Departing Salta, follow the tracks of the ‘Train to the Clouds’ which weaves through the Andes at 4,200 metres to the border with Chile, one of the highest train systems in the world. The views from the train are limited although the engineering is fascinating, so unless you are an avid train buff, better to have the flexibility of a 4wd vehicle for the landscapes. Follow an impressive Gorge and stop at a pre-Inca ruins before arriving at the highland adobe settlement of San Antonio de los Cobres. Cross the breath-taking vast beauty of the Puna to Salinas Grandes, a huge area of salt flats before descending the jaw-dropping Cuesta de Lipan road to arrive in Purmamarca. Admire the striking layers of Seven Coloured Hill and browse the local handicrafts stalls in town.