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Away from the tango dancers of the capital, the glaciers of Perito Moreno and striking granite peaks of El Chaltén, sits Argentina’s least visited area – Salta. This vast northwestern region might lack the fame of its southern neighbours but it packs in some of the country’s most spectacular and varied landscapes. A Salta road trip will take you through some of the oldest towns in the country, as well as past colourful mountains, the surreal lunar landscapes of the appropriately named ‘Moon Valley’, cactus-dotted deserts and Mars-like red rock formations.

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Martín Miguel de Güemes

International Airport is around 20 minutes’ drive from Salta city centre and is well served by internal flights from uenos ries and other cities in Argentina.

BEST TIME TO GO

March to May, for warm days and mostly cloudless skies. Avoid December to February when heavy rainfall can make roads impassable.

CURRENCY Argentinian peso

TIME ZONE GMT-3

FOOD his region is famous for its e a a as, which are often regarded as the best in Argentina. Try an asa barbecue which can consist of beef, pork, sausages and chicken cooked on a parrilla open fire or grill .

WHERE TO STAY here is a variety of different accommodation available to visitors, from five star international chain hotels to self-catering apartments. hoices are more limited in smaller towns like achi.

HOW TO DO IT he only way to explore this region is with a car, either as self-drive or as part of a tour.

MUST-PACK ITEM arly mornings and nights can be bitterly cold, so be sure to pack some warm clothes. unscreen is also a must throughout the day. f you’re planning to visit Salinas Grandes, it’s vital to wear sunglasses due to the glare.

For the epic and jaw dropping landscape, which can often be enjoyed in solitude this is a part of rgentina that sees very few foreign visitors. If that’s not enough, the historic villages and towns, delicious food and friendly hospitality will make a trip to Salta a memorable one.