July 13, 2024
Cachi, Argentina Day Trip | An Alternative Wine-Lover’s Destination
This quaint town tucked in the Calchaqui Valley was my favorite destination in northern Argentina. I experienced welcoming locals, unique wines, and sleepy town squares. It sits at approximately 8,500 feet and is known for its white colonial Spanish architecture. The city sits along the iconic Ruta 40 and is short drive from Salta or Cafeyate. I regret not staying overnight in this town.
Here are seven things you can do in Cachi and its surrounding areas:
1. Drive Through Parque Nacional Las Cardones
To get to Cachi from Salta, you will drive through Parque Nacional Las Cardones. This desert-like park is filled with the cardon cacti (some growing over twenty feet tall). Stop along the many miradores (viewpoints) along the way to take pictures and admire the stunning scenery.
2. Float Above the Clouds on Cuesta del Obispo
Cuesta del Obispo is a winding roadway on Ruta 33 (the road that connects Salta and Cachi). We started below the clouds when we left Salta. Throughout our drive along the zig zagging Ruta 33, we passed though the clouds and were driving above it at a stunning 10,000+ feet above sea level.
3. Admire the Piedra del Molino
This is a popular spot to stop and take pictures. It is the highest point on Cuesta del Obispo. There is a cute chapel named San Rafael that sits at this viewpoint. You don’t realize how many bends you drive on until you’re staring down from the top.
4. Visit a Winery (or two)
Cachi is not as famous as its neighboring town Cafayate for wine. Cachi’s wines, however, have a unique taste due to the high altitude and there are several wineries that are worth visiting.
Here are popular wineries to visit in the area:
- It is best to make reservations for Bodega Puna which is located about twenty minutes outside of Cachi’s town center. They also have a fantastic restaurant with course meal and a wine pairing.
- Bodega Miraluna has stunning views of the landscape and is a quick walk from Bodega Puna. For those who want to stay overnight in Cachi, Miraluna has bungalow-style lodging and a pool that overlooks the valleys.
- Nueve Cumbres is right by the city center. If you’re short on time, this boutique winery offer personalized tours and tastings.
5. Walk Around Plaza 9 de Julio
If you’ve traveled anywhere else in Argentina, you’ll not be surprised to learn that there’s a Plaza 9 de Julio in Cachi (July 9th is Argentina’s Independence Day). The epicenter of the town is Plaza 9 de Julio. Take a stroll or people watch. You’ll find many locals relaxing and children running around.
6. Visit Archaeological Museum Pío Pablo Díaz
This museum exhibits the important artifacts, people, and culture of the Calchaqui Valleys. The layout of the museum is simple and holds a lot of interesting archeological pieces. There is a cost to get inside but it’s well worth spending half an hour here.
7. Visit the Iglesia San José De Cachi Church
Located near the entrance of the town, this old-world church dates back to the 18th century. It is a perfect example of the Calchaqui architecture that Cachi is known for. It was declared a National Historical Monument in 1945. The vaulted ceilings inside are a marvel and made out of cardon word.
