Private transfer Salta – Iruya

Iruya belongs to Salta province, yet by road it can only be reached through Jujuy. The village clings to the side of a narrow valley, and the way in is a gravel road that first climbs to about 4,000 metres and then drops in tight hairpins. Of all the trips in the region, this one depends most on the weather and on the vehicle.

Paved, then gravel

From Salta the route is the same as for the Quebrada: San Salvador de Jujuy and Ruta Nacional 9 northwards, past Purmamarca, Tilcara and Humahuaca. All of that is paved.

Near Iturbe the route leaves the main road. The gravel track climbs to the Abra del Cóndor pass, on the line between the two provinces, and then descends steeply to the village. Along the way it fords stream beds that rise with the summer rains.

What we settle at booking

• Whether the transfer vehicle drives the gravel section, or whether the trip ends in Humahuaca and you continue on the local bus. This depends on the season, the state of the road and the vehicle.
• A fallback plan for the rainy season, when the road can be cut and nobody can guarantee getting through.
• How long the driver waits, if you want the same vehicle for the way back.

Plan a night there

A same-day return from Salta is not realistic. People usually sleep in Iruya, or at least set out from Tilcara or Humahuaca. For that kind of trip a multi-day driver who waits and brings you back is the practical choice.

In the village

Streets are cobbled, narrow and very steep. Vehicles stay in the lower part and you walk up to your lodging, so pack a light bag and leave large suitcases in the vehicle or at your previous hotel.

The village sits at a height similar to Humahuaca, but the pass before it is much higher. Go slowly and, if you have a health condition, consult your doctor beforehand.