Rider with MTX motorcycle
From USD 7,500
October 2026 — Fully booked. We're preparing our 2027 schedule.
The Andes Highlands: 10-Day Motorcycle Tour Through Northwest Argentina
From Salta north to Purmamarca, Tilcara, and Hornocal, then down across Salinas Grandes, Abra del Acay, Cachi, and Cafayate. Ride through the altiplano's salt deserts, colorful mountains, and legendary routes.
Boutique expedition · High altitude up to 4,895m · Full support · English/Spanish guides
Trip overview
Tour highlights
A hand-picked selection of the moments that make The Andean Highlands an unforgettable high-altitude expedition.
Northern Argentina
Salt flats + passes
High altitude
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.
Rafting on the Juramento River (optional)
A guided class II–III river descent near Cabra Corral on the way back from Cafayate. A perfect break from the saddle.
Condor lookout trek
A short high-altitude walk to a lookout where Andean condors ride the thermals above the Cuesta del Obispo.
Shared Ride: two riders, one bike
Take turns at the controls and live the same route from both seats. When you're not riding, the landscape has your full attention.
Hornocal (Cerro de 14 Colores, 4,350m)
A viewpoint that doesn't feel real until you're there.
Dates & overview
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.
Departure availability
October 2026 — Fully booked
We're preparing our 2027 schedule.
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.
Day-by-day itinerary
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.
Timing is designed to minimize stress and maximize rest before the first full ride day.
Day 2 – Salta to Tilcara via the Yungas and Purmamarca (~200 km)
After breakfast we ride the Camino de Cornisa through the lush Yungas of Jujuy to San Salvador de Jujuy for a cultural stop (main square, Cabildo, historic sites). We continue into the Quebrada de Humahuaca: Purmamarca, its artisan market and the viewpoint circuit around Cerro de los 7 Colores, then on to Tilcara for the night.
The route climbs gradually from ~1,200 m to ~2,500 m: a gentle first step toward the high passes ahead.
Day 3 – 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). Overnight in Tilcara.
Day 4 – Cuesta del Lipán (4,170m) + Salinas Grandes glamping (~130 km)
After breakfast and check-out we ride back through Purmamarca and take Route 52 up the iconic Cuesta del Lipán, stopping at the mirador and the altitude marker (4,170m). We descend into the Salinas Grandes for the iconic viewpoints (Ojo de Agua, Los Piletones) and settle into our glamping in the heart of the salt flats.
Night sky like you've never seen.
Day 5 – Tren a las Nubes + Abra del Acay (4,895m) to Cachi
Sunrise over the salt flats, then ~95 km off-road to San Antonio de los Cobres. At 11:45 we board the legendary Tren a las Nubes to Viaducto La Polvorilla, with time to descend and explore, returning around 14:45.
After refuelling we tackle the ~140 km off-road climb over Abra del Acay at 4,895m, one of the highest drivable passes in Argentina, and descend into Cachi. Arrival around 18:30, check-in and rest.
This is the signature "bucket-list" day: altitude, iconic infrastructure, and the highest pass on the route.
Day 6 – Ruta 40 + Valles Calchaquíes to Cafayate (167 km / 127 km off-road)
After breakfast and check-out, we ride south on the legendary Ruta 40, descending gradually from ~2,500m (Cachi) to ~1,200m (Cafayate). 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 Cafayate around 18:30, check-in and rest.
Day 7 – 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 8 – Quebrada de las Conchas + Juramento River rafting (~200 km)
Breakfast and check-out, then the Camino de las Geoformas through the spectacular Quebrada de las Conchas: Garganta del Diablo, El Anfiteatro, and the red-rock formations along the route. A perfect morning for photos and smooth riding rhythm.
Near Cabra Corral we trade the bike for a raft: a guided class II–III descent of the Juramento River (optional; free time by the lake if you prefer to stay dry). Arrive in Salta in the evening, check-in and rest.
Day 9 – Cuesta del Obispo + condor lookout + Recta del Tin Tin (285 km)
Our last full ride day is the classic Salta loop: the Cuesta del Obispo ascent, Piedra del Molino (3,348m), and a short trek to the Mirador Ojo del Cóndor to watch Andean condors ride the thermals. Lunch in Payogasta around 13:30, then back past the Recta del Tin Tin sign, Valle Encantado, and the Cuesta del Obispo descent.
Arrive back in Salta around 19:30, time to reset, then Farewell Dinner.
Day 10 – Airport transfers
Breakfast and check-out. Transfers to Salta airport according to flight schedules.
We'll coordinate transfers in advance so departure morning is simple and stress-free.
What's included
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 a safety-net seat if you need a break from the saddle.
- 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, the condor lookout trek, 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 (e.g., the Juramento River rafting).
- 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.
Trip essentials
Motorcycles & logistics
Carefully selected bikes, clear riding requirements, and full on-road support so you can focus on the ride.
4–8 riders
High altitude
Off-road sections
Support van
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
4–8 riders on up to 4 motorcycles, plus the lead guide. With Shared Ride, two riders share one bike and take turns at the controls; the support van is a safety net, not a daily seat.
Trip investment
Prices & Conditions
Transparent pricing for The Andes Highlands expedition. All prices are per person and may vary based on group size and customization.
Extra rider
From USD 3,000
Shared Ride (second rider, same motorcycle)
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
Request a quote
No commitment required. We'll tailor the options to your group.
FAQ
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 (~95 km + ~140 km on Day 5, 127 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. That's our Shared Ride format: two riders on one bike, taking turns at the controls and switching whenever you both decide. When you're not riding, the landscape has your full attention. The support van carries the luggage and is there as backup if anyone needs a break, not as a daily seat. Shared Ride 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.
Guides for this ride
Tips
Top hidden routes for motorcycle adventures in Argentina
Argentina is a dream destination for riders seeking raw landscapes, dramatic roads, and a sense of freedom only found on two wheels. But beyond the famous Ruta 40 and the well-traveled circuits,...
Patagonia
Ruta 40: A rider’s guide to Argentina’s most iconic road
Ruta 40 runs the length of Argentina, from La Quiaca on the Bolivian border down to Cabo Vírgenes at the Strait of Magellan. It crosses 11 provinces, climbs over 5,000 m (16,400 ft) at its highest...
Tips
How to Plan a Motorcycle Trip to Argentina: A 2026 Guide
Somewhere around the third planning session, every rider runs into the same wall: Argentina is 3,700 km (2,300 mi) long from the subtropical north to Tierra del Fuego, the riding seasons in those...
Ready to ride
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.
4–8 riders
10 days
Full support
From USD 7,500
No commitment required. October 2026 — Fully booked. We're preparing our 2027 schedule.
Where the ride starts
Open in Google Maps