It is one of the most attractive expeditions offered by northwestern Argentina. A deep experience with nature and a millenary journey, traveling ancient original paths that become magical as they are traveled, landscapes of deep ravines, valleys and small pampas. They will go from the intense green of the jungles to the bare landscape of the high mountains. During the march, condors will be seen soaring through the skies, herds of guanacos and vicuñas.
It starts from the Yungas Biosphere Reserve, a jungle environment with a high value in biodiversity, crossing different jungle biotypes, until reaching the high grasslands, ascending the high mountains that separate the jungles from the Puna. In this adventure we visit the towns of San Francisco, San Lucas, and arrive at the camping area known as Abra El Potrero. Then the ascent continues to Molulo and beyond over the Yuto Pampa summits from where it starts to the highest point of the route, at 4010 masl. Then it descends to the Quebrada de Humahuaca, arriving at Tilcara which marks the end of the crossing.
Dates Season 2024:
April 8 to 13 (from Calilegua to Tilcara)
May 20 to 25 (from Tilcara to Calilegua)
June 17 to 22 (from Calilegua to Tilcara)
August 13 to 18 (from Tilcara to Calilegua + Jordan hot springs)
September 16 to 21 (from Calilegua to Tilcara)
October 22 to 27 (from Tilcara to Calilegua + Jordan hot springs)
ITINERARY
Previous day (0): We recommend spending the night before the trek starts in Salta City.
Day 1: Salta - San Francisco: Transfer from the city of Salta. Departure 9 am approx. Arrival in San Francisco, presentation of the Guides and preparation of equipment. Night at a mountain lodge/hostel.
Day 2: Peña Alta - San Lucas: Beginning of the Trek in Peña Alta 1250 masl, San Francisco. Overnight in San Lucas 1850 masl. Mountain Camp-Shelter next to the Settlers.
Positive slope: 800 mtrs.
Duration: from 5 to 7 hours.
Distance: 17 km.
Maximum height: 1850 masl.
Day 3: San Lucas - Abra del Potrero: Beginning of the Trekking in San Lucas 1250msnm, San Francisco. Overnight in Abra del Potrero 2550 masl.
Positive slope: 700 mtrs.
Duration: from 6 to 7 hours.
Distance: 11 km.
Maximum height: 2550 masl.
Day 4: Abra del Potrero - Molulo: Trekking - We start at Abra del Potrero 2550 masl. Overnight in Molulo 2900 masl - Camp - Mountain Refuge with the settlers.
Positive slope: 300 mtrs.
Duration: 5 to 6 hours.
Distance: 10 km.
Maximum height: 2990 masl.
Day 5: Molulo - Huairahuasi - Yuto Pampa: Trekking - We start in Molulo 2900 masl. Overnight in Huairahuasi 3100 masl - Yuto Pampa Camp.
Positive slope: 350 mtrs.
Duration: from 6 to 8 hours.
Distance: 15 km.
Maximum height: 3410 masl.
Day 6: Yuto Pampa - Tilcara: Trekking - We start in Yuto Pampa. From Yuto Pampa 3100 masl to Tilcara 2450 masl. Final night in Tilcara in a hostel or cabins.
Negative slope: 650 mtrs.
Duration: from 8 to 10 hours.
Distance: 20 km.
Maximum height: 4050 masl.
Day 7: Tilcara: Breakfast at the lodge. End of our services.
Elevation Profile
Included Services
Transfer from Salta city to San Francisco and Peña Alta (start of the trek).
Full board in the mountains (from lunch on Day 1 to lunch on Day 7). Does not include dinner in Tilcara
One night of accommodation in a hostel (Tilcara), shared rooms.
One night of accommodation in a hostel in San Francisco, shared rooms.
Four nights of accommodation in camp or mountain posts.
Porterage with mules of the general equipment (tents, food, kitchen equipment, etc.) and individual (up to 5 kg. per person).
Horse "ambulance", saddler
Guided and permanent coordination throughout the journey.
General camping logistics (pots, heaters, safety items, orientation)
Tents
Advice and permanent assistance.
Satellite communication for emergencies.
Services NOT included
Travel to the meeting point and finish.
Transfer from Tilcara to Salta (at the end)
Dinner in Tilcara
Expenses caused by possible abandonment of the program
Tips
Menu
Typical meals of the area based on charqui, generally stews, empanadas and soup throughout the journey with typical desserts.
Vegetarian food is offered. Humitas and tamales, according to the time.
Breakfasts and snacks: Aromatic tea with homemade bread baked in a clay oven, homemade jams, cookies, etc.
Where to sleep
Overnight in settlers' houses, with beds. (Hot water shower in some).
The sleeping bag is used for one night only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can participate in this activity?
This trek is for people who are in good physical condition to withstand an average of 6 to 8 hours of walking in the mountains, for several days, at a gentle pace, departing from San Francisco, Calilegua, with a spectacular transition of landscapes. With a lot of change in vegetation, and where we are in full contact with the people who live in the mountains and with Nature. In only 70km, from the cloud forest, of the Calilegua National Park to the semi-desert, in the Quebrado de Humahuaca.
Do I need to be trained?
For any mountain activity you need to have previous physical preparation, or be physically active. In this case, we suggest training well in aerobics (going for a run two to three times a week, cycling or swimming) and doing a good leg workout (gym, crossfit, AEX training, etc.)
Do I need to have previous experience?
We recommend having walked at least once previously with a cross-country trekking backpack, although previous experience is not required. It is required to have slept in a tent at some time.
Where do you spend the night?
The overnight stay takes place in mountain camps in igloo-type tents, comfortable and for 2, 3 or 4 people. To share.
The last night: we include one night of accommodation in a classic-simple hostel, with rooms to share, in Tilcara. If you want to have another type of accommodation you can reserve yours on your own.
Do I have to bring a tent?
The tents are included in the service. If you want to bring your own, ask us.
What is the weather or temperature?
Although the time of year is optimal for this journey, in Andean and/or wild areas, temperatures tend to drop at night. There may be the possibility that a storm with rains touches us, hence the importance in personal equipment, they cannot miss anything that we detail in the equipment list.
Are there rest stops?
The stops are given with a frequency and graduation according to the intensity. There are stops for lunch, snack, and rest.
From what age can they do this activity?
From 13 years of age. We also recommend that you contact us before registering or registering a minor.
How much does the backpack weigh?
In a woman a range from 8 to 12 kilos, in a man from 12 to 20 kilos.
Is there a porterage service?
We have a mule porter service, which will carry the general equipment, such as kitchen items, food, tents, and security items. They also carry some of your equipment, an approximate of up to 5 kilos per person.
Who's a good fit for Trekking Calilegua - Tilcara #top10trekofargentina?
Trekking Calilegua - Tilcara #top10trekofargentina is an expedition that any adventurer can take on with the right physical preparation, equipment and prior experience con salida desde Salta City , in the region North, Argentina.
It lasts 7 days. Todos nuestros programas incluyen guías de montaña certificados, logística de expedición y seguro de accidentes personales.
What physical fitness level is required for Trekking Calilegua - Tilcara #top10trekofargentina?
Como medir la dificultad de un ascenso o una expedición? es una pregunta que surge a menudo. Para esto desarrollamos un sistema de graduación que ayuda al participante a medir la dificultad, dado a que evaluamos 5 variables sobre la intensidad de cada propuesta. • The weight of the backpack relative to the length of the day • The physical demand • The technical level of the terrain and required equipment • The degree of mental strength required • The maximum altitude reached
Hace click el botón y evaluá vos mismo la dificultad ->:
What equipment do I need to take part in the Trekking Calilegua - Tilcara #top10trekofargentina?
En cada uno de nuestros programas vas encontrar un apartado de EQUIPO REQUERIDO. contá con nosotros para asesorarte y prepararlo de forma adecuada para maximizar el disfrute de la actividad. Contamos con una tienda de alquiler, para resolver si te falta algo. Chequealo ahora! ->
What's included in Trekking Calilegua - Tilcara #top10trekofargentina?
Transfer from Salta city to San Francisco and Peña Alta (start of the trek).
Full board in the mountains (from lunch on Day 1 to lunch on Day 7). Does not include dinner in Tilcara
One night of accommodation in a hostel (Tilcara), shared rooms.
One night of accommodation in a hostel in San Francisco, shared rooms.
Four nights of accommodation in camp or mountain posts.
Porterage with mules of the general equipment (tents, food, kitchen equipment, etc.) and individual (up to 5 kg. per person).
Horse "ambulance", saddler
Guided and permanent coordination th
What happens if the trip is suspended due to bad weather or other force majeure?
At AEX, the safety of our travelers and guides comes first. Activities are only suspended or modified when weather, political or geographic conditions put the expedition at risk. The decision rests exclusively with the guide team and technical direction, based on official reports (National Weather Service, National Parks or local authorities).
If the trip is suspended, do I lose what I paid?
No. The amount paid becomes a Credit in your favor (Weather Voucher) valid for 18 months from the suspended date: up to 6 months to choose a new date plus 12 months to take part. You can use it for the same expedition or any of our other destinations and experiences, and if you cannot use it within that period you can transfer it to someone else.
Difficulty Graduation System
Click on each indicator to see details
40%
Backpack (M)
Backpack: Weight / Duration of the Day.
Clic para detalles
60%
Physical (F)
Physical demand
Clic para detalles
20%
Technical (T)
Technician: Difficulty in the Field / Equipment.
Clic para detalles
40%
Psycho (P)
Psychological Strength
Clic para detalles
40%
Height (A)
Height Exposure
Clic para detalles
Backpack (M)
Backpack (M)
This point refers to the weight we have to carry in our backpacks. Treks or journeys where we use pack animals allow us to carry less weight on our backs.
20%Up to 5 Kilos: Short excursion walks / Trekking Talampaya
40%Up to 8/10 Kilos: Round-trip trekking / Vallecitos 3 and 4-day programs
60%Up to 12/15 kilos: Crossing trekking with porting / Crossing of the Andes Paso Portillo
80%More than 15/18 kilos: Cross-country trekkings with little or no portage / Trekkings in Patagonia
100%More than 25 Kilos: With a lot of equipment on top and little or no porting / Continental Ice
Physical demand (F)
Physical (F)
We define physical demand as the fatigue we may experience both aerobically and in the muscles, legs, and joints.
20%half a day or less with little unevenness.
40%more sustained slopes and longer days in the activity. 2-3 days / more than 6 hours per day.
60%Long ascents and descents with a longer duration. Ascents to more than 4000 meters in the central mountain range.
80%Important work of legs in resistance. Very long days. Very long day ascents.
100%Maximum demand. Aerobic work and constant effort on legs. Continental Ice, Aconcagua.
Technical Aspect (T)
Technical (T)
The technical difficulty is mainly based on the terrain and the required skill level.
20%flat land
40%Trails with moderate ascents and descents. General trekking expeditions.
60%Steeper slopes and trails. Possible use of crampons.
80%Mixed terrain, with snow or ice. Alvear, Lanin, Tronador.
100%Highly technical terrain. Glacier travel and climbing in sections.
Psychological Strength (P)
Psycho (P)
Psychological factor that represents conviction, confidence, self-control and willpower.
20%We will not be much affected.
40%This is a normal level of attention.
60%We require more motivation, enthusiasm and concentration.
80%The activity will require us to be very connected and convinced.
100%Maximum control and emotional-psychological performance.
Height Exposure (A)
Altitude (A)
Factor that the height above sea level influences us depending on the activity.
0%+ sea level.
20%Up to 2000 masl.
40%+ 2000 masl.
60%+ 4000 masl.
80%+ 5000 masl.
100%+ 6000 masl.
How to interpret these values?
Each aspect is evaluated from 20% to 100%, where:
20-40%: Basic or beginner level
60%: Intermediate level
80-100%: Advanced or expert level
Ideal for beginners
This adventure is perfect for those starting in outdoor activities.
Viajé hace un mes con ellos y la experiencia fue impecable.
Muy buena organización por parte de toda la agencia y excelentes los guías, siempre atentos y con la mejor predisposición. Totalmente recomendable.
MM
Mariano Marchioni
Excelente servicio de principio a fin, te ayudan y acompañan en todo el proceso de preparación para tu salida y tienen los mejores guías, por servicio y calidad humana
CV
Carla Verónica Sterki
Plaza de Mulas. Increíble, una experiencia única!! Un viaje maravilloso en todos los sentidos. Los guias con un profesionalismo inmenso, Vane una genia, con una paciencia enorme y siempre muy atenta, cuidadosa y detallista para que podamos disfrutar la experiencia, siempre con muy buena onda y motivando para seguir. Gracias también Roger, Gus y Fede, muchas gracias por todas las buenas energías. Se armó un grupo hermoso. Las vistas y la inmensidad de los paisajes son únicas.
Do you have doubts?
If you have questions about this adventure, we look forward to hearing from you!
