Crossing From The Yungas To The Puna 8 fotos
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Crossing From The Yungas To The Puna

5 reviews
168 hrs
From
1.388.333 ARS

Embark on this remarkable trek in Jujuy, a journey that seamlessly connects the Yungas with the Quebrada de Humahuaca, showcasing some of the most stunning landscapes in northern Argentina. As you travel, you'll follow ancient trails that meander through lush jungles, deep ravines, and impressive mountains.

This adventure encourages you to dive into a constantly evolving environment, where you can spot condors soaring above, alongside guanacos and vicuñas freely wandering. The stark contrast between the vibrant green of the rainforest and the arid expanses of the high mountains makes this journey a truly unique experience, where nature, culture, and adventure are fully expressed.

Tour Description

This adventure kicks off with a transfer from Salta to San Francisco, nestled in the heart of the Yungas region in Jujuy, where a walking expedition sets off, linking two distinct ecosystems of northern Argentina. The initial encounter is with the mountain rainforest, distinguished by its lush vegetation and vibrant green hues, providing an ideal setting to prepare equipment before embarking on the trek.

The trek commences at Peña Alta and proceeds to San Lucas, involving several hours of hiking through jungle paths and ravines. As elevation increases, the landscape gradually shifts. Over the ensuing days, the journey continues towards Abra del Potrero and then to Molulo, following ancient pathways that link various mountain regions, combining challenging segments with more expansive areas.

Throughout the trek, nights are spent in diverse mountain settings, alternating between campsites, shelters, and the homes of local residents, offering a deeper immersion into the land and its culture. This direct interaction also provides a chance to learn about the region's traditions and customs while traversing historical routes once used by indigenous communities.

As the path advances towards Yuto Pampa, the surroundings become more arid and higher in elevation, entering landscapes typical of the puna. Along this section, there is continuous engagement with nature, with chances to observe Andean wildlife like condors, guanacos, and vicuñas in increasingly breathtaking environments.

The final day leads you to Tilcara, passing the highest point of the trek at over 4,000 meters above sea level. This signifies the arrival at the Quebrada de Humahuaca, where the arid, high-altitude landscape starkly contrasts with the rainforest starting point. The journey concludes with an overnight stay in Tilcara, wrapping up an expedition that merges nature, culture, and adventure in one of the most comprehensive and remarkable treks in northern Argentina.

What’s included?

What’s included:

- Initial transfer from Salta to San Francisco. - Mountain guides. - Lodging. - Mountain cuisine. - Personal equipment up to 5kg carried by mules. - General first-aid kit. - Guide with international WFR certification. - Assistance horse during the trek. - Handyman and satellite communication.

What’s NOT included:

- Travel to the meeting and end point. - Transfer from Tilcara to Salta (at the end) - Dinner in Tilcara on the last night - Expenses incurred due to early departure from the program. - Gratuities

Frequently Asked Questions

The Yungas to Puna Crossing excursion is a full-day tour (approximately 10–12 hours) that connects the Yungas cloud forest with the Andean highlands. The typical itinerary includes an early departure, a scenic drive through cloud forests, a transition through canyons and viewpoints, and arrival at the Puna landscapes with salt flats, volcanoes, and Andean villages. There are photo stops, short walks, and time for a regional lunch. Depending on the season and road conditions, the route may be reversed or adjusted for weather and safety reasons. It is an ideal scenic and cultural experience for travelers seeking nature, photography, and interaction with communities in Northwest Argentina.

The price of this tour typically includes tourist transportation in a 4x4 vehicle or equipped minivan, a bilingual (Spanish/English) local guide, passenger insurance, and pick-up from centrally located accommodations. Meals and drinks, entrance fees to protected areas or museums, tips, and personal expenses are usually not included. An optional regional lunch is sometimes offered. Rates may vary depending on the season, group size, and departure location (Salta or Jujuy). We recommend checking the official website for details on what's included for your travel dates, current promotions, and cancellation or rescheduling policies. Book in advance to secure your spot on this limited-capacity tour.

Tours typically depart in the morning (between 6:30 and 8:00, depending on the meeting point) and return in the late afternoon. The tour offers pick-up from centrally located hotels in Salta or Jujuy, and in some cases, designated meeting points. Transportation is provided in well-maintained 4x4 vehicles or tourist vans, driven by experienced mountain road drivers. Technical and photo stops are scheduled, and the pace is designed to allow you to fully appreciate the scenery. Light luggage is permitted (daypack). Please inform the operator if you require a child seat, have a special diet, or are traveling with a lot of photographic equipment, so they can coordinate logistics and ensure the comfort of the group.

The Yungas to Puna Crossing reaches high altitudes (usually between 3,000 and 4,200 meters above sea level), so it's advisable to arrive acclimatized, stay well hydrated, and avoid alcohol and heavy meals. It's a low-to-moderate difficulty tour, suitable for healthy adults and families; however, it's not recommended for people with heart conditions, unstable respiratory problems, advanced pregnancy, or very young children. Inform the operator about any medical conditions and bring your medication. The guide is trained in safety and first aid, and the route ascends gradually. Having travel insurance, sunscreen, and UV sunglasses helps prevent discomfort.

The climate varies sharply between regions: the Yungas are humid, foggy, and have mild to warm temperatures; the Puna is characterized by dry air, wind, and cold nights with strong UV radiation. The dry season (approximately April to November) offers clear skies and better roads; summer (December to March) brings rain to the rainforest and isolated thunderstorms. Pack layers of clothing, a windproof jacket, a hat and gloves in winter, hiking boots, high SPF sunscreen, lip balm, polarized sunglasses, reusable water bottles, and cash for expenses. To book, check online availability and cancellation policies; it is advisable to confirm in advance during peak season.

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Traveler Class

Single

Difficulty Level

Moderate

Type of Activity

Hiking & Trekking

Cost Level

Luxury

Cancellation Policy

General terms

Type of interest

Nature and Wildlife

Crossing From The Yungas To The Puna

5 reviews
168 hrs
From 1.388.333 ARS

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What they say

Reviews

Unreal day with Best Argentina Tours! We went from the misty Yungas to the stark, otherworldly Puna in one epic sweep. Llamas, cardón cacti, and blinding white salt flats — every bend begged for a photo stop. Our guide mixed geology, culture, and music, kept us safe on the winding roads, and handed out coca tea when the altitude kicked in. This excursion's pacing was perfect, the vehicle comfy, and lunch local. If you like dramatic contrasts and big skies, book this.

From Yungas to Puna: Salt Flats, Big Skies, Epic Contrasts Tour

Que viagem! Saímos de Salta pela selva úmida das Yungas e, em poucas horas, estávamos no altiplano da Puna: céu azul profundo, salares brilhando, vicunhas e cactos gigantes. Guia super gente boa, dirigiu seguro, explicou cultura andina e parou para fotos e mate. Dia longo, mas mágico. Recomendo muito a Best Argentina Tours! Sem pressa.

Atravessando as Yungas até a Puna: um dia épico em Salta, Argentina

¡Tremenda experiencia la Travesía de las Yungas a la Puna! El paisaje es impresionante, pasás de la selva llena de vida a los desiertos coloridos de la puna, todo en un solo viaje. El guía, súper copado y muy informado, te cuenta detalles que no vas a leer en ningún lado. Los pueblos y la comida, espectaculares. Me sentí seguro y bien acompañado todo el tiempo. Sin dudas volvería a elegir a Best Argentina Tours. Lo recomiendo con los ojos cerrados si te copan los paisajes extremos y la buena onda.

De la selva al desierto mágico

Wow – what an adventure! This tour totally blew me away. The scenery changes are insane, from lush Yungas to wild Puna, and every moment felt unique. Our guide was super passionate and knew so much. Perfect for anyone looking for something out of the ordinary!

From Rainforest to High Desert: An Epic Journey Across Salta’s Changing Landscapes

Gente, simplesmente sensacional essa aventura pelas Yungas até a Puna de Salta! O tour da Best Argentina Tours foi super bem organizado, com guias atenciosos e paisagens de tirar o fôlego. Cada parada tem seu charme, desde as florestas úmidas até o deserto impressionante da puna. Aprendi muito sobre a cultura e a história locais, experimentei comidas diferentes e tirei fotos incríveis. Recomendo demais pra quem curte natureza, aventura e lugares fora do comum. Vale cada segundo! Não vejo a hora de voltar pra outros passeios com eles.

Da selva das Yungas ao incrível deserto da Puna

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Crossing From The Yungas To The Puna

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