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Crossing From The Puna To The Yungas

5 reviews

144 hrs

From

1.388.333 ARS

Embark on one of the most stunning journeys in northern Argentina with this trek from Tilcara to Calilegua. This unique route seamlessly connects the aridity of the Quebrada de Humahuaca to the lush Yungas rainforest. As you progress, you'll navigate through diverse landscapes, including high mountains, pampas, and deep gorges.

This adventure offers the chance to explore ancient trails with breathtaking views and direct contact with nature. Throughout the trek, you'll have the opportunity to observe Andean wildlife and engage with local communities in an authentic and remote environment, making each day an unforgettable experience.

Tour Description

Embark on this remarkable 6-day trek starting in Tilcara, nestled in the Jujuy province. Here, the group gathers to commence a trekking adventure that bridges two distinct ecosystems of northern Argentina. On the first afternoon, meet the guide for a general briefing and equipment check before settling in at the designated accommodation for the night.

The following day marks the beginning of the adventure with a transfer to the Devil's Throat, the starting point of the hike. The journey involves a gradual ascent leading to the Hornocal Pass at an altitude of over 4,000 meters, offering sweeping panoramic views of the region. The day concludes with a descent to the Yuto Pampa Refuge after a 7- to 9-hour trek covering roughly 17 kilometers through vast landscapes.

The expedition proceeds along high-altitude trails towards Molulo, navigating mountain paths for several hours until reaching this quaint community, where you'll enjoy an overnight stay in a family home. The next day, the trek crosses the Abra de Potrero pass, a high plateau offering expansive views, before descending to San Lucas after a challenging day of trekking that combines distance and elevation changes.

In the final days, the trek advances towards San Francisco, completing the journey with another extensive day of hiking through ravines, plains, and valleys. The landscape begins to transform, shifting from arid terrains to the lush vegetation of the Yungas, signifying a notable change in the natural environment.

Conclude the experience with a stroll to the Termas del Jordán (subject to availability and season), followed by a transfer to the city of San Salvador de Jujuy.

This marks the end of a truly unforgettable journey that melds extreme environments, blending cultural encounters with a full immersion into some of the most breathtaking landscapes of the Argentine Northwest.

What’s included?

What’s included:

- Transfer to San Salvador de Jujuy (bus terminal) at the end of the trek. - Lodging. - Mountain cuisine. - General camping logistics. - Porterage with mules for up to 5 kg of personal equipment. - General first-aid kit. - Guide with international WFR certification. - Assistance horse during the trek. - Handyman and satellite communication. - Professional mountain guides. - Guided tour to Termas de Jordán by a local guide (only available from July to November). - Detailed pre-activity briefing.

What’s NOT included:

- Travel to the meeting point. - Dinner in Tilcara (first night). - Expenses incurred due to early departure from the program. - Tips.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Puna to Yungas Crossing is a multi-day excursion that connects the high landscapes of the Puna with the Yungas rainforest of northwestern Argentina (Salta and Jujuy). The tour is usually done in a 4x4 vehicle with scenic stretches and stops for photography, landscape interpretation, and interaction with local communities. The typical itinerary includes salt flats, multicolored gorges, high-altitude viewpoints, and misty green valleys. The exact duration, daily distances, and accommodations may vary depending on the departure date and season. Before booking, please request the technical information sheet with the day-by-day program, schedules, type of accommodation, and logistical requirements.

The tour typically includes transportation in a certified 4x4 vehicle, a driver/guide or specialized local guide, accommodation in hostels or mountain huts (subject to availability), some meals as indicated in the program, safety briefings, radios or GPS, and basic on-route assistance. Flights, transfers before or after the tour, unspecified meals, beverages, personal expenses, tips, entrance fees to attractions not mentioned, and travel insurance are usually excluded. Conditions may change depending on the date and group size. To avoid surprises, request a written breakdown of included and excluded services, baggage policy, room types, special diets, and any potential single room surcharges.

This is a moderately challenging adventure tourism experience, with long days on the road and high-altitude crossings. It doesn't require technical skills, but good general fitness and tolerance for gravel and cliffside roads are necessary. At high altitudes, symptoms of altitude sickness such as headaches or fatigue may appear; it is recommended to stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, eat light meals, and consult a doctor if you have a history of heart, respiratory, or blood pressure problems. The tour is usually adapted to the group's pace, with optional short hikes and frequent stops. Purchasing travel insurance with altitude coverage is highly recommended.

The climate varies between the dry, cold Puna, with its wide temperature range and wind, and the humid Yungas, with its temperate to warm climate. Pack in layers: a base layer, fleece, and a waterproof/windproof jacket; comfortable pants, a hat, thin gloves, and a buff. Essentials: trekking boots with good grip, technical socks, high SPF sunscreen, UV sunglasses, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, a headlamp, a portable charger, and a first-aid kit with common medications. Protect your camera and phone from dust and rain. Pack light in a soft bag for easier loading in a 4x4. Check baggage limits, cash requirements, and any special dietary needs.

It can be done year-round, but the experience changes with the season. The dry season (approximately April to October) offers clear skies, better roads, and cool nights in the Puna, ideal for landscape photography and stargazing. During the austral summer (November to March), rain can affect gravel roads and create fog in the Yungas, with its vibrant greenery and increased wildlife activity. Long weekends and holidays are more popular. Consider dates with a new moon if you're interested in astrotourism. Always check road conditions and the weather forecast to adjust your itinerary, clothing, and 4x4 excursions.

Questions

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Traveler Class

Single

Type of Activity

Hiking & Trekking

Cost Level

Luxury

Cancellation Policy

General terms

Type of interest

Nature and Wildlife