CROSSING FROM THE PUNA TO THE YUNGAS: Guided Adventure Tour in Tilcara, Argentina

5.0/5 Stars - Based on 5 Reviews

Explore the Puna to Yungas Route from Tilcara—Book Your Unforgettable Journey Now!

Experience one of the most breathtaking journeys in northern Argentina with this trek from Tilcara to Calilegua . A unique route that connects the aridity of the Quebrada de Humahuaca with the lush Yungas rainforest . Along the way, you`ll traverse ever-changing landscapes, from high mountains and pampas to deep gorges.

This experience invites you to walk along ancient trails , with breathtaking views and direct contact with nature . During the trek, you can observe Andean wildlife and share moments with local communities in an authentic and remote environment that makes each day an unforgettable adventure.

6 days
Every day
Meeting Point in Tilcara - 2:00 PM
San Salvador de Jujuy Bus Terminal - 9:00 PM

About this tour

This incredible 6-day trek begins in Tilcara, in the province of Jujuy, where the group meets to begin a trekking experience that connects two completely different ecosystems of northern Argentina . On the afternoon of the first day, there is a meeting with the guide, a general introduction, and a check of the equipment, before spending the night at the designated accommodation .

The next day, the adventure begins with a transfer to the Devil`s Throat , the starting point of the hike. From there, a gradual ascent begins, reaching the Hornocal Pass at over 4,000 meters above sea level, where panoramic views of the region are offered. The day continues with the descent to the Yuto Pampa Refuge , after a 7- to 9-hour hike covering approximately 17 kilometers through expansive landscapes.

The journey continues along high-altitude trails towards Molulo , traversing mountain paths for several hours until reaching this small community , where you`ll spend the night in a family home . The following day, the route crosses the Abra de Potrero pass, a high plateau with sweeping views, before descending to San Lucas after a demanding day of trekking that combines distance and elevation changes .

In the final days, the journey continues towards San Francisco , completing the trek with another long day of hiking through ravines , plains , and valleys . The environment begins to gradually transform, leaving behind the arid landscapes and giving way to the vegetation of the Yungas , marking a noticeable change in the natural surroundings.

Finally, the experience is completed with a walk to the Termas del Jordán (subject to availability and time of year) , before the transfer to the city of San Salvador de Jujuy .

Thus concludes a completely unforgettable journey that unites extreme environments , combining contact with culture with a total immersion in some of the most amazing scenarios of the Argentine Northwest.

What's included

  • - Transfer to San Salvador de Jujuy (bus terminal) at the end of the trek. - Lodging. - Mountain cuisine. - General camping logistics. - Porterage with mules for up to 5 kg of personal equipment. - General first-aid kit. - Guide with international WFR certification. - Assistance horse during the trek. - Handyman and satellite communication. - Professional mountain guides. - Guided tour to Termas de Jordán by a local guide (only available from July to November). - Detailed pre-activity briefing.

Not included

  • - Travel to the meeting point. - Dinner in Tilcara (first night). - Expenses incurred due to early departure from the program. - Tips.

Half

- You must have completed at least one hike involving 8 hours of daily walking and camping. - Your doctor must confirm that you are fit to participate in this activity.

- Special trekking backpack - Canvas bag, dry bag, or unstructured bag for mule packs (maximum 5 kg). - Warm sleeping bag (minimum -0°C comfort, e.g., 700 grams or 1 kg of high-quality down or synthetic). - Trekking poles - Sunglasses with category 3 UV protection. - Medical certificate - 1 pair of waterproof trekking boots - Gore-Tex or similar. - 1 second pair of lightweight trekking shoes - Changes of underwear for the entire trek - Enough trekking socks for the entire trek (some can be thin base layers) - 1 pair of wool socks (for sleeping) - 2 dry-fit polypropylene T-shirts or similar (not cotton). - 1 thermal long-sleeved shirt - Warm base layer pants - Lightweight, quick-drying trekking pants - 2 mid-layers (long-sleeved fleece) - Warm hat (fleece or synthetic wool) - Sun hat (with flaps) - Buff or multi-function scarf - Warm gloves - Waterproof jacket (Ultrex, Gore-Tex or similar)

- Meals are typical of the region, generally based on dried meat (charqui), stews, empanadas, and soup throughout the journey, with typical desserts. Vegetarian options are also available. Humitas and tamales are served depending on the season. - Breakfast and afternoon snacks consist of tea, coffee with homemade bread baked in a clay oven, homemade jams, cookies, etc.

Rates

From BRL 6,063

6-Day Journey From Tilcara To Calilegua

From BRL 6,096

Includes: - Transfer to San Salvador de Jujuy (bus terminal) at the end of the trek. - Lodging. - Mountain cuisine. - General camping logistics. - Porterage with mules for up to 5 kg of personal equipment. - General first-aid kit. - Guide with international WFR certification. - Support horse during the trek. - Handyman and satellite communication. - Professional mountain guides. - Guided tour to Termas de Jordán by a local guide (only available from July to November). - Detailed pre-activity briefing. Does not include: - Travel to the meeting point. - Dinner in Tilcara (first night). - Expenses incurred due to early departure from the program. - Gratuities.

Starts 14:00 6 days Español
Operates: Every day
ACTIVIDAD
CANCELACION
General Terms
COSTO
Luxury
VIAJERO

Frequently asked questions

The Puna to Yungas Crossing excursion includes round-trip transportation from Tilcara, a specialized tourism and adventure guide, transportation in a vehicle suitable for the local terrain, stops at tourist attractions, and usually a snack or lunch during the day. Historical, cultural, and natural explanations about the region are also provided. It is important to check if the price includes entrance fees to nature reserves or protected areas and to confirm all details before booking the tour for a complete and safe experience in Jujuy.

The Puna to Yungas Crossing excursion from Tilcara lasts approximately one full day, departing in the morning and returning in the afternoon or evening, depending on conditions and the route. The itinerary typically includes typical Puna landscapes, visits to small Andean villages, observation of native flora and fauna, a trek along mountain trails, and reaching the Yungas rainforest. The tour is guided throughout, allowing you to appreciate each viewpoint and take panoramic photos.

The excursion is of moderate difficulty, suitable for most tourists in good general health. A certain level of physical stamina is recommended, as it involves vehicle transfers on high-altitude roads, possible short hikes, and changes in climate due to the transition from the Puna to the Yungas. While advanced athletic ability is not required, it is essential to inform the tour operator of any relevant medical conditions and ask for specific recommendations to ensure a smooth and enjoyable adventure.

For the Puna to Yungas Crossing from Tilcara, we recommend wearing comfortable, warm clothing in layers, appropriate footwear for trekking or hiking, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a water bottle (essential for hydration), and a camera. It's also advisable to bring cash in case of purchases or expenses not included, as well as additional snacks if desired. Please check with the tour operator before departure if they provide food for people with specific dietary needs or restrictions.

During the excursion, it is possible to travel through high-altitude areas of the Puna, so some tourists may experience altitude sickness (soroche) with mild symptoms such as headache or dizziness. It is essential to inform the guide of any discomfort and take precautions such as staying well-hydrated and moving slowly in high-altitude areas. The climate can vary sharply between the Puna (cold and dry) and the Yungas (temperate and humid), so wearing appropriate clothing is essential. The tour company has experience managing these factors to ensure visitor safety.
5.0 5 reviews
5.0

Recorrido inolvidable entre paisajes extremos, naturaleza plena y excelente compañía

¡Qué experiencia! El tour de la Puna a las Yungas superó todas mis expectativas. Paisajes espectaculares, guía súper buena onda, paradas bien elegidas y la sensación de aventura en cada tramo. Todo está muy bien organizado y se siente seguro aunque se recorren lugares re remotos. Me encantó aprender sobre la cultura local y probar comidas típicas. Si te gusta la naturaleza y descubrir lugares fuera de lo común, esta travesía te va a volar la cabeza. Recomiendo llevar cámara y abrigo. ¡Gracias Tangol por tremenda aventura!

Luciano Martínez
5.0

Epic Landscapes, Local Culture, Unforgettable Road Trip

What an awesome adventure! The scenery on the Crossing from the Puna to the Yungas tour was mind-blowing – totally breathtaking and super diverse. Our guide was friendly, knowledgeable, and made everything easy. Loved the stops at small villages and spectacular viewpoints. If you love nature and exploring off-the-beaten-path places, this tour is definitely for you. Would happily do it all over again!

Jake Anderson
5.0

Aventura sensacional atravessando montanhas da Puna até as Yungas com paisagens inesquecíveis

Cara, esse tour da Tangol foi simplesmente incrível! A travessia da Puna para as Yungas é uma experiência única, cheia de paisagens absurdas e cultura local. O guia era gente fina demais, explicou tudo e fez a diferença! Recomendo pra quem curte aventura e quer conhecer um lado diferente da Argentina. Valeu cada minuto e cada centavo. Se joga que é só sucesso!

Lucas Ferreira
5.0

Unvergessliches Abenteuer zwischen Puna und Yungas erleben

Der Ausflug von der Puna in die Yungas war einfach unglaublich! Super Guide, tolle Gruppe und eine abenteuerliche Strecke durch faszinierende Landschaften. Die Natur war abwechslungsreich und überall gab’s was zu entdecken. Ich hab viele Fotos gemacht und nette Leute kennengelernt. Ein Muss für alle, die Argentinien mal abseits der typischen Routen erleben wollen. Würd ich sofort nochmal machen!

Jonas Müller
5.0

Aventure intense entre désert et jungle argentine

Franchement, ce tour Tilcara – Puna aux Yungas était incroyable ! On en prend plein les yeux tout le long avec des paysages fous, entre montagnes arides et forêts luxuriantes. Le guide était passionné, il expliquait plein d’anecdotes sur la région et les traditions locales. Le groupe était top, vraiment bonne ambiance. J’ai adoré passer d’un environnement à l’autre, c’est dépaysant à fond ! Petit conseil : apportez de la crème solaire et gardez votre appareil photo prêt. Je recommande à 200% !

Clément Dubois
From BRL 6,063

Price from, per person BRL 6,063.00

September 2026
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