Argentina Salta

Salta city sits at 1,200m, comfortable for most visitors. However, many excursions reach significantly higher altitudes. The salt flats lie at 3,450m, whilst some mountain passes exceed 4,000m. Take time to acclimatise, drink plenty of water, and avoid alcohol in the first 24 hours at altitude. Coca tea, widely available, can help with symptoms.

Allow at least three nights in Salta city to explore the town and take day trips to places like Cafayate or the salt flats. A week allows for a more leisurely exploration, perhaps staying overnight in Cafayate and the villages of Jujuy province. Two weeks – and you’ll have time to discover remote areas and combine Salta with other regions of northwest Argentina.

International visitors typically connect through Buenos Aires, with regular flights to Salta. The flight takes around two hours. Long-distance buses connect Salta with Buenos Aires (approximately 20 hours) and other Argentine cities, as well as destinations in Bolivia and Chile.

Within Salta city, most attractions are within walking distance. Taxis and rideshare services are readily available and affordable. For exploring the wider region, organised excursions offer convenience and expert guiding. Car hire suits those wanting flexibility for a road trip, though mountain roads require confident driving and vehicles suitable for varying conditions.

Sun protection is essential year-round due to the altitude and intense sunlight. Layers work best, as temperatures vary significantly between day and night, and between sun and shade. Comfortable walking shoes suit city exploration, while proper hiking boots are needed for mountain trails. A warm jacket is necessary even in summer for high-altitude excursions.