The best season is autumn (March-April), when you'll find clear skies and warm days. The area is also a good option in winter (June to August), when other areas of Argentina such as Patagonia are under snow. The Valles Calchaquíes and La Puna enjoy all-year sunshine; just watch out for chilly nights at high altitude. Book way ahead if you’re planning to hit the best fiestas - Easter in Tilcara and the Pachamama celebrations in August. Avoid mid-September in Salta, when the pilgrims flood in for the Milagro procession, and there are no beds anywhere. The rainy season lasts from January to February, when roads can be impassable.
NB, please do not rely solely on this information for your travel planning.
INTERNAL FLIGHTS: Try Aerolineas Argentinas and LATAM.
BY BUS: Long-distance buses (20 hours from Buenos Aires) are greener, but make sure you choose the coche cama services, which have fully reclining seats. See Flechabus.
Consider hiring a car to get around the region - see our car rental recommendations. We'd suggest you book a 4x4 if you’re going into the mountains.
Try one of our recommended tour operators below. Most can arrange private tours with your own vehicle and guide/driver, which is often the best option for the more remote parts of the region.