Train to the clouds. This monumental engineering work, built in 1932, begins in Salta and ends in La Polvarilla – the highest point at 4220m. The trip takes approximately 15 hours and passes through some of the most striking scenery in the region.
We would recommend at least 2 days for this area. The drive south is stunning, zigzagging through multi coloured canyons, wind carved rock formations, and quaint villages. Cafayate is the northwest’s wine producing area, and a great place to hire a bike and sample the wines
The road hugs the Andean range, as you pass through adobe villages. The town of Molinos has a lovely 17th century church and an alpaca market. Cachi is a lovely town, whose inhabitants are descendants of the Chicoanas Indians. 17th century churches and cobbled alleyways make this a good town to explore on foot.
This southern circuit ends with an incredible crossing of the Andes. Driving through Los Cardones National Park, famed for its cacti we continue climbing before reaching the highest point of 3348m, from here the view is stunning with a sea of cloud below. The descent passes through the whole range of vegetation from desert to rain forest within an hour
The road north to Humahuaca follows a deep canyon rich in minerals, with Indian hamlets dotting the landscape. We visit Tilcara where excavations of an Inca village have revealed stone houses. We end up in Humahaca, famed for its mountain with seven colours, aptly named painters pallet
For those seeking adventure, there is the opportunity of some white water rafting. The national park is situated inside Bolivia, and receives approximately 20 visitors a year, it is a remote wilderness. We plan a 5-day/4-night trip to raft through the national park
Manor Cottage, Papermill Lane, South Moreton, Oxfordshire, OX11 9AH
