My sister and I are planning a ten day trip to Argentina, leaving in 2 weeks (early April). We would like to spend 5-6 days in Buenos Aires, which would leave us time for one side trip. Mendoza seems like a good choice, but we were wondering if it's too touristy. Would Salta be a nice alternative? Are there top quality wine producers there as well?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

IMHO Salta without a doubt! The the landscapes are breathtaking. We spent 5 months in South America in 2008 and Salta would be the first place I would return to. Rent a car and drive or hire a guide and driver and really get to see the area.

Although less famous than Mendoza for its wine there are some top quality producers in the region. The Torrentes springs to mind as one which is definitely worth some in depth tasting! A link to our blog with some more detail and photos of both Salta and Mendoza:

http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog...ai/1/tpod.html

Entry 74 onwards covers our time in the region

I agree 100% with crellston's suggestion. What a trip that will be: 5-6 days in Buenos Aires and 5-6 days in the NOA.

The wine, the scenery, the Penas, the empanadas the friendliness - oh my ! Enjoy yourselves,
~Marnie

I live in Arizona and fear that Salta will look a lot like AZ,Utah, etc, red rocks, arid. Should I consider going there even if I don't want a repeat of my home landscape?
Please give me reasons to visit Salta!

Someone just told me I should go to Neuquen. Anyone been there? Supposedly it's the new Mendoza....

I loved the NW -- really striking landscape, good empanadas, great music, friendly people and great wines. Its a nice contrast to BA which is fabulous.

go to the northwest and stay at Estancia Colome if you're looking for a top wine producer.

SoQue, Salt a looks a bit like Utah, Arizona, but I promise you will not feel like in the States, the variety and quality of the food, the climate, the culture, the whole thing is different...
Salta ans Jujuy have both wonderful sceneries, and so much to enjoy. http://cometosalta.spaces.live.com/
Please, have elookk to this pics, and maybe you decide. I cna ony promise taht YOU WILL NOT REGRET!
flintstones