Planning Your Salta Scenic Drive Routes

Driving in Northern Argentina is relatively straightforward but requires some preparation. Most roads are well-paved, but some iconic routes are gravel. You should always carry plenty of water and a spare tire. Fuel stations are frequent in towns but rare in transition zones.

Before you start your engines, check out these quick picks for your journey:

• Best for dramatic scenery: Quebrada de las Conchas (Route 68).
• Best for wine lovers: Cafayate Vineyards.
• Best for high-altitude thrills: Salinas Grandes.
• Best for off-the-beaten-path: Iruya.

Each route offers something unique for every type of traveler. You should consider the Salta scenic drive routes that match your comfort level with mountain driving. Most of these can be done as day trips or combined into longer loops.

9 Best Self Drive Itineraries from Salta Argentina

These selected routes highlight the diversity of the Salta region. From lush jungles to arid deserts, the landscape changes rapidly within a few hours. Ensure you check local weather before heading into high-altitude areas.

1. Name: Quebrada de las Conchas (Route 68)
   Type: Scenic Drive
   Why go: Famous for deep red rock formations like the Garganta del Diablo and the Amphitheater.
   Best for: Photographers and families.
   Where: Between Salta and Cafayate.
   Time: 3-4 hours one way.
   Cost: Free (road tolls apply).
   Getting there: Take Route 68 South from Salta city.
   Tip: Drive this route in the late afternoon for the best golden-hour lighting.
2. Name: Cuesta del Obispo (Route 33)
   Type: High-altitude road
   Why go: A stunning winding road that climbs to over 3,300 meters with panoramic valley views.
   Best for: Adventure seekers.
   Where: On the way to Cachi.
   Time: 2-3 hours from Salta.
   Cost: Free.
   Getting there: Follow Route 68 then turn onto Route 33 West.
   Tip: Watch for condors circling at the Piedra del Molino viewpoint.
3. Name: Salinas Grandes
   Type: Salt Flats
   Why go: The third-largest salt flats in the world offer incredible mirror effects and white vistas.
   Best for: Iconic photography.
   Where: Jujuy border via Lipán Slope.
   Time: Full day (7-8 hours round trip).
   Cost: Small fee for guided walks on salt.
   Getting there: Take Route 9 North, then Route 52 West.
   Tip: Book a Salinas Grandes salt flats tour if you prefer not to drive the steep Lipán Slope yourself.
4. Name: Cafayate Wine Region
   Type: Experience
   Why go: Home to the famous Torrontés white wine and charming colonial bodegas.
   Best for: Food and wine enthusiasts.
   Where: 190km south of Salta.
   Time: Overnight stay recommended.
   Cost: Varying tasting fees.
   Getting there: Direct route via RN68.
   Tip: Visit the Cafayate wine region guide for the best organic winery recommendations.
5. Name: Quebrada de Humahuaca
   Type: Cultural/Sight
   Why go: A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring the Hill of Seven Colors.
   Best for: History buffs.
   Where: Jujuy province.
   Time: 1-2 days.
   Cost: Small fees for local museums.
   Getting there: Drive North on Route 9.
   Tip: Stop in Purmamarca for the best artisan market in the region.
6. Name: Cachi and Los Cardones
   Type: Nature/Town
   Why go: Drive through a forest of giant cacti in Los Cardones National Park to reach a sleepy white-washed town.
   Best for: Peace and quiet.
   Where: Calchaquí Valleys.
   Time: 4 hours one way.
   Cost: National park entry is usually free at the roadside spots.
   Getting there: Route 33.
   Tip: Try the local "cabrito" (goat) in one of Cachi's plaza restaurants.
7. Name: Road to San Antonio de los Cobres
   Type: Adventure
   Why go: Follow the path of the famous Train to the Clouds through rugged mining landscapes.
   Best for: Off-grid exploration.
   Where: The Puna region.
   Time: 5-6 hours round trip.
   Cost: Free.
   Getting there: Route 51.
   Tip: Be mindful of altitude; this route reaches very high elevations quickly.
8. Name: Iruya Village
   Type: Unique Experience
   Why go: A breathtaking village perched on a cliffside that feels frozen in time.
   Best for: Intrepid travelers.
   Where: Far north of Salta.
   Time: 2 days (requires overnight).
   Cost: Free to enter village.
   Getting there: Route 9 to Humahuaca, then local gravel roads.
   Tip: Do not attempt this drive during the summer rainy season without a 4x4.
9. Name: Dique Cabra Corral
   Type: Nature/Activity
   Why go: A massive reservoir perfect for bungee jumping, fishing, or a lakeside lunch.
   Best for: Adrenaline and relaxation.
   Where: 80km south of Salta.
   Time: 1.5 hours from Salta.
   Cost: Free access; activity costs vary.
   Getting there: Route 68 toward Coronel Moldes.
   Tip: Rent a boat on the lake for a quiet afternoon away from the crowds.

Driving Tips for Salta Scenic Drive Routes

Is it safe to drive around here? For most people, the answer is yes. However, you must be aware of changing conditions. Some routes involve unpaved roads, locally known as "ripio." Check if your itinerary requires a high-clearance vehicle.

You can learn more about road safety in our guide on is it safe to drive around Salta. Always check the fuel level before leaving major towns. Many areas have no cell service, so download offline maps. High-altitude driving can cause fatigue and headaches, so stay hydrated.

Lastly, keep an eye out for livestock on the roads. Goats, llamas, and donkeys often cross without warning in rural areas. Driving during the day is highly recommended for visibility and safety. The official Salta Turismo site provides updates on road closures during storms.