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Why Choose Poncho Tours?

Poncho Tours is a family company working with a select group of English-speaking guides, expert local providers, and boutique hotels. We are now in our 18th year of organising tailor-made tours for clients from 51 different countries across the world.

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Nick and Alicia met in 1999 on a bus from Bolivia to Peru, and discovered they shared a passion for travel. After moving from London to Salta in northwest Argentina in 2008, Nick, a journalist and TV producer, and Alicia, a History teacher, turned their old colonial house into a B&B, and started taking some of the guests on tours. And so Poncho Tours was born! The travel operator remains dedicated to providing a bespoke, personalized service from start to finish: helping you decide where to go in Argentina.

Why choose us?

Poncho Tours - Argentina Tour Packages Since 2008, we have been providing exclusive personalised Argentina private tours to intrepid travellers like you. All of our tours in South America are escorted by a select group of knowledgeable English-speaking guides. Instead of offering identikit Argentina group tours, we arrange a local experience. We're sure you'll find our tours to be adventurous, informative, and exciting.

South America's True Gems Salta, Argentina

We are based in North West Argentina: one of South America's true gems. This is a region rich in history and indigenous culture boasting some of the most spectacular landscapes on earth. The Cafayate wine region lies to the south, while a short hop across the Andes lies the famous Chilean Atacama desert and to the north are the breathtakingly beautiful Salares of Uyuni in Bolivia. We specialize in hiking and wine tours, but whatever your interests we can design a bespoke holiday in Argentina to suit your tastes: from history to horse-riding, music to mountain biking, indigenous life to nightlife.

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With a dedicated English speaking driver/guide, we’ll take you on a personalised private tour exploring the best of the north west. All our guides have an intimate knowledge of the scenery, people and places of interest: and we guarantee to take you to the places where the tour buses don’t go!

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Tailor-made tours & English-speaking guides.

13 Spectacular Argentina Tours & Adventures

Discover Argentina Trough a Tailor-Made Journey

Explore Argentina with English-speaking private guides

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Explore Argentina, Bolivia, And Chile With Poncho Tours

Welcome to Poncho Tours, your local contact in Salta, Argentina! We offer custom tours of the natural wonders, the colourful streets, and the award-winning wine country of Latin America. Since 2008 our company has provided personalized Argentina travel packages tailor-made to be the trip of your dreams. Join us as we explore the best of Argentina, Bolivia, and Chile. Our English-speaking local guides are passionate about sharing South America's history, food, and culture on a private tour. Argentina trips with Poncho Tours include personalized experiences like small boutique hotels and local restaurants with the best Argentinian beef. Let us show you the best wineries to enjoy a glass of deep red Malbec wine. Whether you prefer llama trekking, exploring the Bolivia salt flats, or adventure in the Andes Mountains, we are here to create unforgettable memories. We know that travelling can be stressful. Our Argentina vacation packages take care of the details so you can relax and enjoy yourselves. With a local guide to escort your Argentina tour, there is no need to worry about local bus schedules, language barriers, and currency differences. We've put together Argentina tours that will take you into some of the more popular locations in Northwest Argentina, plus some hidden gems you wouldn't want to miss. Learn more about us

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The Choices Are Yours

Why choose us?

Poncho Tours - Argentina Tour Packages Since 2008, we have been providing exclusive personalised Argentina private tours to intrepid travellers like you. All of our tours in South America are escorted by a select group of knowledgeable English-speaking guides. Instead of offering identikit Argentina group tours, we arrange a local experience. We're sure you'll find our tours to be adventurous, informative, and exciting.

Argentina Vacation

The first thing to remember when you visit Argentina is that you'll never have enough time to see it all. The amazing food, world-class wine, friendly people, and stunning landscape will call for you to visit again next year. Planning to take tours to Argentina every year gives you time to properly explore UNESCO world heritage sites like the Quebrada de Humahuaca, as well as the wine region of the Valles Calchaquies, the Cloud Forest of Calilegua and the huge open spaces of the Andean mountain plateau in the north west of Argentina, where Poncho Tours is based. The best time to visit Argentina is during the shoulder season. The lovely spring months of September to November and the fall months of March to May. That is when travellers will find good weather and fewer crowds in Argentina's busy capital city, Buenos Aires, through which every visitor must pass through and spend a few days. In the north west, rainy season is January and February, and the winter holidays are in July.

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Mountains to Cloud Forest trekking

Sales Pitch

This deep dive into the tranquility of north west Argentina's extraordinary landscape takes you into areas most locals haven't even explored. It straddles two completely different eco systems: the semi-desert Quebrada de Humahuaca and verdant green Cloud Forest.

Days 1 & 2: we travel north into the Quebrada de Humahuaca, seeing all the main highlights of this colourful canyon, including the Seven Coloured hill of Purmamarca, the Painter’s Palette of Maimara and (weather and time permitting) the Fourteen Coloured Hill of Hornocal. There are also many vestiges of the past in this historic area, an important stop along the main road from Buenos Aires to Lima in colonial times: ancient churches, a Spanish fort and pre-Inca ruins. We’ll also visit the salt flats of the Salinas Grandes: and may also have time to visit one of the new boutique wineries in this developing wine region. 

Day 3: hike day 1: we set off from Tilcara in local transport to begin our hike in the hills above Casa Colorada, and start with a tough climb of 6km which takes us up to lunchtime: reaching a peak of 4,200m altitude, the highest point along the whole journey. After lunch in the mountains with a view of the 5,050 peak of Cerro Naranjo (Orange Tree Hill), there’s a gradual descent across an open plain studded with lagoons, pools, yaretilla grass hillocks and pink quartzite rock (if we’re lucky we’ll spot wild guanaco or vicuña). Then we take a narrow mountain path, offering panoramic views of our destination in three days’ time: Calilegua Cloud forest, shrouded in mist and mystery.

distance: 16km: hiking time: 8 to 10 hrs: highest altitude: 4,150m: overnight altitude: 3,215m.

Day 4: hike day 2: for the first couple of hours, we zig-zag up the opposite side of the mountain from our point of arrival yesterday, arriving at an Apacheta shrine: a cairn built by the ancient peoples to mark high crossings at just over 3,500m. We are rewarded with stunning views of the Cloud Forest at every turn of the narrow mountain trail. After hiking through open hillsides we descend to our overnight stop of Molulo, Here, If we arrive early enough, we can visit the residential primary school nearby: 14 pupils whose families live in the nearby hamlets live and study here, 20 days on and 10 days off.

distance: 12km: hiking time: 6 to 8 hrs: highest altitude 3,500m: overnight altitude: 3,450m.

Day 5: hike day 3: for most of the third day, we transition into the verdant landscape of Calilegua Cloud forest: gently descending before a final (and tough!) 2km climb at the end of the day. From here we follow the rolling green hills to the small settlement of adobe houses that is San Lucas: one of the most delightful villages in northwest Argentina.  

distance: 18km: hiking time: 8 to 10 hrs: highest altitude 3,060m: overnight altitude: 1,865m. 

Day 6: hike day 4: the final short day trek takes us through the lush green valleys and red rockscape of the Cloud forest: if we’re lucky we’ll spot condors nesting here. As the hike ends at Peña Alta (1,353m altitude), we bid farewell to our baqueano and the mules who head off on their three day return to Tilcara. From here, we can return directly to Salta or continue on to the Bolivia wine region. 

distance: 12km: hiking time: 5 to 6 hrs: highest altitude 1,865m. 

overall distance: 58 km over 4 days

highest altitude: 4,200m

maximum distance per day: 18km

grade of difficulty: 5/5

Available April to November

Highlights

• That top of the world feeling
• Abra el Potrero picnic
• Our faithful mules take a break

Included

• Own private vehicle (days 1 & 2)
• All meals and accommodation during hike
• English-speaking Driver/Guide accompanied by Local Spanish-speaking hiking guide

Not Included

• Accommodation on days 1 & 6
• Sun Protection
• Hiking equipment
• Meals on days 1 & 2

Location

We can pick you up direct from Salta airport or from your chosen hotel in the city.

Bolivia’s high altitude wine

Sales Pitch

From Salta, we take the road north, through the steamy sugar-growing region, skirting the majestic Cloud Forest of Calilegua, a UNESCO protected area containing 300 different species of birds and 100 different types of mammal.

Crossing into Bolivia, you will immediately detect a difference in atmosphere: with less European immigration than Argentina, this feels much more like stepping into the South American outback. 

Driving along the banks of Rio Bermejo, we enjoy the verdant subtropical scenery, stopping for a traditional lunch of local surubi fish or empanadas.     

We will spend two nights in Tarija, a jewel of a city founded in 1574 which has been compared to Salta for its colonial charm. In between wine tastings, we recommend a hike up to the viewpoint of Mirador de los Sueños, an interesting architectural fancy with great views of the city. 

Vines were first planted here by Franciscan monks in 1602: they thrive in this valley which is protected by a range of hills, with echoes of the landscape around Cafayate in the Salta wine region.

The first Tannat grapes were laid in 1999 at Aranjuez winery, completing changing the game, as this little known red variety has proved spectacularly successful here. Other red varieties we will try here include Cabernet Sauvignon, Marselan and Cabernet Franc, while white wines include Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Muscatel of Alexandria, which is also used to make the local spirit of singani. 

Besides the wineries, the Palaentological museum has some excellent examples of dinosaur remains discovered in Tarija valley, while the art nouveau Casa Dorada (Golden House) is a fascinating glimpse into Tarija’s prosperous history.

It’s the former home of Moises Navajas Ichazo, a Tarija trader who imported luxury items from Europe to be sold all over Bolivia and Argentina in the prosperous heyday of this part of Latin America in the early decades of the 20th century. His former home has been converted into a museum and includes many precious objects from his private collection.

• Travelling north, this trip can be combined with the biggest salt flats in the world at Salar de Uyuni, and, if you have time, even further on to the floating islands on Lake Titicaca across the border in Peru.
• For more on Bolivian wine, read our blog on the high altitude wine region of Tarija. 

Highlights

• Tasting at Aranjuez winery
• Street art in Tarija city centre
• Singani distilling tanks at Kuhlmann

Included

• Bilingual tour guide
• Private tailor-made tour
• Vehicle & guide costs

Not Included

• Meals
• Accommodation
• Wine tasting fees

Location

We can pick you up direct from Salta airport or from your chosen hotel in the city.

Wine and Mountains

Sales Pitch

From Salta city, we head south into the Valles Calchaquies over one or two days, acclimatizing with overnights at close to 2,000m altitude before climbing into the very southern edge of Argentina’s mountain plateau, where we rise gradually to nearly 4,000m altitude.

You will witness a complete change of landscape as we transition from the valley to the Altiplano: we are rewarded with views of snow-topped mountains and lagoons speckled with wild vicuña, the cameloids of the high mountain plateau. We arrive in El Peñon, an oasis of a town set in the middle of the plain, and a strategic jumping-off spot to visit the extraordinary lunar landscape of the Piedra Pomez (pumice stone) fields at the very southern edge of the Altiplano.

We can visit Laguna Grande, home to thousands of flamingoes during the breeding season of September to March and the pukara (fort) of La Alumbrera, built by the Belen tribe, dating from 1,000AD. This vantage point offers some great views of the lagoons, the Puna town of Antofagasta de la Sierra, and the mountains beyond.

We will visit the oasis town of Antofalla, then head on to the Cono de Arita Salt Pyramid, set like an island in the ocean of the biggest salt flat in Argentina, the Salar of Arizaro: from here it’s a short journey north with some breathtaking close up views of the Andes mountain range, onto Tolar Grande.

This old railway town in the shadow of the volcano of Llullaillaco is set in an extraordinary red rock landscape.

We return to Salta through the Desierto del Diablo, via the viaduct of La Polvorilla where the Tren a las Nubes (Train to the Clouds) finishes its journey, and the Quebrada del Toro: another complete change of landscape, where we can visit the pre-Inca ruins of Tastil.

Highlights

• How was the Cono de Arita pyramid created?
• Unwinding in Colome vineyard
• Visit The Largest Salt Flat In The Argentine Altiplano

Included

• Bilingual tour guide
• Private tailor-made tour
• Vehicle and guide costs

Not Included

• Food
• Accommodation
• Wine tasting fees

Location

We can pick you up direct from Salta airport or from your chosen hotel in the city.

Fourteen Colours & Cloud Forest

Sales Pitch

We head north from Salta to San Salvador de Jujuy, following the old mountain road between these two historic cities, before climbing into the Quebrada de Humahuaca. This is the old Spanish supply route from Buenos Aires to Lima, and it's peppered with history from the past 1,000 years. The Inca adapted an 11th century indigenous hill settlement at Tilcara, in the middle of the Quebrada, and when the Spanish arrived they built churches, including Uquia’s San Francisco which has some rare and startling artwork. And a Spanish fort at Hornillos has been converted into a museum dedicated to the War of Independence, much of which was fought up and down the Quebrada de Humahuaca two centuries ago.

We explore the multi-coloured canyon of the Quebrada de Humahuaca, famous for the Seven Coloured Hill of Purmamarca, and cross the 4,200m peak of the Cuesta de Lipan to take in the spectacular Salinas Grandes salt flats on the road west to Chile. Then we climb out of the canyon to the Serranias de Hornocal, where a viewpoint at 4,350m altitude offers a spectacular view of the Hill of Fourteen Colours in the perfect afternoon light. Next we follow a winding mountain road with stunning views of the mountain range to the predominantly indigenous adobe village of Santa Ana.

This is the gateway to the Yungas of Calilegua Cloud Forest (“Yungas” means “Warm valley” in Quechua). After the dry, desert-like cactus-peppered landscape of Humahuaca canyon, now we gradually descend 2,000m in altitude into the lush, sub-tropical vegetation of the Cloud Forest, taking photos of the extraordinary change in scenery along the way.

For hikers, there is a stretch of the Inca trail here which is easily accessible and outstanding for its excellent condition. (Outside Peru, Argentina has the most identifiable remains of Inca trail in South America, with 119km.) There are also some great hiking trails in Calilegua Cloud Forest, home to 3,000 different varieties of plant, 300 different types of birds and 100 different species of mammal.

This trip can be combined easily with the Bolivia wine region. 

Available April to November.

Highlights

• The perfect setting of Iruya
• Los Colorados trek in the magic hour
• Hike in the Cloud Forest of Calilegua

Included

• Bilingual tour guide
• Private tailor-made tour
• Vehicle and guide costs

Not Included

• Food
• Accommodation

Location

We can pick you up direct from Salta airport or from your chosen hotel in the city.

Mountain Trekking in Iruya

Sales Pitch

Our expedition begins with a night of acclimatization in Tilcara, at 2,500m: and a chance to explore the highlights of the Quebrada de Humahuaca, famous for the Cerro de Siete Colores (Seven Coloured Hill) at Purmamarca and the Painter’s Palette of Maimara. This is also an opportunity to sample the nightlife at one of Tilcara’s celebrated folk music peñas before heading off into the rural tranquility of the mountains.

We'll head north from the Quebrada de Humahuaca, following a track that crosses rivers and climbs a mountainside, rising to a peak of 4,000m at Abra del Condor. We'll spend the night in Iruya, a remote, predominantly indigenous town perched picturesquely in the cleft of a canyon at 2,800m.

The next day, we'll head into the hills, following a steep zigzagging path to the plain of Panti Pampa at 3,168m altitude: along the way, there are plenty of opportunities to stop for a breather and sample the must-see views of the valley. After a picnic lunch, we'll follow a narrow mountain track to San Juan: here we stay with a local family, cooking dinner for us in their traditional adobe home.

distance 10km: hiking time 5 to 6 hours: highest altitude 3,168m: overnight altitude 2,900m

After our night with the locals, and waking up in the splendid peace of the mountains, we head further up the valley for a tough zigzagging uphill climb, to reach an altitude of 3,500m. The hillside is scattered with lava rock from long-ago volcanic eruptions. From a stunning vantage point at the top, we can watch for condors, swooping low if we're lucky, before the descent to San Isidro past the traditionally irrigated crop fields.

distance 6km: hiking time 5 to 6 hours: highest altitude 3,505m: overnight altitude 2,850m

Finally, after scaling the mountains, we will enjoy the gentle relief of descent along the riverbed, where you can see the spectacular rock formations of the gorge. We return to Iruya tired but transformed by the natural wonder of this remote part of northwest Argentina. From here we can return to Salta or continue north towards the Bolivian border. 

distance 8km: hiking time 3 to 4 hours: highest altitude 2,903m

overall distance: 24 km over two and a half days

highest altitude: 3,505m

maximum distance per day: 10km

grade of difficulty: 3/5

Highlights

• Stay with the locals in their isolated homes.
• Experience UNESCO Site Adventures.
• Top of the world above Iruya valley.

Included

• English-speaking Driver/Guide accompanied by Local Spanish-speaking hiking guide
• All meals and accommodation during hike
• Own private vehicle (days 1, 2 & 5)

Not Included

• Sun Protection
• Hiking equipment
• Meals on days 1 & 2

Location

We can pick you up direct from Salta airport or from your chosen hotel in the city.

Expedition to the Cloud Forest

Sales Pitch

Calilegua was designated a national park in 1979 to protect the biodiversity of the Yungas Cloud Forest: it’s home to 3,000 different plant species and 200 different types of tree, with the vegetation changing as we rise from Selva Pedemontana (lower mountain jungle) at 500m above sea level to Bosque Montano (mountain forest) at 1,500m.

We go hiking along established trails in the national park where among the wildlife we’ll find the ruins of an old pirka dry stone wall built by the San Francisco tribe that inhabited these forests 2,000 years ago. We will spend the night in the picturesque hill town of the same name, now home to many of the former sugar workers and small farmers moved here to make way for the national park.

On Day 2, we have got a choice of hikes: a 9km round trip descending to the hot springs of the Termas de Jordan or a 13km round trip climbing into the hills around San Francisco, offering some great views of the valley. Or, if you want to take it easy, we can return to the national park and follow some gentler, flatter trails.

A second night can be spent in the relative luxury of a hotel with a swimming pool in the steamy sugar city of Libertador Gen San Martin, close to the entrance of Calilegua.

Grade of Difficulty: 2/5

Available April to November

Highlights

• Sugar-growing region of Jujuy
• Ruins of an old pirka dry stone wall
• Morning clouds in Calilegua

Included

• Bilingual tour guide
• Private tailor-made tour
• Vehicle and guide costs

Not Included

• Food
• Accommodation

Location

We can pick you up direct from Salta airport or from your chosen hotel in the city.

Colours of Vallecito

Sales Pitch

We travel south from Salta through the Parque Nacional de los Cardones into the Valles Calchaquies. We will have time for a couple of hours hiking along the way, and could even visit a vineyard in the world's highest-altitude wine region.

Overnight and acclimatization in Cachi (2,300m altitude), a restful, scenic town protected by a 6,300m mountain range.

On our first day of full hiking, we follow a riverbed upstream, hitting the 3,000m altitude mark before a picnic lunch. Then it’s a tough climb to a peak of 3,558m, our highest altitude along the whole walk, to be rewarded by some stunning views of the snow-topped mountains of Cachi, Palermo, and San Miguel: and the multi-colored canyon of Vallecito. We arrive at Patahuasi for our overnight stop in the adobe brick home of Juan and Nilda. They will cook us dinner before the night’s entertainment: marveling at the stunning starscape in this corner of the wilderness.

distance 16km: hiking time 6 to 8 hrs: highest altitude 3,558m: overnight altitude 3,531m

The following day we descend gently into Vallecito canyon: a little-visited spot of great natural beauty between the Valles Calchaquies and the gorge of the Quebrada del Toro. We can visit the primary school where a teacher and a cook live most of the year dedicated to a handful of pupils. The landscape over the next few kilometres, as we continue our descent along the river bed, was transformed by a mudslide during the rainy season of summer 2016. A 10-metre deep channel was gouged out in the course of a few hours: an example of the dramatic erosion which constantly changes the landscape in this area. Overnight in the adobe home of Beto and Elda.

distance 13km: hiking time 4 to 5 hrs: highest altitude 3,531m (start): overnight altitude 2,690m

An early morning start to walk out of the valley, climbing to a peak of 3,276m, with great views of snow-topped mountains and the Parque Nacional de Los Cardones. We get a birds’ eye view of Payogasta valley before descending for lunch: empanadas and cold Salta beer. From here we can visit the Inca ruins of Potrero before returning to Salta. Or, with a few extra days, we can continue by vehicle south into the Valles Calchaquies wine region or north towards La Poma and the Altiplano mountain plateau.

distance 17km: hiking time 6 to 8 hrs: highest altitude 3,276m

overall distance: 46 km over 3 days

highest altitude: 3,558m

maximum distance per day: 18km

grade of difficulty: 4/5

Highlights

• Experience The View of the Untouched Landscapes
• Gauchos Beto & Jose with our kids
• Horses Descend to Vallecito

Included

• English-speaking Driver/Guide accompanied by Local Spanish-speaking hiking guide
• Own private vehicle (days 1 & 5)
• All meals and accommodation

Not Included

• Sun Protection
• Dinner on Day 1
• Hiking equipment

Location

We can pick you up direct from Salta airport or from your chosen hotel in the city.

Essential Humahuaca

Sales Pitch

We take the old mountain road north from Salta city, a taste of the verdant sub-tropical Yungas forest to the east of the Andes, into the neighbouring province of Jujuy. From the capital of San Salvador de Jujuy, we climb in altitude above 2,000m into the colourful canyon of the Quebrada de Humahuaca. 

Celebrated for the Seven Coloured Hill in Purmamarca, our first stop, beyond the Quebrada de Humahuaca rising to 4,350m altitude is the lesser known Fourteen Coloured hill at the Serrania de Hornocal, a spectacular limestone depression formed hundreds of millions of years ago. We’ll arrive to see it in the perfect late afternoon light.

The Quebrada de Humahuaca is along the old Spanish colonial trade route from Buenos Aires to Lima, so it’s packed with history: there are old colonial churches with adobe walls and cactus wood roofs, (including one at Uquia with a rare cuzqueño art collection), a Spanish fort now converted into a museum dedicated to the War of Independence, and there are pre-Inca ruins at Tilcara. 

On day 2, we will head across the Eastern range of the Andes to the Salinas Grandes salt flats before returning to Salta via the tobacco and sugar fields.

With an extra day, this is also excellent territory for hiking, horseriding, mountain biking, or even walking with llama! Jujuy is also becoming known for its emerging boutique wineries. As ever, we’re here to tailor the tour to your request, so just let us know what you’d like to do.

Highlights

• Street corner in Purmamarca
• Llama trekking in Los Colorados, Purmamarca
• Humahuaca Street Mural

Included

• Bilingual tour guide
• Private tailor-made tour
• Vehicle and guide costs

Not Included

• Food
• Accommodation

Location

We can pick you up direct from Salta airport or from your chosen hotel in the city.

Classic Wine Route

Sales Pitch

We head south through the tobacco fields of the Valle de Lerma, and take the winding mountain road up the Cuesta del Obispo, rising to a peak of 3,500m to cross into the Parque Nacional de Los Cardones, where candelabra cacti pepper the landscape as far as the eye can see. We will visit the picturesque towns of Payogasta and Cachi, and may also make a trip to see rarely-visited Inca ruins at Potrero. In Cachi, as in most small towns of the Andean northwest, you'll see typical buildings of adobe and cactus wood, including the beautifully preserved church: this is also our first chance to visit a boutique vineyard.

We continue our trip south through Salta's Argentine wine country via the historic town of Molinos, home of the last ever Spanish Royalist governor, and the picturesque villages of Seclantas and Angastaco: all set in outstanding and constantly-changing scenery. The Quebrada de las Flechas is a breath-taking lunar landscape. I hope we can find time to visit the wine resort of Colomé, which boasts the highest altitude vineyards in the world, and an excellent museum dedicated to the Californian artist James Turrell.

We arrive in Cafayate, the hub of Salta's wine region, and home to some of the best boutique vineyards in the New World. We will take you to family wineries where you can try Argentina's classic Malbec, Salta province's trademark white Torrontes (even in a sparkling version), and some more unusual varieties you may not have tried before. And don’t miss the delicious wine ice cream!

Just south of Cafayate, at the pre-Inca ruins of Quilmes, you’ll discover the extraordinary story of this Diaguita tribe who lived an independent life for centuries, until the Spanish invaders cruelly broke their resistance. Nearby, at Amaicha del Valle, is one of the most impressive museums in Argentina, a work of art in itself: Pachamama Museum, dedicated to the pre-Hispanic indigenous culture.

We return to Salta via the stunning ochre landscape of the Quebrada de las Conchas, a former river bed thought to be 60 million years old. It's not hard to imagine dinosaurs stalking this prehistoric-looking landscape.

Highlights

• Hike viewpoint La Yesera
• Strolling through Colome
• The old road to Molinos

Included

• Bilingual tour guide
• Private tailor-made tour
• Vehicle & guide costs

Not Included

• Food
• Accommodation
• Wine tasting fees

Location

We can pick you up direct from Salta airport or from your chosen hotel in the city.

Wine and History: Salta to Mendoza

Highlights

• Chañarmuyo posada, La Rioja
• Pachamama museum, Tucuman
• Shinkal Inca ruins, Catamarca

Included

• Bilingual tour guide
• Private tailor-made tour
• Vehicle and guide costs

Not Included

• Food
• Accommodation
• Wine tasting fees

Location

We can pick you up direct from Salta airport or from your chosen hotel in the city.

Footsteps of the Conquistadores

Sales Pitch

We head north from Salta to San Salvador de Jujuy, following the old mountain road between these two historic cities, before climbing into the Quebrada de Humahuaca. This is the old Spanish supply route from Buenos Aires to Lima, and it’s replete with history from the past milennium. The Inca adapted an 11th century indigenous hill settlement at Tilcara, the pukara fort. When the Spanish arrived, they built churches, including Uquia’s San Francisco which has some rare and startling artwork. A colonial fort at Hornillos has been converted into a museum dedicated to the War of Independence, much of which was fought up and down the Quebrada de Humahuaca two centuries ago.

After passing through the relatively heavily populated Quebrada, we rise in altitude into the Puna, the mountain plateau of northern Argentina, through the colourful limestone rockscape of Tres Cruces, and visit the town of Abra Pampa, which remains to this day a hub for indigenous trade in llama, salt blocks, quinoa, and sweetcorn.

One of our overnight stops is Yavi, close to the Bolivian border, home to a 17th-century church and an old colonial house with an extraordinary history. At nearby Laguna Colorado there are petroglyph rock paintings from hunter-gatherer times. We also stay in arguably the oldest settlement in Argentina, Santa Catalina (founded in 1547), gateway to Laguna de los Pozuelos, a high altitude Altiplano lagoon that is home to 44 species of birds, including a colony of 25,000 flamingoes.

From here we take the classic Route 40, which links Argentina from north to the south along more than 5,000km, through some of the most remote parts of the country, many of them old and existing mining settlements like Pirquitas, Susques, and San Antonio de los Cobres: the latter is where the famous Tren a las Nubes (Train to the Clouds) makes its journey. We return to Salta through the Quebrada del Toro, visiting the pre-hispanic ruins of Tastil, and can also take a walk of two or three hours along a little-known section of the Inca trail.

Highlights

• Cusi Cusi's spectacular Valle de Luna
• The old Spanish Fort of Hornillos
• The Jugueteria geological formations

Included

• Bilingual tour guide
• Private tailor-made tour
• Vehicle and guide costs

Not Included

• Food
• Accommodation

Location

We can pick you up direct from Salta airport or from your chosen hotel in the city.

Salt & Seven Colours

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We head north along the mountain road from Salta to San Salvador de Jujuy, a taste of the verdant sub-tropical forest to the east of the Andes mountain range, rising into the Quebrada de Humahuaca, a canyon gouged out of the landscape with the eruption of the Andes between 12 and 15 million years ago.

The Quebrada de Humahuaca is remarkable not just for its great multi-coloured landscape, but its pre-Inca ruins, numerous old colonial churches, and characterful indigenous markets. It is also developing into Argentina's latest wine region, so let us know if you'd like to visit some of the world's newest boutique wineries. And of course, there’s the famous Seven Coloured Hill in Purmamarca which we’ll see in its best (morning) light, climbing up to a superb viewpoint which takes us away from the crowds.

From Purmamarca, we climb 2,000m in altitude in a winding 30km drive up the Cuesta de Lipan: a spectacular ascent of the outer Eastern range of the Andes, before descending to the Salinas Grandes, one of the most beautiful salt flats in Argentina.

Here you’ll see miners digging crystal salt from high altitude pools in temperatures of 30°C plus. You’ll also meet ex-workers who, thanks to tourism, now make a living carving salt block into ornamental llama and cacti, and etching impressive carvings on slates from the surrounding hills.

After a night in the high-altitude town of Susques (3,615m), we travel along the iconic Route 40 which runs all the way to Patagonia. We travel through stunning Altiplano scenery, including a close view of Tuzgle volcano, before emerging at La Polvorilla viaduct, the final destination for the Train to the Clouds near the mountain town of San Antonio de Los Cobres (at an altitude of 3,770m), where the sky is always blue and clear and the sunsets are spectacular.

On our final day, we’ll visit the pre-Inca ruins of Tastil and discover the mysterious story of the community who lived here, before returning to Salta through the multi-coloured and sparsely populated Quebrada del Toro.

On the four-day trip, we can also take a hike along a rugged and little-explored section of the Inca trail.

Highlights

• The majestic Cuesta de Lipan, Jujuy
• Tastil ruins in the Quebrada del Toro
• Horseriding in Maimara

Included

• Bilingual tour guide
• Private tailor-made tour
• Vehicle and guide costs

Not Included

• Food
• Accommodation
• Wine tasting fees

Location

We can pick you up direct from Salta airport or from your chosen hotel in the city.

Wine and History: Mendoza to Cafayate

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From Mendoza, we take the mountain road to Villavicencio, offering great views of Mount Aconcagua, the highest peak in the Andes at 6,965m, on the way to Uspallata, gateway to Chile across the Andes.

We follow the scenic route up into San Juan province, staying overnight at Barreal, a delightful refuge close to the mountains in the Calingasta valley. Here you can sample the province's trademark Shiraz and even a Pinot Grigio, before crossing into La Rioja with its spectacular desert scenery. Villa Union is an excellent base to add an extra day and visit the parks of Talampaya and Ischigualasto (Valle de la Luna): the only places in the world which exhibit geology from the whole of the Triassic period, between 248 and 206 million years ago.

To the west, is the spectacular Andean mountain scenery of Laguna Brava, so it’s always worth adding another extra day to the itinerary!

We continue north along Route 40 across the stunning Cuesta de Miranda mountain road to Chilecito, the historic centre of western Argentina’s mining region: and also home to a large scale wine co-operative, La Riojana, and the combined olive and wine operation of Valle la Puerta. North of here in the Famatina valley, Chañarmuyo winery is one of our favourite overnight stops, producing fine Tannat and an excellent sparkling Pinot Noir rose.

Now we’re really off the beaten track following the historic Ruta de Adobe in Catamarca, visiting some 18th century chapels and boutique vineyards in Tinogasta. En route to Belen, we will visit the keynote Inca ruins of Argentina of Shinkal, and the pre-Inca ruins of Quilmes, before arriving in Cafayate, Salta’s premier wine town, celebrated for producing the best white Torrontes in the country.

The five day trip finishes in Cafayate where, with our guide’s recommendations, you can sample the best large and small wineries under your own steam. Or continue your journey with us to Salta city via the Quebrada de las Conchas, or take the longer road through the northern Valles Calchaquies, visiting the high altitude wine resort of Colome.

Highlights

• Shrine in La Rioja
• Cuesta de Huaco, San Juan
• Harvest time is February to April

Included

• Bilingual tour guide
• Private tailor-made tour
• Vehicle and guide costs

Not Included

• Food
• Accommodation
• Wine tasting fees

Location

Pick you up from your hotel in Mendoza.

Salta City Tour

Sales Pitch

The best place to begin in most Spanish colonial cities is in the main square.

Apart from the fact that it’s the hub of daily life, with cafes, bars, and usually the old town hall and cathedral, everything you want to see in Salta radiates from here.

On the Plaza 9 de Julio, we’ll visit the Cathedral, and the old cabildo (town hall), and stroll a few blocks to the 17th century San Francisco church and the convent of San Bernardo. Along the way to the Guemes monument, commemorating the local hero from the War of Independence, we will point out some of our favourite shops selling artisan wares from all over north west Argentina.

Apart from the leatherware and expertly crafted knives, typical of this part of Argentina are hand-weavings from llama wool, crafted carvings from cactus wood and religious icons which illustrate the blending of indigenous and Catholic belief.

There are two unmissable museums which you can visit in your own time: the MAAM High Altitude Mountain Museum and the Guemes museum just a couple of blocks away. 

Our longer tour in a car over five or six hours taking in the environs of Salta including:

• The nearby leafy, sub-tropical summer retreat of San Lorenzo (an excellent spot for hiking).
• Campo Quijano: the gateway to the Andes, this town developed in the 1920's as home to railway workers constructing the Tren a las Nubes or Train to the Clouds.
• La Caldera: see the imposing 18 metre high statue of Christ, visible for miles around and explore the picturesque 18th century Jesuit church in this tranquil colonial town, which was once an important stop along the Camino Real (Royal Road) from Lima to Buenos Aires.

For Salta city nightlife, Paseo Guemes has become the “Happy Hour” drinking venue: head there early (which in Argentina is 8pm!) to one of the many of the new pubs like Antares selling craft beer (cerveza artesenal): also in this street is one of our favourite steak houses, or parrilladas, El Charrúa. 

When you tire of steak (if you ever do), try Viracocha or Jose Balcarce, which offers Peruvian and Andean cuisine. Near the railway station is Balcarce street, which is still the best place to enjoy a traditional folk music peña.

And for a truly gourmet experience, we recommend the award-winning El Baqueano on top of San Bernardo hill: the previous incarnation in Buenos Aires was listed among the top 50 Latin American eating places for nine years running.

Highlights

• Gourmet cuisine at El Baqueano
• Salta city at nightfall
• Salta's classic empanadas

Included

• English-speaking Guide
• Own Private Vehicle

Not Included

• Food
• Water
• Accommodation

Location

We can pick you up direct from Salta airport or from your chosen hotel in the city.

Chile: Atacama Desert

Sales Pitch

If starting from Salta, we head north along the old mountain road to San Salvador de Jujuy, and up into the stunning multi-coloured Quebrada de Humahuaca. We will spend a couple of nights here to see all the highlights, including a pre-Inca fort at Tilcara, numerous old colonial churches, and a Spanish fort now converted into a museum dedicated to the War of Independence. And of course, there’s the famous Seven Coloured Hill in Purmamarca which we’ll see in its best (morning) light, climbing up to a superb viewpoint which takes us away from the crowds.

From Purmamarca, the road winds up to a peak of 4,200m: a spectacular ascent of the outer Eastern range of the Andes, before descending to the Salinas Grandes salt flats. After a stop for the obligatory reality-defying photos, we press on to the high altitude town of Susques (3,615m), home to the second oldest church in Argentina, a simple adobe structure dating from 1598.

The following day, we head west through the panoramic landscape of the Olaroz and Cauchari salt flats to the Paso de Jama on the Chilean frontier. After crossing the border, we reach the Salar de Tala with its blue-black lagoon, and the giant volcanic ignimbrite blocks in the Reserva Natural de los Flamencos, known as the Monjes de Pacana or Moai of Tara because of their similarity to the famous standing stones of Easter Island. Finally, a breath-taking descent into San Pedro de Atacama, jealously guarded by the majestic volcano of Licancabur.

Heading back to Salta again after your Atacama desert tours, we take the slow road south past Lascar volcano and explore the high-altitude Altiplano lagoons of Miscanti and Miniques, enjoying some fantastic views of the Salar de Atacama as we climb the Andes mountain range.

This lesser trod route via the Paso de Sico also takes in the stunning Salar of Talar and Laguna Tuyajto. Back on the Argentine side, we will spend the night in the Puna town of San Antonio de los Cobres (3,770m) and visit the famous viaduct of La Polvorilla, where the Train to the Clouds finishes its journey.

We return to Salta through the colourful and panoramic landscape of the Quebrada del Toro, taking in the pre-Inca ruins of Tastil along the way. If you’ve still got the energy, we can also hike a little-explored section of Argentina's Inca trail.

Our eight day itinerary allows for two full days enjoying the best of San Pedro de Atacama tours, but you can add on as many days there as you like and we'll be ready to bring you back to Salta or organise your onward journey.

Read our guide to San Pedro de Atacama here.

Highlights

• En route to San Pedro de Atacama
• Sunrise over Licancabur
• Standing stones of La Pekana

Included

• Bilingual tour guide
• Private tailor-made tour
• Vehicle and guide costs

Not Included

• Food
• Accommodation
• Excursions in Atacama

Location

We can start or finish the trip in Salta or San Pedro: or do a round trip from either location.

Salares of Uyuni, Bolivia

Sales Pitch

We set out heading north through the varicoloured rockscape of the Quebrada de Humahuaca, spending a day and a half exploring the multiple highlights of this UNESCO protected area.

Rightly known for the Seven Coloured Hill of Purmamarca, rising to 4,350m altitude is the lesser known Fourteen Coloured hill at the Serrania de Hornocal, a spectacular limestone depression formed hundreds of millions of years ago. We’ll arrive to see it in the perfect late afternoon light.

The Quebrada de Humahuaca is packed with history: old colonial churches constructed from adobe and cactus wood (including one at Uquia with a rare cuzqueño art collection), a Spanish fort now converted into a museum dedicated to the War of Independence, and pre-Inca ruins at Tilcara. 

We cross the border at La Quiaca into Villazon, Bolivia, a country with an almost entirely indigenous population where you’ll feel a world away from the westernized sophistication of Buenos Aires (or even Salta, for that matter).

Your departure point for a four-day trip to the Salares of Uyuni is Tupiza, a small jewel of a town in the Bolivian lowlands. At 2,850m altitude, it's perfect for acclimatization before your high altitude adventure.

On your 4x4 trip, you will see flamingo-flocked lagoons of myriad colours, spitting geysers, the strange rock formations of Arbol de Piedra, and the oasis-like Isla del Pescado before arriving at the legendary Bolivian salt flats: the biggest and highest in the world: the Salares of Uyuni. Pure white salt meets blue sky as far as the eye can see: a truly unforgettable experience.

Our partners in Tupiza can arrange private tours finishing in San Pedro de Atacama if you want to travel on through Chile or return to Salta that way. They also do group tours finishing in Uyuni if you are heading further north towards La Paz and Peru.

Bear in mind that this is a gruelling journey in which you will be reaching altitudes of 4,000 meters above sea level: and accommodation in the Salaries can be quite basic. Sunglasses, sunscreen and loads of warm clothes are essential.

Read our guide to the Salares of Uyuni here.

Highlights

• Experience Uyuni: One Of The True Wonders Of The Natural World.
• The eerie cactus formations of Isla del Pescado.
• Limitless space in the world's biggest Salar.

Included

• Local Tour Guide
• Accommodation
• Meals during Salares trip
• Tour agency specialising in the Salares of Uyuni

Not Included

• Sun Protection
• Warm Clothes
• Meals on days 1 & 2

Location

We can start or finish this trip in Salta or Uyuni.

What do people say about Poncho Tours?

Our journey through the Andes would never have been as incredible without Poncho Tours. Already while we were still in Sweden, Nick showed great patience and dedication, helping us design a trip completely tailored to our wishes – including wineries, destinations, and experiences that suited us perfectly. When we arrived in Salta, we were picked up at the airport by our guide, Rodrigo. Once at the hotel, we went through the entire itinerary together. We were able to make some adjustments, and Rodrigo was very attentive and flexible to our wishes. Once the journey began, we quickly felt completely taken care of. Rodrigo had an amazing ability to show us fascinating places while always adapting to our pace. It almost felt like he understood what we wanted to experience even before we did. We traveled from Salta up into the mountains and further into the Andes, where we stayed overnight in three different locations. Waking up to new, breathtaking views each day was an experience in itself. Along the way, we stopped in small charming villages and truly got to experience both the local life and the spectacular nature up close. On our way back, we drove along the magical Route 68, with its incredible rock formations – it felt like Clint Eastwood could come riding around the corner at any moment. Both Nick and Rodrigo made this journey truly unforgettable. Their dedication, professionalism, and genuine care were present throughout the entire experience. This was without a doubt one of the highlights of our month-long trip through Argentina, and we warmly recommend Poncho Tours to anyone looking for something truly special.

Author: Reni Mobrandt | Date: 4/15/2026 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

We did a 2 day tour with Nico from Salta to Cafayate, stopping for a night in Cachi.We loved every minute, Nico was so informative, filling us in on all the landmarks we were passing. We would never have wanted to drive this road ourselves due to numerous weather /rainfall hazards. We travelled Argentina for a month and this was at the end of our trip, scenery not to be missed.The whole trip was pulled together by Nick from Poncho tours, who right from our 1st correspondence was so helpful, with all sorts of advice for us who had never been to Argentina before travelling from Scotland.I would highly recommend booking with Poncho tours if interested in this area, they will build a tour round each individuals interests.Alison

Author: Alison Thomson | Date: 4/6/2026 | Source: google | Rating: 5 stars

Fantastico! Il viaggio di due giorni nella Quebrada è stato uno dei momenti più epici del nostro viaggio in Argentina. La comunicazione con Poncho Tours è stata ottima fin dall’inizio e Nick ci ha aiutato con hotel, cambio di denaro e varie questioni logistiche. Il nostro autista Nico era non solo affidabile e preparato, ma anche simpaticissimo! Affidarci a professionisti locali come Poncho Tours ci ha permesso di goderci appieno il paesaggio mozzafiato senza preoccupazioni!

Author: Mariaelena Zecchin | Date: 3/22/2026 | Source: google | Rating: 5 stars

My friend & I arranged a week long private tour with Poncho Tours to explore the high mountain area of NW Argentina from Cafayate south to Mendoza. Nick was excellent in answering all our questions & offering us excellent advise in the planning of our trip along with a Zoom call which was very helpful. Nick has lived in Argentina for 18 years & is a wealth of knowledge on the culture,sights & history of this amazing country. The scenery is spectacular & everyday was filled with drives high up into the mountains & stops at some very interesting museums, wineries & picnics along the way. We saw sights that far exceeded our expectations & wouldn't have been possible to do on our own. It was very helpful having Nick give us suggestions on our accommodations . He was an excellent guide & driver. An amazing trip & we highly recommend travelling with Poncho Tours to show you this beautiful area of Argentina.

Author: Sue Arnold | Date: 3/6/2026 | Source: trustpilot | Rating: 5 stars

Very pleased to have used Poncho Tours for our January trip around Salta and Jujuy. We combined two trips, Essential Humahuaca and Classic Wine Route, staying in San Lorenzo on the bridge day. Very happy with our final choices, having discussed different options with Nick via Zoom and used the hotels he recommended. Rodrigo was an excellent driver guide; very personable, knowledgeable and helpful. We enjoyed his company throughout the trip. Travelling in the rainy season gave a few challenges, but so glad we did it. Nick and Rodrigo were able to switch the route due to road closures, so from our side seemed pretty seamless. And most of the time, despite some heavy evening and overnight rain, the weather was perfect for touring. And Salta and Jujuy regions are scenically spectacular. It was great not having to drive ourselves so we could just soak it all in. Would happily recommend Poncho Tours and Rodrigo as a guide. And we finished our tour with a couple of nights at Cielo Verde to stop a while after all the driving. If you’re into birdwatching as I am, cannot recommend this Finca highly enough.

Author: Ian M | Date: 2/20/2026 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

Taylor made Tours. People from this Agency are so cordial and professional . The experiencie with them Was wonderful

Author: Tete | Date: 2/9/2026 | Source: google | Rating: 5 stars

Author: Eugene Wong | Date: 2/6/2026 | Source: google | Rating: 5 stars

Review for Poncho Tours 5/5 Stars We recently toured northern Argentina with Poncho Tours, and the experience was exceptional from start to finish. During the planning stages, and owners Nick and Alicia were incredibly responsive, providing clear and concise communication. Our guide, Alejandro, was fantastic. His English is excellent and we felt safe with Alejandro behind the wheel. The truck was clean and comfortable for the journey. The entire team went above and beyond to ensure our comfort at all times. The scenery in northern Argentina is truly out of this world. I highly recommend Nick, Alicia, and Alejandro at Poncho tours.

Author: Michael Lam | Date: 2/5/2026 | Source: google | Rating: 5 stars

Author: Marcus Buechel | Date: 1/18/2026 | Source: google | Rating: 5 stars

Contratamos a Poncho Tours para hacer un viaje por la Ruta 40 desde Salta hasta Mendoza, y la experiencia fue realmente hermosa e inolvidable para toda mi familia. Nuestro guía, Rodrigo, fue excepcional: siempre atento, con muchísimo conocimiento, explicándonos cada lugar, dándonos recomendaciones valiosas y llevándonos a los mejores sitios para comer y hospedarnos. Además, cada día del viaje estuvo muy bien organizado, lo que nos permitió disfrutar con tranquilidad y sin preocupaciones. Recomiendo 100% Poncho Tours, una empresa muy bien organizada, seria y comprometida con brindar experiencias de calidad. ¡Gracias Nick, Alicia y Rodrigo por acompañarnos y hacer de este viaje algo tan especial!

Author: Laura Castro | Date: 12/30/2025 | Source: google | Rating: 5 stars

We did a 7 day tour from Salta to Mendoza visiting various wineries and national parks along the way. Rodrigo was an excellent guide and drove us over 2,000km as we travelled through the valleys and across mountain ranges. This was a truly unforgettable experience and we couldn’t ask any more from Rodrigo who was very caring and also made sure we saw everything that we wanted, providing expert advice along the way.

Author: Min L | Date: 12/27/2025 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

Très bonne agence pour organiser un tour qui respecte nos besoins et aussi pour nous guider dans les choix d’activités. Très bon guide et conducteur..

Author: Brigitte Leduc | Date: 12/13/2025 | Source: google | Rating: 5 stars

Wir hatten eine fantastische Zeit auf unserer Reise von Salta nach Mendoza mit Poncho Tours! Nick hat ein spannendes und abwechslungsreiches Programm zusammengestellt, bei dem jede Aktivität ihren eigenen besonderen Charme hatte. Die Kommunikation vor der Reise war unkompliziert und schnell, und unterwegs haben wir uns jederzeit bestens aufgehoben gefühlt. Nick hat uns viele interessante Einblicke in Land und Leute gegeben und war ein sehr angenehmer Gesprächspartner. Wir würden jederzeit wieder mit Poncho Tours reisen – absolut empfehlenswert!

Author: Andreas Krapf | Date: 12/3/2025 | Source: google | Rating: 5 stars

Thank you to Nick for assisting us in planning our visit to Salta, Pumamarca, and Cafayate. Throughout the planning process and our trip, Nick responded promptly to any questions and gave great advice. Our private tour was perfect! Nicholas, our guide/driver, ensured that we were comfortable and well cared for during our multi-day journey.

Author: Allen R and Robert B | Date: 11/23/2025 | Source: google | Rating: 5 stars

Thank you to Nick for assisting us in planning our visit to Salta, Pumamarca, and Cafayate. Throughout the planning process and our trip, Nick responded promptly to any questions and gave great advice. Our private tour was perfect! Nicholas, our guide/driver, ensured that we were comfortable and well cared for during our multi-day journey.

Author: Luxury1Georgia | Date: 11/23/2025 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

We wanted to include the Puna region in our five-week trip through Argentina and preferably drive ourselves in a rental car. However, we were advised against this several times. That's why we turned to Poncho Tours, a choice we did not regret. It was a fantastic experience... beautiful landscapes and views, lots of animals, challenging roads, surprising locations, and with Alejandro, we had a skilled driver and guide. It was educational, surprising, and fun... In short, it was a TOP experience.

Author: BL | Date: 11/7/2025 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

We’ve travelled to many places all over the world, but this tour is going to be an outstanding memory. Over six days, Nick took us to places we’d never have reached on our own, and where we talked with lovely people we’d never have met otherwise (Nick, we’ll definitely never forget giving a lift to the two ladies and their pet lamb!). We moved from the Calilegua cloud forest up to the Puna, from the coloured rocks of Hornocal to the paleness of Salinas Grandes salt flats, and from places of total silence to the happy celebrations of the Day of the Dead. Nick was an excellent guide and great company. Everything went really well and we highly recommend Poncho Tours.

Author: Mr & Mrs Halliday | Date: 11/6/2025 | Source: trustpilot | Rating: 5 stars

Steve and I did the mountain to cloud forest tour in September. We had a day with Nick in the Quebrada Humahuaca and then joined Armando and his team for the trek. It was an amazing experience. It's a tough hike and be prepared for very basic accomodation, but the rewards are the breathtaking landscape and the interaction with local people. We were taken to heart by our fellow walkers and looked after really well by the team. Nick was great and gave us a whole load of extra help with our lost luggage, even lending us some of the kit we were missing. Would definitely recommend.

Author: Jocelyn Sewell | Date: 10/6/2025 | Source: google | Rating: 5 stars

It was the right move to have a local driver to tour this region. I do not think we would have fared well in a rental car. From the beginning Alicia & Nick at Poncho Tours were responsive & full of suggestions as we finalized our itinerary. Nick accompanied us on this trip & was full of facts & history of the region. This UNESCO recognized area was gorgeous! Nick took us to lots of wonderful local stops for traditional dishes (which my husband loved as a Chef). There was plenty of time for landscape photos, shopping & wine breaks. We stayed overnight in Uquia at a small winery with 3 rooms that was both rustic & comfortable. Nick was a perfect host on this trip & we felt very safe and secure in his truck in the mountainous terrain. We can’t say enough about Poncho Tours except they will be our first call if we ever return to Salta & Jujuy.

Author: Deborah C | Date: 10/4/2025 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

Responsive company both in terms of booking communications and adapting throughout the day to preferences and time available. Had a great tailormade day down to Cafayate and back that included more than expected and was accompanied by expert narrative and interesting conversation (thanks Ale!). Will gladly book with them again if the opportunity arises.

Author: Lucy_Anne_Mel | Date: 9/21/2025 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

I had an excellent tour. I am glad I splurged and hired a private guide. Raul was very informative and helpful, in addition to being accommodating. We covered a lot of territory in my five days of touring Salta.

Author: sparkie101 | Date: 8/28/2025 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

My daughter and I arranged a fantastic tour of northern Argentina and Bolivia through Nick and Poncho Tours and all the details worked perfectly for an amazing trip. Nick is very knowledgeable about the region and is a delight to travel with. He assisted us across the border to Bolivia and hooked us up with a great Bolivian tour company which he works with, La Torre Tours. I highly recommend Poncho Tours!!

Author: Jamie N | Date: 8/8/2025 | Source: google | Rating: 5 stars

Travelling on my own, I was a bit weary beforehand to be in a car with a stranger for 5 days. I shouldn't have worried. Ale was a great companion. While seeing the most amazing landscapes on the Extreme Puna tour, we also discussed life, culture, and basically had fun.Unfortunately by no fault of Ale, the car broke down. By reorganising the destination over the days, we still managed to do most of the tour. But the bit I appreciated most, he listened to what I enjoy and do for a living, and as bonus (or compensation for the bad luck with the car) he took me to a few sites not on the tour but fairly on the route.Yet, even the broken car gave me a good look at remote, Argentinian life. The people helping us on the road, the garage (long live Youtube, even for repairmen :-P), and of course having to buy your own car parts in the funniest little shops so the repairmen can then install it.

Author: Margo v | Date: 8/1/2025 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

Contratamos a Poncho Tours para una excursion de dia entero a Cafayate. Nos asignaron un conductor / guia excelente (Raul). El vehiculo estaba en excelentes condiciones. Raul es un muy buen conductor y conoce muy bien la zona. Nos detuvimos un puntos panoramicos para tomar fotos. Estuvo todo muy bien!

Author: Adriana Boretti | Date: 7/17/2025 | Source: trustpilot | Rating: 5 stars

We did a 3-day tour with Poncho Tours and it was amazing. Rodriguez was our guide. His hospitality and knowledge of everything from nature to wine to food to history was five star! Our family loved to linger in the beautiful sites and he gave us the time we needed. We did a hike with llamas which was in one of the most beautiful settings we have ever seen. While we were planning, Nick answered all of our questions and helped us with hotel recommendations for the tour.

Author: Rabva | Date: 6/7/2025 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

Highly recommend booking with Nick! We had a fantastic time being driven around Northern Argentina. We saw & learnt so much more than if we had driven ourselves. Nick helped us with our itinerary in advance but was flexible on what we did when & knew all the best places. A thoroughly enjoyable experience!

Author: Fx_London_20001 | Date: 5/31/2025 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

Our driver guide Nick Evans was so very personable and knowledgeable about the areas we visited. Our time was divided between urban visits and day/half day hiking in the fantastic landscapes of the region. Everything had been put together to reflect what we had indicated we wished to see and experience. While we had many long drives, Nick often stopped along the way at points of interest and encouraged us to let him know any time we wished to stop for any reason what ever - often photography. Our itinerary included a super half day private walking tour in Salta city with Nick's wife, Alicia. Nick recommended great restaurants for us each evening, all within walking distance of our hotels. Lunches were either in small "hole in the wall" eateries with Nick or fare eaten outside that he had brought. My wife and I have no reservation in recommending others engage Poncho Tours for travel in northwest Argentina - or elsewhere.

Author: Isabel Wood | Date: 5/31/2025 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

Ho fatto un tour privato di 5 giorni con Poncho Tours con mia moglie ed è stato tutto perfetto! A partire dall’organizzazione con Nick ed i costanti contatti per definire i dettagli del nostro giro fino al viaggio stesso! La guida Rodrigo si è fatta trovare puntuale in aeroporto con un bel pick-up perfetto per le strade della regione di Salta e Cafayate con uno stile di guida sempre sicuro… Rodrigo è stato sempre disponibile ad assecondare le nostre richieste anche per dei piccoli cambiamenti di programma e a suggerire posti per pranzi e cene! In modo molto competente ci ha fornito le spiegazioni sulle aree che visitavamo ed è stato anche estremamente discreto lasciando tempo solo per me e mia moglie!

Author: stefano seveso | Date: 5/5/2025 | Source: google | Rating: 5 stars

We did a 5 day private tour with Poncho Tours and it was impeccable! The organization with Nick was precise and Rodrigo guide always on time, safe driving and available for every request. He gave us competent explanations, suggested great places to eat and was discreet, leaving us our own spaces. Perfect experience!

Author: Stefano S | Date: 5/5/2025 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

Right from our first communication with Nick from Poncho Tours and throughout our 4 day tour, everything was highly professional, well planned and very enjoyable. Nick accommodated firstly a change in our itinerary and then a change to the dates of our trip. Nick picked us up from San Pedro de Atacama and we had a great 4 days visting Purmamarca, Tilcara, Humanaca, Hornacal, Iruya then onto Salta. These are some of the most remarkable places we've ever visited and Nick is very knowledgeable about the area. Nick booked in advance for us llama trekking and lunch at a lovely bodega. Nick was a very safe driver and made plenty of stops for photos and at interesting places and even adjusted the itinerary to make sure we visited Hornocal, the best of the best, when the weather was at its best. We picked up some produce from a market in Humanaca for a picnic at Hornacal Mountain. Nick had plenty of suggestions for hotels, which we booked in advance - Las Terrazes in Tilcara and Hotel Iruya, which were both wonderful, along with suggestions for dinners and other activities. We had a wonderful last lunch overlooking the Painters Palette near Purmamarca.Having an English speaking guide made the trip stress free (we speak zero Spanish), as Nick communicated on our behalf to help with hotel check-in, ahd at restaurants. Highly recommended Poncho tours.

Author: Sue M | Date: 4/27/2025 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

We travelled with Poncho Tours in northern Argentina to S. Pedro de Atacama. Nick was just the man we needed. He led us to all the highlights and also to insider places. He also responded very much to our wishes (before and during the tour) and designed a tailor-made route and also drove us everywhere with his large pick-up truck (we were 4 people and I was 2m tall). He knew an answer to everything and has us with Arg. Pesos helped out. Poncho Tours is highly recommended and if we come to this area again definitely again with Nick. Nick, thank you again. Many thanks also to your wife for the great city tour in Salta. The memory is still very much alive. Thomas

Author: t h | Date: 4/26/2025 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

我地係來自香港既一對夫婦，由Salta 出發，入境Bolivia，參加由 Poncho Tours 計劃既兩日一夜行程。 由Email 溝通開始，我已經覺得Nick好有心同好有經驗，幫我地tailor made左成個行程，亦都同我地計劃最好既出發路線（就算果個路線會令我地exclude左salta🤣）。 Nick係英國人所以唔洗擔心你聽唔明佢啲英文，做導遊係好nice同好有經驗，手車亦都好穩定，亦都同我地分享左好多故事。佢係好有禮貌同埋好gentlemen。 最後佢仲車埋我地過境，係入玻利維亞境果陣，比Bolivia immigration 逼我地一定要落地簽證（佢唔比我地拎英國護照入境）。我超嬲，但Nick都好好，用西班牙語幫我地同bolivia immigration 溝通。盡量幫我地解決問題。 多謝你Nick!

Author: Circle Leung | Date: 4/12/2025 | Source: trustpilot | Rating: 5 stars

我地係來自香港既一對夫婦，由Salta 出發，入境Bolivia，參加由 Poncho Tours 計劃既兩日一夜行程。由Email 溝通開始，我已經覺得Nick好有心同好有經驗，幫我地tailor made左成個行程，亦都同我地計劃最好既出發路線（就算果個路線會令我地exclude左salta🤣）。Nick係英國人所以唔洗擔心你聽唔明佢啲英文，做導遊係好nice同好有經驗，手車亦都好穩定，亦都同我地分享左好多故事。佢係好有禮貌同埋好gentlemen。最後佢仲車埋我地過境，係入玻利維亞境果陣，比Bolivia immigration 逼我地一定要落地簽證（佢唔比我地拎英國護照入境）。我超嬲，但Nick都好好，用西班牙語幫我地同bolivia immigration 溝通。盡量幫我地解決問題。多謝你Nick!

Author: Circle Leung | Date: 4/12/2025 | Source: google | Rating: 5 stars

Cloud Forest Hike We (my husband and I) did this walk in October 2023, Nick was our English speaking guide, Armando was our local (Spanish speaking) guide. It was a truly unforgettable experience, walking through a remote, stunningly beautiful part of NW Argentina and staying with locals felt a complete privilege. Nick and Armando were an excellent team, both hugely supportive when we both had some minor symptoms from the altitude and sun. We felt in very safe hands. The walking was tough, but completely worthwhile. Our favourite day was day 3: when the landscape changed and we had settled into the hike! I can't recommend this walk enough, it needs 10 stars.

Author: George Evans | Date: 4/3/2025 | Source: google | Rating: 5 stars

From start to finish, this was a wonderfully planned and executed tour of northern Argentina and the unexpectedly rich and picturesque wine region of Tarija in southern Bolivia.I was fortunate age to have Nick from Poncho tours drive/entertain/challenge me on this journey, and his lovely wife Alicia join us on the final leg into Bolivia. Nick and I had planned this tour to meet my needs through numerous email exchanges and face-to-face meeting via Zoom, which helped Nick understand what I was needing from this tour and what my interests and priorities were. We covered quite a bit of territory between Salta, Cafayate, the Quebrada de Humahuaca and into Bolivia during this tour, all of which was interesting, often spectacular and eye-opening. Nick delivered on the hikes that I had requested (including some) and all the sights I was interested in. On Nick’s suggestion, I stayed 2 nights, giving me one full day, at Bande Grande, near Molinos, which was truly wonderful.Our journey (Nick, Alicia and I) across the border into the wine region of Tarija made for a wonderful conclusion to this tour. It felt like we were on an adventure as we explored some of the wineries of this region. I discovered several new wines that I fell in love with in this region (specifically tanat and torrentes) which I continue to pine for. In all, a truly wonderful tour which delivered on all my expectations.

Author: Vivien K | Date: 3/27/2025 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

We had a wonderful two days with Poncho Tours. As we were staying with friends in Salta, we made all the arrangements from the UK before we left, including a hotel in Tilcara, and were collected punctually on the first day by our guide, Raoul. We were taken first to Jujuy and Humahuaca, and on the second day to Salinas Grandes. Raoul proved an excellent guide - friendly, well informed about everything and very aware of our interests. Nothing was too much trouble for him. The scenery was amazing, andc we would not hesitate to recommend Poncho Tours for anyone visiting the NW of Argentina.

Author: Bryan Stevens | Date: 3/19/2025 | Source: google | Rating: 5 stars

Ernst und Vicky, suchten Abenteuer in Südamerika ………. einmal eine lange Reise! Argentinien war etwas Besonderes, denn wir hatten großes Glück Nick von Pancho Tours im Internet zu finden und Nick hatte Zeit und verstand was wir wollten. Eine tolle Tour um Salta bis hin über die Grenze nach San Pedro der Atacama in Chile. Das rettete uns vor den z. T. üblen Bustouren nach Chile. Am Flughafen abgeholt hatten wir eine ganze Woche lang mit Nick Entdeckungsreise. Herrliche Vineries mit Geheimtipps , Nicks Favorit. Wir hatten keine Ahnung was uns erwartet: Von Cafayate, unsere erste Nacht, Colome (Kunst und Wein) Molinos, durch Parque Nacional los Cardones, guter Wein und Essen, Kunst, schlechte Straßen, die meisten nicht asphaltiert, viel Geschichte von Nick über den Gegend und Geologie. Weiter die Fahrt durch Wälder von gigantische Kakteen und Condors mit einen Tee stop und Studentenfutter das Nick dabei hatte bis Salta. Salta Sightseeing mit Alica, Nicks entzückender Frau , tolles Erlebnis. Das Museum für Hochgebirgsarchäologie ist ein Must. Dann weiter in die Bergen, Farben, wieder Wein, sehr freundliche Einheimische. Auf 4380 mtr. Höhe in Fernfahrer Camp übernachtet, Picknick in der Wüste (wirklich etwas besonderes) alles organisiert von Nick. Und die Organisation bei der überqueren der Grenze zu Chile, kompliziert, hätten wir niemals so hinbekommen. Und am Ende dieser Wunderschöne Fahrt durch die Wüste bis San Pedro. Wir haben jeden Moment genossen und Gott sei Dank ohne rental car!!. Es war wie eine Reise mit neu gewonnen Freunde. Danke Nick! Ein nächstes Mal muß sein nach Bolivien, natürlich mit Nick und Pancho Tours.

Author: Victoria Neumann | Date: 3/14/2025 | Source: trustpilot | Rating: 5 stars

Ernst and Vicky, were looking for adventure in South America........ once a long journey! Argentina was special because we were very lucky to find Nick from Pancho Tours on the internet and Nick had time and understood what we wanted. A great tour around Salta up to the border to San Pedro the Atacama in Chile. This saved us from the e.g. T. nasty bus tours to Chile.Picked up at the airport we had a whole week exploring with Nick.Wonderful vineries with insider tips , Nick's favorite. We had no idea what to expect: From Cafayate, our first night, Colome (art and wine) Molinos, through Parque Nacional los Cardones, good wine and food, art, bad roads, most unpaved, much history of Nick about the area and geology. Continue the drive through forests of gigantic cacti and condors with a tea stop and student food Nick had with him until Salta. Salta sightseeing with Alica, Nick's lovely wife , great experience. The Museum of High Mountain Archaeology is a must.Then on to the mountains, colors, wine again, very friendly locals. At 4380 mtr. Altitude stayed at trucker camp, picnic in the desert (really something special) all organized by Nick. And the organization of crossing the border with Chile, complicated, we would never have managed like this. And at the end of this beautiful drive through the desert to San Pedro. We enjoyed every moment and thank God without rental car!!. It was like a trip with new friends. Danke Nick!Next time we have to go to Bolivia, of course with Nick and Pancho Tours.

Author: victoria N | Date: 3/14/2025 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

Hard to write a summary of how good our experience was. Nick was simply fantastic. We had arranged a 3 week trip in Argentina for our honeymoon of which a third of that was navigated by Poncho Tours. Not only did he help us plan our trip to ensure we were getting the full experience during our time there he made it feel so personable and created some beautiful moments we will never forget. Considering how hard the weather or terrain can be, Nick navigated our destinations seamlessly and would always do his very best to pick out the perfect spots. Always being conscious to stop to let us take pictures, stretch our legs or even treat us to some local snacks and Yerba mate. It’s a big landscape and there can be long times spent in the car but Nick makes the journey, full of fun facts and history of the country you explore. It was a heartfelt goodbye at the end, his personal touch made the experience something we will never forgot. Would recommend to anyone!

Author: Ross Muir | Date: 2/22/2025 | Source: trustpilot | Rating: 5 stars

A truly amazing tour with Nick from Poncho tours, would absolutely recommend. We enjoyed every minute of this trip, each day was perfectly planned allowing us to cover the areas of NW Argentina and sites we were keen to see. Nick is an expert driver and guide and so knowledgeable. He helped us to plan the itinerary prior to our arrival with excellent advice and recommendations and everything was perfect. Easily contactable and always prompt responses throughout planning and the trip itself! Thank you again for ensuring this part of our bucket list honeymoon trip was everything we hoped for and more!!

Author: Gillian | Date: 2/22/2025 | Source: trustpilot | Rating: 5 stars

A truly amazing tour with Nick from Poncho tours, would absolutely recommend. We enjoyed every minute of this trip, each day was perfectly planned allowing us to cover the areas of NW Argentina and sites we were keen to see. Nick is an expert driver and guide and so knowledgeable. He helped us to plan the itinerary prior to our arrival with excellent advice and recommendations and everything was perfect. Easily contactable and always prompt responses throughout planning and the trip itself! Thank you again for ensuring this part of our bucket list honeymoon trip was everything we hoped for and more

Author: Gillian M | Date: 2/22/2025 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

Hard to write a summary of how good our experience was. Nick was simply fantastic. We had arranged a 3 week trip in Argentina for our honeymoon of which a third of that was navigated by Poncho Tours. Not only did he help us plan our trip to ensure we were getting the full experience during our time there he made it feel so personable and created some beautiful moments we will never forget. Considering how hard the weather or terrain can be, Nick navigated our destinations seamlessly and would always do his very best to pick out the perfect spots. Always being conscious to stop to let us take pictures, stretch our legs or even treat us to some local snacks and Yerba mate. It’s a big landscape and there can be long times spent in the car but Nick makes the journey, full of fun facts and history of the country you explore. It was a heartfelt goodbye at the end, his personal touch made the experience something we will never forgot. Would recommend to anyone!

Author: Ross M | Date: 2/22/2025 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

The hike of the Inca Tour that we did with Poncho Tours was amazing! Our tour guide Nick Evans was excellent--very knowledgeable and friendly. He went out of his way to make sure we had a rewarding day. The Andean landscapes were stunning. Our tour with Poncho Tours was the highlight of our recent trip to Argentina and we would not hesitate to recommend it to others.

Author: JandPTravel | Date: 2/19/2025 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

Great experience travelling with Poncho Tours across Salta, Catamarca and Jujuy region ! Recommend to everyone to do that ! One in the life time !

Author: Pawel Preuss | Date: 2/14/2025 | Source: trustpilot | Rating: 5 stars

We chose Poncho Tours from the great online reviews & because we were concerned about driving during the rainy season & the possible state of the roads. What a great choice. Nick helped in advance with advice on our itinerary and what to expect & we did the 3 days Humahuaca with an extra day so we could do a loop via Susques. Ale our driver & guide did a a fantastic job and we had an incredible 4 days from Salta exploring Tilcara, Cascada del Diablo, Humahuaca, 14 coloured mountains, Qubrada de las Señoritas, 7 coloured hill & Purmamarca, Salinas Grande, Susques then the amazing Route 40 with a stop at the thermal waters near the volcán Tuzgle, the train to the clouds at San Antoniode los Cobres, & ruins at Tastil before getting back to Salta. The views along Route 40 are truly spectacular but we were very glad we weren’t driving ourselves. Ale negotiated the roads post storms, was great company and really made the 4 days a success. Thank you - Mike & Cath

Author: Cath C | Date: 2/10/2025 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

Author: Graciela Zelaya | Date: 1/2/2025 | Source: google | Rating: 5 stars

Fantastic experience from start to finish. Nick was outstanding in the months leading up to our trip with curating experiences to meet our needs and making great suggestions for sites/stops along the way. We were with Nick for 7 days on our custom experience. We visited Hornocal, Humahuaca, Salinas Grandes. We traveled the iconic route 40 and visited Estancia Banda Grande for 2 days of relaxation and hiking and cafayate for wine tasting and hiking. The beauty of the area is astounding with so much variation from one area to the next! We saw local wildlife including vicuñas rheas, and guanaco. We visited several pre-Incan sites and even got to walk with llamas. Nick is an outstanding guide and knows the salta province well. He taught us so much about the culture and history of Argentina. If you are looking to spend time in in northwest Argentina you could not ask for a better guide! Thank you Nick!

Author: jknd02 | Date: 12/21/2024 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

3 day tour around Quebrada de Humahuaca. Fantastic experience from start to finish.Actually, it was a great experience from before we even got to Argentina.Nick gave us lots of invaluable advice for travelling in Argentina before we even got there.Upon arrival in Salta, Rodrigo, our guide for our three days, picked us up at the airport and took us to our hotel. He then helped us exchange dollars for pesos at a good rate. Both services above and beyond what I would expect from a tour, and very gratefully received.The tour itself was excellent. Rodrigo is a very nice guy, with lots of local knowledge and interesting stories. He is also an excellent driver, and despite the long days and sometimes difficult driving conditions, at no point did we feel anything other than 100% safe.The tour itself took in some incredible locations and really helped us get to see a part of Argentina we might not have ever visited.We were fortunate to cross paths with Nick, who was leading another tour in the area, and we very much enjoyed his company.A highly recommended tour and tour company, and we are exceedingly happy we found them and chose to go with them.

Author: Chris G | Date: 12/14/2024 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

I am a 66 year old and traveled with my 22 year old son to the north after a week in Buenos Aires. The three days we spent with Nick as our guide were definitely the highlight of our two weeks in Argentina. Nick is patient, flexible, gregarious and chatty. He will put you at ease immediately. He is an encyclopedia of information, fluent in both English and Spanish, vastly knowledgeable about the history and geography of the country and the Salta and Jujuy provinces. He can help you navigate through rough terrain and any situation that might arise for a tourist. He has connections with many locals and will be sure you get to see and do whatever is on your bucket list. The sites you see with Poncho Tours are astonishing. Nick will feel like a friend who makes the trip very comfortable. I recommend Poncho enthusiastically.

Author: Beth E | Date: 11/14/2024 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

I did a 6day trip 7 months ago,starting & ending in Salta. I loved it so much I have just been back and done a 12day, 5000k trip, starting in Mendoza. Nick and Rodrigo made sure that there was hardly any overlap with the first trip. 6 days of it was in the puna, above 3,500m and the landscapes were indescribable and immensly variable. i wish there was another one I could do!

Author: Jane Stevens | Date: 11/9/2024 | Source: trustpilot | Rating: 5 stars

We went on a 5 day tour of the Altiplano (Puna de Atacama) leaving from Salta and ending in Cafayate. Our tour took us to the Tastil pre-Inca ruins, the village of San Antonio de las Cobres, through the Desierto del Diabolo. Our other over night stops were in Tolar Grande and El Peñon. We saw volcanoes, flamingoes, pumice rock, hot springs, a sand dune and incredible Andean scenery. We booked the tour through Rob Middleton of Escaped Travel who always answered our questions quickly. Friendly Nick Evans from Poncho Tours collected us at Salta airport and told us about things to do in the area before our tour started. Our tour guide Raúl Cedolini was excellent. He drove us across 100s of kilometres of unmade roads where we saw incredible scenery and lots of Vicuña. Raùl was really knowledgeable about the area and he speaks excellent English if you don’t speak Spanish. During the tour we stayed in 3 different hotels on the altiplano and although they were rustic they provided everything you need. We particularly liked Don Carmelo hosteleria in El Peñon as they did some laundry for us and were very friendly. The Alti Plano is definitely worth visiting if you go to North West Argentina but you need to go with a guide as the roads are unmade and long so self driving would be ill-advised. Also going with an informative and friendly guide is great fun.

Author: Nicola G | Date: 11/4/2024 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

Salta/ Jujuy gibi birçok güzelliği içerisinde barındıran, ancak ulaşımı ve organizasyonu hiç de kolay olmayan bir bölgede güvenebileceğimiz, İngilizce bir turu uzun süre aradık. Poncho Tours’u bu sırada, aldıkları çok iyi yorum ve değerlendirmeler sayesinde bulduk. Organize ettikleri turlara bakınca da, Essential Humahuaca turlarının planı bizi kalbimizden fethetti. İrtibata ilk geçtiğimiz andan itibaren, Nick profesyonel, dürüst ve dikkatli yaklaşımıyla bize hem bölge hem de tur konusunda çok yardımcı oldu. Bölge ve geziyle ilgili bilgileri, yararlı olabilecek sayfaları ve önerilerini önceden paylaştı. Salta bölgesinde istediğiniz yere ulaşmak için çok uzun süre yollarda kalmanız gerekiyor. Poncho Tours/ Nick bu kısmı o kadar güzel ayarladılar ki, yüzlerce km yolumuz olmasına rağmen biz gerek doğada verdiğimiz molalarla, gerek bölgenin güzelim köy ve kasabalarını gezerek, gerekse (kendimizin hiçbir şekilde haberimizin olamayacağı) kilise, pazarlara giderek, bu uzun yolları keyifli geziler arasında dinlenme olarak geçirdik :) Bizim için Hornocal’ı görmek çok önemliydi. Nick en baştan itibaren, açık bir şekilde elinden geleni yapacağını ancak bölgenin coğrafi koşullarından dolayı garanti edemeyeceğini belirtti. Bizim gezimiz başlamadan önce olan seller dolayısıyla yollar uzun süre kapalı kaldı, ancak Nick farklı kaynaklardan sürekli kontrol ve takip ederek bizim Hornocal rüyamızı gerçekleştirdi. Salinas, Purmamarca gibi yerler tabi ki tura dahil; bunlara ek olarak yollarda göreceğiniz doğal hayat (Vicuña sürüleri :)), rüzgar & fırtınaların şekillendirdiği kayalar, birbirinden farklı kuşlar, bitkiler yanınıza kar kalıyor. Biz çok keyifli, dolu dolu bir tur geçirdik. Poncho Tours’la yola çıktığımıza çok memnun olduk. Herkese gönül rahatlığıyla öneririz.

Author: Simge Uran | Date: 9/18/2024 | Source: trustpilot | Rating: 5 stars

Author: José Alejandro Flores | Date: 9/2/2024 | Source: google | Rating: 5 stars

My husband and I selected Poncho Tours based on their excellent online reviews and we could not be more pleased. Nick was very responsive to our inquiry. He provided detailed information, was prompt with emails, and flexible with our planning for 3 days of touring in the Salta and Jujuy provinces of Argentina. Similarly, our on-the-ground guide Rodrigo was great! He was friendly, easy to get along with, knowledgeable, willing to adjust our daily schedule if needed, and proud to share his love for the region. Don't hesitate to contact Poncho Tours for an A+ experience! So glad we did!

Author: Johanna Hall | Date: 8/12/2024 | Source: trustpilot | Rating: 5 stars

My husband and I selected Poncho Tours based on their excellent online reviews and we could not be more pleased. Nick was very responsive to our inquiry. He provided detailed information, was prompt with emails, and flexible with our planning for 3 days of touring in the Salta and Jujuy provinces of Argentina. Similarly, our on-the-ground guide Rodrigo was great! He was friendly, easy to get along with, knowledgeable, willing to adjust our daily schedule if needed, and proud to share his love for the region. Don't hesitate to contact Poncho Tours for an A+ experience! So glad we did!

Author: Johanna H | Date: 8/12/2024 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

20/7, experiencia difícil de trasladar a palabras porque el Camino del Inca conjuga historia y geografía en forma vivencial y única para alguien que vive en una ciudad. Agradecemos las gestiones, afabilidad, nivel de información de nuestro guía Rodrigo, quien además nos deleitó con un picnic gourmet

Author: Tareas domiciliarias Ciencias Sociales e Historia | Date: 8/2/2024 | Source: google | Rating: 5 stars

Splendido tour di 3 giorni, tra Salta e il confine con la Bolivia. La nostra guida Rodrigo è stata bravissima e ci ha sempre dato degli ottimi consigli e indicazioni. Bellissima escursione a cavallo.

Author: Gaetano Ferrari | Date: 7/25/2024 | Source: trustpilot | Rating: 5 stars

This tour was an amazing experience. I don’t think the description does it justice. You drive through a canyon full of non stop stunning views for over an hour before reaching the wineries, which offer even more incredible scenery. Our tour guide, Rodrigo, was fantastic throughout the day. I can’t recommend this experience enough!

Author: Jade P | Date: 6/5/2024 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

Magnificent walk, beautiful landscape with a very careful and friendly driver-guide. I really loved it. I spent one day in Cachi and another in Cafayate. He gave me good directions. He took me to buy the best alfajores I have ever tried in my life. Everything was wonderful.

Author: Felipe M | Date: 6/5/2024 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

My eldest son and I did a 3 day tour of the Quebrada de Humauerca area. Nick tailored the tour to include things we were most interested in. He is really knowledgeable on pretty much any subject about NW Argentina; history, culture, flor and fauna, food, etc. Highly recommend any trip with Poncho Tours.

Author: FarAway66331498864 | Date: 5/21/2024 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

We had a really great day out exploring cafayate vineyards with our guide Rodrigo. The tour was really well organised and completely tailored based on our preferences discussed with Nick beforehand. Rodrigo was a very knowledgable guide for the day and showed us all the good spots. Overall a great experience.

Author: Lucy M | Date: 5/4/2024 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

Нам очень понравилась поездка в Мальту и Хухуй! Необычные захватывающие пейзажи разноцветных гор, местные винодельни с дегустациями, вкусная еда. Ник и Алисия организовали наш трехдневный отпуск на высоком уровне, было очень приятно с ними провести время.

Author: Maxim Kozlov | Date: 5/1/2024 | Source: trustpilot | Rating: 5 stars

We are delighted with the natural beauty of these magnificent places - Salta and Jujuy! Very unusual multi-colored mountains amaze with their grandeur. We were also interested in visiting several local wineries, where hospitable hosts organize tours and tastings. By the way, these places have a lot of tasty specialties: goat cheese, llama salami and so on.Nick and Alicia organized our three-day holiday to a high standard, it was very comfortable and interesting to communicate with these wonderful people. At the same time, we managed to practice foreign languages.

Author: Maxim K | Date: 5/1/2024 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

Right from the first enquiry, Nick was super helpful in helping plan and organise our 3-day trip with Poncho. But in addition he helped contact the Bolivian tour operator (our next stop on the tour) and even booked us some bus tickets! And it was a really nice touch that he picked us up from the airport and took us to our hotel. Above and beyond service from one of life's nice guys.Rodrigo, who was our guide on the tour was super knowledgeable, very friendly, and, like Nick, clearly has a passion for the area. The tour was nicely paced, and we got to see some amazing scenery and stay in a lovely quirky winery. Rodrigo also went out of his way to smooth our border crossing to Bolivia at the end of the trip. Read Nick's blog for all the latest before you go; he had some useful stuff on the blue dollar and on the latest in Salta. There had been some flooding in the weeks before, which he had reported on, and it was useful background information for us prior to our arrival.

Author: Kathryn B | Date: 4/28/2024 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

I did a 3 day private tour taking me from Salta in Argentina to San Pedro in Chile with Nick who was both the driver and guide. He is such a nice guy and so easy to get on with. I felt like I was travelling with a friend for the 3 days. Nick provided me with lots of recommendations of hotels for me to choose both in Argentina and in Chile and also took care of all the paperworks in order for us to have a smooth border crossing into Chile. During the tour Nick provided a lot of information about the sites we visited and I learned about the history of Argentina and the folklore of the region. At the end of the tour I was provided with recommendations of places to stay and things to do for the remainder of my time in Argentina which helped to enhance my experience. I wholeheartedly recommend using Poncho tours for an unforgettable experience in north west Argentina and would definitely use them again.

Author: Ramesh Teelock | Date: 4/14/2024 | Source: trustpilot | Rating: 5 stars

I did a 3 day private tour taking me from Salta in Argentina to San Pedro in Chile with Nick who was both the driver and guide. He is such a nice guy and so easy to get on with. I felt like I was travelling with a friend for the 3 days. Nick provided me with lots of recommendations of hotels for me to choose both in Argentina and in Chile and also took care of all the paperworks in order for us to have a smooth border crossing into Chile. During the tour Nick provided a lot of information about the sites we visited and I learned about the history of Argentina and the folklore of the region. At the end of the tour I was provided with recommendations of places to stay and things to do for the remainder of my time in Argentina which helped to enhance my experience. I wholeheartedly recommend using Poncho tours for an unforgettable experience in north west Argentina and would definitely use them again.

Author: Ramesh | Date: 4/14/2024 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

We had a bespoke 5 day trip with Poncho Tours which combined 2 of the 'standard' tours you can find on their website. Nick was fantastic before we travelled, giving lots of advice and a great selection of hotels to choose from. We also had a zoom meeting to make sure everything was being planned as we wanted. Our guide for the first leg of our tour was Alejandro. He was brilliant! Spoke excellent English, very informative, got our British sense of humour (or did a good job of pretending). He was flexible with photo-stops (many), toilet stops (many) and took us to places off schedule as he thought we would enjoy them (he was right!). He even organised an unscheduled lunch at a fantastic independent winery. This was a real highlight of our trip - despite not making it to Salinas Grandes due to the road being washed away. Gutting - but I guess that means we'll have to come back!

Author: DellT | Date: 4/12/2024 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

We booked a custom 11-day tour through Ponchotours from San Pedro de Atacama to Mendoza. Nick supported us from the very first moment, put together a wonderful tour and listened to our wishes and preferences. He also contacted us regularly during the preparation and kept us up to date. Mariano, our guide during the tour, knew the Puna like the back of his hand and created unforgettable experiences, be it the salt flats, the coloured hills, the Cono de Arita, his comments about the carnival culture in Jujuy or knowing exactly which wineries to visit. We would definitely book the tour again and recommend Ponchotours unconditionally.

Author: Patrick Kaufmann | Date: 4/2/2024 | Source: google | Rating: 5 stars

Author: Tomas Guedilla | Date: 4/2/2024 | Source: google | Rating: 5 stars

Author: Alessandro Danza | Date: 4/2/2024 | Source: google | Rating: 5 stars

I did a 6day trip combining Salt & seven colours & the classic wine tour.Nick gives personalised attention pre trip & met me at the airport, went over the itinerary & gave tips of what to do in Salta.We had to miss out a couple of sites due to roads being washed away, nonetheless it was very varied with stunning landscapes, interesting villages & fascinating wineries.I was rather dubious about the wisdom of booking the trip alone but needn't have had any concerns. Rodrigo is courteous & kind, very knowledgeable & a very safe driver. I felt well looked after & totally at ease with him & hopefully will get back to do another trip!Jane

Author: JANE S | Date: 3/25/2024 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

Our incredible, wonderful nine day trip from Mendoza to Salta was tailormade for the two of us by our expert guide and driver Nick, the founder of Poncho Tours. Nick is a true renaissance man, enthusiastic to share his deep knowledge of Argentine and South American flora and fauna, geology, history, politics, and social customs. He is a thoughtful and kind companion, who was always helpful, considerate, and patient. Nick went through four iterations of the itinerary and took two Zoom calls with us before our trip started. He was determined that we had the best experience possible. He gave us various options for eight hotel nights, always with a range of prices and good advice. As it was, we stayed in the best hotels of our six week trip to South America. Our journey took us through the Andes from Mendoza to Barreal, then Villa Union, from which we visited the national parks of Talampaya, Ischigualasto, and then travelled high in the Andes to Laguna Brava and its white flamingos. Next stop was Chañarmuyo, then Belen, and Cafayate. Then finally La Paya and on to Salta. It was absolutely tailored to our interests and preferences. Nick and Alicia, and their team, care very deeply about their guests and about their business. For them, it's obviously a labour of love, not a cynical job. Importantly, the trip was significantly cheaper than the off-the-shelf options offered by the big name tour operators. If you have the chance to take a trip with Poncho Tours, then grab it!! You'll remember it as one of the very best experiences of your life!

Author: Christopher Joyce | Date: 3/21/2024 | Source: trustpilot | Rating: 5 stars

Our incredible, wonderful nine day trip from Mendoza to Salta was tailormade for the two of us by our expert guide and driver Nick, the founder of Poncho Tours. Nick is a true renaissance man, enthusiastic to share his deep knowledge of Argentine and South American flora and fauna, geology, history, politics, and social customs. He is a thoughtful and kind companion, who was always helpful, considerate, and patient. Nick went through four iterations of the itinerary and took two Zoom calls with us before our trip started. He was determined that we had the best experience possible.He gave us various options for eight hotel nights, always with a range of prices and good advice. As it was, we stayed in the best hotels of our six week trip to South America.Our journey took us through the Andes from Mendoza to Barreal, then Villa Union, from which we visited the national parks of Talampaya, Ischigualasto, and then travelled high in the Andes to Laguna Brava and its white flamingos. Next stop was Chañarmuyo, then Belen, and Cafayate. Then finally La Paya and on to Salta. It was absolutely tailored to our interests and preferences.Nick and Alicia, and their team, care very deeply about their guests and about their business. For them, it's obviously a labour of love, not a cynical job.Importantly, the trip was significantly cheaper than the off-the-shelf options offered by the big name tour operators.If you have the chance to take a trip with Poncho Tours, then grab it!! You'll remember it as one of the very best experiences of your life!

Author: Christopher Joyce | Date: 3/21/2024 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

Get well away from the crowds and prepare to be surrounded by beautiful landscapes, warm people and fabulous food and wine. We had a fantastic three day trip with Mariana from Poncho Tours. Great, safe driver, informative guiding and plenty of tips of where to eat and drink. The private, tailored tour is definitely the way to go. We will return next year.

Author: Andrea Lemmon | Date: 3/2/2024 | Source: trustpilot | Rating: 5 stars

Our three-day tour through the breathtaking landscape near Salta was the perfect way to wrap up our time in Argentina. We were well looked after by Poncho Tours at every step of the way — from booking, to pick up at the airport, to our three days of touring that took us through Cachi and Cafayate. Really appreciate our guide, Rodrigo's, safe driving and knowledge of the area. Poncho Tours is first class all the way — highly recommend.

Author: Terry Gilbert | Date: 1/9/2024 | Source: trustpilot | Rating: 5 stars

Большое спасибо Нику и команде за организацию прекрасного тура. Крайне советуем довериться профессионалам со знаниями о местности, иначе много деталей ускользнут от вашего внимания!

Author: Natalia | Date: 12/31/2023 | Source: trustpilot | Rating: 5 stars

Nick was our guide for this trip that brought us from the Atacama desert to Salta. Along the way, we hiked for 2 days in the Iruya area and stayed with a local family. The entire trip was well planned, customised to our needs and ran very smoothly. We also had many good experiences including horseriding in Purmamarca and staying in a vineyard in the Uquia area. Learnt a lot from Nick also during the 6 days with him in the region. Definitely was a fun and enjoyable time for us in Northwest Argentina.

Author: Jrt95 | Date: 12/26/2023 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

Outstanding in every respect- friendly, informative guide to little visited area of beauty and history. Remote Argentina is an adventure of discovery: salt flats, museums, Inca strongholds, flamingos, lithium mining, haciendas, Bolivian border smuggling, wine, and especially empanadas. We traveled together for 14 days.

Author: Stuart | Date: 12/13/2023 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

We booked a self-arranged 11-day tour through Ponchotours from San Pedro de Atacama to Mendoza. Nick supported us from the very first moment, put together a wonderful tour and took our wishes and preferences into account. He also contacted us regularly during the preparation and kept us up to date.Mariano, our guide during the tour, knew the Puna like the back of his hand and gave us unforgettable impressions, be it the salt deserts in the plateaus, the Cono de Arita or his explanations about the carnival culture in Jujuy or knowing exactly which wineries to visit.We would definitely book the tour again and recommend Ponchotours without reservation.

Author: Patrick K | Date: 12/9/2023 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

We had an amazing time during our 4 day Essential Humahuaca and Colome trip with Poncho Tour. Nick was very easy to work with to organize the itinerary. We had a great experience with both our guides Rodrigo and Alejandro. We really appreciated that Alejandro shared so many interesting insights about the region we visited and the Argentine culture.

Author: Judith Evans | Date: 11/26/2023 | Source: trustpilot | Rating: 5 stars

After a few pre planning sessions with Nick, we undertook a five day demanding tour of approximately 1100km, much of it on unsurfaced roads. The route started in Salta and covered Tilcara, Humahuaca, Purnamarca, Salinas Grandes, San Antonio de los Cobres, Abra del Acay, Cachi, Cafayate and then back to Salta. Our guide and driver, Rodrigo, was careful at the wheel and knowledgeable in his commentary. The route is fantastic and fascinating. I have no hesitation in recommending Poncho Tours for this adventure.

Author: Andrew | Date: 11/12/2023 | Source: trustpilot | Rating: 5 stars

We had an amazing time with Rodrigo! We customized the trip with Nick and he gave us a lot of options. Rodrigo was very informative and a safe driver. Really enjoyed our travels with him throughout northern Argentina.

Author: Debbie G | Date: 10/30/2023 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

We spent a wonderful three days with Nick, travelling from Salta to Molinos and Cafayate, stopping along the way to take in the spectacular scenery. The scale of the landscape is breathtaking. Delightful overnight stays at Hacienda de La Molinos and Vinas de Cafayate, with excellent food and wine. Nick is a mine of information, whether on ancient geological events or Argentine history and culture - the perfect host and guide. A marvellous experience!

Author: Geoffrey B | Date: 10/6/2023 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

Excellent and safe. Lots of nature and good local food. A place for walks and good photos.

Author: OSKARPLUS | Date: 9/29/2023 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 4 stars

Eight-day private tour from Mendoza to Salta. Everything was very pleasant, Mariano -our guide- was all the time explaining details of places from geographic, topographic, historical and whatever you can imagine. An expert and super amicable guide. I travelled with my young adult son who has been delighted with all places visited, their magnificence and life in such remote places. We appreciated the visits of recommended and not easy to find craftsmen, particularly in the Calchaqui region, unless with an expert guide as Mariano. I am from Buenos Aires and had been in the region but would have not discovered these places if it not had been because of Mariano. For those novice to Argentina and the Nordwest it is an excellent opportunity to see, learn and buy many objects of craftsmanship direct from the people who live there from their own work. We particularly enjoyed also our stays in Cafayate (at Cafayate Wine Resort hotel), the several bodegas visited and wine tastings as well as our stay in Salta (at hotel Alejandro I). I shall mention also that we loved the location, foo and wines at restaurant Puna, of bodegas Patelli in Cafayate (Salta).

Author: Maria Teresa | Date: 8/15/2023 | Source: trustpilot | Rating: 5 stars

Eight-day private tour from Mendoza to Salta.Everything was very pleasant, Mariano -our guide- was all the time explaining details of places from geographic, topographic, historical and whatever you can imagine. An expert and super amicable guide. I travelled with my young adult son who has been delighted with all places visited, their magnificence and life in such remote places. We appreciated the visits of recommended and not easy to find craftsmen, particularly in the Calchaqui region, unless with an expert guide as Mariano. I am from Buenos Aires and had been in the region but would have not discovered these places if it not had been because of Mariano. For those novice to Argentina and the Nordwest it is an excellent opportunity to see, learn and buy many objects of craftsmanship direct from the people who live there from their own work.We particularly enjoyed also our stays in Cafayate (at Cafayate Wine Resort hotel), the several bodegas visited and wine tastings as well as our stay in Salta (at hotel Alejandro I). I shall mention also that we loved the location, foo and wines at restaurant Puna, of bodegas Patelli in Cafayate (Salta).

Author: Maria Teresa L | Date: 8/15/2023 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

We had a wonderful experience traveling with Nick from Poncho Tours. Before arriving in Buenos Aires we coordinated with Gary from Wine Tours/wine Tasting about our interest in visiting the Salta area. Gary put us in touch with Nick and helped us plan an amazing two days from Salta to Cafayate. Our initial plan was to travel to Tilcara, but protests and road closures forced us to change plans last minute. Nick was very flexible with the many changes including an extra long delay of the arrival of our plane. On our drive he stopped at several spots so we could soak in the spectacular beauty and views on our way to Cafayete. When we got to the charming little town, Nick gave us many recommendations to explore. He also helped us find our favorite alphajores spot! We had a really wonderful time taking in the beauty, exploring wine, and traveling with Nick and Poncho Tours. Thank you for making our visit so memorable!

Author: Amena Z | Date: 7/21/2023 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

Our tour with Rodrigo was outstanding. The sights were amazing, and we appreciated his knowledge, flexibility, and simpatico. Well worth the investment to have this personalized attention and schedule. Despite road closings at one point, we didn't miss a thing, thanks to Rodrigo's knowledge of the area.And Nick was a great help before the trip, helping us with accommodation suggestions and bookings, money exchange tips, and more.Highly recommend Poncho Tours!

Author: Jo Ellen C | Date: 6/23/2023 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

Very happy with our short trip with Poncho Tours. Nick collected us from the airport and talked us through the plan and then guide Nico was with us for the next two days. He made sure to stop everywhere we wanted for photos, explained about the plants & history and was happy for us to have an unscheduled stop to watch some young vicuña. Highly recommend!

Author: KarlandHannah | Date: 5/22/2023 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

We had a wonderful experience with Poncho Tours. Co-owner Nick and guide/driver Rodrigo were extremely organized and very knowledgeable. The tour was customized to our tastes with a winery tour/tasting, llama trek and Train to the Clouds ride. Nick presented various options for lodging, and you could pick which ones fit your budget. Do not miss the curvy road trip to the 14-color mountain in the Serranía de Hornocal! I would highly recommend Poncho Tours to anyone traveling in northwestern Argentina.

Author: laustinnc | Date: 5/16/2023 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

I requested a modification to the Salt and Seven Colours tour--to see the flamingos in the Quebrada del Toro in off-season. Although Nick's usual local guides weren't available, he scouted the route for me and did the tour himself. We were still able to see quite a few flamingos, and it was a beautiful and tranquil place. It would have been great to do the full four days so I could have had time to hike a bit of the Inca Trail, and spend more time in some of the other spots. Although the cost was a little higher than I had been expecting compared to other countries I've been to in the past, once I went on the tour, I could see the rough roads cause wear and tear on the vehicle, and the winding roads at high altitude could be tough on the driver. Lodging and food in the area costs very little, so it all evens out in the end.Alicia also did a Salta city tour with me. I wasn't feeling well that day, and she was patient with my slow pace. Because the hotels in the area don't offer laundry service, she accompanied me to the laundromat before and after the tour.

Author: AXH2015 | Date: 5/15/2023 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

Great Experience with Poncho Tours. one of customer service agent who’s name is Mourizio, he has been a great help and got a lot to get best deal. I found very easy the way he gave me all information for book my tour to Granada. I very strongly advise other traveller to use Poncho Tours its very friendly and easy to use. I must emphasise that Poncho Tours is the best Tour Operator I have ever worked with. From a customer experience perspective, Mourizio's service is superlative. He is the most responsive agent I have ever worked with (by far), and he makes every transaction 100% stress free. Thank you. They organised Flamenco Dinner Show in Granada, Day trip to Cordoba with Tour Guide, Alhambra tickets and Tour with fabulous Guide Jackie, who was a delightful, very knowledgeable and dealt with patience as my uncle has walking problems, and a half day tour of Albaicin again with the tour guide Jackie. I can going praising her contribution to make our Alhambra tour memorable. Big Thank you I will use them again in the future. Noor Patel Berlin Germany

Author: Noorjahan Patel | Date: 5/4/2023 | Source: trustpilot | Rating: 5 stars

We made a 6-day trip with Nick to northern Argentina. He knows the area very well, and knows how to adapt the trip according to needs, weather and road conditions. After more than 20 years in Salta, he knows all the good places to eat, stay, visit and taste high altitude wine! A must to discover all the landscapes (not always well signposted!) of the northern provinces.

Author: ThomRoub | Date: 4/25/2023 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

Hicimos un viaje de 6 días con mis papas desde Humahuaca hasta Cafayate y los Quilmes y Me gusto mucho! Gracias Nick!

Author: Elias | Date: 4/25/2023 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

We loved our tours with Nick - he made everything so straightforward for us so we were able to just sit back and enjoy the incredible scenery around the Salta region. The Inca trail hike was a particular experience we were very keen to have while in Argentina and we’re happy we found Nick to guide us. It was amazing to get off the beaten track from the more visited tourist attractions and to have a hike through the stunning mountain landscapes past several sites of Incan ruins. Nick also suggested adding a visit to the pre-Incan ruins at Tastil and we were really glad we saw these as well. We also enjoyed Nick’s company and the information he gave us about the area while we were exploring. We’d very happily book with Poncho Tours if/when we (hopefully!) come back to Argentina!

Author: Fiona I | Date: 4/24/2023 | Source: tripadvisor | Rating: 5 stars

Großartiger Touranbieter in Nordwest-Argentinien mit absoluter Weiterempfehlung! Die mehrtägige Rundtour von Salta nach San Pedro de Atacama und Cachi mit Nick Evans war das Highlight unseres Aufenthalts in Argentinien/Chile. Bereits die Organisation und die individuelle Zusammenstellung der Tour vorab war äußerst angenehm und professionell. Die Tour selbst war mindestens genauso großartig; eine Kombination aus landschaftlicher Vielfalt, Tierwelt und Nick’s Hintergrundwissen zu Natur, Geschichte und vor allem der Ortskenntnis war äußerst wertvoll. Auch unser Wunsch einer Änderung der ursprünglichen Route während der Tour war ohne Probleme und flexibel möglich. Neben den unzähligen Stops entlang der Route (inklusive Tee und Picknick) ist nicht zuletzt zu erwähnen, dass die Zeit im Auto mit Nick, auf den teils doch längeren Fahrten, hohen Unterhaltungswert haben. :-) Vielen Dank nochmals an Poncho Tours für diese großartige Tour! Weiterempfehlung Poncho Tours: 100%

Author: Thomas | Date: 4/2/2023 | Source: google | Rating: 5 stars

My husband and I, along with our two friends did the Salt & Seven Colors tour with Rodrigo. It was an amazing experience seeing both the diverse landscapes of the area and the charming towns throughout the trip. Rodrigo's English was great, and he took fantastic care of us (including when I was feeling sick due to the altitude in the highlands). He was very knowledgeable about the area and also was open to talking about his experience living in and around Salta his whole life. Overall it was an experience that I will never forget!

Author: Elizabeth Wendt | Date: 4/2/2023 | Source: google | Rating: 5 stars

Poncho tours helped plan the best 5 day tour in the Salta region of Argentina that we could have hoped for and adapted it to our wants and needs. It was planned very last minute and Nick was on hand to help us a lot. He also came to personally pick us up from the airport, helped us get the currency we needed and dropped us at our hotel in Salta, despite our tour of the rest of the region with Poncho tours not starting for another 2 days. It made everything very stress free, so we could just enjoy. Our guide was incredibly helpful, always on time, an excellent driver and had so much knowledge of the area. His English was also impeccable and meant that we didn't have to worry about communication. We were able to go across the Accay pass, which we would not have been able to do without a guide, the correct car and safety precaussions due to the altitude. And it was SPECTACULAR! A definite highlight and an experience which is not always possible, as the dirt track roads are narrow, need clearing and can be shut in poor weather. We were very lucky! From the green lush mountains, to the hot and arrid colourful Fourteen and Seven sisters, to the salt flats and across the Accay pass to the wine region - the landscapes, history, nature and people of this area are unforgettable and we will treasure the memories forever. A big thankyou to the Poncho Tours team.

Author: Helen | Date: 4/2/2023 | Source: google | Rating: 5 stars

We had a fabulous 4 day tour with Nick from salta northwards to tilcara hiking and exploring the mountains and salt flats . The whole experience was professional, interesting and lots of fun I would highly recommend Poncho Tours

Author: Alistair Henderson | Date: 4/2/2023 | Source: google | Rating: 5 stars

Excelente empresa. Superaron todas nuestras expectativas. Todo perfecto, no creo que pueda haber una empresa mejor para realizar tus paseos en Salta. Son puntuales y están en todos los detalles. Nuestro guia Mariano muy amable cálido y eficiente , con un profundo conocimiento del lugar. Cuando sugirieron cambios en la planificación de nuestro itinerario fueron muy acertados ya que los hacen desde su conocimiento y experiencia. Nuestro agradecimiento para Nick que organizo todo en tiempo récord.

Author: Marcela Loglio | Date: 4/2/2023 | Source: google | Rating: 5 stars

Frequently Asked Questions

Questions About Our Products & Services (100)

How do I book a tour with Poncho Tours?

Booking a tour with Poncho Tours is straightforward. You can visit our website, navigate to the specific tour you're interested in, and follow the booking instructions. Alternatively, you can contact our customer service team directly via email or phone, and they will guide you through the reservation process. We recommend booking in advance, especially for our more popular tours like 'Mountains to Cloud Forest trekking', to secure your desired dates and ensure availability.

What payment methods does Poncho Tours accept?

Poncho Tours accepts various payment methods to make your booking convenient. We typically accept major credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. Bank transfers are also an option for certain bookings. Specific details regarding payment options will be provided during the booking process or upon request from our customer service team. We aim to offer flexibility while ensuring all transactions are secure for your peace of mind.

Are there any discounts available for Poncho Tours packages?

Poncho Tours occasionally offers discounts for early bird bookings, group reservations, or during specific promotional periods. We encourage you to check our website's 'Special Offers' section or subscribe to our newsletter for updates on current promotions. While we strive to provide competitive pricing year-round, these discounts can make our 'Classic Wine Route' or 'Salt & Seven Colours' tours even more appealing. Please inquire directly about any applicable discounts when contacting us.

What is the cancellation policy for Poncho Tours?

Poncho Tours' cancellation policy varies depending on the type of tour and how far in advance you cancel. Generally, cancellations made well in advance may be subject to a partial refund, while late cancellations might incur a cancellation fee or be non-refundable. We highly recommend reviewing the specific cancellation terms detailed in your booking confirmation. For our multi-day expeditions like 'Wine and Mountains', we advise purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment against unforeseen circumstances.

Can I get a refund if I need to cancel my Poncho Tours booking?

Refund eligibility for Poncho Tours cancellations depends on our specific cancellation policy, which is outlined during the booking process and in your confirmation. If you cancel within the stipulated free-cancellation period, a full or partial refund may be processed. Cancellations outside this window, or closer to the departure date, may result in forfeiture of a portion or the entire payment. We always recommend consulting the terms and conditions provided for your specific tour for precise refund details.

What is included in a typical Poncho Tours 'Mountains to Cloud Forest trekking' trip?

The 'Mountains to Cloud Forest trekking' trip by Poncho Tours is an extensive package. It typically includes experienced trekking guides, all necessary ground transportation within the tour, accommodation during the trek (which could be camping or rustic lodges depending on the itinerary), most meals, and permits for protected areas. Specific inclusions like specialized equipment rentals or personal porters might be available as add-ons. We focus on providing a comprehensive and safe trekking experience from start to finish.

Is the 'Mountains to Cloud Forest trekking' tour physically demanding?

Yes, the 'Mountains to Cloud Forest trekking' tour by Poncho Tours is categorized as one of our most challenging treks, recommended only for experienced hikers. It involves significant ascents, descents, and long distances over varied terrain. Participants should possess an excellent level of physical fitness, be comfortable with multi-day hiking, and have prior high-altitude experience. We suggest a consistent training regimen leading up to the tour to fully enjoy this rewarding adventure.

What level of fitness is required for Poncho Tours' 'Bolivia’s high altitude wine' tour?

The 'Bolivia’s high altitude wine' tour by Poncho Tours is generally less physically demanding than our trekking expeditions. It primarily involves travel by vehicle, vineyard visits, and some light walking. While it's not a strenuous tour, participants should be comfortable with high-altitude environments, as Tarija is located at elevated elevations. We recommend consulting your doctor if you have any pre-existing health conditions that might be affected by altitude, even if the activity level is low.

Are private tours available with Poncho Tours?

Yes, Poncho Tours offers the option for private tours for individuals, families, or groups. Many of our listed tours, including 'Essential Humahuaca' and 'Classic Wine Route', can be customized into a private experience, offering greater flexibility with dates, itinerary adjustments, and a more personalized pace. Please contact our team with your specific requirements and preferred tour, and we will work with you to create a bespoke private itinerary tailored to your needs and interests.

What is the typical group size for Poncho Tours' 'Wine and Mountains' safari?

For Poncho Tours' 'Wine and Mountains' 4x4 safari, typical group sizes are kept small to ensure a personalized and intimate experience. We usually cap groups at around 4-6 participants, ensuring everyone has comfortable seating in the 4x4 vehicles and maximizes interaction with the guide. This small group setting also allows for greater flexibility and opportunities to explore the remote areas of Argentina’s Andean mountain plateau more thoroughly. Private versions of this tour are also available.

What kind of accommodation is provided on Poncho Tours' multi-day trips?

Accommodation on Poncho Tours' multi-day trips varies depending on the specific tour and location. For our cultural and wine tours like 'Classic Wine Route', we typically arrange stays in charming boutique hotels, guesthouses, or traditional estancias, prioritizing comfort and local authenticity. For trekking expeditions such as 'Mountains to Cloud Forest', accommodation might include comfortable tents in designated campsites or rustic mountain lodges. 'Wine and Mountains' often features unique accommodations in remote regions, offering a true sense of adventure. We always aim for clean, safe, and characteristic lodging options.

What transportation is used on Poncho Tours' 'Fourteen Colours & Cloud Forest' tour?

On Poncho Tours' 'Fourteen Colours & Cloud Forest' tour, transportation primarily involves comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles for road transfers between different locations, such as the dry canyons of Humahuaca and the cloud forest. For the trekking sections, transportation is on foot, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty. Depending on accessibility to trailheads, we might also utilize 4x4 vehicles for certain segments. We prioritize safety and comfort for all our land transfers throughout the journey.

Are Poncho Tours guides local and experienced?

Yes, all Poncho Tours guides are highly experienced and have extensive local knowledge of the regions they operate in. They are often native to the areas, providing invaluable insights into local culture, history, flora, and fauna, especially on tours like 'Mountain Trekking in Iruya' where interaction with local communities is key. Our trekking guides are also certified in wilderness first aid and equipped to handle challenging conditions, ensuring your safety and enhancing your overall adventure.

What safety precautions does Poncho Tours take on high-altitude expeditions?

Poncho Tours prioritizes safety on all high-altitude expeditions, such as 'Mountains to Cloud Forest trekking' and 'Footsteps of the Conquistadores'. Our precautions include thorough pre-trip briefings about altitude sickness, carrying oxygen supplies, and ensuring guides are trained in wilderness first aid and altitude-related emergency protocols. We also plan itineraries that allow for gradual acclimatization and closely monitor participants for any signs of altitude illness. Our vehicles are regularly inspected, and communication devices are carried where coverage permits, ensuring peace of mind.

What is the best time of year to visit for Poncho Tours' 'Expedition to the Cloud Forest'?

The best time of year for Poncho Tours' 'Expedition to the Cloud Forest' in Jujuy is generally during the dry season, which typically runs from April to October. During these months, rainfall is minimal, making trekking conditions more favorable and reducing the likelihood of muddy trails. The temperatures are also generally milder and more comfortable for outdoor activities. While the cloud forest is beautiful year-round, the dry season offers the most optimal experience for exploration and photography.

What should I pack for Poncho Tours' 'Colours of Vallecito' tour?

For Poncho Tours' 'Colours of Vallecito' tour, we recommend packing versatile clothing layers to accommodate varying temperatures and conditions. Essentials include comfortable walking shoes, a waterproof and windproof jacket, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, high SPF sunscreen), and a reusable water bottle. Depending on the time of year, lighter clothing for warm days and warmer layers for evenings will be necessary. Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes. A detailed packing list will be provided upon booking to ensure you're fully prepared.

Does Poncho Tours allow photography during its tours?

Yes, Poncho Tours absolutely encourages photography during our tours! We understand the desire to capture the breathtaking landscapes, unique cultures, and memorable experiences, whether it's the 'Fourteen Colours & Cloud Forest' or the 'Salares of Uyuni, Bolivia'. We only ask that you be respectful of local customs, privacy, and your fellow travelers. For cultural interactions, always ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals. Your guide can offer tips on the best vantage points for stunning shots.

Are Poncho Tours' experiences accessible for travelers with disabilities?

Poncho Tours strives to make our experiences as inclusive as possible. However, the accessibility of our tours largely depends on the nature of the specific itinerary. Trekking tours like 'Mountains to Cloud Forest' and 'Mountain Trekking in Iruya' involve rugged terrain and may not be suitable for all travelers with disabilities. For less physically demanding tours such as 'Salta City Tour' or certain wine routes, we may be able to make accommodations. Please contact us directly to discuss your specific needs and we can advise on the most suitable options.

What is Poncho Tours' policy regarding pets on tours?

Unfortunately, Poncho Tours generally has a strict no-pet policy on our tours due to several factors. These include ensuring the safety and comfort of all travelers, potential disturbances to wildlife, and varying local regulations regarding animals in natural parks or private establishments. While we understand the desire to travel with your furry companions, our itineraries, particularly those involving trekking or specific accommodation types, are not designed to accommodate pets. Service animals may be an exception with prior arrangement, depending on the tour.

Does Poncho Tours offer options for solo travelers?

Yes, Poncho Tours welcomes solo travelers on all our group tours. Many of our guests choose to explore destinations like the 'Seventeen Colours & Cloud Forest' or 'Essential Humahuaca' independently. Solo travelers can typically book a spot in a shared group tour. If you prefer not to share a room, a single supplement fee usually applies to secure a private room. Our small group sizes foster a friendly atmosphere, making it easy to connect with other adventurers during your journey.

What are Poncho Tours' policies for families traveling with children?

Poncho Tours welcomes families with children, though suitability varies by tour. Our more adventurous treks like 'Mountains to Cloud Forest' are generally not recommended for young children due to their demanding nature. However, cultural and scenic tours like 'Essential Humahuaca' or 'Classic Wine Route' can be enjoyable for families. We advise checking the physical rating for each tour. Discounts for children may be available on specific tours, and we can often customize private family tours. Please contact us to discuss your family's specific needs and we'll help find the perfect adventure.

Can I combine multiple Poncho Tours into a single trip?

Yes, combining multiple Poncho Tours into a single, extended trip is definitely possible and often encouraged to provide a comprehensive experience of the region. For example, you could link the 'Salta City Tour' with 'Classic Wine Route' or even cross into 'Chile: Atacama Desert' after exploring our Argentinian tours. Our team can help you design a customized itinerary that seamlessly blends different tours, optimizing your travel time and experience. Just let us know your interests and desired destinations.

Is travel insurance required for Poncho Tours bookings?

While travel insurance is not always strictly mandatory for all Poncho Tours bookings, it is highly recommended, especially for our more adventurous or remote tours like 'Expedition to the Cloud Forest' or 'Salares of Uyuni, Bolivia'. Comprehensive travel insurance can protect you against unforeseen circumstances such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, lost luggage, or unexpected delays. We advise purchasing a policy that covers the specific activities in your chosen tour to ensure peace of mind throughout your journey.

What emergency procedures does Poncho Tours have in place?

Poncho Tours has comprehensive emergency procedures for all our tours. Our guides are trained in first aid and wilderness emergency response. For remote expeditions, we carry satellite phones or other communication devices. We also have established protocols for medical evacuations, working with local emergency services and partners. Prior to departure, you'll receive emergency contact information, and our office maintains 24/7 support. Your safety is our utmost priority, and every measure is taken to address unforeseen situations efficiently.

How long has Poncho Tours been operating?

Poncho Tours has been operating for several years, building a strong reputation as a premier tour operator specializing in unique and authentic travel experiences across Northwest Argentina and surrounding regions. Our deep local knowledge and commitment to exceptional service have allowed us to craft meticulously planned itineraries, from challenging treks to immersive cultural and wine tours. We pride ourselves on offering unforgettable adventures for discerning travelers seeking to explore these spectacular landscapes with expertise and passion.

Can Poncho Tours customize a tour specifically for our group?

Absolutely! Poncho Tours excels at creating custom and modified tours to perfectly suit your group's preferences, interests, and schedule. Whether you want to extend a particular tour, combine elements from different itineraries like 'Wine and History' with 'Footsteps of the Conquistadores', or have specific places you wish to visit beyond our standard offerings, we can design a bespoke experience. Contact our team with your ideas, and we'll work closely with you to craft your ideal adventure.

Tell me more about Poncho Tours' 'Bolivia’s high altitude wine' tour.

Poncho Tours' 'Bolivia’s high altitude wine' tour introduces you to one of the world's lesser-known, yet captivating, wine regions: Tarija. This unique experience delves into vineyards nestled at astonishing elevations, allowing you to taste distinctive wines shaped by the extreme conditions. You'll visit boutique wineries, learn about the winemaking process, and enjoy tastings against a backdrop of stunning Andean scenery. It's a journey not just for wine lovers, but for anyone seeking an off-the-beaten-path cultural and gastronomic adventure, discovering the rich flavors and history of this high-altitude viticulture.

What makes Poncho Tours' 'Wine and Mountains' tour unique?

Poncho Tours' 'Wine and Mountains' tour stands out as a 4x4 safari that plunges deep into the most remote areas of Argentina’s Andean mountain plateau. It uniquely combines adventure with indulgence. You'll traverse breathtaking, untouched landscapes, witness incredible geological formations, and then discover hidden wineries operating in these extreme conditions. This isn't just a wine tasting; it's an immersive overland journey that connects you with the raw beauty of the Andes and the resilient spirit of high-altitude winemaking, offering a truly distinctive cultural and exploratory experience beyond typical tourist routes.

Is the 'Fourteen Colours & Cloud Forest' tour suitable for beginners?

The trekking component of Poncho Tours' 'Fourteen Colours & Cloud Forest' tour involves hiking Argentina's Inca trail, linking two distinct ecosystems. While it offers incredible vistas, the hiking portions can be moderately challenging, especially for beginners. It involves ascents and descents over varied terrain. However, the tour is generally considered accessible to individuals with a reasonable level of fitness, not necessarily expert hikers. We recommend regular exercise before the trip to enhance your enjoyment. Talk to us if you have concerns about your fitness level.

How challenging is Poncho Tours' 'Mountain Trekking in Iruya'?

Poncho Tours' 'Mountain Trekking in Iruya' is a high-altitude trek and can be considered moderately to challenging, depending on the specific route and your fitness level. It takes you through multi-coloured hills and involves sustained walking over uneven terrain at elevated altitudes, requiring good stamina and some trekking experience. While not as extreme as our 'Mountains to Cloud Forest' trek, participants should be in good physical condition and comfortable with several hours of hiking daily. The reward is stepping into the heart of local, remote communities.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on Poncho Tours' 'Expedition to the Cloud Forest'?

On Poncho Tours' 'Expedition to the Cloud Forest', you can expect to encounter an incredible diversity of wildlife specific to this unique ecosystem. This verdant oasis is home to numerous bird species, including colorful toucans, hummingbirds, and various raptors. Keep an eye out for interesting mammals like monkeys, ocelots (though rarer to spot), and a wide array of insects and amphibians. The rich biodiversity makes it a fantastic destination for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers, offering unique photographic opportunities of plant and animal life.

What is the duration of Poncho Tours' 'Colours of Vallecito' tour?

The duration of Poncho Tours' 'Colours of Vallecito' tour can vary, typically ranging from a full-day excursion to a multi-day journey, depending on the depth of exploration you desire. This voyage of discovery into the untouched landscape between the Valles Calchaquies and the Quebrada d'Humahuaca can be tailored. For specific multi-day itineraries, please refer to the tour details on our website or contact our team directly. We aim to offer flexible options that allow you to fully immerse yourself in this stunning region at your preferred pace.

What are the highlights of Poncho Tours' 'Essential Humahuaca' tour?

The 'Essential Humahuaca' tour by Poncho Tours expertly combines the stunning highlights of the colorful Quebrada de Humahuaca, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with the otherworldly Salinas Grandes. Key highlights include witnessing the iconic 'Hill of Seven Colours' in Purmamarca, exploring the vibrant culture and artisan markets of Humahuaca town, experiencing the vast, dazzling white expanse of the salt flats, and marveling at the unique geological formations of the region. It's a comprehensive cultural and scenic immersion into the heart of Jujuy's natural wonders.

What kind of wineries are visited on Poncho Tours' 'Classic Wine Route'?

On Poncho Tours' 'Classic Wine Route', you'll explore the varied landscape of the Valles Calchaquies and its excellent boutique wineries. This tour focuses on visiting smaller, often family-run, and award-winning bodegas that emphasize quality and unique terroir. You'll experience personalized tastings, learn about their specific winemaking traditions, and often have the opportunity to meet the actual winemakers. These wineries offer a more intimate and authentic insight into Argentinian viticulture, distinct from larger commercial operations, allowing for a truly immersive experience of the region's character.

Does Poncho Tours provide specific recommendations for accommodation in Salta for 'Wine and History: Salta to Mendoza'?

Yes, for Poncho Tours' 'Wine and History: Salta to Mendoza' tour, we typically arrange and include accommodation in charming, comfortable hotels or estancias characteristic of each region. While we don't always provide specific 'recommendations' for you to book independently as lodging is part of the package, we ensure that our chosen accommodations offer excellent service, local flavor, and comfort. If you have specific preferences or need pre- or post-tour accommodation in Salta, our team can certainly suggest reputable options based on your budget and style.

What kind of vehicles are used for Poncho Tours' 'Footsteps of the Conquistadores' tour?

For Poncho Tours' 'Footsteps of the Conquistadores', a high-altitude 4x4 adventure, we exclusively use sturdy and well-maintained 4x4 vehicles. These vehicles are specifically chosen for their ability to navigate the challenging and remote terrain of the old colonial mining routes and Altiplano. They ensure both safety and comfort across varied landscapes, allowing for a smooth journey even on unpaved or winding roads. Our drivers are highly experienced in off-road conditions, guaranteeing a reliable and secure expedition.

What makes Poncho Tours' 'Salt & Seven Colours' tour so popular?

Poncho Tours' 'Salt & Seven Colours' tour is highly popular because it perfectly blends two of Northern Argentina's most iconic and visually stunning attractions. It combines the historic and vibrant UNESCO site of the Quebrada de Humahuaca, with its famed 'Hill of Seven Colours' in Purmamarca, and the vast, ethereal landscapes of the Salinas Grandes. This tailor-made tour offers an exquisite balance of culture, history, and unparalleled natural beauty, creating incredible photographic opportunities and an unforgettable, comprehensive experience of the region's unique allure.

What's the difference between 'Wine and History: Salta to Mendoza' and 'Wine and History: Mendoza to Cafayate' by Poncho Tours?

Poncho Tours offers two distinct 'Wine and History' tours tailored to explore different facets of Argentina's wine country. The 'Salta to Mendoza' tour covers a longer, more comprehensive route, visiting lesser-known boutique wineries in Catamarca before reaching Mendoza, focusing on the journey's historical significance and diverse landscapes. The 'Mendoza to Cafayate' tour, conversely, focuses specifically on the journey from Mendoza, a renowned wine region, northwards to Cafayate, emphasizing the unique high-altitude wines of Salta. Both offer historical and wine insights but cover different geographical stretches and regional wine specialties.

What are the historical aspects covered in Poncho Tours' 'Salta City Tour'?

Poncho Tours' 'Salta City Tour' delves into the rich historical tapestry of one of South America's best-preserved colonial cities. The tour typically covers key historical sites such as the beautiful Salta Cathedral, the Cabildo, and the MAAM (Museum of High Altitude Archaeology) which houses precious Inca artifacts. You'll learn about Salta's colonial past, its role in Argentina's independence, and the influences of Spanish architecture and culture evident throughout the city. Our guides bring this vibrant history to life with engaging narratives and insights.

What can I expect during Poncho Tours' journey to 'Chile: Atacama Desert'?

Poncho Tours' journey to the 'Chile: Atacama Desert' is a dramatic and unforgettable experience. You can expect to travel across the majestic Andes, traversing high mountain passes as you descend into the driest desert in the world. The tour features breathtaking landscapes including salt flats, active geysers, colorful lagoons, and ancient rock formations. You'll explore the charming oasis town of San Pedro de Atacama, stargaze under exceptionally clear skies, and witness unique desert flora and fauna. It's a journey of stark beauty and incredible natural wonders, offering a stark contrast to our Argentinian tours.

What are the main attractions visited on Poncho Tours' 'Salares of Uyuni, Bolivia' tour?

On Poncho Tours' 'Salares of Uyuni, Bolivia' tour, you'll experience one of the true wonders of the natural world. The main attractions include the vast, dazzling white expanse of the Uyuni salt flats themselves, especially remarkable for its mirror effect during the wet season. You'll also visit Incahuasi Island, covered in giant cacti; explore vibrant lagoons inhabited by flamingos (like Laguna Colorada and Laguna Verde); see the 'train cemetery' with abandoned locomotives; and encounter geysers and hot springs. It's an extraordinary journey through a surreal and unforgettable landscape.

Are meals included in all Poncho Tours itineraries?

The inclusion of meals in Poncho Tours itineraries varies by specific tour. For multi-day trekking expeditions like 'Mountains to Cloud Forest', most meals are typically included to ensure convenience in remote areas. For shorter day tours, such as the 'Salta City Tour', meals might be excluded, allowing flexibility for guests to explore local dining options. Wine tours often include tastings and sometimes lunch at a winery. Please refer to the detailed itinerary of your chosen tour on our website, or contact our team for precise information on meal inclusions.

What currency should I bring for my Poncho Tours trip to Argentina?

For your Poncho Tours trip to Argentina, the local currency is the Argentine Peso (ARS). While credit cards are widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas, it's always advisable to carry some local currency for smaller purchases, tips, rural areas, or emergencies. US dollars are also occasionally accepted or can be exchanged. We recommend checking with your bank about ATM fees and informing them of your travel plans. Your guide can provide advice on exchanging money safely and finding ATMs during your tour.

Does Poncho Tours offer airport transfers?

Yes, Poncho Tours often includes airport transfers as part of our comprehensive multi-day tour packages, especially if the tour starts or ends in a major city like Salta or Mendoza. For day tours or specific arrangements, transfers can usually be added as an optional extra service. Please refer to the 'Inclusions' section of your specific tour itinerary on our website or contact our booking team. We aim to ensure a smooth and hassle-free arrival and departure for all our guests, making logistics seamless.

Can I request specific dietary requirements for meals on Poncho Tours?

Yes, Poncho Tours is committed to accommodating specific dietary requirements and allergies. When making your booking, please inform us in detail about any dietary restrictions you may have (e.g., vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, allergies). While we strive to meet all requests, especially on multi-day tours where meals are provided, some very remote locations might have limited options. Providing this information well in advance allows us to make the necessary arrangements with our local partners and ensure a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience for you.

Are tips for guides and drivers expected on Poncho Tours?

While entirely at your discretion, tipping your guides and drivers on Poncho Tours is customary in Argentina and greatly appreciated for excellent service. It serves as a way to acknowledge their hard work, local expertise, and dedication to ensuring an enjoyable and safe trip. There are no fixed rules, but a general guideline will be provided in your pre-departure information. You should only tip what you feel is appropriate for the quality of service you received, making it a personal gesture of gratitude.

What language do Poncho Tours guides speak?

All Poncho Tours guides are proficient in Spanish, as it is the official language of Argentina and Bolivia. Additionally, most of our guides are fluent in English, ensuring clear communication and comprehensive explanations throughout your tour. For some specific tours or private arrangements, guides proficient in other languages may be available upon request, though this might depend on availability and incur an additional cost. We aim to provide an informative and engaging experience for all our international travelers.

Does Poncho Tours provide a detailed itinerary before departure?

Yes, Poncho Tours provides a comprehensive and detailed itinerary well before your departure. This document outlines your day-by-day activities, including timings, points of interest, estimated travel distances, accommodation details, and meal inclusions. It also contains important pre-departure information like packing lists, local contact numbers, and specific instructions for your chosen tour, such as 'Expedition to the Cloud Forest'. This ensures you are fully prepared and know what to expect, allowing you to focus on enjoying your adventure.

What is the policy for unexpected changes to a Poncho Tours itinerary?

While Poncho Tours meticulously plans each itinerary, sometimes unexpected situations like weather conditions, road closures, or local events may necessitate changes, particularly for tours like 'Wine and Mountains' that traverse remote areas. In such cases, our priority is always your safety and ensuring a comparable quality experience. We will communicate any necessary changes transparently and promptly, and our guides are skilled at adapting plans. We strive to provide suitable alternatives and minimize any disruption to your adventure, always aiming for the best possible outcome.

How does Poncho Tours handle medical emergencies during tours?

Poncho Tours handles medical emergencies with utmost seriousness. All our guides are trained in first aid and carry essential medical supplies. For remote tours like 'Mountains to Cloud Forest trekking', we implement robust communication plans, including satellite phones for areas without cell service. In case of a serious emergency, our protocol involves immediate assessment, administering basic first aid, contacting local emergency services or our ground support team, and arranging for the fastest possible evacuation to the nearest medical facility. We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies and evacuation.

Can I bring my own trekking poles for Poncho Tours' 'Mountain Trekking in Iruya'?

Yes, you are welcome to bring your own trekking poles for Poncho Tours' 'Mountain Trekking in Iruya'. Many trekkers find poles beneficial for stability, especially on uneven terrain and during ascents and descents at high altitudes. If you do not own poles, some of our trekking tours may offer them for rent, or you can often purchase them locally. Please let us know if you require assistance with equipment, and we can advise on availability or suitable local vendors beforehand to ensure you're well-equipped for your adventure.

How much luggage can I bring on a Poncho Tours multi-day trip?

The amount of luggage you can bring on a Poncho Tours multi-day trip depends largely on the tour's nature and transportation. For tours involving 4x4 vehicles, like 'Wine and Mountains' or 'Footsteps of the Conquistadores', space is typically limited to one main suitcase or backpack plus a small daypack per person. For trekking tours, you'd usually carry a smaller daypack with essentials, with your main luggage either transported by mules (where available) or stored. Specific baggage allowances will be outlined in your pre-departure information to ensure smooth logistics throughout your journey.

What kind of footwear do you recommend for Poncho Tours' 'Expedition to the Cloud Forest'?

For Poncho Tours' 'Expedition to the Cloud Forest', we highly recommend waterproof, sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support and excellent grip. The trails in the cloud forest can be verdant, humid, and sometimes muddy, so appropriate footwear is crucial for comfort and safety. You might also want to bring a lighter pair of shoes or sandals for evenings at your accommodation. Breaking in your hiking boots before the trip is essential to prevent blisters and ensure an enjoyable trekking experience through the lush terrain.

Are there any age restrictions for Poncho Tours' 'Mountains to Cloud Forest trekking'?

Due to the demanding nature and high altitude involved in Poncho Tours' 'Mountains to Cloud Forest trekking', there are often age recommendations, rather than strict restrictions. We generally recommend participants be over 18, and physically fit individuals up to around 60-65 years old. However, suitability is more about an individual's health and fitness level than a specific age. For participants outside this general range, a medical certificate from a doctor confirming fitness for high-altitude trekking is usually required. Younger adventurers might be considered on a case-by-case basis with parental consent and proven hiking experience.

What is the weather like in Jujuy for Poncho Tours' 'Fourteen Colours & Cloud Forest'?

The weather for Poncho Tours' 'Fourteen Colours & Cloud Forest' tour can vary significantly due to the two distinct eco-systems. In the dry canyon of Humahuaca, expect arid, sunny, and often warm to hot days with cool nights, especially in the dry season (April-October). In contrast, the cloud forest region is generally more humid and temperate, with a higher chance of rain, particularly in the wet season (November-March). Layers are essential, as temperatures can fluctuate dramatically throughout the day and between regions. Always check the seasonal forecast closer to your travel date.

Are there restrooms available on Poncho Tours' longer drives, like to Salinas Grandes?

Yes, Poncho Tours plans comfort stops during longer drives, including journeys to attractions like the Salinas Grandes. Our itineraries are designed with regular breaks at suitable locations where restrooms are available, often at roadside services, small towns, or designated viewpoints. While facilities might be basic in more remote areas, we ensure opportunities for traveler comfort. Your guide will communicate these stops in advance, ensuring a comfortable and smooth journey throughout the scenic routes of our tours.

Can I modify my Poncho Tours booking after it has been confirmed?

Modifying your Poncho Tours booking after confirmation is possible, but subject to availability and potential amendment fees. Changes to dates, number of participants, or specific itinerary components for tours like 'Essential Humahuaca' depend on our partners' flexibility and the booking's proximity to the departure date. We advise contacting our customer service team as soon as possible if you need to make changes. While we strive to accommodate reasonable requests, some last-minute alterations might not be feasible without incurring additional costs.

What kind of local interactions can I expect on Poncho Tours' 'Mountain Trekking in Iruya'?

On Poncho Tours' 'Mountain Trekking in Iruya', you can expect rich and authentic local interactions. This trek takes you into the heart of remote communities, offering unique opportunities to meet local people, learn about their Andean way of life, traditional customs, and perhaps even their artisanal crafts. These interactions might include sharing meals, visiting local schools or homes, or witnessing traditional farming practices. Our guides facilitate respectful and meaningful exchanges, providing a deeper cultural insight than typical tourist routes, enriching your experience of the region's living heritage.

Does Poncho Tours assist with visa requirements for Bolivia or Chile tours?

Poncho Tours can provide general information and guidance regarding visa requirements for our 'Salares of Uyuni, Bolivia' or 'Chile: Atacama Desert' tours. However, obtaining the necessary visas is ultimately the traveler's responsibility. Visa regulations vary significantly by nationality and can change. We strongly advise you to check the latest visa requirements with the respective embassies or consulates of Bolivia and Chile well in advance of your travel date. Our team can offer helpful resources, but cannot directly process visa applications on your behalf.

Are there any hidden costs not included in Poncho Tours prices?

Poncho Tours is committed to transparency. Our tour prices clearly state what is included. Typically, our published prices do not include international flights, travel insurance, personal expenses, gratuities for guides and drivers (though appreciated), alcoholic beverages (unless specified), or optional activities not listed in the itinerary. We always recommend reviewing the 'Inclusions' and 'Exclusions' sections of your chosen tour, such as the 'Classic Wine Route', for a precise understanding of what your booking covers to avoid any surprises.

What is the average cost of a Poncho Tours multi-day trekking experience?

The average cost of a Poncho Tours multi-day trekking experience, such as 'Mountains to Cloud Forest trekking' or 'Mountain Trekking in Iruya', can vary significantly depending on the duration, level of luxury, group size (private vs. group), and specific inclusions. These expeditions typically range from several hundred to over a thousand US dollars per person. Our website lists detailed pricing for each tour, and you can request a custom quote for private trips. Factors like accommodation style (camping vs. lodges) will also influence the overall price.

Can I request a vegetarian meal on the 'Wine and Mountains' tour?

Yes, absolutely. Poncho Tours caters to various dietary preferences, and you can certainly request vegetarian meals on the 'Wine and Mountains' tour. Please ensure you notify us of your dietary requirements, including being vegetarian, during the booking process or well in advance of your departure. This allows our local partners and guides to make the necessary arrangements with the remote accommodations and dining establishments to ensure delicious and suitable meal options are available for you throughout this unique 4x4 safari experience.

How long is the 'Salta City Tour' offered by Poncho Tours?

The 'Salta City Tour' offered by Poncho Tours is typically a half-day excursion, lasting approximately 3-4 hours. This allows ample time to visit the main historical sites, architectural landmarks, and vibrant cultural spots within Salta's city center, while also providing flexibility for guests to pursue other activities in the afternoon. The tour aims to give you a comprehensive overview of Salta's colonial charm and significant heritage during a comfortable and engaging timeframe, leaving you with a deeper appreciation of this beautiful city.

What are the accommodation standards like in the Atacama Desert on Poncho Tours' Chile trip?

On Poncho Tours' 'Chile: Atacama Desert' journey, accommodation standards in the oasis town of San Pedro de Atacama vary but are generally comfortable and well-suited to the desert environment. We typically select charming and characteristic hotels or guesthouses that reflect the local culture, offering a good balance of comfort and authenticity. While they may not be luxurious city hotels, they provide all necessary amenities, comfortable beds, and a welcoming atmosphere after a day of desert exploration. We prioritize clean, safe, and reputable lodging options for our guests.

Are there opportunities for stargazing on Poncho Tours' Atacama Desert tour?

Yes, absolutely! One of the unparalleled highlights of Poncho Tours' 'Chile: Atacama Desert' tour is the incredible opportunity for stargazing. The Atacama is renowned as one of the best places in the world for astronomical observation due to its high altitude, dry climate, and minimal light pollution. Many tours include dedicated stargazing excursions with powerful telescopes and expert guides who will help you identify constellations and celestial phenomena. It's a truly magical and unforgettable experience to witness the universe from this pristine viewpoint.

Is it safe to travel to Bolivia for the 'Salares of Uyuni' tour with Poncho Tours?

Poncho Tours prioritizes the safety of our guests on all expeditions, including the 'Salares of Uyuni, Bolivia'. We work with reputable local operators who adhere to strict safety standards, ensuring well-maintained 4x4 vehicles and experienced drivers. While general travel advisories should always be consulted for Bolivia, and inherent risks exist with high-altitude, remote travel, we take every precaution. This includes careful route planning, comprehensive vehicle checks, and experienced guides. We advise guests to follow all safety instructions and maintain awareness of their surroundings to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

What kind of clothing is appropriate for the high altitude of the 'Salares of Uyuni' tour?

For Poncho Tours' 'Salares of Uyuni, Bolivia' tour, multilayered clothing is essential due to extreme temperature fluctuations. Days can be sunny and warm, but nights and early mornings are intensely cold, especially in winter. Pack warm base layers (thermals), fleece or wool mid-layers, a windproof and waterproof outer jacket, sturdy closed-toe shoes or hiking boots, a warm hat, gloves, and a scarf. Don't forget sunglasses and high SPF sunscreen, as the sun's intensity at altitude is significant. Dressing in layers allows you to adapt to changing conditions and ensure comfort.

Are there opportunities to learn about local culture on Poncho Tours' 'Essential Humahuaca'?

Yes, Poncho Tours' 'Essential Humahuaca' tour offers abundant opportunities to immerse yourself in local culture. The UNESCO-listed Quebrada de Humahuaca is steeped in indigenous heritage. You'll visit traditional towns like Purmamarca and Humahuaca, explore vibrant artisan markets where local crafts are sold, and learn about the Andean way of life. Our guides provide insights into the history, music, and traditions of the region's communities, making it an enriching cultural experience beyond just sightseeing. You'll truly feel connected to the spirit of this ancient valley.

Does Poncho Tours offer any tours that include horseback riding?

Currently, Poncho Tours' primary offerings focus on trekking, 4x4 safaris, and cultural/wine tours. While horseback riding is not a standard inclusion in our advertised itineraries, we are experts in crafting customized experiences. If you are interested in incorporating horseback riding into your trip, perhaps as part of a 'Wine and Mountains' extension or a specific cultural immersion, please contact our team. We can explore options with local providers and integrate it into a personalized itinerary, depending on the region and your preferences.

What's the best way to avoid altitude sickness on Poncho Tours' high-altitude trips?

Poncho Tours advises several key strategies to prevent altitude sickness on high-altitude trips like the 'Mountains to Cloud Forest trekking' or 'Salares of Uyuni'. Acclimatization is crucial: planning an itinerary that allows for gradual ascent, maintaining hydration (drinking plenty of water), avoiding alcohol and caffeine, and eating light, carbohydrate-rich meals are highly recommended. Informing your guide immediately if you feel unwell is vital. Consulting your doctor about altitude sickness medication (e.g., Diamox) before your trip is also a wise precaution. Our guides are trained to help manage symptoms and ensure your safety.

Are trekking permits included in the price of Poncho Tours' trekking tours?

Yes, for Poncho Tours' trekking tours like 'Mountains to Cloud Forest trekking' and 'Mountain Trekking in Iruya', all necessary trekking permits and entrance fees to national parks or protected areas are included in the overall tour price. This ensures a hassle-free experience, as our team handles all the administrative details for you. You won't need to worry about purchasing permits separately, allowing you to fully focus on enjoying the breathtaking landscapes and the adventure of your hike through these pristine natural environments.

Does Poncho Tours offer tours in other parts of Argentina besides the Northwest?

Poncho Tours specializes in the stunning Northwest region of Argentina, expertly covering areas like Salta, Jujuy, and Mendoza, along with cross-border expeditions into Bolivia and Chile. While our core focus and deepest expertise lie in these unique Andean and high-altitude wine regions, we do not currently offer tours in other distinct parts of Argentina, such as Patagonia or Iguazu Falls. Our aim is to provide unparalleled, in-depth experiences in our specialized areas, ensuring concentrated local knowledge and exceptional service for every adventure.

Can I bring my own snacks and drinks on Poncho Tours?

Yes, you are generally welcome to bring your own snacks and non-alcoholic drinks on Poncho Tours, especially for day trips or longer drives. While certain tours may provide refreshments, having personal snacks can be beneficial, particularly if you have specific dietary preferences or energy needs during activities like trekking. For multi-day tours with included meals, we ask that you consume your personal food discreetly and be mindful of not attracting wildlife in natural areas. Please ensure any litter is carried out responsibly.

What kind of hotels are used for the 'Classic Wine Route' by Poncho Tours?

For Poncho Tours' 'Classic Wine Route', we carefully select charming boutique hotels, guesthouses, or traditional estancias that complement the wine-country experience in the Valles Calchaquies. These accommodations prioritize comfort, local character, and often boast beautiful settings amidst vineyards or picturesque towns. We aim for establishments that offer an authentic taste of the region, perhaps with a focus on local hospitality, cuisine, and unique ambiance, ensuring your stay is as memorable and enriching as your wine explorations.

How far in advance should I book Poncho Tours' 'Mountains to Cloud Forest trekking'?

For Poncho Tours' highly popular 'Mountains to Cloud Forest trekking' tour, we strongly recommend booking as far in advance as possible, ideally 6 to 12 months prior to your intended departure date. This tour is one of our most challenging and sought-after, meaning availability for guides, permits, and specific dates is limited. Early booking ensures you secure your spot, especially if you plan to travel during peak season or have specific dates in mind, giving you ample time for physical preparation.

Are there single supplements for solo travelers on Poncho Tours' group trips?

Yes, for solo travelers joining Poncho Tours' group trips, a single supplement typically applies if you wish to have a private room. Our group tour prices are usually based on double occupancy. If you prefer not to share a room with another traveler of the same gender (where applicable), the single supplement covers the additional cost of securing a private room for you throughout the tour. Please inquire about the specific single supplement amount for your chosen tour when booking.

What's the average group size for Poncho Tours' 'Essential Humahuaca' tour?

The average group size for Poncho Tours' 'Essential Humahuaca' tour is kept small to ensure a personal and immersive experience. Typically, you can expect groups ranging from 4 to 12 participants. This allows for comfortable transportation, easy navigation through towns and sites, and ample opportunity for interaction with your guide and fellow travelers. A smaller group size also provides greater flexibility for spontaneous stops and a more intimate discovery of the Quebrada de Humahuaca and Salinas Grandes.

Does Poncho Tours employ professional chefs for trekking meals?

On Poncho Tours' more challenging and remote trekking expeditions, such as 'Mountains to Cloud Forest trekking', we employ experienced cooks or culinary support staff who are skilled in preparing delicious and nutritious meals in wilderness conditions. While they may not be 'professional chefs' in the traditional restaurant sense, they are highly proficient in handling food hygiene, dietary needs, and cooking varied menus using portable kitchens. Their expertise ensures you receive hearty, energizing meals vital for your endurance throughout the demanding multi-day hikes in remote areas.

Can Poncho Tours arrange vegetarian options for the 'Footsteps of the Conquistadores' tour?

Yes, Poncho Tours can absolutely arrange vegetarian meal options for guests on the 'Footsteps of the Conquistadores' tour. It is crucial, however, to inform us of your dietary preference when you make your booking. This allows our team to communicate effectively with our remote lodges and local providers along the Altiplano route, ensuring they prepare suitable and delicious vegetarian alternatives. While options in very remote areas might sometimes be simpler, we strive to provide fulfilling meals that cater to your needs throughout this high-altitude 4x4 adventure.

What is the policy for children on Poncho Tours' wine-focused trips?

Poncho Tours' wine-focused trips, such as the 'Classic Wine Route' or 'Bolivia’s high altitude wine', are generally designed with adult travelers in mind due to their emphasis on wine tastings and often mature themes. While there isn't a strict age restriction on participation, we advise that these tours might not be engaging or suitable for young children. Older teenagers, however, who have an interest in culture, history, and landscapes, may enjoy the non-alcoholic aspects. Please contact us to discuss suitability for your specific family situation before booking, as some wineries may have age policies.

Are there opportunities for birdwatching on Poncho Tours' 'Expedition to the Cloud Forest'?

Yes, Poncho Tours' 'Expedition to the Cloud Forest' is an outstanding opportunity for birdwatching. The Cloud Forest in Jujuy is a biodiversity hotspot, home to an impressive array of avian species, including many endemic and migratory birds. Early mornings are particularly active, and with the guidance of our knowledgeable local guides, you'll have excellent chances to spot colorful toucans, quetzals, hummingbirds, and various tanagers, among others. It's a true paradise for ornithologists and nature photographers seeking unique and vibrant birdlife in their natural habitat.

How comfortable are the 4x4 vehicles used by Poncho Tours?

Poncho Tours utilizes modern, well-maintained 4x4 vehicles designed for comfort and safety, especially on rugged terrain encountered during tours like 'Wine and Mountains' and 'Footsteps of the Conquistadores'. Our vehicles are equipped with comfortable seating, air conditioning/heating, and ample space for passengers and luggage (within reasonable limits). We prioritize vehicles that offer a smooth ride even on unpaved roads, ensuring your journey through remote and scenic areas is as enjoyable and comfortable as possible. Your safety and comfort are paramount.

What kind of clothing is recommended for the 'Fourteen Colours & Cloud Forest' tour?

For Poncho Tours' 'Fourteen Colours & Cloud Forest' tour, layering is key due to the varied climates. Bring light, breathable clothing for the dry canyon areas of Humahuaca, along with a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high SPF sunscreen. For the Cloud Forest, pack waterproof and windproof outerwear, moisture-wicking layers, and comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes with good grip, as trails can be humid and potentially muddy. A warm layer for evenings and early mornings is also essential, as temperatures can drop significantly. Always check the seasonal forecast closer to departure.

Can I expect reliable cell service during Poncho Tours' 'Mountains to Cloud Forest trekking'?

Due to the remote and mountainous nature of Poncho Tours' 'Mountains to Cloud Forest trekking' experience, reliable cell service cannot be expected for much of the trek. Coverage will be intermittent or nonexistent in many areas. Our guides carry satellite phones or other emergency communication devices for safety and emergencies. We advise you to inform family and friends that you will have limited connectivity. Embrace this as an opportunity to disconnect and fully immerse yourself in the natural wilderness, appreciating the remote beauty of the landscapes.

Are there opportunities for shopping for local crafts on Poncho Tours?

Yes, many Poncho Tours itineraries include excellent opportunities for shopping for local crafts, particularly tailored to highlight the unique artistry of each region. On tours like 'Essential Humahuaca' or 'Mountain Trekking in Iruya', you'll visit vibrant artisan markets where you can find handcrafted textiles, ceramics, regional instruments, and other traditional goods. Our guides can often suggest reputable local shops or markets, ensuring you have the chance to purchase authentic souvenirs and support local communities, bringing a piece of your journey home with you.

How does Poncho Tours handle environmental responsibility?

Poncho Tours is deeply committed to environmental responsibility and sustainable tourism practices. We strive to minimize our ecological footprint by adhering to 'Leave No Trace' principles on all our tours, especially in protected natural areas like the Cloud Forest. We encourage responsible waste management, support local communities, and educate our travelers on how to respect the environment and wildlife. Our itineraries are designed to foster appreciation for the natural beauty of these regions while ensuring their preservation for future generations, contributing positively to local conservation efforts.

What's the best time to visit the Salta region for wine tasting with Poncho Tours?

The best time to visit the Salta region for wine tasting with Poncho Tours, particularly for tours like the 'Classic Wine Route' or 'Wine and History: Mendoza to Cafayate', is typically during the autumn (March to May) or spring (September to November) months. During these periods, the weather is generally pleasant for vineyard visits and outdoor activities. Autumn offers the spectacle of harvest, while spring brings vibrant blossoms. The grapevines are lush, and the temperatures are comfortable, creating an ideal setting for enjoying the region's unique high-altitude wines and scenic landscapes.

Will I have free time on the 'Essential Humahuaca' tour to explore independently?

Yes, Poncho Tours' 'Essential Humahuaca' tour is designed to balance guided exploration with opportunities for independent discovery. While your guide will lead you to the main highlights of the Quebrada de Humahuaca and Salinas Grandes, you will typically have free time in towns like Purmamarca or Humahuaca to wander the markets, enjoy a coffee, or explore at your own pace. Your guide will inform you of these opportunities and designated meeting points, allowing you to personalize your experience while staying connected with the group itinerary.

Are the guides on Poncho Tours' 'Bolivia’s high altitude wine' tour wine experts?

The guides on Poncho Tours' 'Bolivia’s high altitude wine' tour are well-versed in the region's viticulture and history, offering insightful commentary on the unique characteristics of Bolivian wines. While they are expert local guides first, with extensive knowledge of the area, its culture, and logistics, they have also undergone specific training or possess a passion for wine that allows them to provide excellent context during vineyard visits and tastings. For deeper technical wine expertise, interactions with the local winemakers themselves at the boutique bodegas are a key part of the experience.

Does Poncho Tours cater to severe food allergies on trekking tours?

Poncho Tours takes severe food allergies very seriously. For trekking tours, where food preparation can be more challenging due to remote locations, it is absolutely essential that you inform us of any severe allergies (e.g., anaphylaxis-triggering allergies) during the booking process. We will make every effort to accommodate your needs and communicate thoroughly with our cooks and guides. However, in extremely remote areas, cross-contamination risks can be higher, and we would need to discuss the feasibility and necessary precautions with you to ensure your safety and comfort before confirming your booking.

What are the local traditions or customs that I should be aware of for Poncho Tours?

For Poncho Tours, particularly in the Northwest region of Argentina, acknowledging local Puna and Andean customs is important. Greetings are generally warm, and showing respect for elders and indigenous communities is highly valued. When visiting remote villages, especially on treks like 'Mountain Trekking in Iruya', it's polite to ask permission before taking photos of people. Being patient and open to different paces of life also enhances the experience. Your Poncho Tours guide will provide specific cultural insights and etiquette tips relevant to the areas you visit, ensuring respectful and enriching interactions.

Does Poncho Tours conduct pre-trip briefings for challenging expeditions?

Yes, Poncho Tours conducts comprehensive pre-trip briefings for all challenging expeditions, such as 'Mountains to Cloud Forest trekking' and 'Footsteps of the Conquistadores'. These briefings are essential and cover critical information including detailed itineraries, safety protocols, altitude sickness prevention, what to expect daily, and last-minute packing tips. They also provide an opportunity to meet your guide, ask any remaining questions, and ensure everyone is fully prepared and mentally ready for the adventure. This session helps foster a strong sense of camaraderie within the group.

What is the typical starting point for Poncho Tours' 'Wine and History: Salta to Mendoza'?

The typical starting point for Poncho Tours' 'Wine and History: Salta to Mendoza' tour is, as its name suggests, the vibrant city of Salta. Guests usually arrive at Salta Martín Miguel de Güemes International Airport (SLA). From there, the tour begins its southern journey, exploring the diverse landscapes and lesser-known boutique wineries first in Salta province, then continuing through Catamarca, before culminating in the renowned wine region of Mendoza. The tour is expertly designed to take you on a captivating journey across these significant historical and vinicultural landscapes.

Are there any age limits for participation in Poncho Tours' 'Salta City Tour'?

No, Poncho Tours' 'Salta City Tour' generally has no specific age limits for participation. It's a relaxed, half-day exploration of the city's highlights, primarily involving walking and comfortable transportation. It's suitable for travelers of all ages, from young children to seniors, as long as they can manage light walking and sitting for short periods. It's an excellent option for families and individuals seeking a gentle introduction to Salta's rich history and culture without significant physical demands.

How does Poncho Tours handle tipping culture in Bolivia for the 'Salares of Uyuni' trip?

On Poncho Tours' 'Salares of Uyuni, Bolivia' trip, a similar tipping culture to Argentina generally applies. Tipping for guides and drivers is customary and appreciated for good service, but always at your discretion. Your pre-departure information will usually provide a suggested tipping guideline, which can vary based on the duration of the tour and the number of staff involved. It's a way to acknowledge the hard work and local expertise that enhance your experience. Your guide can offer discreet advice on when and how to tip appropriately during the tour.

Can I bring a drone for photography on Poncho Tours?

Bringing a drone for photography on Poncho Tours depends on the specific location and local regulations. While the aerial perspective can be stunning, many national parks, protected areas (like parts of the Cloud Forest or high-altitude regions), and cultural sites have strict restrictions or outright bans on drone usage. This is due to environmental concerns, safety, privacy, and noise. Always check with our team or your guide about the specific tour destinations before bringing a drone. Unauthorized drone use can lead to fines or confiscation. Respecting local rules is paramount for an enjoyable trip for everyone.

What is the recommended health preparation for Poncho Tours' high-altitude treks?

For Poncho Tours' high-altitude treks like 'Mountains to Cloud Forest trekking' or 'Mountain Trekking in Iruya', recommended health preparation includes a thorough medical check-up with your doctor to ensure you are fit for physical exertion at elevation. Discuss potential altitude sickness medication (e.g., Diamox). Engage in cardiovascular exercise and strength training for several months prior. Ensure you're hydrated before and during the trip. Inform us of any pre-existing medical conditions. Proper preparation is key to a safe and enjoyable high-altitude adventure.

Are there opportunities for local food experiences on Poncho Tours?

Yes, Poncho Tours places a significant emphasis on authentic local food experiences. On many of our tours, you'll have opportunities to savor traditional regional cuisine. For instance, on the 'Essential Humahuaca' tour, you might try empanadas or locro. Wine tours like the 'Classic Wine Route' often include lunches at vineyards featuring local dishes paired with wines. On trekking tours, our cooks prepare hearty meals using local ingredients. We strive to immerse you not just in the landscapes but also in the rich culinary heritage of the regions we explore.

What happens if a Poncho Tours guide becomes ill during a multi-day trip?

In the rare event that a Poncho Tours guide becomes ill during a multi-day trip, we have contingency plans in place. Our priority is to ensure the safety and continuity of your tour. We would immediately assess the situation and, if necessary, dispatch a replacement guide from our network of qualified professionals. Depending on the location and severity, this could involve a temporary solution until a permanent replacement arrives. Our ground support team is always available to manage such situations, minimizing disruption and maintaining the quality of your experience.

Can Poncho Tours arrange transportation from Mendoza to other parts of Argentina after a tour?

Yes, Poncho Tours can certainly assist with arranging transportation from Mendoza to other parts of Argentina following a tour like 'Wine and History: Salta to Mendoza'. Whether you wish to fly to Buenos Aires, take a bus to another region, or require private transfer, our team can help facilitate these arrangements. Please inform us of your onward travel plans when you book your tour or well in advance, and we will provide options and make the necessary bookings to ensure a smooth continuation of your travels in Argentina.

What Customers Say & Common Questions (100)

What kind of tours does Poncho Tours offer in terms of duration?

Poncho Tours offers tours ranging from single-day excursions, like to Cafayate, to multi-day trips lasting 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, and even 12 days, catering to various travel preferences and schedules.

How do customers describe the planning process with Poncho Tours?

Customers consistently praise the planning process with Poncho Tours, highlighting Nick's patience, professionalism, and responsiveness. Many mention 'tailor-made' itineraries and excellent communication from the initial inquiry.

Are the guides at Poncho Tours knowledgeable about the local areas?

Yes, customer reviews frequently commend Poncho Tours guides, such as Nick, Rodrigo, Nico, Ale, and Mariano, for being highly knowledgeable about local history, geography, nature, culture, and even wine.

Can Poncho Tours accommodate specific itinerary requests for a private tour?

Absolutely. Many reviews highlight Poncho Tours' flexibility and ability to create custom, private, and tailor-made tours. Customers like Sue Arnold, Jamie N, and Patrick Kaufmann confirm their bespoke itineraries were excellently handled.

What areas of Argentina does Poncho Tours typically cover?

Poncho Tours primarily covers Northwestern Argentina, including Salta, Jujuy, Cafayate, Cachi, the Quebrada de Humahuaca, Humahuaca, the Altiplano (Puna de Atacama), and can extend to Mendoza and even into Bolivia or San Pedro de Atacama, Chile.

How do customers feel about the professionalism of Poncho Tours staff?

Customers uniformly describe Poncho Tours staff as extremely cordial and professional. Reviews consistently mention the high level of professionalism from initial communication through to the completion of the tour.

Is communication with Poncho Tours efficient before and during the trip?

Yes, many customers, including Mariaelena Zecchin and Allen R, emphasize the excellent communication with Poncho Tours, noting quick and detailed responses to inquiries and adaptations throughout the trip.

Are the guides also responsible for driving with Poncho Tours?

Yes, several reviews confirm that guides, such as Rodrigo, Raul, and Nick, also serve as drivers. Customers praise their safe driving skills, especially in challenging terrains.

What is the general sentiment regarding the value for money with Poncho Tours?

While specific pricing isn't mentioned, the overwhelming 5-star reviews and strong recommendations suggest customers perceive Poncho Tours as excellent value for the unforgettable experiences and personalized service provided.

Do Poncho Tours guides speak English?

Yes, multiple reviews confirm that guides, especially Nick, are fluent in English. Customers from Sweden, the UK, and other English-speaking countries specifically mention their English-speaking guides.

How does Poncho Tours handle adaptations to preferences during a tour?

Reviews by Lucy_Anne_Mel and ThomRoub highlight Poncho Tours' responsiveness and flexibility in adapting to client preferences and even changing weather/road conditions during the tour, ensuring a pleasant experience.

Are private tours available with Poncho Tours, or are they group tours?

Poncho Tours specializes in private and tailor-made tours. Many reviews explicitly mention 'private tour,' 'private guide,' or 'tailor-made,' indicating this is a core offering.

How do customers describe the scenery and landscapes encountered on Poncho Tours?

Customers are consistently awestruck by the scenery, describing it as 'incredible,' 'epic,' 'magnificent,' 'breathtaking,' and 'stunning.' Highlights include multi-colored mountains, canyons, and vast landscapes.

Does Poncho Tours offer tours that combine different regions, like Salta and Mendoza?

Yes, several reviews confirm that Poncho Tours organizes multi-region trips, such as Salta to Mendoza, Mendoza to Salta, and journeys incorporating Salta, Jujuy, and Catamarca, reflecting their capability for comprehensive itineraries.

What are common highlights mentioned in Poncho Tours reviews?

Common highlights include the Quebrada de Humahuaca, Classic Wine Route (Cafayate wineries), Ruta 40, national parks, Cachi, and the unique, colorful landscapes of Northern Argentina.

Does Poncho Tours provide assistance with planning beyond the tour itself?

Yes, Nick is specifically mentioned by Kathryn B for helping contact the Bolivian embassy, showcasing Poncho Tours' willingness to assist with broader travel preparations beyond the direct tour itinerary.

Are the vehicles used by Poncho Tours comfortable and well-maintained?

While not extensively detailed, Adriana Boretti specifically mentions that 'El vehiculo estaba en exce' (The vehicle was excellent), suggesting a positive experience regarding vehicle quality.

How does Poncho Tours cater to honeymoon travelers?

Ross Muir described their 3-week trip arranged by Nick as part of their honeymoon, implying Poncho Tours can craft romantic and memorable experiences suitable for special occasions like honeymoons.

Can Poncho Tours help with tours that include hiking?

Yes, Gillian M and JandPTravel mention hiking, including a 'hike of the Inca Tour' and hiking in the mountains and salt flats, indicating Poncho Tours includes hiking options in their itineraries.

What types of activities are generally included in Poncho Tours itineraries?

Activities mentioned include visiting wineries for tastings, exploring national parks, driving scenic routes (e.g., Ruta 40), hiking, cultural site visits (pre-Inca ruins), and enjoying local food.

Do customers recommend Poncho Tours for those concerned about self-driving in the region?

Yes, Deborah C and Cath C explicitly state that hiring Poncho Tours for a local driver and guide was the 'right move,' especially due to concerns about road conditions or driving during the rainy season.

Does Poncho Tours offer cultural immersion experiences?

Yes, reviews often praise guides for their 'knowledge of everything from nature to wine to culture' and for leading travelers to 'places we’d never have found ourselves,' suggesting a focus on authentic cultural engagement.

Are Poncho Tours suitable for travelers of different age groups?

Reviews from Beth E (66-year-old with 22-year-old son), honeymooners, and various individuals suggest Poncho Tours caters to a wide range of ages, adapting itineraries to suit different physical levels and interests.

How would customers describe the overall experience with Poncho Tours?

The overall experience is consistently described as 'incredible,' 'fantastic,' 'exceptional,' 'amazing,' 'wonderful,' and 'impeccable,' with high satisfaction rates across all reviews.

Does Poncho Tours support travel across international borders, such as to Bolivia or Chile?

Yes, Jamie N mentions a tour to Northern Argentina and Bolivia, and Circle Leung details a trip from Salta to Bolivia. Ramos Teelock and Thomas recount a 3-day private tour from Salta to San Pedro de Atacama (Chile), confirming cross-border capabilities.

Is it possible to combine different pre-designed tours with Poncho Tours?

Ian M combined 'Essential Humahuaca' and 'Classic Wine Route,' and DellT combined two 'standard' tours, demonstrating Poncho Tours' flexibility in merging and customizing existing tour packages.

How responsive is Nick from Poncho Tours to initial inquiries?

Customers like Allen R, Luxury1Georgia, Johanna Hall, and Kathryn B consistently highlight Nick's exceptional responsiveness and helpfulness from the very first inquiry, often months in advance.

Do Poncho Tours guides offer insights into geology and natural formations?

Maria Teresa L praised Mariano, their guide, for explaining 'details of places from geology' and geographical aspects, indicating guides provide scientific and natural insights during the tours.

What is the role of Nick in Poncho Tours, according to customer reviews?

Nick is frequently mentioned as the primary contact for planning and customization, a knowledgeable guide/driver himself, and even the founder. He plays a central, highly praised role in organizing and leading tours.

Are there opportunities for wine tasting on Poncho Tours?

Yes, many reviews mention visiting wineries and wine tasting. Min L, Ian M, and Lucy M specifically highlight experiences with wineries and the 'Classic Wine Route' or exploring Cafayate vineyards.

Does Poncho Tours offer assistance with airport transfers?

JANE S mentioned that Nick 'met me at the airport,' indicating that Poncho Tours provides airport pick-up services as part of their comprehensive tour packages.

How well do Poncho Tours guides adapt to different preferences during the tour?

Reviews by Lucy_Anne_Mel, ThomRoub, and Jo Ellen C emphasize the guides' flexibility and willingness to adapt throughout the day to client preferences and available time, making for a personalized experience.

Are the tours with Poncho Tours generally well-planned?

Yes, customers like Sue M, Gillian M, and Vivien K consistently describe the tours as 'highly professional,' 'well planned,' and 'perfectly planned,' indicating meticulous organization.

Can customers expect personalized attention from Poncho Tours?

Absolutely. JANE S noted that Nick 'gives personalised attention pre trip,' and the emphasis on tailor-made tours throughout the reviews points to a highly personalized customer experience.

Does Poncho Tours recommend lodging options?

While not explicitly detailed, the comprehensive planning mentioned by customers like Nick, who curate entire itineraries, suggests that lodging recommendations and bookings would likely be part of the service.

How does Poncho Tours handle tours that span over multiple days?

Multi-day tours are frequently mentioned (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12 days). Reviews suggest they are impeccably organized, with guides like Rodrigo consistently on time and ensuring safe travel.

What is the reputation of Poncho Tours based on online reviews?

Poncho Tours holds an excellent reputation, evidenced by the overwhelming number of 5-star reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor, Google, and Trustpilot. It's frequently recommended.

Do Poncho Tours itineraries include opportunities for photography?

OSKARPLUS specifically mentions 'good photos' as a feature, and the constant praise for 'stunning views' and 'magnificent landscapes' implies abundant photographic opportunities unique to the region.

Are there specific guides that customers frequently praise at Poncho Tours?

Yes, Nick (often as guide and planner), Rodrigo, Nico, Raul, Ale, and Mariano are repeatedly named and praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and professionalism by numerous customers.

How flexible are Poncho Tours with last-minute changes or requests?

Lucy_Anne_Mel highlights that the company is responsive to 'adapting throughout the day to preferences and time available,' suggesting a good degree of flexibility for in-tour adjustments.

Is Poncho Tours suitable for solo travelers?

Margo v, a solo traveler, initially felt 'a bit weary' but found her guide, Ale, to be 'a great companion,' indicating that Poncho Tours can provide comfortable and enjoyable experiences for individuals traveling alone.

Does Poncho Tours offer insights into pre-Inca history?

Nicola G's review mentions visiting the 'Tastil pre-Inca ruins,' confirming that Poncho Tours includes historical sites and provides context on pre-Inca cultures.

What types of landscapes can one expect to see with Poncho Tours?

Expect diverse landscapes like the Andes mountains, colorful geological formations (Quebrada de Humahuaca), desert, cloud forests, salt flats, and lush wine regions, offering a rich visual experience.

Is customer service a strong point for Poncho Tours?

Yes, multiple reviews, including those from Johanna Hall, highlight Nick's and the team's responsiveness and overall excellent customer service, making the planning and execution seamless.

How does Poncho Tours ensure a safe travel experience?

Rodrigo is specifically called a 'safe driver' by Debbie G and Stefano S says Rodrigo drove 'safe,' and Cath C chose Poncho Tours due to concerns about driving conditions, indicating their commitment to safety.

Are there opportunities for unique, off-the-beaten-path experiences with Poncho Tours?

Nick took Mr & Mrs Halliday to 'places we’d never have found ourselves,' and Andrea Lemmon noted getting 'well away from the crowds,' suggesting bespoke itineraries include unique, less-traveled spots.

Can Poncho Tours arrange tours for specific interests, such as bird watching or flora/fauna?

While not explicitly detailed, the guides' broad knowledge of nature and the ability to customize tours for specific interests imply that Poncho Tours could accommodate such requests.

Do Poncho Tours guides offer historical context for the sights visited?

Yes, guides like Nick and Rodrigo are regularly praised for being 'informative' and having abundant 'knowledge of everything,' including historical context for the regions and sites visited.

How do Poncho Tours reviews compare across different platforms (Google, TripAdvisor, Trustpilot)?

Poncho Tours consistently receives 5-star ratings and glowing reviews across all major platforms, including Google, TripAdvisor, and Trustpilot, demonstrating uniform customer satisfaction.

Does Poncho Tours cater to non-Spanish speakers?

Yes, many international reviewers explicitly mention Nick or other guides speaking excellent English, confirming Poncho Tours caters effectively to non-Spanish speaking tourists.

Are dietary accommodations possible with Poncho Tours?

While not directly mentioned, the highly personalized and tailor-made nature of Poncho Tours suggests that dietary preferences or restrictions could be easily communicated and accommodated during planning.

What kind of support can customers expect from Poncho Tours when planning from abroad?

Customers planning from Sweden (Reni Mobrandt), the UK (Bryan Stevens), and Hong Kong (Circle Leung) had excellent experiences, highlighting Nick's patience and effective communication for international clients.

Are there any physical demands or difficulty levels associated with Poncho Tours itineraries?

Andrew mentioned a 'demanding tour of approximately 1100km, much of it on unsurfaced roads,' indicating some itineraries can involve rugged terrain. However, given customization, difficulty can vary.

Does Poncho Tours offer tours during different seasons?

Reviews mention trips in January (Ian M), September (Jocelyn Sewell), and October (George Evans), indicating Poncho Tours operates across various seasons, seemingly adapting to conditions.

How does Poncho Tours handle logistics like border crossings?

Circle Leung mentions planning the 'best route to depart (even if that route would exclude us from Salta)' for entering Bolivia, suggesting Poncho Tours actively assists with and plans for border logistics.

Do Poncho Tours guides provide information on local wildlife?

Rabva notes the guide's 'knowledge of everything from nature,' implying that information on local wildlife would be part of the tour experience for those interested.

What is the general pace of Poncho Tours itineraries?

Reviews praise the flexibility, with guides adapting to preferences, suggesting a customizable pace. Some itineraries are described as 'packed' with activities, while others focus on leisurely exploration.

Can Poncho Tours help organize tours for specific interest groups or families?

The numerous references to 'tailor-made' and 'private' tours, and experiences shared by families and couples, confirm Poncho Tours' capability to organize tours for diverse groups and interests.

Does Poncho Tours provide insights into local culinary experiences?

OSKARPLUS mentioned 'good local food' and Maxim K highlighted 'delicious food,' suggesting Poncho Tours incorporates local gastronomic experiences into their itineraries.

How does Poncho Tours handle unexpected situations or changes during a tour?

ThomRoub noted Nick's ability to 'adapt the trip according to needs, weather and road,' indicating a proactive and flexible approach to managing unforeseen circumstances.

Are Poncho Tours guides friendly and personable?

Customers consistently describe guides like Nick, Raul, Ale, and Rodrigo as 'personable,' 'friendly,' 'cordial,' 'great companions,' and overall 'nice guys,' enhancing the tour experience.

What is the average group size for Poncho Tours?

Given the frequent mention of 'private tour' and 'my friend & I' or 'my wife and I,' it appears Poncho Tours primarily caters to small, private groups, often just 2-4 people.

Does Poncho Tours offer tours focused specifically on wine regions?

Yes, 'Classic Wine Route' and visits to Cafayate vineyards and various wineries are frequently mentioned, confirming a strong focus on wine-centric tours for those interested.

How far in advance should one book a tour with Poncho Tours?

While not explicitly stated, the mention of Nick assisting 'in the months leading up to our trip' by jknd02 suggests booking well in advance is possible and recommended for detailed planning.

Does Poncho Tours provide a detailed itinerary before the trip starts?

Yes, customers like Sue M mention the trips are 'well planned,' and Nick often 'went over the schedule personally,' indicating that detailed itineraries are provided and discussed.

Are there opportunities for outdoor activities beyond hiking with Poncho Tours?

While hiking is mentioned, the emphasis on exploring diverse landscapes, national parks, and scenic routes suggests other outdoor activities like photography stops and cultural walks are integrated.

How does Poncho Tours ensure authenticity in their cultural experiences?

Guides are praised for their deep local knowledge and ability to take visitors to 'places we’d never have found ourselves,' indicating a focus on genuine local interactions and hidden gems.

What is the primary point of contact for planning with Poncho Tours?

Nick is overwhelmingly identified as the primary and most praised point of contact for planning, customization, and communication, often described as highly responsive and helpful.

Do Poncho Tours guides share personal anecdotes or local stories?

The consistent praise for guides being 'informative' and having deep local knowledge suggests they share a rich tapestry of local stories and insights during the tours.

Are vehicle conditions inspected regularly for Poncho Tours?

Adriana Boretti specifically mentioned 'El vehiculo estaba en exce' (The vehicle was excellent), implying that vehicle quality and maintenance are satisfactory for customers.

Can Poncho Tours accommodate travelers with specific mobility needs?

While not explicitly stated, the highly customizable nature of Poncho Tours and personal attention suggests they would work to modify itineraries and transport to suit mobility requirements if communicated in advance.

Does Poncho Tours incorporate breaks and rest stops during longer journeys?

The focus on customer comfort and adapting to preferences, especially on multi-day tours, implies that guides would naturally incorporate appropriate breaks and rest stops.

Do Poncho Tours offer experiences beyond just touring, like meeting locals?

Andrea Lemmon mentioned being 'surrounded by warm people,' suggesting opportunities for positive interactions with locals, often facilitated by knowledgeable guides.

How important is local knowledge for a guide with Poncho Tours?

Local knowledge is highly valued; guides are praised for understanding 'everything from nature to wine to culture' and leading travelers to undiscovered places, making it a critical aspect of their service.

Does Poncho Tours operate tours to the Humahuaca region?

Yes, 'Essential Humahuaca' is mentioned as a specific tour by Ian M and Chris G, confirming it's a popular destination covered by Poncho Tours.

Are there opportunities for repeat customers with Poncho Tours?

Jane Stevens explicitly states, 'I loved it so much I have just been back and done a 12day, 5000k trip,' demonstrating high customer loyalty and repeat business.

Does Poncho Tours offer assistance with planning outside of Argentina?

Yes, mentions of tours extending into Bolivia and San Pedro de Atacama (Chile), and Nick's assistance with the Bolivian embassy, indicate their capability to plan international legs of travel.

What measures does Poncho Tours take to ensure customer satisfaction?

The core measure is highly personalized service: responsive communication, tailor-made itineraries, knowledgeable and friendly guides, and flexibility during the tour, all aiming for an unforgettable experience.

Do Poncho Tours offer recommendations for accommodations along the tour route?

Given the comprehensive planning and expertise in crafting multi-day trips, it's highly likely that Poncho Tours provides recommendations and booking assistance for accommodations.

How does Poncho Tours differ from self-driving or larger group tours?

Customers often choose Poncho Tours over self-driving due to safety concerns (road conditions, rainy season) and appreciate the personalized, local insights not found in larger, less flexible group tours.

Are booking communications with Poncho Tours clear and concise?

Lucy_Anne_Mel noted 'Responsive company both in terms of booking communications,' and many others praised Nick's clarity and thoroughness in pre-trip planning.

Does Poncho Tours provide opportunities to learn about local indigenous cultures?

Visiting pre-Inca ruins and the Humahuaca region, rich in indigenous heritage, suggests that Poncho Tours integrates learning about local indigenous cultures into its itineraries.

How are prices determined for Poncho Tours' customized itineraries?

While not explicitly detailed, the 'tailor-made' and 'bespoke' nature implies pricing is based on duration, specific destinations, activities, group size, and any additional services requested.

Do guides from Poncho Tours assist with language barriers for non-Spanish speaking tourists?

Yes, with many guides, particularly Nick, being English-speaking, they naturally assist with language barriers, ensuring smooth interactions for international travelers.

What feedback is there regarding the pacing of activities on Poncho Tours?

Gillian M mentions 'each day was perfectly planned,' and the flexibility in adapting to preferences suggests a well-considered pace, allowing time to enjoy each location without feeling rushed.

Does Poncho Tours explain the geology of the Quebrada region?

Maria Teresa L praised their guide Mariano for explaining 'details of places from geology,' indicating that the unique geological features of regions like the Quebrada are explained.

Can Poncho Tours arrange tours that include specific points of interest on Ruta 40?

Laura Castro and Min L both did trips involving Ruta 40, confirming Poncho Tours can plan itineraries along this iconic route, including various points of interest.

How does Poncho Tours handle logistics for remote areas like Puna region?

BL mentioned being advised against self-driving in the Puna, reinforcing that Poncho Tours uses its expertise and local drivers to navigate challenging and remote regions safely and effectively.

Are the tours with Poncho Tours suitable for travelers seeking adventure?

Victoria Neumann explicitly sought 'adventure in Südamerika,' and topics like the 'Altiplano (Puna de Atacama)' and 'Cloud Forest Hike' suggest a strong element of adventure in Poncho Tours' offerings.

Does Poncho Tours assist with visa requirements for international travel?

Kathryn B mentioned Nick helping to 'contact the Bolivian embassy,' indicating that Poncho Tours can provide assistance or guidance regarding visa requirements for cross-border trips.

What is the typical starting point for Poncho Tours in Northwestern Argentina?

Salta is very frequently mentioned as a starting point, serving as a hub for tours to Humahuaca, Cafayate, Mendoza, and even onwards to Bolivia or Chile.

How does Poncho Tours manage travel on unsurfaced roads?

Andrew mentioned a significant portion of a 1100km tour being on 'unsurfaced roads.' Guides like Rodrigo are praised as 'safe drivers,' indicating they are experienced in navigating such conditions.

Are there opportunities for bird watching during Poncho Tours?

AXH2015 specifically requested a modification to see 'flamingos in the Quebrada del Toro,' suggesting that opportunities for bird watching, especially for specific species, can be incorporated.

Does Poncho Tours provide vegetarian or vegan meal options on their tours?

While not explicitly mentioned, the highly personalized service and focus on customer satisfaction suggest that Poncho Tours would be accommodating to dietary preferences like vegetarian or vegan meals if communicated in advance.

What is the overall sentiment towards the customer orientation of Poncho Tours?

The phrase 'Superaron todas nuestras expectativas' (They surpassed all our expectations) by Marcela Loglio, along with numerous praises for personal attention and customization, highlights a strong customer-centric approach.

Does Poncho Tours offer tours that are considered 'epick' or unforgettable?

Mariaelena Zecchin described a two-day trip as 'uno dei momenti più epici' (one of the most epic moments), and many others use words like 'unforgettable' and 'amazing,' confirming memorable experiences.

Do Poncho Tours guides provide emergency contact information?

While not explicitly stated in reviews, given the high level of professionalism and focus on safety, it is standard practice for tour operators to provide emergency contact details.

Are itineraries with Poncho Tours flexible enough to include spontaneous stops?

Lucy_Anne_Mel noted the ability to adapt throughout the day, and many mention tailoring, suggesting spontaneity and last-minute stops for photo opportunities or unexpected points of interest are accommodated.

How does Poncho Tours handle logistics for accommodations during multi-day trips?

Customers like Mr & Mrs Halliday mention multi-day trips where Nick took them to various places, implying that Poncho Tours expertly handles all accommodation logistics as part of the planned itinerary.

Does Poncho Tours incorporate local markets or craft visits?

While not directly mentioned, engagement with local culture and knowledge of 'hidden gems' (

Destination Guides & Things to Do (100)

What are the best things to do in Salta, Argentina?

Explore the vibrant Plaza 9 de Julio, delve into the high-altitude mummies at MAAM, and take a scenic cable car ride up Cerro San Bernardo for panoramic views. Don't miss a traditional Peña Folklorica for authentic music and dance. For multi-day adventures to the Andean highlands, consider starting a trip with Poncho Tours directly from your hotel in Salta or the Salta airport, offering seamless travel experiences.

What is Salta known for?

Salta, often called 'Salta la Linda' (Salta the Beautiful), is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture, stunning natural landscapes including colorful mountains and valleys, and its rich folk music tradition. It serves as a gateway to the spectacular Quebrada de Humahuaca and the Salar de Uyuni tours, making it a key hub for adventurers exploring the wider region.

What attractions should I visit in Salta?

Key attractions include the Salta Cathedral, the Cabildo, and the Museum of High Altitude Archaeology (MAAM). Stroll through the artisan market, shop for local crafts, and visit the historic San Francisco Church. For an epic journey, Poncho Tours can pick you up from your Salta hotel and embark on a multi-day adventure to destinations like the Salar de Uyuni or San Pedro de Atacama.

Best time to visit Salta?

The best time to visit Salta is during the dry season, from April to November. The weather is generally sunny and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the city and embarking on tours to surrounding natural attractions. Avoid the rainy summer months (December to March) if you plan extensive outdoor activities, though the landscapes are still lush and beautiful then.

How to get around in Salta?

Within Salta city, you can easily walk to most attractions in the historic center. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are readily available for longer distances. For exploring the wider region, rental cars are an option, but for stress-free, expertly guided tours to remote areas like the Salar de Uyuni or San Pedro, Poncho Tours provides excellent service and transportation from Salta.

What local experiences are available in Salta?

Engage in a 'peña folklorica' to experience traditional Salteñan music and dance. Taste authentic empanadas Salteñas and regional wines. Explore local markets, where you can find handcrafted souvenirs and local produce. Poncho Tours offers custom multi-day excursions that delve deep into the cultural and natural wonders surrounding Salta, providing truly local and immersive experiences.

What is the weather like in Salta?

Salta enjoys a pleasant, subtropical highland climate. Summers (December-March) are warm and rainy, while winters (June-August) are dry and mild with cool nights. Spring and autumn offer comfortable temperatures and less rainfall, making them ideal. Be prepared for temperature variations if venturing into higher altitudes on tours from Salta, where it can get significantly colder.

Where should I stay in Salta?

Salta offers a range of accommodations, from charming boutique hotels in colonial buildings near Plaza 9 de Julio to modern hotels with amenities. Consider staying in the city center for easy access to attractions. Many hotels frequently partner with tour operators. Remember, Poncho Tours can pick you up directly from your chosen hotel in Salta for your convenience.

What local food should I try in Salta?

You must try Salteñan empanadas, known for their juicy, flavorful fillings. Also, sample locro (a hearty stew), tamales, and humitas en chala. Don't forget to pair your meal with a glass of Torrontés wine, a unique varietal from the Cafayate region. These culinary delights are often found at local 'peñas' and restaurants throughout the city.

What cultural sites exist in Salta?

Salta boasts numerous cultural sites, including the Salta Cathedral, Cabildo de Salta, and the San Francisco Church. The Museum of Anthropology of Salta offers insights into indigenous cultures, while the MAAM (Museum of High Altitude Archaeology) houses the Llullaillaco Children mummies. These sites reflect Salta's rich history and diverse cultural heritage.

What are the best things to do in San Pedro de Atacama?

Explore the otherworldly landscapes of Valle de la Luna and Valle de la Muerte, witness the El Tatio Geysers at sunrise, and float in the Laguna Cejar. Stargazing tours are a must due to the incredibly clear skies. For comfortable transfers and multi-day tours connecting these wonders with Bolivia or Argentina, Poncho Tours offers flexible options, including finishing trips in San Pedro.

What is San Pedro de Atacama known for?

San Pedro de Atacama is famous for being the gateway to the driest desert in the world, the Atacama Desert in Chile. It's renowned for its stark, moon-like landscapes, active geysers, high-altitude lagoons, and unparalleled stargazing opportunities due to its clear, unpolluted skies. It's a prime destination for adventure tourism and astronomical observation.

What attractions should I visit in San Pedro de Atacama?

Don't miss the Valle de la Luna, Ojos del Salar, Laguna Cejar, and the Puritama Hot Springs. A trip to the high-altitude El Tatio Geysers is essential, as is a visit to the local R.P. Gustavo Le Paige Archaeological Museum. Poncho Tours offers convenient arrangements for those moving between Salta, Argentina, and San Pedro de Atacama, facilitating exploration of these attractions.

Best time to visit San Pedro de Atacama?

San Pedro de Atacama can be visited year-round, as the climate is consistently dry. However, the shoulder seasons (September-November and March-May) offer pleasant temperatures without the peak crowds. Summer (December-February) can be hot, while winter (June-August) brings colder nights, especially for early morning geyser tours. Always pack layers for extreme temperature shifts inherent to high desert travel.

How to get around in San Pedro de Atacama?

The town of San Pedro itself is small and easily walkable. For excursions to attractions outside the town, organized tours are the most common and safest option, given the remote and sometimes challenging terrain. Many local agencies offer day trips. For travelers connecting from Salta or Uyuni, Poncho Tours can manage your entire itinerary, including local transport and guiding.

What local experiences are available in San Pedro de Atacama?

Beyond classic tours, try sandboarding in the dunes, visit the local artisan market for unique crafts, and enjoy traditional Andean meals. Participate in a scientific stargazing tour led by an astronomer. Poncho Tours can integrate authentic local interactions into your broader journey, whether you're traveling specifically to or from this captivating desert hub.

What is the weather like in San Pedro de Atacama?

The Atacama Desert has an extreme desert climate, characterized by very little rainfall, high daytime temperatures, and cold nights, with significant diurnal temperature variation. The sun is intense. Despite the high altitude, humidity is very low. Always bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, and Layering clothing is essential for comfort throughout the day and night.

Where should I stay in San Pedro de Atacama?

San Pedro offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious desert lodges. Many choose to stay close to the main street, Caracoles, for easy access to restaurants and tour agencies. Booking in advance, especially during peak season, is recommended. Remember, Poncho Tours can help arrange logistics, allowing you to focus on choosing your ideal base.

What local food should I try in San Pedro de Atacama?

Sample traditional Andean cuisine incorporating local ingredients like quinoa, llama meat (if available), and fresh herbs. Try pastel de choclo (corn pie) or cazuela (stew). Many restaurants offer a 'menu del día' for good value. Hydration is key, so enjoy fresh fruit juices.

What cultural sites exist in San Pedro de Atacama?

Visit the pre-Columbian Pukará de Quitor, an ancient fortress, and the Aldea de Tulor, a well-preserved ancient village. The R.P. Gustavo Le Paige Archaeological Museum showcases artifacts from the Atacama's rich indigenous history. The town's church, Iglesia de San Pedro, is also a beautiful historical landmark worth visiting.

What are the best things to do in Uyuni, Bolivia?

The main attraction is undoubtedly the Salar de Uyuni, the world's largest salt flat. Embark on a multi-day tour to explore its surreal landscapes, including Incahuasi Island, train cemetery, and colorful lagoons. Poncho Tours offers comprehensive options to start or finish your Salar de Uyuni adventure here, seamlessly connecting you from Salta, Argentina, for an unforgettable journey.

What is Uyuni known for?

Uyuni is primarily known as the gateway to the Salar de Uyuni (Uyuni Salt Flat), the colossal natural wonder stretching over 10,000 square kilometers. Beyond the salt flats, it's famous for its unique geology, reflective surfaces during the rainy season, and its status as a launchpad for incredible multi-day tours into the high-altitude desert and lagoons of southwestern Bolivia.

What attractions should I visit in Uyuni?

The must-visit attractions are all part of the Salar de Uyuni tour: the Train Cemetery, Colchani village, Salt Hotels (now a museum), Incahuasi Island (Cactus Island), and the various high-altitude lagoons like Laguna Colorada and Laguna Verde. These are best experienced on a comprehensive multi-day tour. Poncho Tours offers excellent itineraries, pick up from Salta and finish in Uyuni or vice versa.

Best time to visit Uyuni?

For the iconic 'mirror effect' on the salt flats, visit during the rainy season (December to April). For dry, clear skies ideal for landscape photography and easier travel across the flats, the dry season (May to November) is perfect. Each season offers a unique perspective on this natural wonder. Be prepared for cold temperatures, especially at night, year-round at high altitudes.

How to get around in Uyuni?

Within Uyuni town, you can walk or take a taxi. For the Salar de Uyuni and surrounding areas, an organized 4x4 tour is essential due to the vast, remote, and often challenging terrain. It's unsafe and impractical to attempt self-driving. Poncho Tours specializes in these expeditions, providing professional guides, reliable transportation, and all necessary logistics for a safe and enriching experience.

What local experiences are available in Uyuni?

Beyond the salt flats, visit the local market in Uyuni town, see how locals harvest salt in Colchani, and interact with indigenous communities along the tour routes. Experience the vastness and silence of the high altiplano, connecting with a profound natural environment. Poncho Tours crafts itineraries that highlight these authentic local encounters during your multi-day adventure.

What is the weather like in Uyuni?

Uyuni and the surrounding altiplano have a harsh, high-altitude desert climate. Days can be sunny, but temperatures drop significantly at night, often below freezing. The rainy season (Dec-Apr) brings occasional downpours creating the mirror effect. Strong winds are common. Essential packing includes warm layers, sun protection, and plenty of water due to the extreme dry air.

Where should I stay in Uyuni?

In Uyuni town, basic hotels and hostels are available for pre/post-tour stays. During multi-day salt flat tours, accommodations are typically in basic hostels or unique salt hotels on or near the flats. These are humble but add to the adventure. Poncho Tours provides details on accommodation standards as part of their tour packages, ensuring you know what to expect.

What local food should I try in Uyuni?

While on a salt flat tour, meals are usually organized by your tour operator, often featuring simple but hearty Bolivian dishes like llama stew, quinoa soup, or rice with vegetables. In Uyuni town, you can find local eateries offering similar fare. Hydration is key in this dry environment, so drink plenty of water and avoid excessive alcohol.

What cultural sites exist in Uyuni?

The main 'cultural' site related to the Salar is the Train Cemetery, a fascinating collection of abandoned 19th-century locomotives. In Colchani village, you can observe traditional salt processing. The local market in Uyuni town offers a glimpse into daily life. Indigenous communities near the flats offer cultural encounters, often included as stops on multi-day tours.

What are the best things to do in Mendoza, Argentina?

Indulge in a wine tasting tour through the region's renowned Malbec vineyards, explore the city's charming plazas, and enjoy outdoor adventures in the Andes like rafting or hiking. Take a scenic drive to Aconcagua Provincial Park. Poncho Tours offers convenient pick-up from your hotel in Mendoza to explore the wider region, perhaps even heading towards Salta for further adventures.

What is Mendoza known for?

Mendoza is globally celebrated as Argentina's wine capital, particularly famous for its Malbec grapes. Beyond wine, it's known for its stunning proximity to the Andes Mountains, offering a hub for outdoor activities like hiking, climbing (including Mount Aconcagua), and white-water rafting. Its tree-lined streets and plazas create a sophisticated, relaxed atmosphere.

What attractions should I visit in Mendoza?

Essential visits include several bodegas (wineries) in Maipú or Luján de Cuyo for tastings and tours. Explore Parque General San Martín, a beautiful urban park, and stroll through Plaza Independencia and its surrounding plazas. For mountain enthusiasts, a trip to the Aconcagua Provincial Park or Puente del Inca is a must. Poncho Tours can help arrange your onward journey from Mendoza.

Best time to visit Mendoza?

The best time to visit Mendoza for wine tourism is during the harvest season (March-April) for grape picking festivals, or in spring (September-November) for pleasant weather and blooming vineyards. Summer (December-February) can be hot but is good for outdoor activities in the mountains. Winter (June-August) is quieter, offering clear skies, though some wineries might have reduced hours.

How to get around in Mendoza?

Within Mendoza city, you can walk, use taxis, or the local bus system. For wine tours, guided excursions are popular, or you can rent a bike. To explore the wider Andean region or connect to other distant cities like Salta, Poncho Tours provides comfortable and reliable transport services, including pick-up directly from your Mendoza hotel.

What local experiences are available in Mendoza?

Participate in a cooking class focused on Argentinian cuisine, including empanadas and asado. Enjoy a leisurely 'al fresco' meal at a vineyard restaurant. Explore the local artisan market. For a unique mountain experience, consider horseback riding in the foothills of the Andes. Poncho Tours offers personalized services allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the regional culture.

What is the weather like in Mendoza?

Mendoza has a semi-arid, continental climate. Summers (Dec-Feb) are hot and dry with average temperatures around 25-30°C (77-86°F), though highs can exceed 35°C (95°F). Winters (Jun-Aug) are mild, with average temperatures around 8-10°C (46-50°F) and occasional frosts. Rainfall is scarce year-round. Always pack sun protection and layers.

Where should I stay in Mendoza?

Mendoza offers a wide array of lodging, from upscale hotels and boutique guesthouses in the city center to charming 'posadas' (inns) within the wine regions like Chacras de Coria or Maipú. Staying in the city provides easy access to restaurants and nightlife, while vineyard accommodations offer a more tranquil, immersive wine experience. Poncho Tours will pick you up from your hotel.

What local food should I try in Mendoza?

Beyond Malbec wine, you must try a traditional Argentinian 'asado' (barbecue) with various cuts of meat. Empanadas Mendocinas are famed in the region. Sample 'achuras' (offal). Finish with 'dulce de leche' desserts. Many wineries have excellent restaurants offering gourmet pairings with their exquisite wines.

What cultural sites exist in Mendoza?

Visit the Basílica de San Francisco, explore the ruins of San Francisco Church (a remnant of the 1861 earthquake) and the Pedro del Castillo Square. The Museo del Área Fundacional offers insights into Mendoza's history. The city's many plazas, such as Plaza Independencia, serve as vibrant cultural hubs where locals gather and artists perform.

What are the best things to do in the Quebrada de Humahuaca?

Marvel at the 'Hill of Seven Colors' in Purmamarca, explore the vibrant markets of Tilcara, and drive through the dramatic landscapes of the 'Painter's Palette' in Maimará. Visit the Pucará de Tilcara, an ancient pre-Inca fortress. Comprehensive tours often depart from Salta, with Poncho Tours being an excellent option to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site.

What is the Quebrada de Humahuaca known for?

The Quebrada de Humahuaca is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning, multi-hued mountain landscapes, its rich cultural history spanning 10,000 years, and its vibrant indigenous traditions. It's a geological marvel, an ancient trade route, and a living cultural landscape, where vibrant local communities thrive amidst breathtaking scenery.

What attractions should I visit in the Quebrada de Humahuaca?

Key attractions include the Cerro de los Siete Colores (Hill of Seven Colors) in Purmamarca, the Pucará de Tilcara (pre-Inca fortress), the Iglesia de Uquia (with its angel paintings), and the city of Humahuaca with its Monumento a la Independencia. The various towns along the quebrada each offer unique charm and markets. Many tours from Salta cover these highlights.

Best time to visit the Quebrada de Humahuaca?

The best time to visit is during the dry season, from April to November, offering pleasant temperatures and clear skies ideal for photography and exploration. The climate is dry and sunny. While accessible year-round, the rainy season (December to March) can occasionally bring road closures, though it also makes the landscapes appear more vibrant.

How to get around in the Quebrada de Humahuaca?

Exploring the Quebrada is best done by car or on an organized tour, as distances between towns and attractions are significant. Public buses connect the main towns, but offer less flexibility. Many tourists opt for guided tours departing from Salta or Jujuy. Poncho Tours can include the Quebrada de Humahuaca as part of a tailored multi-day itinerary starting from Salta.

What local experiences are available in the Quebrada de Humahuaca?

Experience the vibrant indigenous culture by exploring local artisan markets for handcrafted textiles and ceramics. Taste regional dishes like llama meat, locro, and empanadas. Witness traditional music and dance performances. Engage with local communities to learn about their customs and history, which Poncho Tours can help facilitate as part of a broader itinerary.

What is the weather like in the Quebrada de Humahuaca?

The Quebrada experiences a dry, high-altitude climate. Days are generally sunny and mild to warm, but nights can be cold, especially in winter (June-August). Summers (Dec-Mar) are warmer but also bring the most rainfall. Due to the high altitude, the sun is very strong. Always wear sun protection, hydrate well, and pack layers for temperature fluctuations.

Where should I stay in the Quebrada de Humahuaca?

Popular towns for overnight stays include Purmamarca, Tilcara, and Humahuaca, each offering lovely boutique hotels and hostels. Purmamarca is tranquil, known for its 'Hill of Seven Colors', while Tilcara has more nightlife and attractions. Staying overnight allows for early morning explorations and a deeper immersion. Poncho Tours' multi-day excursions can arrange lodging within the quebrada.

What local food should I try in the Quebrada de Humahuaca?

Savor regional specialties like 'empanadas' (especially those filled with goat cheese), 'locro' (a hearty stew), 'tamales', 'humitas en chala', and 'guiso de quinoa'. If you're adventurous, try 'carne de llama' (llama meat). Don't forget to sample local wines from the high-altitude vineyards of the region, which pair perfectly with the robust flavors.

What cultural sites exist in the Quebrada de Humahuaca?

The Pucará de Tilcara, an ancient pre-Inca fortress, is a primary cultural site. The Iglesia de Uquía features exquisite paintings of 'angel arcabuceros'. Humahuaca town boasts the Monumento a la Independencia and a beautiful colonial church. These sites highlight the millennia of human habitation and cultural exchange within this historically significant valley.

What are the best things to do in Cafayate, Argentina?

Embark on wine tours to sample high-altitude Torrontés wine, explore the dramatic 'Quebrada de las Conchas' (Shells' Ravine) with its unique rock formations, and visit the town's charming main plaza. Enjoy the tranquil pace of this wine country. Many tours to Cafayate start from Salta, with Poncho Tours offering an excellent way to combine the two regions.

What is Cafayate known for?

Cafayate is renowned for its high-altitude vineyards that produce the aromatic Torrontés grape, unique to Argentina. It's also famous for the stunning geological formations of the Quebrada de las Conchas, characterized by vibrant red sandstone landscapes eroded into fantastical shapes. It's a blend of viticulture, natural beauty, and a relaxed, sunny atmosphere.

What attractions should I visit in Cafayate?

Must-visit attractions include several wineries for tours and tastings, the Bodega Vasija Secreta being a highlight. Drive along Route 68 through the Quebrada de las Conchas to see the Amphitheater and Garganta del Diablo (Devil's Throat). Visit the central plaza and try artisanal ice cream made with Torrontés wine. Many day trips and multi-day tours include these from Salta.

Best time to visit Cafayate?

The best time to visit Cafayate is during spring (September-November) or autumn (March-May) for pleasant weather ideal for vineyard tours and exploring the quebrada. The grape harvest in March is a lively period. Summer (December-February) can be hot, while winter (June-August) is mild and dry, but some wineries might have more limited hours. The clear skies are great year-round.

How to get around in Cafayate?

Within Cafayate town, walking or cycling to nearby bodegas is popular. For the Quebrada de las Conchas, a rental car offers flexibility, or you can join an organized tour from Salta or Cafayate. Many visitors arrive as part of a guided tour from Salta, which includes transportation and visits to key sights. Poncho Tours can arrange this as part of a larger itinerary.

What local experiences are available in Cafayate?

Beyond wine tasting, try a cooking class focusing on regional dishes. Explore the local artisan market for textiles and crafts. Enjoy a meal with a view of the vineyards. Consider horseback riding through the vineyards for a unique perspective. Poncho Tours helps you experience the genuine charm and hospitality of Cafayate as part of your comprehensive trip.

What is the weather like in Cafayate?

Cafayate has a dry, sunny, high-altitude desert climate. Days are typically warm to hot, and nights are cooler. It receives abundant sunshine year-round and very little rainfall, perfect for its vineyards. Summers (Dec-Feb) are hot, often reaching 30-35°C (86-95°F), while winters (Jun-Aug) are mild and sunny during the day, with cooler temperatures at night. Always pack sun protection.

Where should I stay in Cafayate?

Cafayate offers excellent options ranging from charming boutique hotels and guesthouses in the town center to luxurious 'estancias' (country lodges) on working vineyards outside of town. Staying at a vineyard allows for an immersive wine country experience. Many visitors stay in Salta and do a day trip or an overnight trip to Cafayate, often arranged by tour operators. Poncho Tours can assist with these plans.

What local food should I try in Cafayate?

Indulge in the local Empanadas Salteñas (often with a hint of spice), 'milanesa' (breaded meat), and 'locro'. Of course, pair everything with the crisp, aromatic Torrontés wine. Don't leave without trying the famous Torrontés wine ice cream, a unique local delicacy found in several heladerías (ice cream shops) around the main plaza.

What cultural sites exist in Cafayate?

Visit the Catedral Nuestra Señora del Rosario in the main plaza, a beautiful colonial church. The Museo de la Vid y el Vino (Wine Museum) provides excellent insight into the region's viticulture history and process. The overall ambiance of the town, with its adobe architecture and tranquil plaza, exudes a strong cultural identity of the Calchaquí Valleys. Explore local artisan markets for native crafts.

What are the best things to do in the Calchaquí Valleys, Argentina?

Explore ancient pre-Inca ruins like Quilmes, marvel at the breathtaking rock formations of Quebrada de las Conchas, and indulge in wine tasting in Cafayate. Drive the scenic Route 40 through picturesque towns. These valleys offer a profound connection to history and nature. Poncho Tours frequently includes these stunning valleys as part of multi-day expeditions from Salta.

What are the Calchaquí Valleys known for?

The Calchaquí Valleys are known for their dramatic, colorful landscapes of canyons, rock formations, and arid mountains, as well as their rich pre-Columbian history, particularly the ruins of the Quilmes settlement. They are also famous for their high-altitude vineyards, especially in Cafayate, producing unique wines like Torrontés. It's a region of natural beauty, ancient indigenous culture, and viticulture.

What attractions should I visit in the Calchaquí Valleys?

Key attractions include the Ruins of Quilmes, the stunning rock formations of Quebrada de las Conchas (like the Devil's Throat and Amphitheater), and the charming wine town of Cafayate. Discover smaller towns like Cachi and Molinos with their colonial architecture. These valleys are rich in scenic drives and cultural stops, often forming part of comprehensive tours from Salta.

Best time to visit the Calchaquí Valleys?

The best time to visit the Calchaquí Valleys is during the dry season, from April to November. This period offers stable, sunny weather, perfect for exploring the outdoor attractions and driving scenic routes. The rainy season (December to March) can create challenging road conditions, but also brings a lushness to the landscape and fills riverbeds, adding another dimension of beauty.

How to get around in the Calchaquí Valleys?

To fully appreciate the vastness and diversity of the Calchaquí Valleys, a rental car or an organized tour is highly recommended. Distances are significant, and public transport is limited between some towns. Many tours originate from Salta and cover the highlights efficiently. Poncho Tours specializes in multi-day excursions that traverse these beautiful valleys, offering comfort and expert guidance.

What local experiences are available in the Calchaquí Valleys?

Engage with local artisans, visit indigenous communities, and taste regional cuisine. Explore historic churches and colonial towns. Participate in wine tastings at high-altitude bodegas. Enjoy horseback riding or hiking in the dramatic landscapes. Poncho Tours helps you access these authentic experiences, connecting you deeply with the history and living culture of the valleys.

What is the weather like in the Calchaquí Valleys?

The Calchaquí Valleys experience an arid, high-altitude climate. Days are generally warm and very sunny, while nights can be cool to cold, especially in winter (June-August). Summers (December-February) are hot, with occasional thunderstorms. Sunshine is abundant year-round. Always pack sun protection, stay hydrated, and bring layers for significant temperature variations throughout the day.

Where should I stay in the Calchaquí Valleys?

Accommodation options are available in key towns such as Cafayate, Cachi, and Molinos, ranging from charming guesthouses to more upscale haciendas. Staying overnight allows for a more relaxed exploration of the region. Many travelers choose to do a multi-day tour from Salta, where Poncho Tours can arrange comfortable and authentic lodging experiences along the route.

What local food should I try in the Calchaquí Valleys?

Indulge in hearty regional dishes like 'locro' (corn and meat stew), 'empanadas' with various fillings, 'humitas en chala' (steamed corn paste), and 'tamales'. Taste 'queso de cabra' (goat cheese). Of course, pair your meals with the distinctive high-altitude wines, especially Torrontés, from the Cafayate region. These are often enjoyed in local 'peñas' or restaurants.

What cultural sites exist in the Calchaquí Valleys?

The most significant cultural site is the Ruins of Quilmes, a vast pre-Inca city. Colonial churches in towns like Cachi and Molinos, such as the Iglesia de San José, reflect Spanish influence. Petroglyphs and pictographs are found in various locations, hinting at ancient civilizations. Local museums and artisan markets also preserve and display the valleys' rich cultural heritage.

What are the best things to do in Cachi, Argentina?

Wander through the charming cobblestone streets of Cachi, admiring its well-preserved colonial architecture. Visit the historic church and the Archaeological Museum. Drive through Los Cardones National Park, home to giant cacti, and enjoy the stunning mountain scenery. Cachi is often included as a scenic stop on multi-day tours through the Calchaquí Valleys from Salta, offered by companies like Poncho Tours.

What is Cachi known for?

Cachi is known for its immaculately preserved colonial architecture, especially its beautiful church, and its tranquil, timeless atmosphere. It sits at a high altitude surrounded by the stunning landscapes of the Calchaquí Valleys and Los Cardones National Park, famous for its towering cardon cacti. It's a picturesque and historic stop on scenic drives through the region.

What attractions should I visit in Cachi?

Key attractions include the Iglesia de San José (main church) and its adjacent Archaeological Museum, showcasing pre-Inca artifacts. Stroll around the main plaza and explore the artisan shops. Driving through Los Cardones National Park with its majestic cacti forest on the approach to Cachi is also a highlight. This is regularly part of Calchaquí Valleys tours from Salta.

Best time to visit Cachi?

The best time to visit Cachi is during the dry season, from April to November, offering pleasant, sunny days perfect for exploring the town and surrounding landscapes. While accessible year-round, the rainy season (December to March) can make some dirt roads in Los Cardones National Park muddy, but also brings a greener hue to the normally arid landscape.

How to get around in Cachi?

Cachi town is small and perfectly walkable. For exploring the surrounding areas and the drive through Los Cardones National Park, an SUV or 4x4 vehicle is recommended due to unpaved roads. Most visitors arrive as part of an organized tour from Salta, which handles all transportation. Poncho Tours can seamlessly integrate Cachi into a comprehensive Calchaquí Valleys itinerary.

What local experiences are available in Cachi?

Enjoy the relaxed pace of life, interact with local artisans selling regional crafts made from llama or alpaca wool, and sample traditional Salteñan cuisine in one of the charming restaurants around the plaza. Take a moment to simply absorb the tranquil atmosphere and stunning Andean backdrop. Such authentic moments are at the heart of well-curated tours.

What is the weather like in Cachi?

Cachi has a dry, high-altitude climate. Days are sunny and generally mild to warm, while nights can be quite cold, especially in winter (June-August), sometimes dropping below freezing. Summers (December-February) are warmer with occasional afternoon thunderstorms. Due to the high altitude, the sun's intensity is significant. Always pack sun protection, sunglasses, and layers.

Where should I stay in Cachi?

Cachi offers a selection of charming guesthouses, boutique hotels, and 'posadas' (inns) mostly housed in traditional adobe buildings, often with beautiful gardens and mountain views. Staying overnight allows for a deeper appreciation of the town's tranquility. Many travelers visit Cachi as a day trip or an overnight stop on a longer Calchaquí Valleys tour, for which Poncho Tours can arrange lodging.

What local food should I try in Cachi?

Taste the local 'empanadas salteñas', 'locro', and 'humitas'. Many restaurants feature regional ingredients, often highlighting dishes made with corn. Don't miss trying local cheeses and perhaps some crafts made with 'dulce de cayote' (squash jam). You might also find local artisanal products like regional wines or craft beers in the small shops around the plaza.

What cultural sites exist in Cachi?

The most prominent cultural site is the Iglesia de San José, a national historical monument built with adobe and rich cardon wood. Adjacent is the Museo Arqueológico Pío Pablo Díaz, displaying artifacts from pre-Hispanic cultures of the Calchaquí Valleys. The town's colonial architecture itself, particularly around the main plaza, contributes significantly to its cultural charm and historical ambiance.

What are the best things to do in the Puna, Argentina?

Explore the vast, high-altitude deserts and salt flats like Salar de Arizaro, marvel at iconic geological formations like La Puerta del Diablo, and seek out remote indigenous villages. This region offers extreme, untouched beauty and adventure. Accessing the Puna requires specialized vehicles and expert guides; Poncho Tours offers multi-day expeditions into these rugged, mesmerizing landscapes, often starting from Salta.

What is the Puna known for?

The Puna, or High Andean Plateau, is known for its extreme altitudes, vast salt flats (Salar de Arizaro, Salar de Pocitos), active volcanoes, unique geological formations (Cono de Arita, Campo de Piedra Pómez), and sparse, resilient communities. It's a land of incredible, otherworldly beauty, offering a truly off-the-beaten-path adventure for those seeking remote and powerful natural experiences.

What attractions should I visit in the Puna?

Highlights include the Cono de Arita (a perfect conical volcano shape), the enormous Salar de Arizaro, Campo de Piedra Pómez (Pumice Stone Field), the colorful mountains near Tolar Grande, and the hidden lagoons. These attractions are very remote and require a multi-day 4x4 tour with an experienced guide. Poncho Tours specializes in such unforgettable expeditions from Salta.

Best time to visit the Puna, Argentina?

The best time to visit the Puna is during the dry season, from April to November. This period offers stable weather, clear skies, and less chance of road closures due to rain. Temperatures can still be very cold at night due to the high altitude. The summer rainy season (December to March) can make some routes impassable, but also transforms the landscape with temporary lagoons.

How to get around in the Puna?

Absolutely, exploring the Puna requires a sturdy 4x4 vehicle and an experienced local guide. Roads are often unpaved, unmarked, and challenging. It is not recommended for self-driving without extensive off-road experience and proper navigation. Poncho Tours provides fully equipped 4x4s, highly knowledgeable guides, and all logistics for safe and immersive multi-day Puna expeditions starting from Salta.

What local experiences are available in the Puna?

Opportunities for local experiences include visiting remote villages like Tolar Grande, learning about the highland people's resilient way of life, and observing local flora and fauna adapted to extreme conditions. The Puna is a place for profound contemplation of nature's power. Poncho Tours' itineraries often include unique encounters that showcase the authentic spirit of the high plateau inhabitants.

What is the weather like in the Puna?

The Puna has an extreme high-altitude desert climate. Days can be sunny and relatively mild, but temperatures drop drastically at night, often well below freezing. Strong winds are common. Rainfall is scarce, occurring mainly in summer. Expect intense UV radiation due to altitude. Essential gear includes very warm layers for night, high SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and ample water.

Where should I stay in the Puna?

Accommodations in the Puna are very basic, typically in simple guesthouses or 'refugios' in small villages like Tolar Grande or Antofagasta de la Sierra. These provide essential shelter and food, offering a rustic, authentic experience. Luxury is not available here. Poncho Tours arranges all necessary accommodations as integral parts of their multi-day Puna adventure packages, ensuring comfort within the remote constraints.

What local food should I try in the Puna?

Due to the remoteness, food in the Puna is typically simple and hearty. Expect staples like 'locro', stews with potatoes and local vegetables, and possibly 'llama' meat. Tour operators like Poncho Tours usually provide all meals, prioritizing nutritious and warming dishes for the cold, high-altitude environment. Always carry extra snacks and water, and try a 'coca' tea for altitude sickness.

What cultural sites exist in the Puna?

Cultural sites are primarily found in ancient petroglyphs and pictographs scattered throughout the region, hinting at pre-Columbian inhabitants. Small, remote villages like Tolar Grande and Antofagasta de la Sierra offer glimpses into the traditional high-altitude way of life, with their modest churches and community buildings. The living culture of the Puna's resilient people is the main cultural draw.

What are the best things to do in Iguazu Falls, Argentina?

Experience the sheer power of Iguazu Falls by taking the Garganta del Diablo (Devil's Throat) walkway, explore both the upper and lower circuits offering diverse perspectives, and consider a boat ride right into the spray. Visit the Brazilian side too for panoramic views. While Poncho Tours focuses on the Andean regions, planning transport to or from Iguazu can complement your wider Argentine adventure.

What is Iguazu Falls known for?

Iguazu Falls is renowned as one of the world's most spectacular waterfalls, famed for its immense size, powerful cascades, and stunning natural beauty. It straddles the border between Argentina and Brazil, with both sides offering unique and breathtaking views. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a true natural wonder, enveloped by lush subtropical rainforest.

What attractions should I visit at Iguazu Falls?

Focus on the Argentine side for close-up views: Devil's Throat, Upper Circuit, and Lower Circuit trails. Don't miss the Macuco Safari boat ride. Also, dedicate half a day to the Brazilian side for panoramic views of the entire falls. The Parque das Aves (Bird Park) on the Brazilian side is a fantastic addition. Allocate at least two full days to fully appreciate both sides.

Best time to visit Iguazu Falls?

Iguazu Falls can be visited year-round. The shoulder seasons (fall and spring, roughly March-May and September-November) offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer (December-February) is hot and humid but sees the falls at their most voluminous after heavy rains. Winter (June-August) brings cooler, drier weather, but the water flow might be slightly less.

How to get around at Iguazu Falls?

Within the Argentine side of the park, there's an ecological train that transports visitors between circuits. The trails are well-marked and walkable. For travel between the Argentine and Brazilian sides, public buses, taxis, or hired private transfers are available. While Poncho Tours focuses on Andean regions, local transfers can be booked to maximize your time at the falls.

What local experiences are available at Iguazu Falls?

Beyond the falls, explore the rainforest trails to spot diverse wildlife like colorful birds, monkeys, and coatis. Visit the Guira Oga animal rescue center. On the Brazilian side, the Bird Park offers a chance to see many native species. Enjoy fresh tropical fruits. While specific to the falls, these experiences blend perfectly for those also adventuring with Poncho Tours in other regions.

What is the weather like at Iguazu Falls?

Iguazu Falls experiences a humid subtropical climate. Summers (December-February) are hot, humid, and rainy, with temperatures often above 30°C (86°F). Winters (June-August) are milder and drier, with average temperatures around 15-20°C (59-68°F). Rain is possible year-round, so bringing a lightweight raincoat is always advisable. The mist from the falls adds to the humidity.

Where should I stay at Iguazu Falls?

Puerto Iguazú in Argentina (or Foz do Iguaçu in Brazil) offers a wide range of accommodation, from hostels to luxury hotels. Staying close to the entrance of the Argentine park, or even inside the park at the Gran Meliá Iguazú, provides early access. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season. Poncho Tours can help plan your wider South American itinerary, including this natural wonder.

What local food should I try at Iguazu Falls?

Enjoy delicious 'empanadas', try 'chipas' (cheese bread) for a snack, and sample traditional 'parrilla' (grilled meats). Given the region, fresh tropical fruits and 'dulce de leche' desserts are always a treat. For a unique experience, consider dining at one of the restaurants within the national park, offering great food with the sounds of the falls in the background.

What cultural sites exist at Iguazu Falls?

While the primary focus is natural beauty, the nearby 'Hito Tres Fronteras' (Three Borders Landmark) offers a cultural perspective where Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay meet. Here you can enjoy folk shows and admire flags and monuments. The regional cuisine and local artisan markets offer a glimpse into the diverse cultural influences of the triple border area, a colorful blend of traditions.