NorthWest Argentina
Largely unexplored by foreign travelers,
Argentina's northwest region is home to the ancient Incan
influenced cultures of the Andean Highlands more commonly
associated with Peru and Bolivia.
Roads cling to mountainsides
reaching over 12,000 feet. |
Canyons were used for transportation and
communications. Tunnels were built along and across the
mountains. Pucaras (fortified towns) were constructed
at strategic locations to dominate the roads along the
valleys and mountain passes. The Spanish arrived and built
forts in Salta, Tucuman, and San Salvador de Jujuy and
introduced Christianity along with the colonial architecture
that still remains. The Quechuan Indians that inhabit
the area have preserved their simple, colorful way of
life. The people
are a friendly, curious and resourceful people,
having carved a livelihood in a difficult land with relative
isolation from the rest of the world. Colorful dress,
expressive artwork and handicrafts, music and street markets
convey their intellect and chronicles the history of their
civilization.
The Northwest region of Argentina, or Puna
as the locals have named it, is around 12,000 feet above
sea level and higher. The extremely rugged and dry climate
is home to the lesser rhea, an ostrich-like creature,
pumas, flamingos that frequent the many salt beds, condors,
llamas, black-chested buzzard eagle, vicunas which were
almost driven to extinction, and giant cardones cacti.
In the subtropical valleys, the people have carved terraced
fields for agriculture that contour the hillsides. Additionally,
many archeological sites dot the area, revealing more
about the history.
Trekking and exploring by car are great
ways to see the backcountry of Northwestern Argentina.
Flights arrive in Salta from Buenos Aires. Iruya, the
Humahuaca Canyon, Cachi, the fortified town of Quilmes,
the village of San Isidro, the Movitrack-a special off-road
super-bus, and the Train to the Clouds that passes through
the Toro Canyon are easily accessible from here.
In our intinerary, Road
to the Clouds get a general introduction to the area
with a wide range of scenery, activities, and accommodations.
Contact us to include the North Western region in a comprehensive
itinerary of Argentina. |
