Northern Argentina
South America - Self-drive
Itinerary idea: Salta, Jujuy (Purmamarca, Salinas Grandes, Humahuaca), Cachi, Ruta 40, Cafayate, Quilmes, Tafí del Valle, Iguazú, Buenos Aires
Strengths: Colourful canyons, salt flats, vineyards, Andean culture, Iguazú falls, moderate costs
Weaknesses: High altitudes with a child, cold nights, domestic flights to add
Children and safety: Altitude sickness above 3,000 m, cold nights; Iguazú is great for children
Weather: Dry, days 18-22 °C, sub-zero nights at altitude; hot at Iguazú
Book ahead: 4-6 months
Key facts
- Best time to go: April and May, September to November
- Flight from Milan: about 15 hours
- Rain days in August: 1
- Daylight hours in August: 11
- Driving: on the right
- Malaria: none
- Visa (EU citizens): No
- International licence: Yes
- Currency: Argentine peso (ARS), US dollars or euros in cash are useful
- Language: Spanish
- Roads: Paved and dirt (Ruta 40), passes up to 4,170 m
- Vaccinations: Yellow fever recommended for Iguazú; hepatitis A
Ratings (1 to 5)
- Ease of getting around: 3
- Child friendly: 3
- Scenery and wildlife: 5
- August weather: 3
- Logistics ease: 3