
Bodega El Esteco Cafayate
Historic winery in Cafayate offering high-altitude wine tastings, vineyard horseback rides, and a charming hotel.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Perfect for sunset tours

Bodega El Esteco Cafayate
Best Time
Perfect for sunset tours

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic winery in Cafayate offering high-altitude wine tastings, vineyard horseback rides, and a charming hotel.
"Out of 5 vineyards we visited in Cafayate, this was the best experience for sure!"

Book your wine tour ahead! :ticket:
Tours and tastings, especially sunset ones, fill up fast. Book online to secure your spot!
Consider the sunset tour :city_sunset:
Highly recommended for its brilliant experience, informative guide, and generous wine pours.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Wine Tasting Experience
Savor generous pours of high-altitude wines, with options for premium tastings. A truly delightful experience for wine lovers.

Vineyard Horseback Riding
Explore centennial vineyards on horseback. Choose from various durations for an unforgettable adventure.

Magical Wine Sunset Tour
An exceptional tour combining informative insights, generous wine pours, and a beautiful sunset ambiance.

Patios de Cafayate Hotel
Stay in colonial-style rooms within the vineyard, offering a unique and tranquil escape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Tastings & Tours
Embrace the Vineyard Setting
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book your wine tour ahead! :ticket:
Tours and tastings, especially sunset ones, fill up fast. Book online to secure your spot!
Consider the sunset tour :city_sunset:
Highly recommended for its brilliant experience, informative guide, and generous wine pours.
Horseback riding available :horse:
Explore the vineyards on horseback with options for 30-minute to 4-hour rides.
Stay at Patios de Cafayate :bed:
Experience colonial charm and vineyard views by staying at the hotel on the estate.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book your wine tour ahead! :ticket:
Tours and tastings, especially sunset ones, fill up fast. Book online to secure your spot!
Consider the sunset tour :city_sunset:
Highly recommended for its brilliant experience, informative guide, and generous wine pours.
Horseback riding available :horse:
Explore the vineyards on horseback with options for 30-minute to 4-hour rides.
Stay at Patios de Cafayate :bed:
Experience colonial charm and vineyard views by staying at the hotel on the estate.
Arrive early for photos :camera:
Give yourself extra time to explore the beautiful grounds and take photos before your tour.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors frequently praise Bodega El Esteco for its exceptional wine tasting experiences, particularly the generous pours and the 'magical wine sunset tour' led by informative and energetic guides. The beautiful vineyard setting and the option for horseback riding are also highly appreciated. However, some guests have reported indifferent or even rude staff interactions, and a lack of detailed explanations during wine purchases.
"We did the magical wine sunset tour and it was absolutely brilliant! Well worth the money. Our guide, Debora, was amazing and made the experience so enjoyable. She was so informative but also such great energy and she was funny, which made the tour very positive and light hearted.
The wine tastings were very generous glasses and the presentation was really good. The empanadas were lovely and the evening fire was great! Couldn’t recommend this place more! Out of 5 vineyards we visited in Cafayate, this was the best experience for sure!"
Rob
"The staff seemed indifferent, maybe because we were just there to buy wine. But still, they should at least explain what each wine is about — that part was seriously lacking. The place is well-known, and they were running a promotion for four bottles, so we got a good deal. Still, the attitude of the staff left something to be desired."
Sungkyu Kim
"The only place we have not felt welcome as English speaking tourists during our 5 week trip in South America. Apparently there was a mix up with our booking (we understand these things can happen), however the lady who dealt with us was extremely rude and dismissive and offered no sympathy nor apology. They offered us a “wine tasting” from a refrigerator, which was included free of charge as we stayed in the hotel next door… The kind gentleman who spoke us through the wines was the one redeeming quality of an exceptionally disappointing experience. If you want a welcoming and authentic experience we would suggest visiting Bodega Burbujas de Altura which is 5 minutes down the road."
Shane
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bodega El Esteco is located in Cafayate, Salta, Argentina. If you're driving from Salta city, it's a scenic route along Route 40, passing through the Quebrada de las Conchas. Many visitors also arrive via organized tours from Salta or Cafayate town. Taxis and private transfers are available from Cafayate center.
Bodega El Esteco is conveniently located just a few minutes from the center of Cafayate town, making it easily accessible for day trips or stays at the Patios de Cafayate hotel.
The roads leading to Bodega El Esteco are generally well-maintained, especially Route 40. However, be prepared for winding roads and stunning natural landscapes. It's advisable to check local road conditions before your journey.
While direct public transport to the bodega might be limited, you can take buses to Cafayate town from major cities like Salta. From Cafayate, you would then need to arrange a taxi or local transfer to reach the bodega.
Some hotels in Cafayate may offer shuttle services, or you can easily arrange a taxi for a short ride to Bodega El Esteco. It's best to inquire with your accommodation or local taxi services.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Wine tasting prices vary depending on the package chosen. Options range from standard tastings to more premium, higher-altitude wine selections. It's recommended to check their official website or book in advance for current pricing.
Yes, it is highly recommended to book your wine tours and tastings in advance, especially for popular options like the sunset tour, to guarantee your spot.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. Generally, the bodega is open for tours and tastings during daylight hours. It's best to confirm the current operating schedule on their official website or by contacting them directly.
Bodega El Esteco offers various experiences, including guided tours of the vineyards and cellars, standard wine tastings, and premium tastings featuring their high-altitude wines. The 'magical wine sunset tour' is a particularly popular option.
While tours and tastings are the primary way to experience the bodega, you can often visit the shop to purchase wine. However, to fully appreciate the estate and its wines, a guided tour or tasting is highly recommended.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
At Bodega El Esteco, you can enjoy wine tastings, guided vineyard tours, horseback riding through the vines, and dining at their restaurant. The Patios de Cafayate hotel is also located on-site for overnight stays.
Yes, horseback riding is a popular activity offered at Bodega El Esteco, allowing you to explore the beautiful vineyards. Rides are available in various durations, from 30 minutes to several hours.
Patios de Cafayate is a charming colonial-style hotel set within the El Esteco vineyards. It features well-equipped rooms, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant, offering a unique accommodation experience.
Yes, Bodega El Esteco has a restaurant where you can enjoy meals. It's also possible to attend special dinners and magical shows in the evening, particularly during the sunset tours.
The 'magical wine sunset tour' is highly praised for its informative guide, generous wine tastings, delicious empanadas, and a pleasant evening atmosphere with a fire. It's considered one of the best experiences in Cafayate.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The restaurant at Bodega El Esteco offers a dining experience, often featuring local cuisine. During tours, you might also enjoy pairings like empanadas with your wine tasting.
Yes, the restaurant at Bodega El Esteco is generally open to visitors, not just hotel guests. It's advisable to make a reservation, especially during peak times.
Information on specific dietary options is not widely available. It's best to contact the bodega directly in advance to inquire about vegetarian or vegan choices if you have dietary restrictions.
Dining prices can vary. While specific costs aren't detailed, expect restaurant prices to be in line with a quality dining experience at a winery.
Picnics are not typically advertised as an option. The focus is on guided tastings and dining at their restaurant.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire estate offers stunning photographic opportunities, from the colonial architecture of Patios de Cafayate to the vast vineyards stretching towards the mountains. The tasting room and cellar also provide unique backdrops.
Drone footage is possible, as evidenced by aerial videos shared online. However, it's always best to check with the bodega management regarding any specific regulations or permissions required for drone usage.
Generally, photography is allowed during wine tastings for personal use. However, be mindful of other guests and avoid intrusive flash photography.
Late afternoon, leading up to sunset, offers beautiful golden hour light for capturing the vineyards and architecture. Mornings can also be lovely with softer light and fewer crowds.
While personal photography is usually permitted, professional or commercial photography might require prior authorization. Always respect the privacy of other visitors and staff.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
💖 Couples
✈️ Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Wines of Bodega El Esteco
Visitors can experience these wines through various tasting sessions. The premium tastings often focus on their higher-altitude selections, offering a deeper dive into the nuances of wines grown at significant elevations. The generous pours during tastings are frequently mentioned as a highlight by visitors.
Beyond the tasting room, El Esteco's commitment to quality is evident in their winemaking process. They respect tradition while embracing modern techniques to produce wines that reflect the distinct character of Cafayate.
Experiences Beyond Wine Tasting
For those seeking a more immersive experience, staying at Patios de Cafayate is highly recommended. This hotel, located within the bodega's grounds, features colonial-style architecture, beautiful courtyards, and comfortable rooms, offering a tranquil retreat amidst the vineyards.
The 'magical wine sunset tour' is a standout experience, combining an informative guided tour with generous wine tastings, local empanadas, and a captivating sunset ambiance. This tour is frequently cited as a highlight by visitors, praised for its engaging guide and overall value.
History and Legacy
The winery embodies a fusion of influences, respecting the legacy of ancient civilizations, the Hispanic heritage, and the criollo spirit of Salta. This blend is reflected in its architecture, its approach to winemaking, and the overall atmosphere of the estate.
The Patios de Cafayate hotel itself is part of this historical narrative, situated in the original structure of an estancia dating back to 1892. Staying here offers a chance to connect with the rich past of the region.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit