Considered one of the most beautiful regions in Argentina, the Calchaquí Valley dazzles with its vibrant colors, wide-open landscapes, and unique rock formations. Surrounded by the highest peaks of the Andes and dotted with ancient villages — both pre-Columbian and colonial — that remain largely untouched, this region invites us to explore it by bike, thanks to its breathtaking scenery and ideal climate.
the highlights
-Unique and original accommodations that are attractions in themselves
-Culinary experiences deeply connected to local viticulture
-Small-scale wineries producing high-altitude wines of renowned quality
-A rich cultural setting present at every turn, with the warm hospitality of northern Argentina
-An intense, complete, and truly unique cycling adventure unlike any other in the country
trip summary
Day Before – Arrival in Salta
We’ll focus on checking equipment, tuning, and customizing the bikes. In the afternoon, there will be a meeting with the guides to go over the tour details, general weather conditions in the area, maps, safety protocols, and group riding guidelines for the route.
Day 1 – Salta to Cachi
The journey begins with a transfer to Piedra del Molino, where we’ll start cycling. Along the way, we travel through the famous Cuesta del Obispo.
The starting point on the bikes is at 3,300 meters above sea level, but we quickly begin a long descent on paved roads toward the entrance of Las Coloradas Park.
We’ll ride across the entire park before taking an alternative route that leads us to the town of Cachi.
Day 2 – Cachi to Puente del Diablo and Back
An incredible day awaits, as we visit one of those truly special places: Puente del Diablo (The Devil’s Bridge). We'll take a hike through a river that flows inside a cavern, where you’ll see large, colorful stalactites hanging from the ceiling.
After this unforgettable experience, we’ll ride our bikes back to Cachi through a green valley surrounded by striking red rock walls.
Day 3 – Cachi to Seclantás, Brealito Lagoon, and Molinos
We begin with a short transfer to the start of the Artisans’ Route.
From there, on our bikes, we’ll explore this fascinating area where local craftsmen create beautiful handwoven pieces.
From the peaceful village of Seclantás, we start the climb to Brealito Lagoon, a serene body of water at 2,550 meters above sea level, surrounded by mountains.
The reward for the ascent isn’t just the stunning view — it's also the thrilling 35 km descent that follows, all the way to our overnight stop in the charming village of Molinos.
Day 4 – Molinos to Cuevas de Ascii and Back
The day begins with a climb towards Seclantás and then to Finca Montenieva. Here, we’ll leave our bikes behind and hop into 4x4 vehicles to reach one of those hidden, magical places: the Cuevas de Ascii. We’ll explore the caves on foot before returning to our bikes.
In the afternoon, we’ll take a different route back, following the riverbank until we reach Molinos.
Trek: 3 hours
Day 5 – Molinos to Cafayate
A day to enjoy the lush green valley and its plantations, contrasted with the red cliffs dotted with cacti. We’ll have lunch at a traditional northern farm before cycling through the magical landscape of the Quebrada de las Flechas.
After finishing the quebrada, we’ll continue downhill along the valley until we reach the bridge, where we’ll board a vehicle to continue on to Cafayate.
Day 6 – Cafayate (Wineries)
A day to rest your legs, explore this beautiful and traditional town, and visit some of the iconic wineries of northern Argentina. A journey into the heart of high-altitude winemaking culture, its history, unique characteristics, and the pride of the people who craft these special wines.
Day 7 – Cafayate to Quebrada de las Conchas and Salta
An amazing final day on the bikes. Starting from the hotel on paved roads, we’ll first visit the Los Estratos area before entering one of the region’s highlights: the Quebrada de las Conchas. This stunning gorge features towering rock formations, massive cliffs, and famous spots like the Amphitheater and the Devil’s Throat.
After completing the quebrada, we’ll continue downhill along the valley to the bridge over the Río de las Conchas, where we’ll board a vehicle to finish the day in San Carlos, a peaceful town just outside Salta city.
TRIP SUMMARY
Distance | Slope | Pavement | Gravel | Lodging | |
Day 1 | 73 km | 556 mts | 20 km | 53 km | Hotel |
Day 2 | 50 km | 330 mts | 0 km | 50 km | Hotel |
Day 3 | 67 km | 1100 mts | 0 km | 67 km | Hotel |
Day 4 | 44 km | 500 mts | 0 km | 44km | Hotel |
Day 5 | 60 km | 550 mts | 0 km | 60 km | Hotel |
Day 6 | Wineries | Hotel | |||
Day 7 | 63 km | 260 mts | 63 km | 0 km | Hotel |
