Family Road Trip from Buenos Aires to Santiago del Estero, Salta, Jujuy, and Salinas Grandes

Day 1: Monday, July 21 - Departure & Journey North

Morning: Depart from Buenos Aires at 14:00 with your car, heading northwest towards Santiago del Estero. The drive covers approximately 1,200 km and takes around 14 hours, so plan for breaks and overnight stops along the way.

Afternoon: Continue the scenic drive, enjoying views of the Argentine pampas. Optional stops in towns such as Santa Rosa de la Pampa or Tucumán for rest, food, and fuel.

Evening: Arrive in Santiago del Estero around late evening. Check into your accommodation and rest after a long day of driving.

Day 2: Tuesday, July 22 - Santiago del Estero

Morning: Explore Santiago del Estero's historic center, visiting San Fernando del Valle de Santiago Cathedral and House of Culture.

Afternoon: Visit the Tunel del Templo and relax at the Park Aguirre. Taste local cuisine at a traditional restaurant.

Evening: Enjoy a stroll along the riverfront and experience local music and culture in the city.

Day 3: Wednesday, July 23 - Santiago del Estero to Salta

Morning: Depart early from Santiago del Estero around 8:00 AM and drive approximately 510 km via Ruta Nacional 34, heading north to Salta. The journey takes about 6 to 7 hours.

Afternoon: Arrive in Salta around 15:00-16:00. Check into your accommodation and relax after the trip.

Evening: Brief walk around the historic Plaza 9 de Julio and dinner enjoying regional dishes like humitas and empanadas.

Day 4: Thursday, July 24 - Exploring Salta

Morning: Visit the Cable Car to San Bernardo Hill for panoramic views. Then, explore Catedral Basílica de Salta and the MAAM Museum.

Afternoon: Take a walk through Mercado San Miguel for souvenirs and local flavors. Optional visit to the Salta Tramway and Train to the Clouds.

Evening: Experience local live music or enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 5: Friday, July 25 - Salta to San Salvador de Jujuy

Morning: Depart from Salta around 8:00 AM, driving 80 km (1.5 hours) to San Salvador de Jujuy.

Afternoon: Explore the Plaza Belgrano, visit the Cathedral of Jujuy, and walk the colorful streets of the city.

Evening: Enjoy local Jujeño cuisine and relax in your hotel.

Day 6: Saturday, July 26 - Jujuy to Pumamarca & Quebrada de Humahuaca

Morning: Drive approximately 160 km (3 hours) to Purmamarca. Explore the iconic Cerro de los Siete Colores.

Afternoon: Continue to the breathtaking Quebrada de Humahuaca, visiting traditional villages like Humahuaca. Enjoy scenic mountain views and local crafts.

Evening: Return to Pumamarca or stay overnight in Humahuaca for better experience.

Day 7: Sunday, July 27 - Quebrada de Humahuaca to Salinas Grandes

Morning: Drive (about 150 km, 3 hours) to Salinas Grandes, the stunning salt flats at 3,450 meters altitude.

Afternoon: Explore the salt flats, enjoy unique photo opportunities, and visit the nearby Puesto de Sal villages.

Evening: Return to Salta with an optional stopover in Jujuy for dinner or rest.

Day 8: Monday, July 28 - Return Journey via Tucumán & Back to Buenos Aires

Morning: Leave early from Salta around 8:00 AM heading south. Stop in Tucumán around noon for a quick visit to Catedral de San Miguel de Tucumán or a café.

Afternoon: Continue the drive back to Buenos Aires, approximately 1,400 km, taking rest stops as needed.

Evening: Arrive in Buenos Aires by late evening, ending your memorable road trip.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Santiago del Estero: 2 days – Accommodation $100 per night for family, attractions free or low cost
• Salta: 2 days – Accommodation $120 per night, cable car ~$10 per person, museums ~$5 each
• Jujuy & Quebrada de Humahuaca: 2 days – Accommodation $80 per night, local tours ~$20 per person
• Salinas Grandes: 1 day – Free entry, local guides ~$10 per person
• Driving & fueling: Approximate 3,500 km total, fuel costs ~$0.70 per liter
• Food & miscellaneous: ~$50 per day for family
• Total Estimated Cost: around $2,000 - $2,500 depending on accommodations and activities

Tips

To extend your trip, consider spending an extra day in each city to explore more leisurely or to visit additional attractions like the Tren a las Nubes in Salta. For a shorter trip, prioritize key highlights and reduce travel time between destinations, possibly skipping some smaller villages.