How to get to Salta

Salta is a picturesque city in the northwest of Argentina, renowned for its colonial charm and status as the gateway to the majestic Andes. If you are planning a trip to Salta, you will be pleased to know that this region offers excellent transport accessibility for tourists. Figuring out how to get to Salta is quite simple: the city receives regular flights and is connected to other parts of the country by a network of bus and road routes.

The fastest and most convenient way to reach the city is by air. Salta is served by the Martin Miguel de Guemes International Airport (SLA), which handles daily flights from the capital and other major transport hubs. This saves tourists from the need to navigate complex connecting routes through neighbouring provinces.

The main flow of flights arrives from Buenos Aires, with a flight time of usually around two hours. The airport is located just 7 kilometres southwest of the city centre, allowing you to reach your hotel by taxi or transfer in just 20–30 minutes. Thanks to the well-developed air connections, travelling to this colourful region of Argentina is easy and comfortable.

It is important for travellers to know that reaching Salta by long-distance train is not currently possible. The railway network in this part of Argentina is not used for regular passenger transport between major cities at this time, so the train cannot be considered a means of arrival in the region.

However, the railway plays a significant role here for tourism. It is in this province that the famous "Train to the Clouds" (Tren a las Nubes) operates, ascending to impressive heights in the Andes. Please note that this is exclusively a sightseeing attraction designed for viewing mountain landscapes, rather than public transport for moving between settlements.

Bus services in this region of Argentina are excellently developed, allowing you to enjoy views of the Andean foothills right from your window. Travelling by bus is a popular and affordable way to get to the city of Salta. One of the most scenic and shortest options is the route from the neighbouring San Salvador de Jujuy: the bus covers the distance of about 90–100 kilometres in approximately two hours, often following the beautiful winding "La Cornisa" road.

For travellers coming from the south, direct services from the city of San Miguel de Tucuman are convenient, taking about 4–5 hours. The route from Cafayate is also very popular: the road passes through the impressive landscapes of the Calchaqui Valleys and the famous gorge, turning the transfer into part of the adventure. Most intercity services arrive at the main bus terminal located in the southeastern part of the city, from where it is easy to reach the historic centre by taxi.

Travelling by car to this region turns into a true road trip amidst picturesque canyons and subtropical forests. The closest point is San Salvador de Jujuy: the drive of about 90–100 kilometres will take no more than two hours, especially if you choose the beautiful but winding path through "La Cornisa". Travellers setting off from the city of Embarcación will have to drive approximately 260 kilometres, which usually takes about three and a half hours on the highway.

No less impressive is the route from the south, from Santa Maria, passing through the famous scenic valleys; expect to spend about four hours on these 255 kilometres due to the nature of the mountainous terrain. Although intercity taxis or private transfers are available, the cost of such a trip will be high and negotiable, so many tourists prefer to rent a car to explore the beauties of northwest Argentina at their own pace.

A trip to this colourful city in the north of the country promises to be unforgettable if you prepare in advance for the local rhythm of life and climate. To ensure your journey is as comfortable as possible and free of surprises, we have compiled a list of useful recommendations that every tourist will find helpful.

1. Clothing and Weather. Even if you are travelling in summer, be sure to bring a warm sweater or light jacket. The region has a mountain climate with significant temperature fluctuations: it can be hot during the day, but the air cools down sharply after sunset. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are necessary for excursions along the cobblestones of the historic centre and trips to the mountains.
2. Transport and Movement. The historic city centre is compact, and it is most pleasant to explore on foot. For longer distances, it is convenient to use a taxi or "remis" (private taxi) — this is an affordable and safe mode of transport. If you decide to use city buses, you will need to purchase and top up a special transport card, as drivers do not accept cash.
3. Financial Nuances. Although major hotels and restaurants accept cards, cash pesos remain the primary means of payment in souvenir shops, kiosks, and small cafes. Always carry small notes for tips and minor purchases, as vendors often do not have change for large banknotes.
4. Health and Altitude. The city itself is at a moderate altitude, but many excursions lead into the Andes, where the altitude exceeds 3000–4000 metres. To avoid altitude sickness, drink plenty of water, eat light food, and try the local herbal tea, which helps the body adapt.
5. Language Barrier. English is not widely understood here, mostly only in travel agencies and luxury hotels. The locals are very friendly but communicate primarily in Spanish. We recommend downloading an offline translator and learning a few basic phrases — this will greatly simplify communication.
6. Siesta and Dinner Time. Take into account the local daily schedule: from 13:00 to 17:00 the city pauses for a siesta, and most shops close. Dinner here is taken late; restaurants only begin to fill up with people after 21:00 or even 22:00.
7. What to Avoid. Do not drink tap water, even if locals say it is clean; it is safer for tourists to buy bottled water. Also, try not to display expensive gadgets and large sums of money in areas far from the tourist centre, especially after dark.
8. Gastronomic Advice. Be sure to visit one of the local "peñas" — traditional restaurants with live folk music. This is the best place to try the famous "empanadas" (local pastries) and immerse yourself in the authentic atmosphere of the region.

Following these simple rules will help you easily blend into the leisurely rhythm of life in Salta and focus on what matters most — the incredible landscapes and the hospitality of the local people.