The Andes Highlands: 10-Day High-Altitude Motorcycle Expedition in Northern Argentina
From Salta to Cafayate, Cachi, Abra del Acay, Salinas Grandes, Purmamarca, Tilcara, and Hornocal. Ride through the altiplano's salt deserts, colorful mountains, and legendary routes.
Tour highlights
A hand-picked selection of the moments that make The Andean Highlands an unforgettable high-altitude expedition.
Cuesta del Obispo + Piedra del Molino (3,348m)
One of Salta's most iconic ascents, with views that feel like a different planet.
Recta del Tin Tin + Valle Encantado
Fast-open landscapes, dramatic rock formations, and the kind of riding that clears your head instantly.
Quebrada de las Conchas (Garganta del Diablo + El Anfiteatro)
A cinematic corridor of red rock geoforms on the way to Cafayate.
High-altitude wine route (Cafayate)
Vineyards in extreme conditions, tastings, and local food, without losing the expedition feel.
Ruta 40 + Quebrada de las Flechas (off-road)
A demanding and rewarding stretch through one of Argentina's most surreal geological landscapes.
Abra del Acay (4,895m) + Tren a las Nubes
A true bucket-list day: high pass riding, then the legendary train to Viaducto La Polvorilla.
Glamping at Salinas Grandes
Night sky, silence, and sunrise across the salt flats. The kind of memory that stays.
Cuesta del Lipán + Purmamarca + 7 Colors Hill
A perfect combination of altitude, curves, and culture.
Hornocal (Cerro de 14 Colores, 4,350m)
A viewpoint that doesn't feel real until you're there.
The Andes Highlands – 10-Day Expedition
Key trip details at a glance: dates, duration, start/end point, and the altitude range that makes this expedition truly iconic.
Next scheduled departure
October 2026
Duration
10 days / 9 nights
Start / End
Salta, Argentina (airport pick-up and drop-off included)
Altitude range
From ~1,200m to 4,895m (Abra del Acay)
Private departures available
Customize this itinerary for couples, families, or corporate groups. Choose your dates, upgrade hotels,
and tailor experiences (vineyards, cultural stops, ride intensity).
Ideal for special celebrations, incentives, and team-building adventures.
Follow the route, one day at a time
Explore how each day unfolds, from your first meet & greet in Salta to the final farewell dinner.
Day 1 – Welcome to Salta (Meet & Greet + first ride)
Airport pick-up in Salta. Latest arrival time: 14:00 to keep the start smooth for everyone. At 16:00 we meet for a welcome "Meet & Greet" with regional snacks, introductions, a full trip briefing, and the delivery of your rider kit (selected giveaways + printed briefing pack with itinerary, maps, and local guidance).
Around 18:00 we do the first contact with the motorcycles and a short ride through Salta to get comfortable with the bikes. Return around 20:00 for time to reset before dinner.
Day 2 – Cuesta del Obispo + Recta del Tin Tin (285 km)
After breakfast, we ride toward Payogasta through a sequence of legendary northern Argentina landscapes.
Highlights include Cuesta del Obispo (ascent), Piedra del Molino (3,348m), Mirador Ojo del Cóndor, and the Recta del Tin Tin. We arrive in Payogasta around 13:30 for lunch, then return with stops at Mirador de la Ventanita, the Recta del Tin Tin sign, Valle Encantado, and Cuesta del Obispo (descent). Return to the hotel around 19:30.
Day 3 – Camino de las Geoformas to Cafayate (197 km)
Breakfast and check-out, then we ride toward Cafayate through the spectacular Quebrada de las Conchas. Stops include Garganta del Diablo, El Anfiteatro, and other iconic formations along the route. A perfect day for photos, smooth riding rhythm, and dramatic scenery.
Arrive and check-in in Cafayate around 19:30.
Day 4 – High-Altitude Wine Route (local rides ~30 km)
Today is designed as a "reset day," still active but lighter on kilometers. We explore the region's high-altitude wine culture with curated experiences. In the morning, we visit Piattelli Vineyards for an off-road-style Can-Am 4x4 wine adventure, combining landscapes, local flora/fauna interpretation, and viticulture storytelling. The experience includes a scenic picnic and a bottle of Torrontés to celebrate.
Optional experiences can include wine + chocolate pairing and relaxed finger food by the resort's gastronomy spot. In the evening, we head to Bodega El Esteco for an unforgettable "Noches Mágicas" experience: sunset light in the vineyards, a tasting of standout micro-terroirs, and a fire pit moment with regional bites under the stars.
Day 5 – Ruta 40 + Valles Calchaquíes (167 km / 127 km off-road)
After breakfast and check-out, we ride north on the legendary Ruta 40, climbing gradually from ~1,200m (Cafayate) to ~2,500m (Cachi). This is one of the most rewarding days for riders who love terrain and remoteness.
The key stretch includes 127 km off-road, crossing the surreal geological formations of the Quebrada de las Flechas. We stop for a rustic "almuerzo agreste" mid-route in a landscape that feels untouched. Arrival in Cachi around 18:30, check-in and rest.
Day 6 – Abra del Acay (4,895m) + Tren a las Nubes + Salinas Grandes
Early start after breakfast and check-out (around 07:00). We continue ascending toward San Antonio de los Cobres, riding ~140 km off-road and crossing Abra del Acay at 4,895m, one of the highest drivable passes in Argentina.
We arrive at the San Antonio de los Cobres train station around 11:00. At 11:45 we board the legendary Tren a las Nubes to Viaducto La Polvorilla, with time to descend and explore. Return to San Antonio around 14:45, refuel and resupply, then ride another ~95 km off-road to our lodging: a glamping experience in the heart of Salinas Grandes.
Arrival around 18:30. Night sky like you've never seen.
Day 7 – Salinas Grandes + Cuesta del Lipán + Purmamarca + Tilcara
After breakfast and check-out, we ride inside the Salinas Grandes for footage and iconic viewpoints like Ojo de Agua and Los Piletones. Then we take Route 52 into the iconic Cuesta del Lipán, stopping at the mirador and the altitude marker (4,170m).
We continue to Purmamarca to explore the main square and artisan market. Later we ride the scenic viewpoint circuit of Cerro de los 7 Colores and Cerro Porito, then continue to Tilcara for overnight.
Day 8 – Humahuaca + Hornocal (4,350m) + Iruya option
After breakfast, we ride to Humahuaca and continue climbing toward El Hornocal, the famous Cerro de 14 Colores at 4,350m. We take time for photos and to let the landscape sink in.
After returning to Humahuaca for lunch, we continue with a route designed around what the group wants most: either the traditional road toward Iruya (depending on conditions) or an alternative cultural experience (for example, the solar train circuit). The goal is the same: a memorable high-altitude day without rushing.
Day 9 – Return to Salta (farewell night)
After breakfast and check-out, we ride back toward Salta with a cultural stop in San Salvador de Jujuy (main square, Cabildo, historic sites). We then continue to lunch near Dique La Ciénaga and ride through the stunning Yungas of Jujuy, lush, green, and a perfect contrast after days of altitude.
Arrive back to Salta, time to reset, then Farewell Dinner.
Day 10 – Airport transfers
Breakfast and check-out. Transfers to Salta airport according to flight schedules.
Everything you need for a safe, smooth, and unforgettable Andes Highlands experience
Built for riders who want the magic of the North without the stress. Planning, pacing, support, and the details handled.
Included
- Motorcycle rental options (adventure/touring class).
- Lead guide (English/Spanish) with regional expertise.
- Support van for luggage, tools, spare parts, snacks, and passenger seats.
- 9 nights of accommodation (selected for comfort and location).
- Daily breakfasts + selected included meals and experiences (as defined in your final itinerary).
- All scheduled experiences listed as included in the final program (e.g., Can-Am vineyard tour, Tren a las Nubes, etc.).
- National park/reserve/attraction entry fees where applicable in the program.
- Daily briefings + route planning + safety coordination.
- Rider kit + printed briefing pack + digital roadbook.
- Airport pick-up and drop-off (Salta).
Not included
- International & domestic flights.
- Travel medical insurance (mandatory).
- Fuel for rider's motorcycle.
- Lunches, drinks & personal expenses (unless specified as included).
- Optional upgrades, tastings or activities not included in the final itinerary.
- Tips for guides or hotel staff.
- Anything not listed under "Included".
Note: route conditions (paved vs gravel/off-road) and distances may vary due to weather and safety considerations.
Motorcycles & logistics
Carefully selected bikes, clear riding requirements, and full on-road support so you can focus on the ride.
Riding level
This expedition includes meaningful off-road sections and high-altitude riding. Ideal for riders with solid road experience and confidence on gravel, or riders who are ready to grow with guidance.
Altitude
We reach extreme altitudes (up to 4,895m). We plan pacing intelligently and monitor the group. If you have specific concerns, tell us and we'll guide you.
Gear
Full protective riding gear required: helmet, jacket and pants with armor, gloves, and waterproof boots. Warm layers strongly recommended for early mornings and high passes.
Luggage
We carry your bags in the support van. You ride light with only essentials on the bike.
Group size
3–5 riders + lead guide. Passengers can ride pillion or travel in the support van.
Prices & Conditions
Transparent pricing for The Andes Highlands expedition. All prices are per person and may vary based on group size and customization.
Rider with MTX motorcycle
From USD 7,500
Extra rider
From USD 3,000
Passenger (pillion or van)
From USD 3,900
Single room supplement
From USD 2,000
Booking & Payments
- Deposit: 30% (non-refundable)
- Balance due: 60 days before departure
- Cancellations: flexible refund scale based on notice time
- Insurance requirement: all participants must hold international travel insurance covering motorcycling
No commitment required. We'll tailor the options to your group.
Common questions about The Andes Highlands
If you don't find your answer here, just reach out. We're happy to help you plan.
Solid road experience is essential, and comfort on gravel is strongly recommended. The route includes meaningful off-road sections (127 km on Day 5, ~140 km + 95 km on Day 6). If you're confident on paved roads and open to learning, our guides will brief you daily on what to expect. We also offer optional pre-trip workshops to build confidence before departure.
The route reaches up to 4,895m at Abra del Acay. Altitude can cause fatigue, shortness of breath, and headaches. We plan pacing intelligently with gradual ascent days, monitor the group daily, and carry coca leaves and basic altitude support. If you have specific health concerns, let us know and we'll guide you on preparation.
We offer adventure/touring class motorcycles in the 500–850cc range, selected for the terrain and altitude of this route. Exact models depend on availability and are confirmed during booking. If you're bringing your own bike, tell us the model and setup so we can advise on suitability.
Yes. Passengers can ride pillion or travel comfortably in the support van, joining the group at every stop, meal, and experience. Many couples travel this way. Passenger pricing starts from USD 3,900.
The support van is always with the group. If you need a break, feel unwell, or just want to skip a riding stretch, you can travel in the van and rejoin the ride at any point. No pressure, no judgment.
The dry season in northern Argentina runs roughly from April to November. Our scheduled departures fall within this window to ensure optimal road conditions and clear skies. October is particularly good for warm days, cool nights, and minimal rain.
Yes. All participants must hold international travel insurance that covers motorcycling. This is non-negotiable for safety and liability. We can recommend providers if needed.
Absolutely. Private departures are available for couples, families, and corporate groups. You can choose your dates, upgrade hotels, adjust ride intensity, and add or swap experiences (vineyards, cultural stops, rest days). Contact us and we'll build a tailored proposal.
Full protective riding gear is required: helmet, jacket and pants with armor, gloves, and waterproof boots. Warm layers are strongly recommended for early mornings and high passes (temperatures can drop below 0°C above 4,000m). We send a detailed packing guide after booking.
Salta has an international airport (SLA) with daily flights from Buenos Aires (around 2 hours). There are also direct connections from other Argentine cities. We include airport pick-up and drop-off on Day 1 and Day 10. Latest arrival on Day 1 is 14:00 to keep the start smooth for the group.
Your Andes Highlands expedition starts here
Tell us about your riding experience and what you're looking for. We'll reply within 24 hours with availability, pricing, and the full itinerary PDF.
No commitment required. Next scheduled departure: October 2026.