Optional Puna Extension: 9 Days 

Explore the breath-taking beauty of the Argentina's Northwest corner, from the dry high altitude, volcano-dotted desert of the Puna Plateau to the rainforest of Parque Nacional Calilegua. Study the processes that shaped this area and how they influence its people. Framed in the crossroads between the Inka and Spanish culture, the villages and cities of Northwest Argentina appear to be unchanged since colonial times. Drive among protected herds of high altitude fauna including vicunas, llamas and "suris" (South American ostriches).

Location: The colonial city of Salta will serve as center of logistic support for field trips to work sites in Salta and Jujuy Provinces of Argentina.

Purpose: Study Earth on a subduction zone. Understand volcanism and geologic processes magnificently exposed in the extremely arid, remote and high altitude environment of the Puna Plateau. Discuss life in the desert and impact of adventure tourism in the area.

Sample Excursions: Visits to San Antonio de los Cobres, an old mining town in the Puna, Los Cardones Nacional Park, Calilegua National Park and the villages along Quebrada de Humahuaca World Heritage site. Opportunities to sample local arts and crafts and interact with the local artisans will be abundant.