In the north west of the country, the city of Salta is one of the largest settlements in this part of the country, and is famous for its distinctive colonial architecture which has been preserved to make it a very popular destination. The city was originally intended to be an outpost on the route across the continent that connected Lima and Buenos Aires, and it went on to become a key point in the War of Independence.


There are plenty of things to keep visitors busy in Salta, and here are some of the most enjoyable activities that are on offer in the area.

 

Take in the View from Cerro San Bernardo

The Cerro San Bernardo is a hill that overlooks the city of Salta, and is one of the most popular viewpoints from which to enjoy a spectacular panorama of the city and the surrounding countryside. One of the most popular ways to reach the top of the hill is to take the cable car, which rises from the base of the valley on the outskirts of Salta up to the top of the hill high above the city. Another alternative is to climb the hill on foot, which not only gives you a good workout, but rewards you with a spectacular view after you have climbed the 1,070 steps to the summit.

 

Ride the Train to the Clouds

This amazing journey is a fifteen hour round trip by train from the city of Salta, that sees visitors on the train climb from 1,187 meters above sea level up to the Viaduct La Polvorilla which is over 4,200 meters above sea level.

The scenery of the Andes along the route is truly remarkable, and takes visitors on what is primarily used as a freight line connecting Salta in Argentina with Antofagasta in Chile. The journey uses a series of spirals and zig-zag sections in order to climb some of the steepest parts of the trip, while there are thirteen viaducts and twenty-one tunnels along this beautiful and interesting route.

 

Explore the San Francisco Church

One of the most distinctive and colorful buildings in Salta, the Church of San Francisco is one of the most attractive religious sites in the city. The bright red of the walls contrast with the bright white of the details and decorations, while the high bell tower draws the eyes skyward, taking in the columns and the wonderful colors. The church itself dates from the eighteenth century, with the bell tower being a later addition in the nineteenth century, and this is an attraction that should certainly be explored both inside and out.

 

Go Mountain Biking in the Surrounding Area

A great reason to visit to Salta is that it is so close to some of the high areas of the Andes that can be visited from the city, and there are plenty of places to go off road and get your mountain bike dirty. There are guided tours available, and rentals that can allow you to cycle independently, and the routes range from single track through forest to dirt roads and gravel tracks. This is a great way to see the scenery outside of the city, although the changeable weather at some times of the year can make it wise to pack clothes for all seasons.

 

Visit the Museo Provincial de Bellas Artes de Salta

This small museum is one that is dedicated to the art that is produced in north west Argentina, particularly in the areas around Salta itself. Located in a traditional large colonial house, the collection of art is quite varied, ranging from pre-Hispanic items found in the area through to portraits and religious artwork from the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, and also including modern art from more recent years. A fascinating place to explore with some great local arts, this is an interesting way to learn more about the art scene in Salta.