Known for its multicolored hills, surreal geological formations, valleys, and stunning natural beauty, there’s plenty to discover in the northwestern province of Salta in Argentina. From awesome natural wonders to culinary & wine treats, there are some truly breathtaking moments to enjoy on your visit to Salta, one of Argentina’s less-popular yet utterly fascinating destinations.

The colors of Salta 🙌 Route N ° 40 on the way to Cafayate ʙʏ : @nicofronzo

If you’re looking for a great off the beaten path destination, here are 5 reasons to visit Salta in Argentina on your next trip to South America 🇦🇷⁠

Check our Instagram TV Episode about “How to…” with Across show. On this episode we are heading to the Salta region in the north of Argentina, where our local friends from @fincalasmargaritas are teaching us How to make a Rainbow TroutWATCH HERE

Tren a las Nubes

The Tren a las Nubes is the Spanish name for the Train to the Clouds’, and that’s pretty much exactly what it is, as it reaches 4,220 meters (13,850 ft) above sea level, making its route one of the highest railway in the world.

La Polvorilla Viaduct | The train to the clouds ʙʏ : @elcorazonargentina

The original route of the train was from Salta to La Polvorilla, 217 km (130 miles), but the train now only runs over the last 18 km. San Antonio de Los Cobres is now the starting point of the Train to the Clouds, one of the highest cities in Argentina. It is located at 3,775 meters (12,385 feet) above sea level.

Crossing the Polvorilla Viaduct on the Tren de las Nubes really is really an amazing experience on you visit Salta in Argentina, you will feel like stepping back in time in the Andes surrounded by spectacular views.

Read more: 10 Essential Argentina Travel Tips before you go

The Salt flats

Not only you can visit salt flats in Bolivia and Chile in South America, but there are also stunning salt flats to visit in Salta Argentina.

Playing with perspective in the Salar Grande, Argentina Salt flats

At The Salinas Grandes, the sky is fabulous and the scenery just spectacular – the 360-degree view of the mountains all around at a distance; some clouds draped over them and then a huge expense of blue overhead, as though you are in a dome, is a magical experience.

Be prepared to take unforgettable pictures! Make sure you get yourself jumping in the air at the flats, it will be one of the best pictures of your trip.

Read more: Argentine, Chilean, and Bolivian Salt Flats and Lakes: 12 Days Suggested Itinerary

The wines of Cafayate

At 189 km. from the city of Salta meet one of the most impressive landscapes in Argentina. Located in the heart of the Calchaquí Valleys, Cafayate is known worldwide for having the highest wine route in the world where torrontés wine production stands out, with vineyards more than 3,000 meters high.

Horseback riding through the vineyards of @bodegaelesteco A must if you visit Cafayate. 📸 @patiosdecafayate

Amazing landscapes, colors, historical towns, handicrafts, archeology, and indigenous gastronomy, stay at least 2 nights in Cafayate when you visit Salta in Argentina.

Some of the wineries are within a few kilometers so horseback riding through the vineyards or riding bikes is an experience to enjoy the landscape, nature and see the valley from another angle.

Read more: Wine Destinations in South America to Tempt any Palate

The Architecture and The churches

Commonly referred to as Salta la Linda (or “Salta the Pretty”) time stands still in certain parts of the city with preserved cobblestone streets and Spanish architecture. Founded in 1582, Salta didn’t receive as many European immigrants as some parts of the country, so it’s retained a lot of indigenous traditions and influence.

The city of Salta at night a must-see on your trip

The cathedral in the city of Salta is the most famous and recognizable sight in the city of Salta. A stunning example of Spanish colonial architecture and ornamentation and is considered one of the most beautiful temples in Argentina.

The Empanadas

A trip to Salta is the perfect opportunity to indulge in some of the most delicious Argentinian Empanadas. Empanadas have become is Argentina as traditional as Asado or Mate, and empanadas houses are a national classic that has made this food one of our most widespread traditions. In every region of the country, they have their own way of preparation and they took different forms according to local ingredients. The empanadas salteñas are not spicy, they are small, juicy and -according to many- the most distinctive in the country!

Who wants an “Empanada”? Enjoy the best argentinian empanadas & wines at Cafayate. Salta 🌵🌄🍇🍷 by @respiraargentina

Are you ready to start planning your trip to South America? Check our off the beaten path itinerary Two Weeks Itinerary to Argentina for Nature Lovers: Ibera Wetlands, Iguazu Falls & The Northwest Tradition or contact us we can customize your own experience in South America.

Let’s FALL IN ❤️ with South America Together

Clara Barciela ❣️⁠ Founding Partner & Director Across Argentina & South America Follow us on Instagram or facebook for more inspiration about Argentina & South America!

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About us! Clara & Maria

We believe South America is one of the most unforgettable places on earth – and we want you to help you fall in love with the continent just like we have. Born and raised in Buenos Aires, we founded Across South-America to help guests experience the ‘real’ South America – without compromising on comfort. A decade later, and Across South-America is a well-known boutique travel agency crafting outstanding vacations for couples, friends and families from all over the world. Our main point of difference is that we’re local experts. South America is our backyard. . Read More Let us show you the South America we know and love. Contact us!

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