About Salta
Salta, known as 'Salta la Linda' (Salta the Beautiful), is a captivating province in northwest Argentina where colonial charm meets dramatic Andean landscapes. The capital city, Salta, enchants visitors with its well-preserved Spanish architecture, vibrant peñas (folk music venues), and the stunning MAAM museum housing Inca mummies. Venture beyond to discover the surreal multi-colored mountains of the Quebrada de Humahuaca, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the breathtaking Train to the Clouds, one of the world's highest railways. The region's rich indigenous and gaucho culture comes alive in local festivals, artisan markets, and traditional cuisine like empanadas salteñas and locro. From the lush, vine-covered valleys of Cafayate—renowned for its exceptional Torrontés wines—to the salt flats of Salinas Grandes and the rugged canyons of the Calchaquí Valleys, Salta offers an unforgettable blend of natural wonders, history, and authentic Argentine hospitality.
Things to do in Salta
Exclusive day-long private tour of Cafayate vineyards
Salta, Northwest Argentina
From GHS 3,079
5.0 (10)
Adventure in the Great Salt Flats in the White Desert
Salta, Northwest Argentina
From GHS 616
5.0 (8)
Humahuaca Quebrada Full Day Tour
Salta, Northwest Argentina
From GHS 383
5.0 (6)
Hike the Inca trail in Argentina
Salta, Northwest Argentina
From GHS 3,328
5.0 (5)
Cloud Forest hiking
Salta, Northwest Argentina
From GHS 1,601
5.0 (5)
Promotion of 2 day excursions: Cachi + Cafayate
Salta, Northwest Argentina
Promo Quebradas Cafayate and Humahuaca in 2 days
Salta, Northwest Argentina
From GHS 873
5.0 (5)
Transfer from Salta Airport
Salta, Northwest Argentina
Safari to the Clouds: Salinas Grandes and Purmamarca by Movitrack
Salta, Northwest Argentina
From GHS 3,627
5.0 (4)
8 Days Private Salta and the North West Luxury Tour in Argentina
Salta, Northwest Argentina
Tour to the magical town of Cachi in the Calchaquíes Valleys!
Salta, Northwest Argentina
From GHS 952
5.0 (3)
Day long Hike to Inca ruins
Salta, Northwest Argentina
From GHS 3,138
5.0 (3)
4 Day Tour to Cafayat Cachi Salinas and Humahuaca
Salta, Northwest Argentina
From GHS 1,455
5.0 (3)
From Salta: Two full-day tours of Cafayate and Salinas Grandes
Salta, Northwest Argentina
From GHS 719
5.0 (3)
Tour of the Cafayate and Cachi Valleys in 1 Day
Salta, Northwest Argentina
Travel Tips for Salta
Getting Around
In Salta City, buses and taxis are readily available; ride-hailing apps like Uber operate. For exploring the province, renting a car (with 4x4 recommended for mountain routes) offers the most flexibility. Long-distance buses connect major towns comfortably. Popular tourist routes like the Train to the Clouds or tours to Cafayate and Humahuaca can be booked through local agencies. In rural areas, collective taxis (remises) or guided tours are common.
Best Time To Visit
April to October (autumn to spring) is ideal, with dry, sunny days and cool nights, perfect for exploring landscapes and attending festivals like the April Culture Festival. July and August are peak tourist months. Avoid the rainy summer (December to March) in lowland areas due to heat, humidity, and potential road closures from flooding in the mountains.
Local Customs
Salteños are warm and traditional. Greet people with a handshake or a cheek kiss. Dress modestly when visiting churches or rural communities. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory: 10% in restaurants if service isn't included, small change for taxi drivers, and a few pesos for tour guides. Respect local festivals and indigenous customs; always ask before photographing people. The afternoon siesta (roughly 1-5 PM) is observed in smaller towns, with many shops closed.
Safety Information
Salta is generally safe for tourists. Exercise normal precautions in Salta City, especially in crowded areas like markets and bus stations, and be vigilant against petty theft. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas. When visiting remote rural areas or driving on mountain roads (like Ruta 40), plan carefully, ensure your vehicle is in good condition, and carry supplies. Common scams are rare but be cautious with unofficial tour operators or street money changers. The tourist police (Policía del Turista) in Salta City can assist travelers.
Health Information
Public hospitals are available in Salta City and major towns, but private clinics (like Hospital del Milagro or San Bernardo) offer higher standards for travelers. Altitude sickness (soroche) is a common concern in high-altitude areas like San Antonio de los Cobres (over 3,700m); acclimatize gradually, stay hydrated, and avoid alcohol. Recommended vaccinations include routine shots, Hepatitis A, and Typhoid. Dengue fever is present in subtropical areas; use mosquito repellent. Tap water is generally safe in cities, but bottled water is advised in rural areas. Travel insurance with medical evacuation is highly recommended.
Languages Spoken
Spanish
Quick Facts
Currency
Argentine Peso (ARS)
$
$
Timezone
America/Argentina/Salta -03:00 (GMT)
Calling Code
+54
Electricity
Driving Side
Right
Population
1.44 million
Area
155488 km²
Government
Provincial constitutional republic with an elected Governor and Legislature
ISO Code
A