Scenic red rock formations and desert landscape under blue sky in the American Southwest.

Santa Elena // Salta, Argentina

High-Altitude Heritage

2500 meters up. Hard-packed desert, the smell of leather, and the rhythm of the trail. I captured the grit of the ride through the Salta dust—from the focus of the horses to the stillness of the estancia at dusk. Not just a stay, but a deep dive into the desert’s soul.

Dramatic shadows and light playing across red rock canyon walls.
Long shadows cast on red desert sand during golden hour hiking adventure.

 

The ride

 

PART I

Close-up texture of reddish-brown horse mane hair.
Panoramic view of red rock desert landscape with mountains in the background.
Two figures in western attire walking along a rocky cliff face in black and white.
Silhouetted hands reaching out against a bright backlit sky at sunset.
Shadow of a person wearing a cowboy hat cast on red desert rock.
Close-up detail of white and brown horse tack against a dark background.

PART II

La estancia

Two people in light colored clothing stand together in a rustic outdoor setting during golden hour.
Person in white clothing and hat tends to a horse with green halter under shaded trees.
A row of tall trees creates shade in a rustic outdoor setting.
Silhouetted trees frame a sunset view of horses grazing in a rural pasture.
Figure in light clothing walks across a dusty corral with wooden fencing.
Group of fluffy llamas with thick wool coats stand together against a desert landscape with red rocks.
Interior view of adobe structure with vertical bamboo slat dividers.
Mountain range glows orange and purple during sunset against a desert landscape.