Nestled in northwest Argentina, Salta Province enchants with its dramatic landscapes, colonial charm, and rich indigenous heritage. From the vibrant hues of the Quebrada de Humahuaca to the emerald vineyards of Cafayate, Salta offers a sensory feast. Explore cobblestone streets, savor world-class wines, and journey through rugged canyons—this is Argentina's wild, cultural heart, waiting to be discovered.

Faits sur la province

• Official Name: Provincia de Salta
• Geographical Location: Northwestern Argentina, bordering Chile, Bolivia, and Paraguay
• Capital City: Salta
• Approximate Area: 155,488 sq km (60,034 sq miles)
• Population: Approximately 1.4 million
• Main Economic Activities: Agriculture (tobacco, sugarcane, grapes), mining, oil and gas extraction, tourism
• Key Geographical Features: Andes Mountains, Quebrada del Toro, Calchaquí Valleys, Salinas Grandes salt flats
• Dominant Climate Type(s): Varied, including subtropical highland, arid, and temperate zones
• Common Languages/Dialects Spoken: Spanish (official), indigenous languages like Quechua and Guaraní in some communities
• Primary Access: Martín Miguel de Güemes International Airport (Salta), National Route 9 and 34, Tren a las Nubes (tourist railway)

L'essentiel

• Best Months to Visit: December, February, January, November, October

Aucune destination connexe n'a été trouvée.

Quand visiter

Répartition saisonnière

Salta Province, nestled in northwestern Argentina, experiences a subtropical highland climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The region's weather varies significantly by elevation, but generally, the seasons can be categorized as follows:

• Summer (December–February): Warm and rainy, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 28°C (59°F–82°F). Afternoon thunderstorms are common.
• Autumn (March–May): Mild and drier, with temperatures between 10°C and 24°C (50°F–75°F). Foliage begins to change, offering stunning landscapes.
• Winter (June–August): Cool and dry, with daytime temperatures of 8°C–20°C (46°F–68°F) and chilly nights, especially in higher altitudes.
• Spring (September–November): Warm and sunny, with temperatures rising from 12°C to 26°C (54°F–79°F). Wildflowers bloom, adding color to the valleys.

Summer (December–February)

The summer months bring lush greenery but also heavy rainfall, particularly in January and February. While the landscapes are vibrant, hiking trails can be muddy, and some rural roads may become impassable. This is also peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.

• Pros: Ideal for experiencing the region's lush beauty; great for photography.
• Cons: Frequent rain disrupts outdoor activities; crowded attractions.
• Events: The Fiesta Nacional de la Pachamama in August (though technically winter) celebrates Andean culture, but summer hosts smaller local festivals.

Autumn (March–May)

Autumn is one of the best times to visit Salta Province. The weather is mild, rainfall decreases, and the changing foliage creates breathtaking scenery. Crowds thin out after the summer rush, making it a quieter time to explore.

• Pros: Pleasant temperatures; fewer tourists; stunning autumn colors.
• Cons: Some attractions may have reduced hours post-summer.
• Events: The Vendimia (wine harvest) festivals in nearby Cafayate (part of Salta Province) occur in March, celebrating local viticulture.

Winter (June–August)

Winter is dry and cool, perfect for exploring Salta's cities and lower-altitude attractions. Higher elevations, like the Quebrada de Humahuaca, can be very cold at night. This is the off-peak season, so prices are lower, and crowds are minimal.

• Pros: Clear skies; ideal for cultural tours and wine tasting in Cafayate.
• Cons: Chilly nights; some high-altitude hikes may be less accessible.
• Events: The Fiesta Nacional de los Estudiantes in September (transitioning to spring) is a vibrant student festival.

Spring (September–November)

Spring is another excellent time to visit, with warm days, blooming wildflowers, and comfortable nights. The landscape reawakens, and outdoor activities like hiking and horseback riding are superb.

• Pros: Ideal weather for outdoor adventures; fewer crowds than summer.
• Cons: Occasional rain showers; temperatures can vary.
• Events: The Serenata a Cafayate in February (summer) is a major folk music festival, but spring hosts smaller cultural events.

Recommandation générale

The best time to visit Salta Province depends on your priorities:

• For outdoor activities and mild weather: Visit during autumn (March–May) or spring (September–November). These shoulder seasons offer the perfect balance of pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and stunning scenery.
• For cultural festivals: Plan your trip around February (Serenata a Cafayate) or March (Vendimia).
• For budget travelers: Winter (June–August) provides lower prices and quieter attractions, though some high-altitude areas may be chilly.

Considérations

Salta's peak tourist season aligns with summer (December–February) and major festivals, resulting in higher accommodation costs and busier attractions. Shoulder seasons (autumn and spring) offer a sweet spot of good weather and manageable crowds. Winter is the least crowded but best suited for city exploration and wine country visits.

Ce qu'il faut emporter

What to Pack for Salta Province

Salta Province in Argentina is known for its dramatic landscapes, from the Andes mountains to the arid valleys of the northwest. Packing smartly means preparing for high-altitude excursions, sunny days, and cool nights.

Matériel de plein air et d'aventure

• Sturdy hiking boots: Essential for exploring rugged trails in Quebrada de Humahuaca or the Cafayate canyons.
• Lightweight layers & a warm jacket: Days can be hot, but temperatures drop sharply at night, especially in high-altitude areas.
• High-SPF sunscreen & lip balm: The sun is intense due to altitude and dry climate.
• Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated in the arid climate, especially during hikes.
• Wide-brimmed hat & sunglasses: Protection against strong UV rays in open landscapes.

Cultural & Local Exploration

• Modest clothing for religious sites: If visiting churches in Salta city or small towns, cover shoulders and knees.
• Comfortable walking shoes: Cobblestone streets and uneven terrain are common in historic areas.
• Small backpack or crossbody bag: Convenient for day trips to markets or vineyards.

Divers must-haves

• Cash in small denominations: Useful for rural areas where card payments may not be accepted.
• Spanish phrasebook or translation app: English is less commonly spoken outside tourist hubs.
• Power bank: Long travel days between remote destinations may limit charging opportunities.

Comment s'y rendre

Par avion

The primary gateway to Salta Province is Martín Miguel de Güemes International Airport (SLA), located about 10 km southwest of Salta City. This airport serves domestic flights from Buenos Aires (Aeroparque and Ezeiza), Córdoba, and other major Argentine cities, as well as limited international connections from neighboring countries like Bolivia and Chile.

• From the airport to Salta City: Taxis and remises (private car services) are readily available outside the terminal, with a fixed fare to the city center. Some hotels also offer shuttle services.
• Car rentals: Major agencies like Hertz and Avis operate at the airport, useful for exploring the province independently.

En bus/car

Long-distance buses are a popular and economical way to reach Salta Province, with frequent services from Buenos Aires (18–22 hours), Córdoba (12–14 hours), and other Argentine cities. The main bus terminal, Terminal de Ómnibus de Salta, is centrally located in Salta City.

• Key operators: Flecha Bus, Balut, and Via Bariloche offer semi-cama (reclining seats) and cama (sleeper) services.
• Tips: Book tickets in advance during peak travel seasons (July, December–February). Buses are comfortable but journeys can be long—pack snacks and layers for varying temperatures.

En voiture (conduite)

Salta Province is well-connected by road, making it accessible for road-trippers. Major routes include:

• Route 9/RN9: Runs north-south, linking Salta City to Jujuy (north) and Tucumán/Córdoba (south).
• Route 68/RN68: Connects Salta City to Cafayate and the scenic Calchaquí Valleys.
• Route 51/RN51: Leads west to the Andes and the Chile border (Paso de Sico).

Driving conditions: Roads are generally well-maintained, but mountain routes (e.g., RN40) can be winding and require caution. Fuel stations are sparse in remote areas—plan ahead.

Par Train

Train travel to Salta Province is limited but scenic. The Tren a las Nubes (Train to the Clouds) is a tourist service from Salta City to the Andes, but it doesn’t serve as a practical arrival option. For regional travel, consider buses or flights instead.

Se déplacer

En bus : l'épine dorsale du voyage régional

Salta Province is well-connected by a network of regional buses, operated by companies like Balut, Flecha Bus, and Geminis. These services link major towns such as Salta City, Cafayate, San Antonio de los Cobres, and Humahuaca, as well as scenic routes through the Quebrada de Humahuaca and the Valles Calchaquíes. Tickets can be purchased at terminals (like Salta's Terminal de Ómnibus) or onboard, with fares ranging from affordable to moderate. Buses are reliable but often fill up quickly—book ahead for long-distance routes.

• Tip: Opt for semi-cama or cama services for comfort on longer journeys.
• Night buses are ideal for saving daylight hours for exploration.

Local Transport in Salta City & Towns

Within Salta City, public buses (colectivos) cover most urban areas, with fares paid in cash (small bills preferred). Taxis are plentiful and metered; ride-sharing apps like Uber operate but are less common. In smaller towns like Cafayate or Cachi, taxis or remises (private hire cars) are the norm for short trips, often negotiated by fare.

• Carry cash for taxis in rural areas—card payments are rare.

Self-Driving: Freedom with Caution

Renting a car (available in Salta City or the airport) is ideal for exploring remote areas like the Ruta 40 or the cloud forest of Parque Nacional El Rey. Roads vary from paved highways to rugged gravel; a 4x4 is recommended for mountain routes. Fuel stations are sparse outside cities—plan ahead.

• Note: Many rental agencies prohibit driving on unpaved roads—check policies.
• Drive defensively; livestock crossings and narrow mountain passes are common.

Voyages panoramiques en train

The Tren a las Nubes (Train to the Clouds) is a tourist-focused rail service from Salta City to the Andes, offering breathtaking views. Tickets are pricey but include guided stops. Book well in advance. For regular rail travel, options are limited—buses dominate.

Unique Local Options

In the northwest, shared colectivos or trucks (camiones) serve remote villages—ask locals for schedules. Horseback riding is popular in areas like San Lorenzo or the Calchaquí Valleys for short excursions.

Culture

Traditions et coutumes

Salta Province is deeply rooted in Andean and colonial traditions, blending indigenous heritage with Spanish influences. One of the most distinctive customs is the Pachamama (Mother Earth) ritual, where locals offer food, drink, and coca leaves to the earth in gratitude. Another unique tradition is the Señor y Virgen del Milagro procession in September, honoring the province's patron saints with fervent devotion.

Arts et littérature

Salta's artistic scene reflects its multicultural past. The province is known for its vibrant handicrafts, including ponchos, ceramics, and silverwork, often featuring pre-Columbian motifs. Literature here often draws from gaucho folklore and indigenous legends, with writers like Juan Carlos Dávalos capturing the region's spirit.

Musique et danse

Salta is the heartland of Argentine folk music, particularly the zamba and chacarera. The peña (folk music club) culture thrives here, with venues like La Casona del Molino offering live performances. The bombo legüero (a traditional drum) and the charango (a small guitar-like instrument) are iconic to the region.

Alimentation et cuisine

Salta's cuisine is a flavorful fusion of Andean and criollo traditions. Must-try dishes include:

• Locro: A hearty stew made with corn, beans, and meat.
• Humita en chala: A savory corn tamale wrapped in corn husks.
• Empanadas salteñas: Smaller, spicier empanadas with a distinctive folded edge.

The province is also famous for its high-altitude vineyards, producing robust Torrontés wines.

Langues et dialectes

While Spanish is the dominant language, indigenous languages like Quechua and Aymara are still spoken in rural areas. The local Spanish dialect features unique slang and intonations, influenced by the region's isolation and indigenous roots.

Religion et spiritualité

Catholicism is predominant, but indigenous spiritual practices remain strong, especially in rural communities. The blend is evident in festivals like the Carnaval, where Catholic and pagan traditions merge in colorful celebrations.

Fêtes et jours fériés

Salta's calendar is packed with vibrant festivals:

• Fiesta Nacional de la Pachamama (August): Honors Mother Earth with offerings and rituals.
• Carnaval (February/March): Features water fights, music, and dancing.
• Semana Santa (Holy Week): Marked by solemn processions and reenactments.

Normes sociales et étiquette

Salteños are warm and hospitable, often greeting with a kiss on the cheek. Punctuality is relaxed, especially in rural areas. It's customary to share mate (herbal tea) as a sign of friendship.

Family & Community

Family ties are strong, with multi-generational households common in rural areas. Community gatherings, often centered around food and music, play a vital role in social life.

Vêtements et accessoires

Traditional attire includes the poncho salteño, a colorful woolen poncho, and polleras (wide skirts) for women. These are often worn during festivals, though everyday dress is modern.

Charger plus de questions