Cafayate: Wines and Amazing Landscapes
The city of Cafayate is located 189 km from Salta capital. To get there, take National Route 68, which passes through Cerrillos, La Merced, El Carril, Coronel Moldes, La Viña, and Talapampa. From this point, the road continues through the majestic Quebrada de las Conchas, famous for its colorful rock formations such as the Devil’s Throat, the Amphitheater, the Toad, the Friar, the Obelisk, the Windows, and the Castles—all shaped by wind erosion and time.
After crossing dunes and vineyards, you’ll reach Cafayate, the most important town in the Calchaquà Valleys. Here, you can visit wineries and taste exquisite wines, especially Torrontés, the region’s signature varietal.
Where is Cafayate Located? How to Get There?
Cafayate is the heart of the Calchaquà Valleys, surrounded by colorful mountains, vineyards, and wineries in every direction. The wines from this region are renowned worldwide.
The town also stands out for its handicrafts made from pottery, silver, and loom textiles. If you’re planning a trip through northern Argentina, Cafayate is a must.
To get from Salta to Cafayate, drive south on Route 68. You can go by excursion, but renting a car is one of the best options, especially if you’re traveling in a group and can split the cost. Car rental isn’t cheap in Argentina, but the freedom to explore at your own pace makes it worthwhile.
Rental agencies in Salta include Eurocar, Hertz, and Avis. The drive usually takes about 3 to 3:15 hours, depending on how many stops you make along the way.
What to See in Cafayate?
Cafayate is flanked by rivers and surrounded by high-quality vineyards and wineries. It’s one of Argentina’s most spectacular destinations, perfect for exploring the world’s highest Wine Route or enjoying adventure tourism.
Handicrafts and Fairs
One of the best things about traveling is bringing home a local souvenir. Cafayate is known for its craftsmanship in pottery, silver, and woven goods. You can find these at craft fairs or visit artisan workshops for a more authentic experience.
Nuestra Señora del Rosario Church
This is one of the most beautiful churches in Salta. Built in 1885, it is one of the few in South America that still preserves its original five naves. If you want to experience the town’s religious devotion, visit in October during the patron saint festivities honoring the Virgin of the Rosary.
The Wines of Cafayate
Just 189 km from Salta, Cafayate offers some of the most stunning landscapes in Argentina. Located in the heart of the Calchaquà Valleys, it’s world-famous for being home to the highest wine route on Earth.
If you’re passionate about wine, you must visit this place. Don’t miss the Museum of Vine and Wine, one of the most technologically innovative museums in Argentina, where you can learn all about the local wine-making tradition.
Quebrada del RÃo de las Conchas
Around 50 km before arriving in Cafayate, Route 68 takes you through the Quebrada del RÃo de las Conchas, with rock formations like the Amphitheater, the Toad, the Friar, the Obelisk, and the Castles—all striking and easy to recognize.
Right before reaching Cafayate, you’ll also pass by white sand dunes, a warm and scenic area that adds another layer of magic to the journey.
Want to book an excursion to Cafayate from Salta?
If you want to book an excursion to Cafayate from Salta, just click on the image below
Other amazing activities and excursions in Salta
We have many options to discover Salta, Jujuy, and the Argentinian northwest. These are two of the most interesting, but we have many.
More activities and excursions in Salta? Click here and see a complete list of options
Buy the Salta Travel Pass and get special discounts!
If you’re looking for a package of activities, you can buy any of our Salta Pass and save money. Check some great options by clicking in the image below:
Tours to visit the Argentinian Northwest
We have a great variety of tours to visit these amazing places, most of them including Salta, Jujuy and the Northwest in general, combined with many other amazing destinations in Argentina such El Calafate, Ushuaia, Iguazu Falls, Mendoza, Bariloche… Check one of my favorites, the 104 tour; The Argentinian North in 12 amazing nights
Tours to visit the Argentinian North and other amazing destinations
Check a complete list of tours to enjoy Salta, the Northwest and other destinations in Argentina by clicking here or in the image below
For more information, just contact us at info@ripioturismo.comÂ
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