NORTHWEST ARGENTINA
Overland Photo Tour and Expedition 2025

Northwest Argentina is a hidden gem for photographers, offering an extraordinary blend of dramatic landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unique geological wonders.

You'll have the opportunity to capture some of South America's most diverse and photogenic terrains, from the colorful mountains of Purmamarca to the otherworldly salt flats of Salinas Grandes and the surreal Campo de Piedra Pómez. You'll also document the vibrant local cultures, ancient traditions, and the daily life of communities living in one of the world's highest and most remote regions.

While other tours may visit parts of Northwest Argentina, only some offer such an immersive and comprehensive photographic experience. Our itinerary has been carefully crafted and refined over years of exploration in the region, ensuring access to locations at optimal times for photography.

If you're passionate about landscape photography, fascinated by unique geological formations, interested in capturing living cultures, or eager to try astrophotography in some of the darkest skies in South America, this Northwest Argentina tour is an unparalleled opportunity.

This expedition is designed to take you off the beaten path, providing exclusive access to remote locations and unforgettable photographic opportunities that few experience.

The optimal time for photography in Northwest Argentina is during the dry season, from April to November, with our September tour perfectly positioned to capture the region's beauty.

This period offers clear skies that are ideal for landscape and astrophotography, especially in the Puna region. The lack of rain intensifies the vibrant colors of rock formations in areas like Purmamarca and Quebrada de las Conchas.

The Salinas Grandes salt flats are typically drier, creating mirror-like surfaces perfect for creative shots. While days are warm, cooler nights and mornings provide comfortable conditions for dawn and dusk shoots when light is most favorable.

Wildlife, particularly flamingos, concentrate around water sources, enhancing wildlife photography opportunities.

This timing maximizes diverse photographic opportunities across Northwest Argentina's landscapes and cultures.

Northwest Argentina is generally considered a safe region for travelers, and it is known for its warm hospitality and low crime rates compared to more urban areas of the country. The provinces we visit - Salta, Jujuy, and Catamarca - are popular tourist destinations with a well-developed tourism infrastructure.

Safety is a top priority on our Northwest Argentina 4x4 Photo Tour. Our experienced guides are intimately familiar with the region and its customs, ensuring you'll have local expertise to navigate any situation. We travel in small groups with dedicated 4x4 vehicles, allowing for a more secure and controlled environment throughout the journey.

The remote nature of some locations we visit, particularly in the Puna region, means we'll often be far from crowded tourist areas. While this isolation offers unparalleled photographic opportunities, it also requires additional precautions. We provide comprehensive health and safety protocol briefings, especially regarding high-altitude travel and photography in remote landscapes.

With these measures in place, you can focus on capturing the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultures of Northwest Argentina, knowing that your safety and well-being are being looked after throughout the tour.

We have rated this Northwest Argentina 4x4 Photo Tour as Moderate/Active. This tour involves more physical activity than a typical sightseeing trip. Still, it's designed to be accessible to photographers in reasonably good health.

The tour includes hiking on uneven terrain, often at high altitudes. Some days involve long drives on rough roads to reach remote locations. You should be comfortable walking several miles daily, sometimes on steep or rocky paths. The highest points we visit are over 4,000 meters (13,000 feet) above sea level, which can be challenging even for those in good physical condition.

While we move at a pace that allows for ample photography time, the nature of the landscapes we're exploring requires a certain level of physical readiness. You don't need to be an elite athlete, but a good level of fitness will enhance your enjoyment of the tour.

Our experienced guides are always on hand to assist and ensure everyone's comfort and safety. We take necessary acclimatization measures for high-altitude locations and can often adjust activities to individual needs.

If you have any concerns about the tour's physical demands, we encourage you to reach out to us. We're happy to discuss the specifics and help you determine if this adventure is suitable for you.

For the Northwest Argentina 4x4 Photo Tour, there are several important health considerations to keep in mind:

1. Vaccinations: While there are no mandatory vaccinations for Argentina, it's recommended to be up-to-date on routine vaccines. Consult with your healthcare provider or a travel medicine specialist at least 4-6 weeks before the trip to discuss recommended vaccinations based on your health history and the specific areas we'll visit.

2. High Altitude: A significant portion of our tour takes place at high altitudes, with some locations above 4,000 meters (13,000 feet). Discuss altitude sickness prevention with your doctor, who may recommend a medication like Diamox. We've designed the itinerary to allow for gradual acclimatization, but it's crucial to be prepared.

3. Personal Medication: Bring an ample supply of individual medications, copies of prescriptions, and a letter from your doctor explaining your condition and treatment. Some of our destinations are remote, so having all necessary medications with you is vital.

4. Physical Fitness: This tour involves moderate to active physical activity, including hiking on uneven terrain and long drives on rough roads. Ensure you're in good physical condition to fully enjoy the experience.

5. Hydration: Staying well-hydrated is crucial at high altitudes. We provide water but consider bringing electrolyte supplements.

Addressing these health considerations will prepare you for a safe and enjoyable photographic journey through Northwest Argentina.

Northwest Argentina in September offers a diverse climate due to its varied landscapes and altitudes. Here's what you can expect:

In lower areas like Salta and Cafayate, daytime temperatures typically range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), with cool nights around 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). These conditions are generally pleasant for outdoor activities and photography.

However, in the high-altitude regions of the Puna, temperatures can vary dramatically. Daytime highs might reach 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F), but nights can drop below freezing, sometimes as low as -10°C (14°F). The extreme aridity of this region means very low humidity and intense sunlight during the day.

September falls within the dry season, so rainfall is minimal. However, strong winds are common, especially in the Puna, which can feel quite cold.

The dramatic temperature swings and varied conditions mean packing layers is essential. Warm clothing for early mornings and evenings, sun protection for intense daytime sun, and wind-resistant gear are all important.

These diverse climatic conditions contribute to the unique landscapes and lighting situations that make Northwest Argentina such a captivating destination for photographers.

For our Northwest Argentina tour, versatile clothing suitable for diverse climates is essential:

• Layered clothing: Pack thermal base layers, fleece jackets, and a warm, windproof outer layer.

• Hiking pants and shorts: Comfortable, quick-drying options are best.

• Long-sleeved shirts: For sun protection during the day and warmth in the evenings.

• Warm accessories: Hat, gloves, and scarf for cold mornings and high altitudes.

• Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots: Essential for uneven terrain.

• Comfortable shoes: For more leisurely days in towns.

• Socks: Bring warm socks, including thick pairs for cold nights.

• Wide-brimmed hat: For sun protection.

• One nicer outfit: Optional for dinners in Salta or Cafayate.

Personal items:

• High SPF sunscreen and lip balm with SPF

• Moisturizer: The air is very dry, especially at high altitudes.

• Reusable water bottle

• Headlamp or flashlight: Useful for early morning starts and night activities.

• Personal medications and basic toiletries

Remember, we'll be in areas with limited access to supplies, so pack thoroughly. Dress in layers to adapt to temperature changes throughout the day. The key is to be prepared for both warm days and very cold nights, especially in the high-altitude regions of the Puna.

For our Northwest Argentina 4x4 Photo Tour, you'll want to be well-equipped to capture diverse landscapes, from vast salt flats to colorful mountains and starry night skies. Here's a recommended list of camera gear:

1. Camera:

• A DSLR or mirrorless camera with good low-light performance and high dynamic range is ideal.

• Consider bringing a backup body if possible.

2. Lenses:

• Wide-angle lens (16-35mm or similar): Essential for vast landscapes and night sky photography.

• Standard zoom lens (24-70mm or similar): Versatile for general shooting and cultural photography.

• Telephoto lens (70-200mm or longer): For wildlife, distant landscapes, and compressing perspective in mountain scenes.

3. Tripod:

• A sturdy, lightweight tripod is crucial for landscape and night photography.

4. Filters:

• Polarizing filter: To enhance skies and reduce reflections.

• Neutral Density (ND) filters: For long exposures, they are also helpful at salt flats.

• Graduated ND filters: To balance exposure between bright skies and darker foregrounds.

5. Additional Accessories:

• Plenty of memory cards: The landscapes are stunning; you'll shoot more than expected.

• Extra batteries and chargers: Power sources can be limited in remote areas.

• Remote shutter release: For long exposures and night photography.

• Lens cleaning kit: The environment can be dusty.

• Headlamp: Useful for night photography setups.

6. Protective Gear:

• A robust camera bag or backpack suitable for rough terrain.

• Rain cover for your camera: While rain is rare, it's good to be prepared.

• Dust protection: Consider bringing a dust blower and sealable bags.

7. Optional but Useful:

• Intervalometer: For creating time-lapses of changing light on landscapes.

• Wide-angle prime lens: For astrophotography (e.g., 14mm f/2.8 or similar).

Remember, we'll travel in 4x4 vehicles on rough terrain, so ensure your gear is well-packed and protected. Also, consider the weight of your kit, as we'll be at high altitudes where carrying heavy gear can be challenging.

By bringing this recommended gear, you'll be well-prepared to capture the extraordinary beauty of Northwest Argentina in all its diverse forms.

Yes, you will need a valid passport to enter Argentina. Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay in Argentina.

Visa Requirements:

Visa requirements for Argentina vary depending on your nationality:

• Citizens of the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and most European Union countries: You do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes. Instead, you'll receive a tourist stamp upon arrival.

• UK citizens: As of 2023, UK passport holders must apply for an electronic travel authorization before traveling to Argentina.

• Other nationalities: If you're from a country not listed above, check with the Argentine embassy or consulate in your country for the most up-to-date visa requirements.

Reciprocity Fee: As of 2023, Argentina has suspended the reciprocity fee for US, Canadian, and Australian citizens. However, policies can change, so checking for updates before your trip is wise.

Additional Considerations:

• Carry your passport with you at all times during your travels in Argentina.

• Keep a copy of your passport and any visa documentation in a separate location as a backup.

• If you plan to visit neighboring countries (like Chile or Bolivia) during your trip, check their entry requirements, as they may differ from those in Argentina.

Always check the official Argentine government website or consult with the Argentine embassy in your country for the most current information, as entry requirements can change.

All of our guests are required to have their travel insurance, which should include evacuation for medical reasons.
We partner with and recommend Arch Roam Right; you can check them here.

Currency: The official currency of Argentina is the Argentine Peso (ARS). It's advisable to have some pesos on hand for small purchases and places that don't accept cards, especially in remote areas.

Exchange Rates and Inflation: Argentina has a complex economic situation with high inflation rates. Be aware that exchange rates can fluctuate significantly. Using credit cards or withdrawing money from ATMs is often advantageous rather than exchanging large amounts of cash.

ATMs and Banks: ATMs are available in larger towns like Salta and Cafayate but may be limited or nonexistent in remote areas of the Puna. Withdraw cash when in bigger towns. Some ATMs have low withdrawal limits, so check with your bank about daily limits and international fees.

Credit and Debit Cards: Major credit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas. However, in remote regions, cash is often the only option. Inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid card blocks.

Tipping: Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, 10% is standard. Tipping is at your discretion but appreciated by our tour guides and drivers.

Budgeting: Costs can vary widely:

• Meals: In cities, expect to pay around 15000-30000 pesos for a mid-range restaurant meal.

• Drinks: A coffee might cost 3000-5000 pesos, while a beer could cost 5000-8000 pesos.

Note that our tour includes most meals and activities, so additional expenses will mainly be for personal items, souvenirs, and extra drinks. Remember that these reference prices are from July 2023 and could change due to inflation.

Money-Saving Tips:

• Use credit cards where possible for better exchange rates.

• Avoid exchanging money at airports or hotels, which often offer poor rates.

• Keep small denominations of pesos for small purchases in remote areas.

Remember, in the remote areas we'll be visiting, access to ATMs and card facilities will be limited, so plan accordingly and carry sufficient cash for personal expenses during those portions of the trip.

Our Northwest Argentina 4x4 Photo Tour offers a range of accommodations that reflect the diverse landscapes and cultures we'll be exploring. Here's what you can expect:

Comfort in Remote Locations: Given the remote nature of many of our destinations, especially in the Puna region, accommodations can range from comfortable to basic. However, all are chosen for their cleanliness, safety, and proximity to our photography locations.

Variety of Experiences: You'll experience a mix of accommodations, from charming boutique hotels in cities to rustic lodges in remote areas. This variety adds to the authentic experience of the region.

Accommodation Highlights:

Salta: We start and end at Finca Valentina, a charming country house offering comfort and local character that is perfect for acclimatizing to the region.

Purmamarca: Manantial del Silencio provides a blend of comfort and local architecture, with views of the famous Hill of Seven Colors.

Tolar Grande: Casa Andina offers basic but clean rooms in this remote mining town, allowing us to stay close to the surreal landscapes of the high Puna.

El Peñón: El Peñón Hosteria de Altura provides cozy rooms in a stunning high-altitude setting, crucial for our explorations of Campo de Piedra Pómez and surrounding areas.

Cafayate: Patios de Cafayate Wine Hotel offers a touch of luxury amidst the vineyards, a welcome respite after our Puna adventures.

Essential Amenities: While amenities vary, especially in remote areas, we ensure that all accommodations provide the essentials for a comfortable stay. In more remote locations, be prepared for basic facilities, offset by the incredible photographic opportunities right outside your door.

Unique Experiences: Some of our accommodations, particularly in the Puna, offer a truly unique experience. You might find yourself staying in a refurbished miner's accommodation or a lodge powered by solar energy, adding to the trip's adventure.

Our carefully selected accommodations balance comfort with authenticity, ensuring you can rest and recharge while remaining immersed in the stunning environments we're here to photograph.

Before we delve into the specifics of Northwest Argentine cuisine, it's essential to understand some local dining customs:

Late Dining: Argentines typically eat dinner much later than in many other countries. Restaurants often open for dinner at 8:00 PM, with peak dining hours between 9:00 PM and midnight. This can be quite an adjustment for visitors used to earlier mealtimes.

Flexibility for Photography: Our tour prioritizes capturing the best light for photography. This means we may need to adjust our meal times to align with optimal shooting conditions.

Lunch Importance: Given the late dinner times, lunch is often a substantial meal in Argentina. We'll often have hearty lunches on our tour to fuel our afternoon photography activities.

Adapting to Remote Locations: In some remote areas we'll visit, especially in the Puna, dining options and times may be more limited. We'll adjust our schedule to what's available while ensuring you're well-fed for our photography adventures.

The cuisine of Northwest Argentina is a delightful reflection of the region's diverse landscapes, cultural heritage, and local ingredients. Here's what you can expect during our photo tour:

Regional Specialties:

• Locro: A hearty stew made with corn, beans, meat, and vegetables, often enjoyed during national holidays.

• Empanadas Salteñas: Savory pastries filled with meat, potatoes, and spices, unique to the Salta region.

• Humitas: A pre-Columbian dish of corn masa and cheese steamed in corn husks.

• Tamales: Similar to humitas, but typically filled with meat.

• Llama meat: In the Puna region, you might have the opportunity to try this traditional Andean protein.

Influences and Ingredients: Northwest Argentine cuisine blends indigenous Andean traditions with Spanish colonial influences. Expect to see a lot of corn, quinoa, potatoes, and local meats in various dishes. The region is also known for its goat cheese and high-altitude wines.

Beverages:

• Wine: The Cafayate region is famous for its high-altitude vineyards producing excellent Torrontés (white) and Malbec (red) wines.

• Mate: This traditional caffeine-rich infusion is a cultural staple and social ritual.

• Coca tea: Often offered to help with altitude adjustment in high-elevation areas.

Dining Experiences: From rustic countryside restaurants to sophisticated wine estate dining rooms, you'll experience a range of eating environments. In remote areas of the Puna, meals might be more straightforward but always prepared with care using local ingredients.

Special Considerations:

• High-Altitude Effects: In higher elevations, digestion can slow down. We recommend eating lighter meals and staying well-hydrated.

• Remote Locations: In some of the more isolated areas we visit, menu options may be limited but will always be fresh and locally sourced.

• Dietary Restrictions: While vegetarian options are available, especially in larger towns, options may be more limited in remote areas. Please inform us of any dietary requirements in advance.

Culinary Highlights:

• Asado: The traditional Argentine barbecue is a must-try experience, featuring various cuts of meat grilled to perfection.

• Winery Visits: In Cafayate, we'll have the opportunity to pair local wines with gourmet meals, showcasing the best of the region's viticulture.

Throughout the tour, we'll ensure you experience the rich culinary traditions of Northwest Argentina, from street food to fine dining, all while catering to the needs of our photography schedule.

Cell phone coverage and internet service in Northwest Argentina vary significantly depending on the location. Here's what you can expect:

Urban Areas: Cell phone coverage and internet service are generally good in cities like Salta and larger towns like Cafayate. 4G LTE is available in these areas, provided by major Argentine carriers like Claro, Personal, and Movistar.

Remote Areas: Cell phone coverage becomes limited or nonexistent as we venture into more remote regions, particularly in the Puna. Internet access in these areas is often unavailable or extremely slow.

Using Your Phone:

• International Roaming: Check with your home carrier about international roaming plans. Be aware that coverage may be limited in remote areas.

• Local SIM Card: Consider purchasing a local SIM card in Salta for better rates and coverage. Major providers offer prepaid plans with data.

• Unlocked Phones: Ensure your phone is unlocked if you plan to use a local SIM.

Internet Service:

• Hotels and Restaurants: Most accommodations and some restaurants offer Wi-Fi in cities and larger towns.

• Remote Lodges: In the Puna region, internet access may be limited or unavailable at our accommodations.

Staying Connected During the Tour:

• Limited Connectivity: Be prepared for extended periods without cell or internet service, especially in the Puna region.

• Photography Focus: The lack of connectivity in remote areas allows for a more immersive photography experience free from distractions.

• Emergency Communication: Our guides will have satellite communication devices for emergencies in areas without cell coverage.

Tips for Managing Limited Connectivity:

• Download Maps: Before leaving urban areas, download offline maps of the regions we'll be visiting.

• Inform Loved Ones: Let family and friends know you'll be out of reach for periods during the tour.

• Enjoy the Disconnect: Use the lack of connectivity as an opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the landscape and your photography.

While the limited connectivity in remote areas can be an adjustment, it makes this region unique and photogenic. Embrace the opportunity to disconnect and focus fully on capturing the breathtaking landscapes of Northwest Argentina.

Voltage and Frequency: Argentina operates on a 220V supply voltage and 50Hz frequency. This is similar to most European countries but different from North America.

Plug Types: Argentina primarily uses two types of electrical outlets:

• Type C: This "Europlug" has two round pins and is common throughout Europe.

• Type I: This plug has three flat pins in a V-shape and is unique to Argentina, Australia, and New Zealand.

Do You Need a Plug Converter?

From North America (USA, Canada): Yes, you will need both a plug adapter and a voltage converter. North American devices typically use 110-120V with Type A/B plugs. Ensure your devices can handle 220V; if not, a voltage converter is necessary.

From Europe: You'll likely need a plug adapter for Type I outlets, but many places also accept Type C plugs. European devices usually support 220-240V, so a voltage converter isn't typically needed.

From the UK: You'll need a plug adapter to convert from the UK Type G plug to Argentina's Type C or I. UK devices generally support 220-240V, so a voltage converter isn't necessary.

Universal Plug Adapter: A universal adapter with Type I plugs is recommended. This ensures you can use your devices throughout the trip.

Voltage Converters: Bring a voltage converter for devices that don't support 220V. Modern electronics like phone chargers, laptops, and camera battery chargers are dual voltage (110-240V), but always check your devices' specifications.

Photography Equipment Considerations:

• Battery Chargers: Most camera battery chargers are dual voltage, but verify this using your specific model.

• Laptop Chargers: These are typically dual voltage but may need a plug adapter.

Remote Locations: Access to power outlets may be limited in some remote areas of our tour, especially in the Puna region. Consider bringing:

• Extension cord with multiple outlets.

• Portable power banks for charging devices.

• Extra camera batteries to avoid frequent charging.

Summary:

• Argentina uses 220V, 50Hz electricity.

• Plug types C and I are standard.

• Travelers from North America will need plug adapters and possibly voltage converters.

• European and UK travelers will need plug adapters but typically not voltage converters.

• Always check your devices' voltage compatibility.

Being prepared with the right adapters and converters will ensure you can keep your photography equipment and other devices charged throughout the tour, even in more remote locations.

Shopping in Northwest Argentina offers a unique blend of traditional crafts and modern goods, reflecting the region's rich cultural heritage. Here's what you can expect:

Local Artisan Markets: In cities like Salta and towns like Purmamarca, vibrant markets sell handmade crafts. These are excellent places to purchase authentic souvenirs such as:

• Colorful textiles and woven goods

• Pottery and ceramics

• Silver jewelry

• Leather goods

• Traditional musical instruments like the charango

Wine and Gourmet Products: Cafayate and the surrounding wine region offer opportunities to purchase locally produced wines, especially the famous Torrontés. You might also find:

• Artisanal cheeses

• Dulce de leche

• Local spices and herbs

Indigenous Art: Look for paintings and crafts from indigenous communities, particularly in the Puna region. These often feature vibrant colors and depict local landscapes or traditions.

Modern Shopping: Larger cities like Salta have shopping malls and boutiques offering local and international brands.

Photography-Related Shopping: While specialized camera equipment is limited in this region, you might find:

• Memory cards and essential accessories in larger towns

• Local photography books showcasing the region's landscapes

Remember, while shopping can be enjoyable, our primary focus is on photography. The best souvenirs from this trip are the stunning images you capture of Northwest Argentina's landscapes and cultures.

TERMS, REFUNDS AND CANCELATIONS

1) Booking procedure:

All prices for the tours are quoted in US Dollars.

We require a deposit to book a place on the selected photo tour. The deposit is due at the time of booking. The deposit shall be paid online via credit card.

Other than the deposit, you must complete the registration form for you and your guests, if any.

If you are traveling solo and want to share a room, we will try to find you a match. However, if, for any reason, we don't find a suitable match, the single supplement fee will apply.

We will send you an email shortly after confirming your booking. Do not book your flights at this time unless otherwise indicated by us. We will let you know once the minimum number of guests to run the tour has been reached.

2) Balance of Payments:

The final payment for the trip is 90 days before departure. Such payment shall be made via credit card or wire transfer. Failure to meet the payment schedule will result in cancelation and forfeit of the deposit.

3) Cancelation and Refunds

If, for any reason, DAK Photography Inc. must cancel the trip, 100% of paid deposits will be fully refunded. We reserve the right to cancel any trip/tour/group at any time due to insufficient registration. In the event of such cancellation, those with reservations shall be notified as soon as possible, and a full refund of the trip payment will be given.

If a guest needs to cancel, we must receive a written notification. Email is accepted.

The following cancelation fees apply:

• 120 days or more before departure: no charge.

• 91 days to 119 days before departure: 50% of the deposit.

• 61 days to 90 days before departure: 50% of the tour fee.

• 60 days or less before departure: 100% of the tour fee.

• In the event that you have to cancel, we will do our best to fill your spot. If we do so, we will refund 100% of the tour fee, less an administrative fee of $ 150.-

Refunds will not be made for any other costs you may have incurred as a result of your booking.

Travel and medical insurance that includes emergency evacuation coverage are mandatory. We recommend that you purchase this as soon as the trip is confirmed to protect your investment. We have partnered with Arch RoamRight, and you check their rates here.