{"id":1175,"date":"2018-08-17T17:00:06","date_gmt":"2018-08-17T17:00:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.patagonia-road.com\/the-highlands-of-argentina-chile-bolivia\/"},"modified":"2020-07-16T22:53:24","modified_gmt":"2020-07-16T22:53:24","slug":"the-highlands-of-argentina-chile-bolivia","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/www.patagonia-road.com\/es\/the-highlands-of-argentina-chile-bolivia\/","title":{"rendered":"The Highlands of Argentina, Chile & Bolivia"},"content":{"rendered":"

[vc_row type=\u00bbvc_default\u00bb full_width=\u00bbstretch_row_content\u00bb bg_type=\u00bbimage\u00bb css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1535047751514{background-image: url(http:\/\/www.patagonia-road.com\/web\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/guarda-1.jpg?id=785) !important;}\u00bb][vc_column][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=\u00bbvc_default\u00bb full_width=\u00bbstretch_row\u00bb css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534179610840{margin-top: 0px !important;background-color: #efefef !important;}\u00bb][vc_column css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534355820237{padding-top: 40px !important;padding-right: 10px !important;padding-bottom: 40px !important;padding-left: 10px !important;}\u00bb][vc_column_text el_class=\u00bbintro\u00bb]<\/p>\n

The\u00a0Altiplano\u00a0(Spanish for \u00abhigh plain\u00bb) or Andean Plateau located in west-central South America, is the most extensive area of\u00a0high plateau\u00a0on Earth outside Tibet. The bulk of the Altiplano lies in\u00a0Bolivia, but its northern parts lie in\u00a0Peru, and its southern parts in\u00a0Chile & Argentina.<\/p>\n

There are impressive\u00a0\u00ab\u00a0salares\u00a0\u00bb or salt flats due to its aridity, dominated by massive active volcanoes\u00a0and several sites of pre-Columbian cultures, including the Chiripa, Tiawanaku\u00a0and the Inca Empire. That makes this trip so unforgettable.<\/p>\n

[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=\u00bbvc_default\u00bb css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534180259546{margin-top: 0px !important;padding-top: 20px !important;padding-bottom: 20px !important;}\u00bb][vc_column width=\u00bb2\/3″][vc_custom_heading text=\u00bbDay 1<\/strong>
\nBuenos Aires\u00bb font_container=\u00bbtag:h2|font_size:25|text_align:left|color:%2352671a|line_height:normal\u00bb google_fonts=\u00bbfont_family:Asap%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal\u00bb][vc_separator border_width=\u00bb2″ css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534355853114{margin-top: 20px !important;margin-bottom: 20px !important;}\u00bb][vc_column_text]Arrival at Buenos Aires airport and transfer into the city. 1 overnight stay at Hotel Serena, in the nice Recolate area.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][vc_column width=\u00bb1\/3″][vc_single_image image=\u00bb742″ img_size=\u00bbfull\u00bb alignment=\u00bbcenter\u00bb style=\u00bbvc_box_shadow_border\u00bb onclick=\u00bblink_image\u00bb][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=\u00bbvc_default\u00bb css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534180615053{margin-top: 0px !important;}\u00bb][vc_column width=\u00bb1\/3″][vc_single_image image=\u00bb743″ img_size=\u00bbfull\u00bb alignment=\u00bbcenter\u00bb style=\u00bbvc_box_shadow_border\u00bb onclick=\u00bblink_image\u00bb][\/vc_column][vc_column width=\u00bb2\/3″ css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534180684987{padding: 20px !important;}\u00bb][vc_custom_heading text=\u00bbDay 2<\/strong>
\nBuenos Aires \u2013 Salta\u00bb font_container=\u00bbtag:h2|font_size:25|text_align:left|color:%2352671a|line_height:normal\u00bb google_fonts=\u00bbfont_family:Asap%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal\u00bb][vc_separator border_width=\u00bb2″ css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534355853114{margin-top: 20px !important;margin-bottom: 20px !important;}\u00bb][vc_column_text]Transfer to the airport and flight to Salta city. Transfer and 1 overnight stay at Kkala hotel.<\/p>\n

In the afternoon we suggest to explore the historical city,<\/strong> Balcarce street with its stores and restaurants, recommending also a visit of the archaeological museum<\/strong> (inaugurated in 2004), which issues the mummies of three children discovered in 1999 on Llullaillaco\u00a0 volcano, at a height of 6739 meters.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=\u00bbvc_default\u00bb css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534178339479{margin-top: 70px !important;}\u00bb][vc_column width=\u00bb2\/3″ css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534180791811{padding: 20px !important;}\u00bb][vc_custom_heading text=\u00bbDay 3<\/strong>
\nSalta \u2013 Cachi (B)\u00bb font_container=\u00bbtag:h2|font_size:25|text_align:left|color:%2352671a|line_height:normal\u00bb google_fonts=\u00bbfont_family:Asap%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal\u00bb][vc_separator border_width=\u00bb2″ css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534355853114{margin-top: 20px !important;margin-bottom: 20px !important;}\u00bb][vc_column_text]Reception of a hired car at the hotel in the morning. The road between Salta<\/strong> and Cachi<\/strong> is one of the most spectacular paths of the Argentinean Northwest. You will pass through four different ecosystems, from the green jungle of the Yungas to the semi deserted Calchaqu\u00ed Valley.\u00a0Ascending the steep Cuesta del Obispo<\/strong> will bring you closer to Paso Piedra del Molino at 3400 meters: Condors flying in the blue sky, Guanacos and wild burros among thousands of Cardones, the local species of giant cactus.\u00a0Arriving relax under a cozy Molle in the white colonial village of Cachi, where the sun shines almost all year round.\u00a01 overnight stay at the Posada El Cortijo.<\/p>\n

Drive distance:<\/strong> 135 km paved & 30 km gravel road.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][vc_column width=\u00bb1\/3″][vc_single_image image=\u00bb744″ img_size=\u00bbfull\u00bb alignment=\u00bbcenter\u00bb style=\u00bbvc_box_shadow_border\u00bb onclick=\u00bblink_image\u00bb][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=\u00bbvc_default\u00bb css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534178383499{margin-top: 40px !important;}\u00bb][vc_column width=\u00bb1\/3″][vc_single_image image=\u00bb745″ img_size=\u00bbfull\u00bb alignment=\u00bbcenter\u00bb style=\u00bbvc_box_shadow_border\u00bb onclick=\u00bblink_image\u00bb][\/vc_column][vc_column width=\u00bb2\/3″ css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534180800210{padding: 20px !important;}\u00bb][vc_custom_heading text=\u00bbDay 4<\/strong>
\nCachi \u2013 Cafayate (B)\u00bb font_container=\u00bbtag:h2|font_size:25|text_align:left|color:%2352671a|line_height:normal\u00bb google_fonts=\u00bbfont_family:Asap%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal\u00bb][vc_separator border_width=\u00bb2″ css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534355853114{margin-top: 20px !important;margin-bottom: 20px !important;}\u00bb][vc_column_text]The trip continues southwards along legendary Ruta 40 to Molinos<\/strong>, a small Indian village in the Calchaqu\u00ed valley,<\/strong> then passing the breathtaking Quebrada de las Flechas until Cafayate, famous due to its production of the Torront\u00e9s wine. 2 overnight stays at the Cafayate Wine Resort.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

Drive distance:<\/strong> 160 km gravel, 20 km paved.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=\u00bbvc_default\u00bb css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534178339479{margin-top: 70px !important;}\u00bb][vc_column width=\u00bb2\/3″ css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534180809642{padding: 20px !important;}\u00bb][vc_custom_heading text=\u00bbDay 5<\/strong>
\nCafayate (B)\u00bb font_container=\u00bbtag:h2|font_size:25|text_align:left|color:%2352671a|line_height:normal\u00bb google_fonts=\u00bbfont_family:Asap%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal\u00bb][vc_separator border_width=\u00bb2″ css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534355853114{margin-top: 20px !important;margin-bottom: 20px !important;}\u00bb][vc_column_text]Day free at leisure to visit some wineries nearby. Located within the\u00a0Calchaqui Valley<\/strong>, Cafayate<\/strong> is arguably the best-known wine region in Argentina outside of Mendoza, and enjoys an excellent reputation due to the quality of the Torront\u00e9s and Malbec that is grown here. This region is one of the highest places in the world that is suitable for viticulture.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][vc_column width=\u00bb1\/3″][vc_single_image image=\u00bb746″ img_size=\u00bbfull\u00bb alignment=\u00bbcenter\u00bb style=\u00bbvc_box_shadow_border\u00bb onclick=\u00bblink_image\u00bb][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=\u00bbvc_default\u00bb css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534178383499{margin-top: 40px !important;}\u00bb][vc_column width=\u00bb1\/3″][vc_single_image image=\u00bb747″ img_size=\u00bbfull\u00bb alignment=\u00bbcenter\u00bb style=\u00bbvc_box_shadow_border\u00bb onclick=\u00bblink_image\u00bb][\/vc_column][vc_column width=\u00bb2\/3″ css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534180818906{padding: 20px !important;}\u00bb][vc_custom_heading text=\u00bbDay 6<\/strong>
\nCafayate | Purmamarca (B)\u00bb font_container=\u00bbtag:h2|font_size:25|text_align:left|color:%2352671a|line_height:normal\u00bb google_fonts=\u00bbfont_family:Asap%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal\u00bb][vc_separator border_width=\u00bb2″ css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534355853114{margin-top: 20px !important;margin-bottom: 20px !important;}\u00bb][vc_column_text]Drive to the north along Ruta 68 through the bizarre and \u201cas painted\u201d Quebrada (canyon) de las Conchas.<\/strong><\/p>\n

From Salta head towards North along the impressive and so called \u201cjungle Road\u201d or Cornisa via La Caldera to Jujuy and Purmamarca<\/strong>. The Humahuaca Gorge is a large valley that ends at the border with Bolivia and it is located in the province of Jujuy in the far north of Argentina. It is a quite young Valley, given that its formation dates a million years old. The Gorge is famous for its colourful mountains, its geological formations and its historic villages.\u00a01 overnight stay in Purmamarca at the Manantial del Silencio.<\/p>\n

Drive distance:<\/strong> 355 km paved.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=\u00bbvc_default\u00bb css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534178339479{margin-top: 70px !important;}\u00bb][vc_column width=\u00bb2\/3″ css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534180828008{padding: 20px !important;}\u00bb][vc_custom_heading text=\u00bbDay 7<\/strong>
\nPurmamarca \u2013 Salta (B)\u00bb font_container=\u00bbtag:h2|font_size:25|text_align:left|color:%2352671a|line_height:normal\u00bb google_fonts=\u00bbfont_family:Asap%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal\u00bb][vc_separator border_width=\u00bb2″ css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534355853114{margin-top: 20px !important;margin-bottom: 20px !important;}\u00bb][vc_column_text]In the morning it is worth to visite \u201cThe Colorados\u201d on the Western edge of the village, as well as the little stores in adobe houses.<\/p>\n

In the afternoon drive back to Salta<\/strong>. 1 overnight stay at nice Finca Valentina<\/strong>, a bit South of the city, in a marvelous surrounding. Car returnee at the hotel.<\/p>\n

Drive distance:<\/strong> 165 km paved.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][vc_column width=\u00bb1\/3″][vc_single_image image=\u00bb748″ img_size=\u00bbfull\u00bb alignment=\u00bbcenter\u00bb style=\u00bbvc_box_shadow_border\u00bb onclick=\u00bblink_image\u00bb][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=\u00bbvc_default\u00bb css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534178383499{margin-top: 40px !important;}\u00bb][vc_column width=\u00bb1\/3″][vc_single_image image=\u00bb749″ img_size=\u00bbfull\u00bb alignment=\u00bbcenter\u00bb style=\u00bbvc_box_shadow_border\u00bb onclick=\u00bblink_image\u00bb][\/vc_column][vc_column width=\u00bb2\/3″ css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534180836186{padding: 20px !important;}\u00bb][vc_custom_heading text=\u00bbDay 8<\/strong>
\nSalta – Quebrada del Toro – San Antonio de los Cobres – Santa Rosa de los Pastos Grandes – Labyrinth Desert (northern region) – Tolar Grande (B|L|D)\u00bb font_container=\u00bbtag:h2|font_size:25|text_align:left|color:%2352671a|line_height:normal\u00bb google_fonts=\u00bbfont_family:Asap%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal\u00bb][vc_separator border_width=\u00bb2″ css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534355853114{margin-top: 20px !important;margin-bottom: 20px !important;}\u00bb][vc_column_text]Distance:<\/strong> 100 km paved road. 250 km gravel road. Altitude: Highest point 4.630 m.\/ 14.764 feet. Tolar Grande 3.500 m. \/ 11.483 feet.\u00a0 Estimated driving time: 6 hs.<\/p>\n

Today beginns a guided tour to the Puna<\/strong>. Just 30 km away from Salta, the Toro\u2019s Gorge is a natural lift connecting the green valley of Salta (Lerma Valley), rich in tobacco and horses with an arid plateau known as Puna. San Antonio de los Cobres<\/strong> is the actual Capital of the Puna, a dusty village with a colored community, our last point of civilization and arrival point of most tourists. The Abra del Gallo at 4.630 meters is the gateway to explore the remotest part of the Puna of Salta. Between yellow fields made of Paja – a Puna native low bush – and lots of Lamas we will arrive to the Region of Santa Rosa de los Pastos Grandes – an ancient oasis used during XIX and XVIII centuries by the Caravan of Cows that where crossing the Andes from Salta to the Atacama region – to feed the animals. Nowadays lives a small community with lots of kids and a small school. The area is perfect for photographers in particular since it is rich in colors, wildlife and small lagoons and salted lakes. Tolar Grande<\/strong> lies at the border of a giant depression, the Salar de Arizaro, one of the biggest salt flats in the world. From this tiny old railway village built in 1940, there is a unique view over the western ridge of the Cordillera and an infinite skyline of Volcanoes higher than 6.000 meters.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=\u00bbvc_default\u00bb css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534178339479{margin-top: 70px !important;}\u00bb][vc_column width=\u00bb2\/3″ css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534180845642{padding: 20px !important;}\u00bb][vc_custom_heading text=\u00bbDay 9<\/strong>
\nFull day to Explore Tolar Grande\u00bb font_container=\u00bbtag:h2|font_size:25|text_align:left|color:%2352671a|line_height:normal\u00bb google_fonts=\u00bbfont_family:Asap%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal\u00bb][vc_separator border_width=\u00bb2″ css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534355853114{margin-top: 20px !important;margin-bottom: 20px !important;}\u00bb][vc_column_text]Option A:<\/strong>
\n Tolar Grande | Salar de Arizaro | Oasis de Antofallita | Cono de Arita | Tolar Grande (B|L|D)<\/strong><\/p>\n

Distance:<\/strong> 260 km earth track and salt road \/ Altitude: Highest point 4.000 m.\/ 13.123 feet. Tolar Grande 3.500 m. \/ 11.483 feet.
\nEstimated driving time: 5 hs.<\/p>\n

Our traditional excursion from Tolar Grande<\/strong> is the crossing of the Arizaro Salt flat and the visit of the Oasis of Antofallita, home of two inhabitants in the middle of the Puna Desert. By travelling across the Arizaro we will be repeating the ancient itinerary of the Arrieros (Shepherds guiding caravans of animals to Chile). The word Arizaro means Vultures Cemetery and it comes from that period when many animals perished during the crossing of the salt flat, finally becoming unlimited nutrition for the Buitres. Antofallita is an important and spectacular example of a Puna Oasis. In the middle of a high altitude desert there is a green valley, thanks to a natural and pure water spring, full of Alamos, Molles and Sauce trees. Antofallita along with Antofagasta de la Sierra and Santa Rosa used to be important stations for Llama Caravans connecting this part of the Andes with the Oasis of Atacama. On the way back we\u2019ll visit the mining camp of Arita (onyx and copper) enjoying the best view over the Arita Cone, a volcanic pyramidal black cone raising in the middle of the white plain of salt of Arizaro.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Option B:<\/strong>
\nTolar Grande | Caipe | Salar de R\u00edo Grande | Mina Casualidad (Mina Julia) | Tolar Grande (B|L|D)<\/strong><\/p>\n

Distance:<\/strong> 130 km paved road. 180 km earth track and salt road \/ Altitude: Highest point 5.200 m.\/ 17.060 feet. Tolar Grande 3.500 m. \/ 11.483 feet.\u00a0 Estimated driving time: 7 hs.<\/p>\n

Mina Casualidad was a Mining City located in one of the most remote and amazing places on Earth. Just at the limit with Chile surrounded by the Highest Volcanoes of the World, between Sulfuric Mountains, Salted Lakes and Cobalt sky at 4.200 meters, used to live 3.000 people. Miners were working at 5.200 meters and their families and the administrative staff at the City of Mina Casualidad. The mine had been shut down by the Army during the 70\u2019s and today Mina Casualidad is a unique Ghost Town.<\/p>\n

Caipe was the old railway station where the mineral processed in the mine city was carried on cargo train and then transported to Salta. From the abandoned station, the traveler can have a wide view of the giant Salar de Arizaro. In the afternoon on our way back to Tolar Grande, with just the perfect light of the sunset, all the Puna will offer its best scenery.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][vc_column width=\u00bb1\/3″][vc_single_image image=\u00bb750″ img_size=\u00bbfull\u00bb alignment=\u00bbcenter\u00bb style=\u00bbvc_box_shadow_border\u00bb onclick=\u00bblink_image\u00bb]

<\/div>[vc_single_image image=\u00bb751″ img_size=\u00bbfull\u00bb alignment=\u00bbcenter\u00bb style=\u00bbvc_box_shadow_border\u00bb onclick=\u00bblink_image\u00bb][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=\u00bbvc_default\u00bb css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534178383499{margin-top: 40px !important;}\u00bb][vc_column width=\u00bb1\/3″][vc_single_image image=\u00bb752″ img_size=\u00bbfull\u00bb alignment=\u00bbcenter\u00bb style=\u00bbvc_box_shadow_border\u00bb onclick=\u00bblink_image\u00bb][\/vc_column][vc_column width=\u00bb2\/3″ css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534180854996{padding: 20px !important;}\u00bb][vc_custom_heading text=\u00bbDay 10<\/strong>
\nTolar Grande – Blue Salt lakes – Labyrinth Desert (southern part) – San Antonio de los Cobres – Salta (B|L)\u00bb font_container=\u00bbtag:h2|font_size:25|text_align:left|color:%2352671a|line_height:normal\u00bb google_fonts=\u00bbfont_family:Asap%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal\u00bb][vc_separator border_width=\u00bb2″ css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534355853114{margin-top: 20px !important;margin-bottom: 20px !important;}\u00bb][vc_column_text]Distance:<\/strong> 100 km paved road, km 250 gravel road \/ Altitude: Highest point 4500 m. \/ 17.764 feet Salta 1.200 m. \/ 3.937 feet.
\nEstimated driving time:<\/strong> 6 hs.<\/p>\n

The surroundings of Tolar Grande<\/strong> offer the chance to go on great short hikes. The best one is the hike to a hidden sand dune. From the high peak of the dune the traveler will be rewarded with a 360\u00b0 degree view over the area, from the Sacred Macon Mountain to the Llullaillaco Volcano, where National Geographic discovered in 1999 at 6.735 meters an Inca Treasure including the body of 3 Inca children perfectly kept by ice and dryness. On our way back to the Labyrinth we\u2019ll visit Ojos del Mar Blue-Green water holes where the shapes of the volcanoes are reflected in the morning. As it often happens, while travelling in the NW of Argentina, the narrow valley offers different landscapes according to the sunlight and the time of the day. The Toro\u2019s Gorge, at downhill, will offer a warm last goodbye to the Puna and its Planetary Geology.<\/p>\n

1 overnight stay at Finca Valentina.<\/strong>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=\u00bbvc_default\u00bb css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534178339479{margin-top: 70px !important;}\u00bb][vc_column width=\u00bb2\/3″ css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534180863884{padding: 20px !important;}\u00bb][vc_custom_heading text=\u00bbDay 11<\/strong>
\nSalta | San Pedro de Atacama (B)\u00bb font_container=\u00bbtag:h2|font_size:25|text_align:left|color:%2352671a|line_height:normal\u00bb google_fonts=\u00bbfont_family:Asap%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal\u00bb][vc_separator border_width=\u00bb2″ css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534355853114{margin-top: 20px !important;margin-bottom: 20px !important;}\u00bb][vc_column_text]Transfer to the bus terminal of Salta<\/strong>, where a bus trip starts at 7 AM towards Purmamarca<\/strong> and here ascending the impressive Cuesta de Lip\u00e1n and passing the huge Salinas Grandes salt flat. Crossing Paso Jama<\/strong> you reach Chile and descent to San Pedro de Atacama. At arrival (aprox. 6:30 PM) taxi on your own to the hotel. 3 overnight stays at Hotel Altiplanico.<\/p>\n

Drive distance:<\/strong> 615 km paved.<\/p>\n

After check-in you will have the possibility for a first walk throughout the village. The Andes Mountain Range offers to you a great view recognizing the volcano Licancabur and Juriques, and the smoky cloud from the crater of Lascar volcano.<\/strong>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][vc_column width=\u00bb1\/3″][vc_single_image image=\u00bb753″ img_size=\u00bbfull\u00bb alignment=\u00bbcenter\u00bb style=\u00bbvc_box_shadow_border\u00bb onclick=\u00bblink_image\u00bb][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=\u00bbvc_default\u00bb css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534178383499{margin-top: 40px !important;}\u00bb][vc_column width=\u00bb1\/3″][vc_single_image image=\u00bb754″ img_size=\u00bbfull\u00bb alignment=\u00bbcenter\u00bb style=\u00bbvc_box_shadow_border\u00bb onclick=\u00bblink_image\u00bb][\/vc_column][vc_column width=\u00bb2\/3″ css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534180874127{padding: 20px !important;}\u00bb][vc_custom_heading text=\u00bbDay 12<\/strong>
\nSan Pedro de Atacama – Ruins of fortress Quitor – Museum (B)\u00bb font_container=\u00bbtag:h2|font_size:25|text_align:left|color:%2352671a|line_height:normal\u00bb google_fonts=\u00bbfont_family:Asap%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal\u00bb][vc_separator border_width=\u00bb2″ css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534355853114{margin-top: 20px !important;margin-bottom: 20px !important;}\u00bb][vc_column_text]In the morning 8:30 AM reception of a hired car at the local Europcar city office.<\/p>\n

Visit to the Atacama Salt Flat<\/strong>.\u00a0 You can observe flamingos at the Chaxa Lagoon, the Tropic of Capricorn only some kilometers away from here (the imaginary line that separates the tropics from the moderate climate zone). You can also visit the village Socaire, a pre-inka settlement with vegetable gardens in terrace form on 3.300 m.<\/p>\n

In the afternoon you\u00a0 can walk about 3 km to the ruins of Quitor<\/strong>. You climb up the protection facility from IX-XII century and enjoy a 360\u00b0 panorama: the Andes in the foreground, the salt mountain range in the background and down below the fruitful valley of the river San Pedro.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=\u00bbvc_default\u00bb css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534178339479{margin-top: 70px !important;}\u00bb][vc_column width=\u00bb2\/3″ css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534180885535{padding: 20px !important;}\u00bb][vc_custom_heading text=\u00bbDay 13<\/strong>
\nTatio Geysers – Moon Valley (B)\u00bb font_container=\u00bbtag:h2|font_size:25|text_align:left|color:%2352671a|line_height:normal\u00bb google_fonts=\u00bbfont_family:Asap%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal\u00bb][vc_separator border_width=\u00bb2″ css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534355853114{margin-top: 20px !important;margin-bottom: 20px !important;}\u00bb][vc_column_text]In order to be able to see the steam columns of the El Tatio Geysers<\/strong>, early this morning you start at 05:00 a.m. from 2.400 m. to 4.300 m.o.s.l., herds of vicu\u00f1as on your way.\u00a0 From direct proximity you can observe the steaming sources, walking through the field of geysers of the volcano El Tatio. On the way back take a bath at the luxurious Puritama hot springs, of 31\u00b0-33\u00b0 C warm water.<\/p>\n

In the afternoon visit the Moon Valley<\/strong> with the possibility to climb up its famous sandy dune and afterwards short drive to the Mars Valley, where you can enjoy the sunset on the Andes.<\/p>\n

Late afternoon 18:30 PM car returnee at the local Europcar city office.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][vc_column width=\u00bb1\/3″][vc_single_image image=\u00bb755″ img_size=\u00bbfull\u00bb alignment=\u00bbcenter\u00bb style=\u00bbvc_box_shadow_border\u00bb onclick=\u00bblink_image\u00bb][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=\u00bbvc_default\u00bb css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534178383499{margin-top: 40px !important;}\u00bb][vc_column width=\u00bb1\/3″][vc_single_image image=\u00bb756″ img_size=\u00bbfull\u00bb alignment=\u00bbcenter\u00bb style=\u00bbvc_box_shadow_border\u00bb onclick=\u00bblink_image\u00bb][\/vc_column][vc_column width=\u00bb2\/3″ css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534180894502{padding: 20px !important;}\u00bb][vc_custom_heading text=\u00bbDay 14<\/strong>
\nHito Cajon \u2013 Coloured Lagoons (REA) \u2013 Siloli Desert (B|L|D)\u00bb font_container=\u00bbtag:h2|font_size:25|text_align:left|color:%2352671a|line_height:normal\u00bb google_fonts=\u00bbfont_family:Asap%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal\u00bb][vc_separator border_width=\u00bb2″ css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534355853114{margin-top: 20px !important;margin-bottom: 20px !important;}\u00bb][vc_column_text]Leaving San Pedro, a steep road up the Altiplano takes you to the border post of Hito Caj\u00f3n, entry point of Lipez region.<\/p>\n

Departure at 09:00am from San Pedro.
\nAfter a steep ascent to the Altiplano we will pass to the border post of Hito Caj\u00f3n<\/strong>, the entry point to the Lipez area. We will arrive to the Laguna Verde<\/strong>, below the volcanoes Juriques and Licancabur (el. 5960 m.a.s.l.) by midday and see there the curious phenomenon of the wind changing the color of the Laguna Verde into a spectacular emerald color.<\/p>\n

After crossing the Dali Desert<\/strong> (which indeed looks like one of his paintings) we will follow the Laguna Salada and stop at the thermal pools of Polques.
\nVisit of the Sol de Ma\u00f1ana Geysers<\/strong> (el. 4850 m.a.s.l.) a volcanic crater with sulfuric fumes and heavy water. At the end of the day we will arrive to the Laguna Colorada. The intense red-brick color of this lagoon is due to the light sensitive phytoplancton present in its water.
\nThe track continues through the superb landscapes of the Siloli desrt and its famous \u00abrock tree\u00bb where we can spot some viscaches.<\/p>\n

Night at the Hotel del Desierto<\/strong>, which is located in the heart of the Siloli desert. Volcanic rocks were used for the walls and the architectural design has been specially chosen to withstand the intensity of the winds of the region.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=\u00bbvc_default\u00bb css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534178339479{margin-top: 70px !important;}\u00bb][vc_column width=\u00bb2\/3″ css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534180885535{padding: 20px !important;}\u00bb][vc_custom_heading text=\u00bbDay 15<\/strong>
\nSiloli Desert \u2013 San Pedro de Quemez (B|L|D)\u00bb font_container=\u00bbtag:h2|font_size:25|text_align:left|color:%2352671a|line_height:normal\u00bb google_fonts=\u00bbfont_family:Asap%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal\u00bb][vc_separator border_width=\u00bb2″ css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534355853114{margin-top: 20px !important;margin-bottom: 20px !important;}\u00bb][vc_column_text]Going north along the Chilean border on the scenic \u201croute of the Jewels\u201d<\/strong> which name is due to all the lagoons along its way: lagunas Honda, Ch\u2019arkota, Hedionda, Ca\u00f1apa, sanctuary for 3 flamingoes species. Stop at the mirador of the volcano Ollague which is still active and contains one of the world\u2019s highest open pit copper mines. The track then descends from 4200 to 3600 meters of altitude. We will cross the small Salar de Chiguana<\/strong> just below the volcano Tomasamil (el. 5900 m.a.s.l.), before arriving to San Pedro de Quemez at the end of the day.\u00a0 Night at the hotel de Piedra, located at south of Salar de Uyuni,<\/strong> in front of a peninsula and in an environment of majestic mountains, the Hotel de Piedra Tayka is built with materials of stone and volcanic sand characteristic of the region.<\/p>\n

The use of stone was inspired by the village Quemado next to the hotel. The roofs of the hotel are covered with straw, the traditional material that covers the entire Andean region.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][vc_column width=\u00bb1\/3″][vc_single_image image=\u00bb757″ img_size=\u00bbfull\u00bb alignment=\u00bbcenter\u00bb style=\u00bbvc_box_shadow_border\u00bb onclick=\u00bblink_image\u00bb][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=\u00bbvc_default\u00bb css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534178383499{margin-top: 40px !important;}\u00bb][vc_column width=\u00bb1\/3″][vc_single_image image=\u00bb758″ img_size=\u00bbfull\u00bb alignment=\u00bbcenter\u00bb style=\u00bbvc_box_shadow_border\u00bb onclick=\u00bblink_image\u00bb][\/vc_column][vc_column width=\u00bb2\/3″ css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534180894502{padding: 20px !important;}\u00bb][vc_custom_heading text=\u00bbDay 16<\/strong>
\nSan Pedro de Quemez \u2013 Colchani (B|L|D)\u00bb font_container=\u00bbtag:h2|font_size:25|text_align:left|color:%2352671a|line_height:normal\u00bb google_fonts=\u00bbfont_family:Asap%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal\u00bb][vc_separator border_width=\u00bb2″ css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534355853114{margin-top: 20px !important;margin-bottom: 20px !important;}\u00bb][vc_column_text]Trip north going parallel to a small range with great formations done by the strong wind and water erosion in the stones, until the village of Alota (1 hour), then north passing the villages of San Agustin and San Juan (2 hours). Enter Uyuni<\/strong> salt flats, a natural wonder with over 10,582 km2 a 3,692 m of white salt in Chuvica, crossing it to visit Incahuasi Island (1 hour), a special habitat of giant cactus and volcanic rocks. Picnic lunch in the salt flats. Trip to the eastern side to Colchani (2 hours), to see the locals producing salt. Don\u2019t miss the sunset!<\/p>\n

Overnight at Palacio de Sal Hotel<\/strong> (Breakfast included), an amazing hotel with walls, ceilings, chairs and tables made in salt. The purpose of this special construction is to be in balance with nature and the surrounding landscape also to enjoy a pleasant and unforgettable rest.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=\u00bbvc_default\u00bb css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534178339479{margin-top: 70px !important;}\u00bb][vc_column width=\u00bb2\/3″ css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534180885535{padding: 20px !important;}\u00bb][vc_custom_heading text=\u00bbDay 17<\/strong>
\nColchani \u2013 San Pedro de Atacama \u2013 Santiago de Chile (B, L)\u00bb font_container=\u00bbtag:h2|font_size:25|text_align:left|color:%2352671a|line_height:normal\u00bb google_fonts=\u00bbfont_family:Asap%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal\u00bb][vc_separator border_width=\u00bb2″ css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534355853114{margin-top: 20px !important;margin-bottom: 20px !important;}\u00bb][vc_column_text]Long transfer back to Chile. We leave with direction to the Chilean boarder between Avaroa (Bolivia) and Ollague (Chile).<\/strong> We interchange vehicles at the border and continue our long way to Calama<\/strong> crossing the salt flats of Carcote and Ascotan. Arrive atCalama. Transfer to the airport of Calama and flight to Santiago de Chile. Transfer into the city center.<\/p>\n

1 overnight stay at Orly hotel.<\/strong>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][vc_column width=\u00bb1\/3″][vc_single_image image=\u00bb759″ img_size=\u00bbfull\u00bb alignment=\u00bbcenter\u00bb style=\u00bbvc_box_shadow_border\u00bb onclick=\u00bblink_image\u00bb][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=\u00bbvc_default\u00bb css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534178383499{margin-top: 40px !important;}\u00bb][vc_column width=\u00bb1\/3″][vc_single_image image=\u00bb760″ img_size=\u00bbfull\u00bb alignment=\u00bbcenter\u00bb style=\u00bbvc_box_shadow_border\u00bb onclick=\u00bblink_image\u00bb][\/vc_column][vc_column width=\u00bb2\/3″ css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534180894502{padding: 20px !important;}\u00bb][vc_custom_heading text=\u00bbDay 18<\/strong>
\nDeparture (B)\u00bb font_container=\u00bbtag:h2|font_size:25|text_align:left|color:%2352671a|line_height:normal\u00bb google_fonts=\u00bbfont_family:Asap%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal\u00bb][vc_separator border_width=\u00bb2″ css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534355853114{margin-top: 20px !important;margin-bottom: 20px !important;}\u00bb][vc_column_text]Transfer to the airport and departure flight.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=\u00bbvc_default\u00bb css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534178339479{margin-top: 70px !important;}\u00bb][vc_column width=\u00bb1\/6″ css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534180885535{padding: 20px !important;}\u00bb][\/vc_column][vc_column width=\u00bb2\/3″][vc_custom_heading text=\u00bbUYUNI – Climate in northern Chile and Bolivia\u00bb font_container=\u00bbtag:h2|font_size:25|text_align:center|color:%2352671a|line_height:normal\u00bb google_fonts=\u00bbfont_family:Asap%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal\u00bb][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n

The region is subject to a desert and high altitude climate that brings maximum daytime temperature of 45 degrees and a minimum of \u2013 20 at night. The difference from day to night temperatures can easily reach 40 degrees. Highland summer (January-February) is characterized by rain and strong thunderstorms. In this desert and altitude climate, you need protection from the sun, even with colder temperatures.<\/p>\n

From December to March, rainfall can occur due to \u201caltiplanic winter\u201d and the itinerary may be modified.<\/p>\n

The Salt flat may be flooded so it is possible that you may not be able to drive through it. In this case we will drive around the Salar.<\/p>\n

[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][vc_column width=\u00bb1\/6″][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=\u00bbvc_default\u00bb gap=\u00bb20″ equal_height=\u00bbyes\u00bb css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1532727473937{margin-top: 40px !important;}\u00bb][vc_column width=\u00bb1\/2″ css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1532727303658{padding: 40px !important;background-color: #f2f2f2 !important;}\u00bb][vc_column_text]Included Services:\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n