The bounty of nature around Salta is staggering. Since most of the landscape is untouched, and there are gorges and canyons and volcanic peaks to negotiate, trekking is the most popular outdoor activity in the area. Adventure Life Journeys, 1655 S. 3rd St. W., Missoula, MT 59801 (tel. 800/344-6118 or 406/541-2677; www.adventure-life.com), offers some of the best-organized treks in the region, usually beginning and ending in Buenos Aires. Their popular 9-day Northwest trek through Salta, Cafayate, and Cachi runs about $1,695 (£932) per person, everything included.
Ecotourism is gaining popularity in the area due to the abundance of wildlife. One- to four-day safaris and bird-watching expeditions are organized by Clark Expediciones, Caseros 121, Salta (tel. 387/421-5390; www.clarkexpediciones.com), an excellent local outfitter. Their bird-watching trips run from half a day to 2 days, and the highlight is usually seeing the immense Andean condor soaring over the mountains.
Rafting, windsurfing, and other watersports are becoming popular in the Dique Cabra Corral, 70km (43 miles) south of Salta. For more information, contact Salta Rafting, Buenos Aires 88 Local 14 (tel. 387/401-0301; info@saltarafting.com), and Active Argentina, Zuviria 982 (tel. 387/431-1868).
