Argentina's The Northwest
The Northwest
For far too long Argentina’s Northwest has been simply summed up as a dry and dusty indigenous outpost relative to its sistering Argentinean cities. However, a visit to this “outpost” reveals some of Argentina’s finest, for its red deserts and adobe villages set the scene for the wizened old Indian women and colorful street carnivals where dancing the chacarera is only the beginning of the entertainment. Well steeped in rich history, Northwest Argentina offers visitors a glimpse into the terraced settlements of the Quechuan Indians, the mysterious standing stones of the Tafi tribe, and numerous other ancient civilizations upon whose culture this country was built.
Explore the colonial forts of Jujuy, trek through the colorful canyons of Salta or ride the Tren a las Nubes (Train to the Clouds) through the magnificent La Puña Desert. And, as you gaze upon the baroque art of the indigenous people or drive the epic Andean Roadway known as Route 40 passing rolling vineyards, cactus hills, rain forests, dinosaur parks and empty salt plains along the way, you will begin to understand why Argentina’s Northwest is the glorious heart of South America, and why it promises to leave such an imprint on yours.
