Nestled in the picturesque Lerma Valley at the foothills of the Andes Mountains, Salta is a culturally rich city with a lot to offer travelers. From its colonial architecture and vibrant nightlife to its outdoor adventures and delicious food, there’s something for everyone in Salta. Here’s a guide to some of the best things to see and do in this beautiful Argentinian city.
Explore Salta Historic Center:
Salta’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful in all of Argentina. Stroll down cobblestone streets lined with colonial-style buildings, visit the majestic Cathedral of Salta, and explore one of the many museums or art galleries. Be sure to try some of the delicious street food while you’re there!
Enjoy the Great Outdoors:
Salta is an outdoor lover’s paradise. There are numerous hiking and mountain biking trails in and around the city, as well as opportunities for horseback riding, rafting, and rock climbing. Don’t miss a chance to visit nearby Parque Nacional Los Cardones, where you can explore stunning canyons, mountainscapes, and deserts.
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Live it up at Night
Salta is known for its lively nightlife scene. Dance the night away at one of the many clubs or bars or catch a live show at one of the city’s theaters or concert halls. For a truly unique experience, head to El Portero de La Candelaria on a Friday or Saturday night to watch folkloric dancers perform traditional dances from northern Argentina.
There’s no doubt about it—Salta is an incredible city with something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to explore centuries-old history, enjoy outdoor adventures, or simply soak up local culture, you’ll find it all in Salta. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!
Traditional Salta Food:
The food of Salta is just as varied as its landscape. Here are some of the most popular traditional dishes you’ll find in this province.
Empanadas Salteñas:
Empanadas salteñas are a type of Argentinian empanada that originated in the province of Salta. They are made with beef, pork, potato, onion, and peas. The dough is typically thicker than other types of empanadas and is deep fried rather than baked.
Humitas:
Humitas are another traditional Argentinian dish that can be found in Salta. They are made with fresh corn kernels, eggs, milk, flour, sugar, and baking powder. Humitas are steamed in corn husks and can be served with cheese or herbs.
Tamales:
They are made with white cornmeal dough, mozzarella cheese, green onions, and celery leaves. Tamales de chipa guazú are typically served with llajua, a type of spicy salsa.
How to Get to Salta, Argentina
Here are some of the best ways to get to Salta.
By Plane
The easiest way to get to Salta is by plane. The airport, called Martin Miguel de Güemes International Airport, is located just 4 kilometers from the city center. There are direct flights to and from Buenos Aires, which take about 2 hours and 40 minutes. There are also flights from other major Argentine cities such as Córdoba and Tucumán. If you’re coming from outside of Argentina, there are flights from Lima, Santiago, Miami, and Madrid.
By Bus
Another option for getting to Salta is by bus. This can be a great option if you’re coming from another city in Argentina such as Jujuy or Buenos Aires. The journey takes around 20 hours from Jujuy and 24 hours from Buenos Aires. There are also international buses that come from cities such as La Paz in Bolivia and Tacna in Peru. These journeys can take anywhere from 12 to 30 hours depending on where you’re coming from.
By Car
If you’re planning on renting a car or driving your own vehicle to Salta, it’s important to keep in mind that the journey can be quite long and arduous. It takes around 18 hours to drive from Buenos Aires, 14 hours from Córdoba, and 10 hours from Tucumán. The roads are generally in good condition but there are some stretches that can be quite bumpy. It’s advisable to take breaks every few hours so that you can rest and stretch your legs.
No matter how you choose to get to Salta, Argentina, you’re sure to be greeted by its beautiful landscapes and friendly people. Whether you fly, bus, or drive, make sure to enjoy the journey and all that this wonderful province has to offer!
