This full-day trek takes you from Salta to the stunning wilderness of Los Cardones National Park. Encounter Inca archaeological sites, ancient cave paintings, and native wildlife as you hike along spectacular high plains. Your local guides will provide an in-depth encounter with the area’s wildlife, culture, and history.
Set out on this spectacular Cuesta del Obispo day hike from Salta for an in-depth discovery of one of the most astounding landscapes of the Argentine Northwest. This experience takes you from Salta to the stunning wilderness of Los Cardones National Park.
Here, you’ll set out on a 4-6 hour Cuesta del Obispo day hike. Along the way, you’ll encounter Inca archaeological sites and native wildlife. Your local guides will lead you through the high plains and provide an in-depth encounter with the area’s wildlife, culture, and history.
Duration: Full day (+/- 11 hours)
Start/End Location: Hotel pick-up/drop-off in Salta
Availability: Daily
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Walking Distance: 10 miles (17 kilometers)
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Hard
Booking Requirements: Minimum 2 travelers to book
Set out from Salta for your Day of Adventure
Begin your Cuesta del Obispo day hike with hotel pick-up in Salta and transfer southwest, where the landscape changes to breathtaking high altitude rainforests, or yungas. As the drive takes you to higher altitudes into the Escoipe Gorge, giant cacti, carob trees, and red rocks dominate the landscape.
As you cross the Enchanted Valley to the Cuesta del Obispo, you’ll wind along hillside roads to encounter green hills and valleys straight out of a fairy-tale.
Ride the Local Bus
After about 2 hours, you’ll transfer from your private vehicle to a local bus, used by lothe vehicle is left in a place named Margarita and the group take a local bus line, which is used by locals and tourists alike to reach off-the-beaten-path destinations. The bus will take you about 12 miles (20 kilometers) to the entrance of Los Cardones National Park where your trek begins
Trek to Condor Viewpoint
From the trailhead, you’ll begin your full-day hike to Condor Viewpoint. As you gain altitude and reach the crest of the ridge, you’ll get your first true look at the immensity of the Calchaqui Valley that extend to the Andean foothills.
You’ll hike for several hours then stop at isolated Inca ruins to rest and enjoy a snack and coffee/tea. Massive rock formations tower above. After checking out the site, you’ll continue hiking to reach Condor Viewpoint. Located 10,000 feet (3,000 meters) above sea level, this high plain is covered with meadow lands and wildflowers. Keep your eyes open for iconic Andean condors hovering overhead, catching warm air currents and rising high into the clear blue sky.
At Condor Viewpoint, you’ll enjoy a picnic lunch, then begin your trek down the mountain. Along the way, you’ll stop to check out the spectacular cave paintings that demonstrate the thousands of years of history that live in these mountains.
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After you book your experience, you will receive a confirmation email from us confirming that your payment went through. You will then be connected directly to the tour operator, in case you have any further questions. We are also happy to answer any questions about the tour, or travel in general in your country of destination.
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