Crossing From The Yungas To The Puna

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.