Northern Argentina can be explored comfortably almost all year round, but winter has one advantage that is hard to argue with: the sky stays clear for weeks and the high-altitude roads remain dry.

The temperature range between day and night is significant. Travelling in layers is essential, as is starting early and making the most of the daylight hours, which in the Puna change the colours of the landscape throughout the day.

It is also the season with fewer visitors. The towns return to their usual pace, accommodation is easier to find, and visits to high-altitude wineries can be enjoyed at a more relaxed pace.