THE HEARTBEAT OF ARGENTINA: SOUND, STORY AND SOUL

Embark on this journey of cultural discovery across Argentina, where local characters take centre stage. From vibrant Buenos Aires, Patagonia’s sprawling estancias and the salt flats of Salinas Grandes, this is your opportunity to connect with the people who inspire the very pulse of this passionate nation.

When to go
Oct - Apr
 
From Price
£27,800 PP*
(excl international flights)
Ideal Length
12 Nights
 



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Experience Highlights

  • Take part in specialised, authentic experiences facilitated by local guides as you immerse into communities to truly understand the people who create the Argentinian identity.
  • Learn to live off the land on a historic estancia in Patagonia, horse riding, fly fishing, and learning about the Argentinian folklore that centres around enigmatic gaucho figures.
  • Meet with expert dancers, artisans, creatives and folk musicians, learning their craft and traditions while gaining new skills.
  • Savour authentic culinary experiences with local chefs, from Argentina’s rich gaucho tradition of asado to the intimate culture of preparing and drinking mate.

BUSTLING BUENOS AIRES

Explore the captivating capital city, from the historic Plaza de Mayo to the bohemian San Telmo, Buenos Aires’ oldest neighbourhood. Marvel at the explosion of tango, poetry, and theatrics around every street corner. Delve into the urban art movement with an expert guide, where each artwork represents the dreams, struggles, and aspirations of both the artists and the communities they are part of. Discover the vibrant world of fileteado porteño, visiting the private studio of a traditional fileteado master. Learn to create your own personalised artwork, complete with the signature swirling lines, vivid colours, and ornate designs of this unique beloved style.

Sample some of Buenos Aires’ delicacies on a private food tour, tasting flavours that define the city's culinary identity. Immerse into the world of tango, visiting the Abasto neighbourhood to see Carlos Gardel's murals and the Chacarita Cemetery, the final resting place of some of Argentina’s most renowned musicians. Learn about the origins of tango as an artform, from the significance of the milongas (tango halls) to its history of resistance and nostalgia. As evening falls, cafés come alive with performances, connecting you with the rhythms and stories of Argentina tango culture.

CITY, SOUND AND SIKURI IN SALTA

Travel to Salta City, characterised by prominent colonial-style houses and churches, and a backdrop of beautiful mountains. With its charming Hispanic atmosphere, much of the city’s architectural heritage is preserved to this day. Local Salteños embrace the slower pace of life that gives Salta its character, and days are long and unhurried. Spend time wandering the cobbled streets, stopping to explore the Basilica Cathedral, the Cabildo, the San Francisco Church and the San Bernardo Convent, with its ornate door carved by indigenous artists. Go back in time at the Museum of High-Altitude Archaeology, where three 500-year-old Inca mummies can be found.

Leaving the city behind, journey to one of Argentina’s oldest ranches, preserving the rich heritage of the families that have lived here for generations. Set off on horseback, crossing Rosario’s River, before entering the Yungas, a narrow band of forest along the slopes of the Andes Mountains. Return from your ride to an Andean music workshop, listening to the sounds of the sikuri, local bands that perform at important festivals and celebrations. Learn to play their traditional instruments, as you create a unique beat together. This practice forms an essential part of this community, where a role within the band also means a role within society itself.

TILCARA TOWN AND THE SALT FLATS OF SALINAS GRANDES

Venture to Quebrada de Humahuaca, a narrow mountainous valley and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Browse the colourful handicrafts at Purmamarca’s open-air market and marvel at the pre-Inca archaeological site of Pucara de Tilcara. Meet with a skilled local artisan as she demonstrates her ancestral Andean weaving techniques. Visit the MEC Museum, dedicated to Argentine photography and explore the town of Humahuaca, before dining at a high-altitude wine estate whose vineyards are among the highest in the world.

Traverse the winding high mountain pass of Cuesta de Lipán, before arriving in Salinas Grandes, a vast white desert of salt crystals. Visit the small natural lagoons in the middle of the Salinas, learning to extract the salt by hand. Continue to a remote eco-lodge, offering an exclusive glamping experience in the heart of the salt flats and the unique chance to connect with the local community. Visit the village of Alfarcito for a meaningful encounter with the area’s local artisans, experiencing the life of these highland communities and visiting their inspiring local projects.

 

 

LIVE LIKE GAUCHO IN PATAGONIA

Fly onwards to San Martin de los Andes, making your way to an impressive estancia located near the famous Cordillera de los Andes. Over the next few days, you’ll be immersed in the authentic spirit of Patagonia, staying on a private 23,000-acre ranch, bordering over ten miles of the scenic Aluminé River. Ride alongside gauchos during a two-day horseback cattle drive, moving herds across dramatic landscapes and pausing to share a traditional asado in the mountains. Discover Mapuche heritage as a master loom weaver demonstrates their craft or try your hand at fly fishing alongside an expert angler. Set off on a scenic horseback ride to a series of caves adorned with prehistoric rock art, offering a chance to uncover these ancient stories carved in stone.

Evenings come alive at the chichería, where traditional barbecue, folk music, and local wine create a heartfelt celebration of community and tradition. An intimate dinner immerses you in the heart and soul of this region’s vibrant culinary traditions as you gather with new friends to enjoy dishes crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Conversation flows, and bonds are formed over your shared experiences. When the night winds down, you can expect music, singing, and storytelling - celebrating culture, connection, and the enduring soul of Argentina.

Where to Stay

Faena Buenos Aires, Argentina

Estancia Pilolil, Argentina

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