San Antonio de Los Cobres

San Antonio de Los Cobres (3,775m ) is a simple mining town located 168Km northwest of Salta. There is nothing must do here but it's a good introduction to the reclusive life of the puna , and it does have its subtle charms. People are friendly and the handicrafts you're offered here are of high quality. Altitude sickness can strike heavily here, so avoid eating heavily or drinking alcohol until acclimatized. From here you could head back south along the RN 40 to La Poma and Cachi over the mighty Paso Abra del Acay(4,900m). From San Antonia there are two possible crossings to Chile. Closet, and most used, is the Paso de Sico. Due west on RN51. Alternatively, at Cauchari, take the RN27 following the railway line southwest across the giant Salar de Arizaro to the Chilian border Socompa.