Crossing From The Yungas To The Puna

168 hrs
From
1.388.333 ARS

This remarkable trek in Jujuy offers an extraordinary adventure that links the Yungas with the Quebrada de Humahuaca, showcasing some of the most stunning landscapes in northern Argentina. Throughout the journey, you'll follow ancient paths that meander through lush jungles, deep canyons, and towering mountains.

This adventure invites you to delve into a constantly evolving environment, where you can witness condors soaring, with guanacos and vicuñas freely wandering. The stark contrast between the vibrant green of the rainforest and the arid expanse of the high mountains makes this journey a truly unique experience, where nature, culture, and adventure are experienced to their fullest extent.

Tour Description

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

The trek kicks off in Peña Alta and advances toward San Lucas, featuring a journey that spans several hours, navigating jungle paths and ravines. As you ascend, the scenery gradually evolves. Over the following days, the trek proceeds to Abra del Potrero and onward to Molulo, tracing ancient trails that link various mountainous regions, blending demanding sections with more expansive stretches.

Throughout the trek, accommodations vary within diverse mountain settings, alternating between campsites, shelters, and the homes of local inhabitants. This setup offers a deeper immersion into the land and its culture. Direct interaction also allows for an understanding of the region's traditions and customs while traversing historical paths utilized by indigenous communities.

As the journey progresses towards Yuto Pampa, the environment shifts to become more arid and elevated, revealing typical landscapes of the puna. Along this portion, there is constant interaction with nature, presenting chances to spot Andean wildlife such as condors, guanacos, and vicuñas amidst increasingly stunning backdrops.

The concluding day leads to Tilcara, crossing the trek's highest point at over 4,000 meters above sea level. This signals the arrival at the Quebrada de Humahuaca, where the arid, high-altitude landscape starkly contrasts with the rainforest starting point. The journey wraps up with an overnight in Tilcara, concluding an expedition that seamlessly blends nature, culture, and adventure on one of the most extensive 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 typically departs from the city of Salta and travels along scenic routes through the Yungas rainforest to the high Andean plateau. The tour includes sections along mountain roads, viewpoints, photo stops, and visits to small Andean villages, with interpretations of the local flora, fauna, and culture provided by a professional guide. It is a nature and landscape tourism activity. The usual duration is a full day (approximately 8 to 12 hours), subject to weather, road conditions, and the group's pace. The return to Salta is in the afternoon. The exact itinerary may vary.

The price of this tour typically includes round-trip transportation from a meeting point in Salta (or hotel pick-up within the city limits), a licensed tourist/4x4 vehicle, a bilingual local guide, basic passenger insurance, and interpretive stops at viewpoints. It usually does not include meals or drinks, entrance fees to optional attractions, tips, or personal expenses. Some tours offer a boxed lunch or lunch as an add-on. We recommend verifying what is included, the group size (regular or private tour), the language of the guide, and whether there are any surcharges for areas outside the designated pick-up zone when booking. Conditions may vary depending on the season and tour operator.

This is a tour of low to moderate difficulty, designed for travelers in average physical condition, but the altitude of the Puna can exceed 3,000-4,000 meters above sea level. The altitude can cause altitude sickness (headache, nausea, fatigue). It is recommended to acclimatize for 1-2 days in Salta, stay well hydrated, avoid alcohol, eat light meals, and walk at a leisurely pace. If you suffer from heart or respiratory conditions, hypertension, are pregnant, or are undergoing medical treatment, consult your doctor and inform the tour operator. Bring any prescribed medication. The guide monitors the group and adjusts stops accordingly. Children and seniors should have their participation assessed on a case-by-case basis.

The climate varies considerably between the Yungas and the Puna: humid, temperate rainforest at the base, dry winds, cold temperatures, and a wide temperature range at higher altitudes. Pack layers of clothing (technical t-shirt, fleece jacket, windproof/waterproof jacket), a hat or cap, high SPF sunscreen, lip balm, UV sunglasses, reusable water bottles, snacks, cash, ID, and a camera for landscape photography. Wear closed-toe shoes with good traction. Mountain rain is possible in summer; winter mornings are cold and the sun intense. Avoid strong perfumes, bring a trash bag and a portable charger. A small personal first-aid kit is always recommended.

To book the Yungas to Puna Crossing, choose your date, number of passengers, and tour type (regular or private) and confirm availability. During peak season, it's advisable to book in advance. Check the cancellation and rescheduling policy for weather or road closures; many operators offer flexible options with prior notice. For your safety, travel with insurance, follow the guide's instructions, wear your seatbelt, and avoid ledges and wildlife. Departure is usually in the morning from Salta; please present your voucher and ID. Arrive on time to make the most of all the tour stops.

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Crossing From The Yungas To The Puna

168 hrs
From 1.388.333 ARS

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Crossing From The Yungas To The Puna