E hatisitsoe: 02.02.2019
The next morning, after breakfast, we set off on Ruta 40 heading south. Google estimates it takes 3 hours and 20 minutes for the 145 km to Cachi. We add 50% for the known poor road conditions and a gentle driving style (even though it's just a rental car), and another 50% for stops to enjoy the view and take pictures. So we estimate it will take about 6 hours.
After an hour of gravel road, a pickup truck coming from the opposite direction signaled us to stop. He said that the 'Abra de Acay' pass to the south was closed due to heavy rains.
AND NOW???
There are exactly 3 roads out of San Antonio: the now closed Ruta 40 to the south, the old Ruta 40 towards Salinas, which is the way we came, and RN 51 via Santa Rosa de Tastil, which we are already familiar with, back to Salta. So we contacted our friendly host from last week. Luckily, our room was available and we had the opportunity to enjoy her beautiful garden again, this time with perfect weather.