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Salta

Salta, Salta, Argentina

Salta: Where Argentina Touches the Clouds Nestled in the heart of Argentina's northwest, Salta city is a captivating blend of colonial charm and Andean spirit. Framed by the dramatic peaks of the Andes, this vibrant city…

#Historic architecture#Cultural heritage#Andean culture#Wine region#Colonial city

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Salta.

Top Hotels in Salta

Top Flights to Salta

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Salta.

Tours

City Tour of Salta

Explore Salta's rich colonial architecture and vibrant local culture with a guided city tour.

Explore the High Mountain Archaeological Museum

Visit the museum showcasing Inca artifacts discovered in the Andes.

Visit the Salta Cabildo

Step into Argentina's history at this magnificent colonial era town hall.

Shopping

Shopping at El Palacio Galerias

Discover a variety of shops offering local crafts and international brands.

Craft Shopping at Mercado Artesanal

Explore local handicrafts, offering a wide range of traditional goods.

Outdoor

Hiking in Quebrada de San Lorenzo

Enjoy a refreshing hike through the scenic landscapes of Quebrada de San Lorenzo.

Mountain Biking in Cerro San Bernardo

Challenge yourself with a thrilling mountain biking experience on Cerro San Bernardo.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Salta.

Currency

$ | ARS | Argentine Peso

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Salta, Salta, Argentina is 0.7 million.

Languages

Spanish, Spanish

Average weather

Salta

Jan

28°16°

Feb

27°16°

Mar

26°14°

Apr

23°11°

May

20°7°

Jun

19°4°

Jul

19°3°

Aug

22°5°

Sep

24°8°

Oct

26°11°

Nov

27°14°

Dec

28°16°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Salta.

What people love

Salta, located in the northwestern region of Argentina, offers a unique and diverse travel experience with several notable pros:

Stunning Natural Landscapes: Salta is known for its breathtaking natural landscapes, including the colorful rock formations of the Quebrada de Cafayate, the lush Valles Calchaquíes, and the high-altitude salt flats of Salinas Grandes. Travelers can enjoy hiking, horseback riding, and photography in these scenic areas.
Rich Cultural Heritage: Salta boasts a rich cultural heritage with a blend of indigenous, Spanish, and gaucho influences. Visitors can explore historic colonial buildings, churches, and museums in the city of Salta, as well as attend traditional festivals and sample local cuisine.
Wine Tourism: The Calchaquí Valley in Salta is a prominent wine-producing region known for its high-altitude vineyards and excellent Torrontés white wine. Travelers can visit wineries, taste local wines, and learn about the winemaking process while enjoying the stunning mountain views.
Adventure Activities: Salta offers a range of adventure activities for outdoor enthusiasts, including whitewater rafting on the Juramento River, zip-lining in the forested areas, and paragliding over the valleys. The region's diverse terrain provides opportunities for adrenaline-pumping experiences.
Authentic Gastronomy: Salta's culinary scene features traditional dishes such as empanadas, locro (a hearty stew), and humitas (corn tamales). Travelers can indulge in authentic Argentine cuisine at local restaurants and markets, experiencing the flavors of the region.

Overall, Salta provides a mix of natural beauty, cultural charm, outdoor adventures, and gastronomic delights, making it a compelling destination for travelers seeking a diverse and immersive experience in Argentina.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Salta, Argentina, may include:

Altitude sickness: Salta is located at a high altitude, which may cause altitude sickness in some travelers. Symptoms can range from mild headaches and fatigue to more severe issues like nausea and dizziness.
Limited transportation options: While Salta does have public transportation options like buses, the city may not have the same level of infrastructure as larger cities. This could make getting around more challenging for tourists.
Language barrier: If you do not speak Spanish, communication with locals in Salta may be difficult. While some people in the tourism industry may speak English, it's always helpful to know some basic Spanish phrases to navigate the city more easily.
Safety concerns: While Salta is generally considered safe for tourists, it's always important to be cautious and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas or at night.
Limited healthcare facilities: Salta may not have the same level of healthcare facilities as larger cities, so it's important to take necessary precautions and have travel insurance in case of emergencies.

Please note that these are general considerations and may not apply to every traveler. It's always a good idea to research and plan ahead to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Salta, located in the northwest of Argentina, is the capital city of the province of the same name. It is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture and vibrant cultural heritage. Here is a detailed history of Salta, including significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

Early History

Pre-Columbian Period: Before the arrival of the Spanish, the region was inhabited by various indigenous tribes, such as the Diaguita and the Calchaquíes. These groups had developed complex societies with agricultural practices and trade networks.

Colonial Era

Foundation: Salta was officially founded on April 16, 1582, by the Spanish conquistador Hernando de Lerma. The city was established as a strategic location for the Spanish Crown to connect Lima and Buenos Aires, serving as a stop on the route between the Viceroyalty of Peru and the emerging settlements in the south.
Role in Spanish Colonialism: Throughout the colonial period, Salta became an important military outpost and a hub for commerce and trade in the region. It also played a critical role in the spread of Christianity among the indigenous populations.

Independence and the 19th Century

War of Independence: Salta played a crucial role in Argentina's war for independence from Spanish rule. One of the most significant events was the Battle of Salta in 1813, where Argentine forces led by General Manuel Belgrano defeated the Spanish royalists. This victory was pivotal in securing the region for the revolutionary cause.
Martín Miguel de Güemes: A key figure in Salta's history, Güemes was a military leader and politician who organized guerrilla warfare against the Spanish royalists. He became governor of Salta and led the defense of the northwest frontier, ensuring the region remained under the control of the revolutionary forces.

20th Century to Present

Economic Development: In the early 20th century, Salta experienced economic growth, primarily through agriculture and, later, tourism. The construction of railways enhanced its connectivity with other parts of Argentina.
Cultural Heritage: Salta has preserved much of its colonial architecture, making it a popular tourist destination. The city is known for its vibrant folklore, traditional music, and festivals.

Landmarks and Cultural Significance

Cathedral of Salta: This is one of the most significant religious buildings in the city, known for its beautiful baroque architecture. It houses the remains of General Martín Miguel de Güemes.
Cabildo of Salta: A historic building that served as the seat of the colonial government. Today, it functions as a museum showcasing the region's history.
San Francisco Church: Notable for its striking red and gold façade, this church is a prime example of colonial religious architecture.
MAAM (Museum of High Altitude Archaeology): This museum is famous for the "Llullaillaco Children," the mummified remains of Inca children discovered at the summit of Mount Llullaillaco.

Salta continues to be an important cultural and historical center in Argentina, celebrated for its rich heritage and contributions to the nation’s history.