Argentina – Part I
Argentina’s highlands
On October 14th, we crossed the spectacular Paso de Jama and entered Argentina, marking the beginning of a new and exciting chapter of our journey through the Andes. The border sits at over 4,200 meters of elevation, and the combination of thin air, snow-dusted peaks, and the endless horizon of the puna made the crossing both literally and figuratively breathtaking. Our first stop on Argentine soil was the dazzling Salinas Grandes, a vast white salt flat shimmering under the intense blue sky. Walking across the blindingly bright surface, surrounded by complete silence, felt almost surreal—a moment suspended between earth and sky.
From there, we descended through the dramatic mountain landscapes toward Salta, a vibrant colonial city known as “La Linda” (“the beautiful”). Our visit wasn’t just for sightseeing; we had scheduled important maintenance for our motorhome, including an oil change for the transfer case and the installation of four brand-new dampers. While waiting for the work to be completed, we took time to explore Salta’s charming plazas, colorful markets, and historic churches, soaking in the friendly atmosphere and enjoying local empanadas and regional wines.
Once the Iveco was ready to hit the road again, we continued south through the stunning Quebrada de las Conchas, with its red rock formations and sculpted canyons glowing in the late afternoon light, until we reached Cafayate. This laid-back wine town quickly became one of our favorite places. We visited Bodega Piattelli, where we indulged in a memorable wine tasting followed by a five-course gourmet lunch overlooking the vineyards. Surrounded by the beauty of the Calchaquí Valley, we savored every moment—good food, fine wine, and the warmth of the Argentine sun.
Continuing our journey, we crossed into the remote Calingasta Valley, a region of wide-open desert landscapes framed by the snow-capped Andes. There, we visited Parque Nacional El Leoncito, a hidden gem known for its crystal-clear skies and observatories. At night, we were rewarded with one of the most incredible star-filled skies we had ever seen—an unforgettable reminder of how vast and wild Argentina truly is.
Our next destination was Mendoza, Argentina’s wine capital, where we spent three delightful days. We explored elegant bodegas, dined at excellent restaurants, and sampled some of the finest Malbecs right at their source. Between tastings, we wandered through Mendoza’s leafy plazas and tree-lined avenues, enjoying the relaxed yet sophisticated ambiance of this beautiful city at the foot of the Andes.
On October 29th, after more than two enriching weeks in Argentina, we began our ascent toward the Paso Internacional Los Libertadores, crossing the Andes once again into Chile. The route, winding through tunnels and past towering peaks, offered breathtaking views all the way to the border. As we descended toward the Chilean side, we both agreed: Argentina had captivated us with its landscapes, wines, and warm hospitality—and there’s no doubt we’ll return to explore much more of this extraordinary country.
