Wednesday 6th February; Drove through part of Valles Calchaquies up a high pass to town of Cachi, this was a diversion on our way to Salta. Cachi is a traditional twon with cobbled streets adobe houses and spectacular view to the Cerro Cachi [mountain]. There are lots of artesan shops; Willis had a field day! Attractive church [ceiling and furniture made of cactus wood] and good small museum. Valles Calchaquies combines great landscapes with unique culture and history. The Calchaqui Indians, who are related to the Quilmes [see Tucanman to north of Cafayate], tried to hold off the Spanish as long as possible. Some of their culture is preserved. The spectacular road to Cachi winds up to 3400 m [over 11000 feet] and has recently been damaged by heavy rain. An "interesting" journey on tarmac and ripio [stone road] included crossing streams, avoiding animals, driving around collapsed road and around landslides including some fog on the way down!