After pickup at your hotel in Salta around 7.00 am, board your comfortable coach for the scenic drive to the 95-mile-long (155-km) valley of Quebrada de Humahuaca. Through your guide's commentary, learn about how the Incas once used this gorge as a caravan road and later as a commercial route during the colonial period.

Arrive in Purmamarca to see Cerro de los Siete Colores (Seven Colors Hill,) a large natural formation looming over the town and one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the province. Stroll through the streets of the small village, visiting the cacti-covered church and perusing handicrafts at the local market.

Continue toward Tilcara, where you will visit the archaeological museum and the town square. First, stop at a scenic viewpoint on the way into town to see some pre-Incan ruins. Pass through Huacalera, admire the colorful La Pollera de la Coya, and see paintings dating from the 1600s in Uquía.

Stop in Humahuaca, the most densely populated city in the area, for a stroll midday. See the Monument of Independence, the local cathedral, and admire paintings from the Cuzco School. Enjoy lunch at your own expense.

Heading back toward Salta, you'll pass La Paleta del Pintor (Painter's Palette) and continue south on winding Route 9, which provides stunning views of local vegetation, the Santa Laura Pass, Campo Alegre and Vaqueros. Arrive back in Salta after your day-long adventure for hotel drop-off around 8.00 pm.