Tolombón Salta Argentina
Discover Tolombón, a high-altitude gem in Salta, Argentina, renowned for its unique wines and breathtaking Calchaquí Valley landscapes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather for vineyard visits
Tolombón Salta Argentina
Best Time
Pleasant weather for vineyard visits
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Tolombón, a high-altitude gem in Salta, Argentina, renowned for its unique wines and breathtaking Calchaquí Valley landscapes.
"Fall in love with Tolombón's stunning vistas and exceptional wines, a truly unforgettable Argentine experience."
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Having your own vehicle is key to exploring Tolombón and its surrounding wineries at your own pace.
🍷 Book Wine Tastings Ahead
Popular bodegas fill up fast! Secure your spot for wine tastings and tours to avoid disappointment.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
High-Altitude Vineyards
Various Bodegas
Discover unique wines grown at extreme altitudes, offering distinct flavors and aromas. A must-visit for wine enthusiasts!
Bodega 13/20
Tolombón
Experience modern wines from one of the world's highest viticulture sites, known for its refined Torrontés and Rosé Dulce.
Estancia Los Cardones
Tolombón
Savor delicious empanadas and wine with breathtaking 360° views at this spectacular winery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Altitude
Plan Your Wine Journey
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Having your own vehicle is key to exploring Tolombón and its surrounding wineries at your own pace.
🍷 Book Wine Tastings Ahead
Popular bodegas fill up fast! Secure your spot for wine tastings and tours to avoid disappointment.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The high altitude means you need to drink plenty of water. Carry a reusable bottle!
📸 Capture the Views
The landscapes are stunning! Don't forget your camera for incredible photos of vineyards and mountains.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Having your own vehicle is key to exploring Tolombón and its surrounding wineries at your own pace.
🍷 Book Wine Tastings Ahead
Popular bodegas fill up fast! Secure your spot for wine tastings and tours to avoid disappointment.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The high altitude means you need to drink plenty of water. Carry a reusable bottle!
📸 Capture the Views
The landscapes are stunning! Don't forget your camera for incredible photos of vineyards and mountains.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Tolombón's stunning high-altitude landscapes and the unique wines produced here. The experience of visiting bodegas like Estancia Los Cardones and Bodega 13/20 is frequently highlighted, offering a blend of delicious wine, local food, and breathtaking views. Some note the remoteness and the need for careful planning regarding transportation and bookings.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tolombón is located south of Cafayate, accessible via the iconic Ruta 40. Renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility, as public transport options are limited. The drive itself offers spectacular scenery.
Yes, it's feasible to visit Tolombón as a day trip from Cafayate, especially if you have a car. However, to truly savor the wine experiences and landscapes, an overnight stay is ideal.
Having your own vehicle, whether a rental car or a private driver, is the most convenient way to explore the wineries and attractions in and around Tolombón.
While not as common as tours to Cafayate, some local tour operators may offer excursions that include Tolombón, especially focusing on wine tourism. It's best to inquire locally or with your accommodation.
The Ruta 40 is generally well-maintained, but conditions can vary. It's advisable to check local road reports before your journey, especially during or after rainy periods.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Most wineries in Tolombón offer wine tastings and tours for a fee. It's highly recommended to book these experiences in advance, especially for popular bodegas like Estancia Los Cardones and Bodega 13/20.
Costs for wine tastings can vary, but expect to pay around $4,500 ARS for a tasting that might include empanadas and a selection of wines at places like Estancia Los Cardones. Prices are subject to change.
There are no general entrance fees to visit the town of Tolombón. Fees are typically associated with specific attractions like winery tours and tastings.
While some smaller wineries might accommodate walk-ins, it's always best to book your wine tastings and tours in advance to guarantee your spot and avoid disappointment.
Winery hours can vary, but generally, they are open during daytime hours, often from mid-morning to late afternoon. It's advisable to check the specific hours of each bodega you plan to visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Tolombón is situated at approximately 1700 meters (5577 feet) above sea level. Visitors may experience altitude sickness, so it's crucial to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activity on arrival, and limit alcohol consumption initially.
Expect breathtaking high-altitude landscapes with arid mountains, vineyards stretching across slopes, and vast, open skies. It's a truly picturesque region in the Calchaquí Valleys.
While wine tasting is a primary draw, the stunning natural beauty of Tolombón offers opportunities for scenic drives, photography, and simply enjoying the tranquility of the high desert.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential for vineyard tours. Layers are recommended as temperatures can fluctuate. Sun protection (hat, sunscreen) is also vital due to the high altitude and strong sun.
Absolutely! The serene atmosphere, stunning scenery, and intimate winery experiences make Tolombón a perfect destination for couples seeking a unique and romantic escape.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The main culinary highlight in Tolombón is often found at the wineries, where you can enjoy delicious local specialties like empanadas paired with their wines. Estancia Los Cardones is noted for its excellent empanadas.
Dining options directly in Tolombón town might be limited. Most visitors opt to dine at the wineries they visit, which often offer a more curated and scenic dining experience.
While traditional Argentine cuisine can be meat-heavy, many wineries are becoming more accommodating. It's best to inquire about vegetarian or vegan options when booking your tasting or meal.
Beyond empanadas, look for locro (a hearty stew), tamales, and humita (corn-based dishes). These are staples of northern Argentine cuisine and often feature in local restaurants and wineries.
Some wineries might allow picnics if you purchase their wine, but it's not a widespread offering. The focus is generally on seated tastings and meals.
📸 📸 Photography
The rolling vineyards against the backdrop of the Andes mountains, the unique architecture of the bodegas, and the vast, dramatic landscapes offer endless photographic possibilities. Don't miss sunset over the vineyards.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – provide the most dramatic and beautiful light for photographing the vineyards and mountains. Midday sun can be harsh.
Drone regulations can be strict in Argentina. It's essential to check current regulations and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone. Respect private property and local rules.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and winery details. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive vistas, and a telephoto can isolate vineyard rows or mountain peaks.
Generally, yes, you can take photos inside the wineries, especially in tasting rooms and cellars. However, always ask for permission before taking close-ups of staff or private areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Focus on the scenic drives along Ruta 40, which offer plenty of opportunities for kids to marvel at the desert scenery. Pack plenty of snacks and water, as amenities can be sparse between destinations. The novelty of the high altitude and vastness might also capture their imagination.
🍷 Wine Enthusiasts
Prioritize visits to Bodega 13/20 for its modern approach and Estancia Los Cardones for its traditional charm and excellent empanadas. Booking tastings in advance is crucial to secure your spot and fully appreciate the nuances of these Salta wines.
🚗 Road Trippers
Rent a car to fully enjoy the freedom of stopping at viewpoints and exploring the various wineries at your leisure. Allow ample time to soak in the unique atmosphere of this high-altitude wine region.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Terroir of Tolombón Wines
Bodegas like Bodega 13/20 and Estancia Los Cardones are at the forefront of this viticultural revolution. They are experimenting with and excelling in varieties such as Torrontés, Argentina's signature white grape, as well as Garnacha and Cabernet Sauvignon. The wines are often described as having a pronounced minerality and a clean, elegant finish, setting them apart from wines produced at lower altitudes.
Visiting these wineries offers a chance to not only taste these exceptional wines but also to understand the dedication and innovation required to cultivate grapes in such challenging yet rewarding conditions. It's an experience that connects you directly to the land and the passion behind each bottle.
Navigating Tolombón: Travel and Logistics
For independent exploration, renting a car is highly recommended. This provides the flexibility to stop at viewpoints, visit multiple wineries at your own pace, and truly immerse yourself in the region's beauty. While public transport exists in the broader region, it's not ideal for navigating the specific winery routes within Tolombón.
When planning your visit, remember Tolombón's high altitude. Acclimatization is key. Take it easy upon arrival, stay well-hydrated, and be mindful of alcohol consumption. The thin air, combined with the stunning scenery, creates a unique and unforgettable travel experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit