjas.

This morning, we'll embark on our journey towards Laguna Colorada. Here, we'll have the incredible opportunity to witness the renowned "James' Flamingos," which are truly unique in the world. Against the backdrop of eternal snows, we'll marvel at the lake's varying colors, culminating in its striking red hue. This distinctive red coloration is attributed to a particular type of algae and plankton.

Our adventure continues as we make our way to Laguna Verde, passing by the awe-inspiring Geysers Sol de Mañana (Morning Sun), a site of intense volcanic activity. Along the route, we'll also encounter the Chalviri thermal waters and Valle de Dalí (Dali’s Valley). Upon arrival at Laguna Verde, we'll be greeted by the imposing cone of the Licancabur Volcano, soaring to an altitude of 5960 meters.

Following a delicious lunch, we'll transfer to Hito Cajón, concluding our unforgettable journey.

You will be met at the border by your Chilean driver and transferred to San Pedro de Atacama and dropped off to your hotel.

Overnight in San Pedro de Atacama

This morning, you will be picked up from your hotel to embark on a tour of San Pedro de Atacama, hailed as the archaeological capital of Chile. This small oasis town holds a significant cultural presence in Atacama, situated near the mouth of the primary river that nourishes the salt flat. Nestled on an arid high plateau in the Andes Mountains, San Pedro de Atacama is surrounded by some of northern Chile’s most breathtaking scenery. Our exploration begins at Pukará de Quitor, a historical site where the Atacama people organized themselves to resist the European invasion. Despite facing defeats, their resilience endured for over 20 years. Following this, we'll delve into Tulor Village, a discovery made in 1958 by the Jesuit priest Gustavo Le Paige. This village serves as a captivating representation of the traditional Atacameños culture and way of life.

This afternoon, you will be picked up from your hotel to journey across the Cordillera de la Sal (Salt Mountain Range) en route to the Valle de la Luna (Valley of the Moon), a prominent attraction in this region. Situated 19 km from San Pedro de Atacama, the valley's terrain mirrors the surface of the moon, featuring small yet sharply crested hills sculpted by the wind. This tour is exclusively available in the afternoon, allowing the setting sun to enhance the valley's breathtaking colors. Once the tour concludes, you will be transported back to your hotel.

Overnight in San Pedro de Atacama

This afternoon, you will be picked up from your hotel to explore the Salar de Atacama, one of the world's largest salt lakes and home to the most important lithium reserves globally. At Chaxa Lagoon, delight in watching various bird species, including the three types of flamingos found in Chile - Andean, Chilean, and James'. The vibrant pink hues of their feathers contrast beautifully with the deep blue Atacama sky, the towering Andean volcanoes, and the red hues of the sunset bidding us farewell before returning to San Pedro de Atacama.

On the way to the Salt Lake, we make a stop in the town of Toconao. The houses in this charming village are constructed from bricks of white volcanic stone, and its warm-hearted residents are renowned for their exceptional wool knitting skills. Once the tour concludes, you will be taken back to your hotel.

Overnight in San Pedro de Atacama

In the early morning, you'll be collected from your hotel for a full-day tour to the Tatio Geysers. Situated 90 km northwest of San Pedro, these geysers are nestled at an altitude of 4,320 meters above sea level, earning the distinction of being the highest geothermal field globally. Witness the serene sunrise over the geysers as they erupt with water and steam, reaching heights of up to 50 meters. Surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the Andes and its natural scenery, you'll have a peaceful and reflective experience.

On the return journey to your hotel, you'll pass through the Wetlands, where you can quietly observe guanacos, vicuñas, flamingos, and other wildlife, adding a serene conclusion to your day of exploration.

You will be collected from your hotel at the appropriate time and transferred to the airport for your outward flight from San Pedro de Atacama.