{"id":1183,"date":"2018-08-10T18:49:28","date_gmt":"2018-08-10T18:49:28","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.patagonia-road.com\/wetlands-of-ibera-iguazu-highlands\/"},"modified":"2020-07-16T22:54:29","modified_gmt":"2020-07-16T22:54:29","slug":"wetlands-of-ibera-iguazu-highlands","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/www.patagonia-road.com\/es\/wetlands-of-ibera-iguazu-highlands\/","title":{"rendered":"Wetlands of Ibera, Iguazu & Highlands"},"content":{"rendered":"

[vc_row type=\u00bbvc_default\u00bb full_width=\u00bbstretch_row\u00bb bg_type=\u00bbimage\u00bb css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534872577951{background-image: url(http:\/\/www.patagonia-road.com\/web\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/guarda-1.jpg?id=785) !important;}\u00bb][vc_column css=\u00bb.vc_custom_1534872347610{padding-top: 20px !important;padding-bottom: 20px !important;}\u00bb][\/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

We created this wonderful combination of destinations where visitors start in the Iber\u00e1 Provincial Reserve, a protected area within the vast Iber\u00e1 Wetlands, in northeast Argentina. It comprises swamps, marshes and lagoons, being home to an abundance of wildlife, including alligators, marsh deers and hundreds of bird species.<\/p>\n

Trip continuos to the subtropical rainforest getting to know the unique waterfalls of Iguaz\u00fa, and then heading on to the Argentinean Northwest High Plateau, where indigenous cultural destinations are settled in rugged mountains and deep valleys, whose\u00a0bizarre rock walls seeped with a rainbow of colors. 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 EZE international airport. Transfer to the hotel and 2 overnight stays at city hotel.<\/p>\n

In the afternoon City Tour<\/strong> (4 hours), which is the best way to discover this huge metropolis.\u00a0 You will visit the most emblematic neighborhoods, as Plaza de Mayo, Government House, Caminito Street in la Boca, The Colon Theatre, 9 of July Avenue, The Obelisk, The Mayo Avenue, San Telmo, Puerto Madero, Retiro, Palermo, the cemetery and quarter of Recoleta.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][vc_column width=\u00bb1\/3″][vc_single_image image=\u00bb369″ 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=\u00bb370″ 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 Posadas \u2013 Iber\u00e1 (B|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]Transfer to the domestic airport and flight to Posadas. Private transfer in a 4×4 vehicle to the marshlands of Esteros del Iber\u00e1<\/strong>. 3 overnight stays at beautifull posada Rancho de los Estero.[\/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 & 4<\/strong>
\nIber\u00e1 (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]The\u00a0Iber\u00e1 Wetlands<\/strong>\u00a0are a mix of swamps, bogs, stagnant lakes, lagoons, natural slough and courses of water in the center and center-north of the province of Corrientes.<\/p>\n

Iber\u00e1 is one of the most important fresh water reservoirs in the continent and the second-largest wetland\u00a0in the world after Pantanal in Brazil. It is of pluvial origin, with a total area of 15,000\u201320,000\u00a0km2\u00a0(5,800\u20137,700\u00a0sq\u00a0mi).<\/p>\n

Since 1982, part of the wetland is included within a provincial protected area, the Iber\u00e1 provincial reserve, which comprises about 13,000\u00a0km2\u00a0(5,000\u00a0sq\u00a0mi), the largest of such areas in Argentina. There are ongoing plans to further up its protection status to National park.<\/p>\n

These days you will enjoy boat excursions to the lagoon for animal watching<\/strong>, hundreds of animals and birds, including reptiles (Yacar\u00e9), swamp deer, Carpinchos (Capibaras), monkeys, water birds, etc.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][vc_column width=\u00bb1\/3″][vc_single_image image=\u00bb371″ 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=\u00bb372″ 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 5<\/strong>
\nIbera \u2013 Iguaz\u00fa (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 from the hotel in Iber\u00e1 to the bus terminal in Posadas, capital of Misiones province. Here starts a bus ride for about three hours to Puerto Iguaz\u00fa. Transfer to the hotel and 3 overnight stays at a jungle-lodge.[\/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 6<\/strong>
\nWaterfalls (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]<\/p>\n

In the morning half day excursion to the Brazilian Falls<\/strong>, where you will cross the international Bridge over Iguaz\u00fa river and visit the Iguassu National park in Brazil.\u00a0 A\u00a0 walk by different footbridges between a very exuberant vegetation allows to see magnificent and panoramic views of the Argentinean falls.\u00a0 On your way different native animal species can be seen and a variety of forest birds.<\/p>\n

[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][vc_column width=\u00bb1\/3″][vc_single_image image=\u00bb373″ 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=\u00bb374″ 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 7<\/strong>
\nWaterfalls (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]Full day excursion to the Argentinean Falls<\/strong>.\u00a0 In guaran\u00ed,\u00a0 Iguaz\u00fa is translated like \u201cgreat Waters\u201d. They were discovered in 1541 by the advanced man Alvear N\u00fa\u00f1ez Cabeza de Vaca. In 1984, UNESCO declared them like natural patrimony of the humanity. Basically there are two circuits: one called \u201cinferior\u201d and another one \u201csuperior\u201d. Along the inferior circuit you will reach the base of the falls. Along the superior one, the stroll is more sedentary. Panoramic views from the footbridges and the viewpoints make of your stay an unforgettable experience.[\/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 8<\/strong>
\nIguaz\u00fa \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]Transfer to the airport and flight to Salta<\/strong>. Transfer to city hotel, 2 overnight stays at beautiful Finca Valentina.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][vc_column width=\u00bb1\/3″][vc_single_image image=\u00bb375″ 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=\u00bb376″ 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 9<\/strong>
\nSalta (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]Today you will explore the historical city<\/strong> as well as 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_1534180845642{padding: 20px !important;}\u00bb][vc_custom_heading text=\u00bbDay 10<\/strong>
\nSalta – Quebrada del Toro – San Antonio de los Cobres – Labyrinth Desert – 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]100 km paved road. 250 km gravel road. <\/em>
\nMaximum Altitude 4.500 mts asl. Maximum altitude at final destination 3.500 mts asl<\/em><\/p>\n

Just 30 km away from Salta, the Toro\u2019s Gorge is a natural elevator connecting the green Valley of Lerma with the desert plateau known as Puna. In 95 km this wild Quebrada rises from 1200 meters up to 4000mts in Abra Blanca Pass, the entering point to the Puna. The Inca explored this passage as well since it was part of the Capaq \u00d1am or Royal Trail, a 5000 kilometer strategic trail built to unite the Inca Empire from Quito in Ecuador to Mendoza in Argentina. San Antonio de los Cobres 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. Abra Chorrilos will be our highest point and there will learn about the Apacheta and its cultural importance for the Andean tradition. After the crossing of the geologically dying Salted lake of Pocitos, a 3-hour drive in wild and untouched nature begins. The Labyrinth Desert is a 10 million\u2013year fossil dune desert formed by clay picks and gypsum crystals. Nowadays, it is possible to drive across this natural wonder,\u00a0 a must for photo safari lovers. Tolar Grande lies at the border of a giant depression, the Salar de Arizaro, one of the biggest salt flats in the world, and from this tiny old railway village built in 1940, there is a unique view over the western ridge of the Cordillera an infinite skyline of Volcanoes higher than 6.000 meters.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][vc_column width=\u00bb1\/3″][vc_single_image image=\u00bb377″ 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=\u00bb378″ 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 11<\/strong>
\nOption 1: Tolar Grande – Caipe – Salar Rio Grande – Mina Casualidad – 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]130 km paved road and 120 km gravel & salt road. Maximum altitude 4.500 mt asl. Altitude at final destination 3.500 mts asl.<\/em><\/p>\n

Mina Casualidad was a Mine 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 Sulphuric 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_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=\u00bb379″ 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=\u00bbOption 2<\/strong>
\nTolar Grande \u2013 Ojos de Mar \u2013 Hidden Dune \u2013 Tolar Grande \u2013 Caipe \u2013 Puesta de Sol\/Sunset at 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]140 km earth track. Maximum Altitude 4.000 mts asl \u2013 Altitude in arrival point 3.600 mts asl<\/em><\/p>\n

The morning will be dedicated to the exploration of the surrounding of Tolar Grande. Ojos del Mar are Blue Holes in the middle of a white salar, where in feb. 2009, researchers discovered a huge colony of living stromatolites (for more info: www.nature.com\/news\/2009\/090917\/full\/news.2009.924.html). The surroundings of Tolar Grande offer chances of great small hikes. The best one is the hike to a hidden sand dune in the middle of the desert. From the highness of the dune the traveler will be rewarded by a 360\u00b0 view over the area, from the Sacred Macon Mountain to the Llullaillaco Volcano, where the 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. It is also a perfect place for meditation. For Lunch we will be back at Tolar Grande and after that we have time to relax in the hotel.\u00a0 In the afternoon we drive to Caipe. 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. On our way back to Tolar Grand the sunset will offer the perfect light so that you enjoy all the Puna in its best scenery. Puesta de Sol \/ Sunset viewed from above a hill just outside of Tolar Grande.[\/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 12<\/strong>
\nTolar Grande – Arita Cone – Antofalla Oasis – Vega Colorada – Quebrada de Calalaste – Antofagasta de la Sierra – El Pe\u00f1\u00f3n (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]60 km paved road and 280 km gravel & salt road. Maximum altitude 4.500 mt asl. Altitude at final destination 3.400 mts asl.<\/em><\/p>\n

The crossing of the Arizaro Salted dry lake resembling the ancient journey of the Arrieros (shepherds guiding caravans of animals to Chile). Arizaro means Vultures Cemetery, comes from that period when many animals (cows and horses) perished during the crossing of the salt flat. Antofalla 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 pure water spring, full of Alamos, Molles and Sauce trees. Antofalla, together with Antofagasta and Santa Rosa, were important stations for Llama caravans connecting this part of the Andes with the Oasis of Atacama. The Oasis is located just at the border of the longest salt flat in the world, among red mountains and lava strips. Antofalla is still inhabited by a tiny community of 60 people, they are all shepherds. We will have lunch in one of their homes and then cross the colored mirror of the salt lake. Above 4.200 meters with wide views over the Antofalla Volcano (6.400 mts) lays a kind of green field (Vega Colorada) home of llamas, suris (Andean ostrich), wild donkeys and vicu\u00f1as.\u00a0 The valley of Calalaste, just a few kilometers away from Vega Colorada is the best spot to find wild camelids.\u00a0 Antofagasta de la Sierra, was the biggest Oasis on the path connecting this side of the Andes with the Oasis of San Pedro de Atacama (Chile), it is a big village with more than 2.000 people who maintain their ancient traditions and culture. The name Antofagasta means \u201cplace where the sun shines\u201d and it is surrounded by uncountable Volcano Peaks.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][vc_column width=\u00bb1\/3″][vc_single_image image=\u00bb380″ 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=\u00bb381″ img_size=\u00bbfull\u00bb alignment=\u00bbcenter\u00bb style=\u00bbvc_box_shadow_border\u00bb onclick=\u00bblink_image\u00bb]

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<\/div>[vc_single_image image=\u00bb383″ 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 13<\/strong>
\nEl Pe\u00f1\u00f3n – Pumice Stone Field and\/or Laguna Grande – El Pe\u00f1\u00f3n (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]Km 130 sand, salt and rocky road. <\/em>
\nMaximum altitude 4.500 mt asl. Altitude at final destination 3.400 mts asl<\/em><\/p>\n

Program from October to April (austral summer):<\/strong>
\nIn the morning:\u00a0 Visit to Campo de Piedra P\u00f3mez, a strange and stunning landscape carved into the rock that gives rise to its name: The Pumice, of purely igneous origin, was produced by a massive explosion of the volcanic stratum.\u00a0 This explosion was so powerful that if one could have seen it, it would have been similar to the mushroom cloud produced by a bomb.\u00a0 This cloud spread the ashes and debris in large areas and in different directions that were crystallized by the effects of the temperature and gave life to these wonderful rocks with special features, with plenty of holes produced by the escape of gases during\u00a0the chilling stage. This degassing phenomenon made the rock very easy to carve by the winds of the Puna, arid and harsh winds that move freely through the region where they become the best and most prominent Andean rock sculptors.<\/p>\n

In the afternoon:\u00a0 Visit to Laguna Grande reserve, a place of unique beauty that keeps fragile treasures of the environment. It is a saline lake that sits at an altitude of 4150 mts, path to the crater of the Galan volcano, the largest in the world. During winter, the water freezes completely, but when spring arrives, it becomes the largest gathering center of the Puna flamingo birds, also called Small Parina (Phoenicpterus jamesi), with more than 19,000 birds (25% of the known total population). It is also a place for summer congregation for the Andean flamingo (Phoenicpterus andinus) and it is a common nesting site of Southern flamingo (Phoenicopterus chilensis).\u00a0 We will visit Laguna Grande, respecting it as an Andean sanctuary and appreciating species of exotic birds in their natural habitat.<\/p>\n

Program from May to September (austral winter):<\/strong>
\nVisit to Campo de Piedra P\u00f3mez, a strange and stunning landscape carved into the rock that gives rise to its name: The Pumice, of purely igneous origin, was produced by a massive explosion of the volcanic stratum.\u00a0 This explosion was so powerful that if one could have seen it, it would have been similar to the mushroom cloud produced by a bomb.\u00a0 This cloud spread the ashes and debris in large areas and in different directions that were crystallized by the effects of the temperature and gave life to these wonderful rocks with special features, with plenty of holes produced by the escape of gases during\u00a0the chilling stage. This degassing phenomenon made the rock very easy to carve by the winds of the Puna, arid and harsh winds that move freely through the region where they become the best and most prominent Andean rock sculptors.\u00a0 This strange landscape of white labyrinths and climbing dunes is located a few miles to the west, on a track that we will pass, where the path continues through some sand that could be described as the dream of the explorer and overlanding adventurers. On the way, we will pass very close to a young volcano: the Carachi Pampa entirely painted in black by the spill of basaltic lava in ancient geological times and the lake of the same name.[\/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 14<\/strong>
\nEl Pe\u00f1\u00f3n – Hualfin – Santa Mar\u00eda – Cafayate – Quebrada de las Conchas – 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]440 km paved road, 50 km gravel road. <\/em>
\nMaximum altitude 4.500 mts asl. Altitude at final destination 1.100 mts asl.<\/em><\/p>\n

After three days of Intense Trip on the High Desert Plateau, the North West has still plenty of surprises. The paved road from El Pe\u00f1\u00f3n to meet Route 40 is a 150 km long yellow field of Paja Brava, white lagoons and a deserted narrow canyon with rich vegetation inside. At Santa Maria you will experience a Real Argentine Asado, with a simple parrilla made by our gaucho friend. Then, we will do a quick stop in Cafayate, a pleasant town surrounded by green vineyards.\u00a0 In the afternoon with the best light of the day we\u2019ll go across the Quebrada de las Conchas Gorge, 55 km of scenic sedimentary rock formations, dated from 40 to a hundred million years old, with geological formations as the Yacoraite or the Piraguas of great importance. Salta and its green valley will welcome us after 5 days of unique adventure. 1 overnight at Finca Valentina[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][vc_column width=\u00bb1\/3″][vc_single_image image=\u00bb384″ 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=\u00bb291″ 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 15<\/strong>
\nSalta \u2013 Buenos Aires (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 flight to Buenos Aires. Transfer to the international airport, 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_1534180938737{padding: 20px !important;}\u00bb][\/vc_column][vc_column width=\u00bb2\/3″][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n

The Itinerary is subject to weather conditions in the region to be visited, for this reason last minute changes may take place in order to ensure a safe trip.<\/strong><\/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