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You will always remember the "Mountain of Seven Colours" as unique. No other place on earth will the grandeur and vastness of the area leave you in awe. Condors circle the camp and watch every move you make.
The Itinerary
DAY 1: Salta - Iruya
07.00 am departure from Salta along a winding mountain road, where we will appreciate an exuberant subtropical vegetation including a varied number of ferns, epiphytes, ancient native trees, and multicolored birds. We drive into the historical and fantastic Quebrada de Humahuaca (Humahuaca canyon). We arrive at Humahuaca, where the splendor of the landscape and the presence of aboriginal ruins leave their long lasting tracks in our souls. We resume our trip and, in Iturbe, start our way up toward Abra Condor (Condor Pass - 4000m) where we can feel the pre-puna (the High Andean plateau). In the afternoon we arrive at Iruya, the small village at the top of the mountains and overlooking the valleys. Its population with a strong mixture of the mestizo and the local coya, still keeps its ancient traditions, as well as a very particular religious celebration. Accommodation at a simple hostel or the newly built and very comfortable HOSTERIA de IRUYA. (2750 m)
DAY 2 : Iruya - Trekking the Silent Valley
During this day we hike along narrow paths up the mountain slope, with deep abyss, crossed by torrential rivers and the high peaks, emerging like stone guardians, as our only witnesses. Our trail winds, at times up the cracks or passes, or down to the river bed. We walk into a transversal valley, whose inhabitants join the ancestral rituals and costumes with Christian practices. During the hike, we can visit small colonial chapels and see the vestiges of ancient native civilizations. The landscape and the views that can be appreciated on this trip totally fill up our adventurous desire, and the beauty of the place grants an overwhelming sight.
Accommodation in a very comfortable mountain refuge –Refugio CONDOR (3050m)- located in a high cliff with a panoramic view over the valleys. The refuge includes: bar service, running and hot water and toilet facilities. B-Box-Lunch & dinner
Slope: 500 m; Approx. hike: 6 hours; Maximum altitude during the trek: 3150 m.
DAY 3 : Silent valley - Iruya
Return to Iruya through a different mountain road, which will allow us to visit some small villages along the way, mingle with local people and if we are lucky see the artisans at work while they weave the beautiful ponchos.
Accommodation at hosteria in Iruya (2750m) (B)
DAY4: Iruya -Great salt Flats - Route 40 - Purmanaca - Salta
Morning departure leaving behind the Silent Valleys to drive in one of the highest places on earth – the Puna or High Andean Plateau. We return to the National Route and drive to Abra Pampa, where we start our drive in the mythical and deserted Route 40 at 3800m above sea level.
During our drive we will observe herds of llama and vicuñas to photograph. The multi-hued canyon walls serve as a backdrop for the lively manifestation of indigenous culture. Along the way we will be able to visit several charming village known for their small churches and chapels of varying architectural styles.
Visit SALINAS GRANDES (Great Salt Flats) to observe the rudimentary exploitation of the salt. Drive down to Purmamarca through a very panoramic winding road and the highest point in our itinerary: 4170 m at CUESTA de LIPAN (Lipan Slope).
Late evening arrival in Salta.
Extension
A holiday in Argentina should include a visit of one of the Estancias (ranch), the
most representative feature of Argentinean way of life, providing a unique opportunity
to learn more about the "gauchos" traditions and culture and appreciate their dexterity
in cattle and horse gathering. This is also a unique occasion to taste the
world wide famous "asado de carne" (Argentinean barbecue) while enjoying
the local music and dance.
We highly recommend Estancia Las Mercedes, only 15 km from Salta Activities offered at this Estancia include
horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking, tennis, horse-drawn carriage drives, swimming pool, bird watching, as well as a whole selection of
ranch activities...
or
Estancia Villar del Alla, set in an extraordinary landscape, at Tilcara, in the heart of
Humahuaca canyon, 80 km from Jujuy. Activities offered at this Estancia include horseback riding, trekking, mountain bike, four track and bird watching.
General Information
Rated: Moderate
Although this is not an overly demanding schedule, we do rate it as demanding level. Passengers must be in a good physical shape and have some experience in trekking, specially in high altitude. Training in advance is recommended.
Passengers must provide a medical certificate allowing the passenger to perform activities at high altitude (Pls note that during the hike we will be around 4100 m / 11500 ft).
This is a self-sufficient hike, so you have to carry your day back-pack while you hike to the mountain refuge and return to Iruya.
Fixed Departure dates
Every Thursday from March to December with 2 participants minimum
| Tour Tariff | ||
| Per person | SGL Supp. | |
| USD | $ 478 | $ 59 |
| EUR | € 396 | € 49 |
| GBP | £ 267 | £33 |
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