Do you want to see different sights, explore the customs, and taste the food in Salta Argentina?
Are you interested in a travel destination that is a bit more exotic and unique in South America? Then try the northwestern part of Argentina, specifically Salta.
Salta, Argentina, is located in the sparsely wooded Andean highlands, 1100 meters above sea level.
Its population is about 700,000, and the destination offers colorful sedimentary canyons.
Furthermore, it’s adorned by heavily irrigated green valleys of the Andes Mountain ranges.
While you explore Salta, Argentina, there are many rewarding things you can do. They include:
1. Experience an Exciting Walking Tour In The Heart Of Salta
Indeed, to know a place is to go for a walking tour. The free walking tours in Salta, Argentina, are in English, and the duration of the tour is two hours.
Regarding time, they are conducted at 6 p.m. The main focus of the Salta city tours is historical and cultural, architectural, and gastronomical.
In terms of cost, the guides take their fees from the tips and do not require any prior booking.
2. Take A Walk In The Park In Salta
There are many parks and squares in downtown Salta, Argentina, but the largest one is San Martin Park, Parque San Martin.
It has paved and gravel walks and bikes, plus inline skate trails for navigation. Still, tourists visiting Parque San Martin will get to see a variety of sculptures and fountains.
Also, there is a playground but a lake with paddle boats for rent adds to the natural history of Museo de Ciencias Naturales.
3. Take Pleasure in the Atmosphere Of Plaza 9 De Julio (July 9th Plaza)
As with every other colonial city, the tree-covered central square of Plaza 9 de Julio is the soul of Salta.
Pathways lead through the fountains and statues, and many museums and cafés are located under the ancient arched galleries that border this piazza.
4. Discover The History Of Salta In Several Museums
Suppose you visit only one museum while in Tarija. In that case, I recommend MAAM – Museo Arqueológico de Alta Montaña, the Spanish name for the High Mountain Archaeological Museum.
This fascinating archaeology and cultural history museum hosts the Mummies of Llullaillaco, three Inca children, and their belongings.
They were sacrificed and later buried in a mountain to be found over five hundred years later.
5. Take A Step Back In Time Into The Basilica De San Francisco
Constructed in the mid-1600s, the well-architected and vividly painted Basilica de San Francisco (San Francisco Church) is a prominent National Historic Monument.
Anyone is allowed free entry, but for a small fee, you can go to the bell tower and capture a bird’ s-eye view of Salta.
6. Visit The Commercial Areas Of Balcarce, Alberdi, and Caseros For Shopping.
Salta, Argentina, has numerous blocks with well-lit pedestrian avenues lined with trees.
Alberdi and Balcarce are the two main gastronomical and commercial areas; seating arrangements and sculptures also make them ideal places to stroll.
7. Take The Teleférico San Bernardo Up The Hill
Ride the cable car for 10 minutes to the Cerro or the top of San Bernardo from where you can see the beautiful view of Salta and the nearby mountains.
The sun is at its best at that time; just go up there, and you will be contented.
It can be paid per trip, round trip if you prefer the 45-minute loop starting at the end of the cable car station.
8. Discover the Convent of San Bernardo
One of Salta’s oldest buildings, the Convento de San Bernardo, dates from the 16th century.
This convent has an exquisitely carved wooden door and a lush green garden.
9. Locate Salta’s Night Life Mainly On Balcarce Street
Late-night dining in Salta, Argentina, and its surrounding area is fascinating.
The whole thing gets even better due to the many restaurants, bars, casinos, and pubs.
Balcarce Street is lively, and the best music and local drinks are available. Remember that night starts much later in Argentina, so do not rush things.
10. Experience The Lively Atmosphere Of A Peña Folklorica
In Salta, Argentina an evening of dancing and entertainment is best spent at a traditional peña. Here, one can try typical dishes and enjoy a glass of own wine.
Also, the audience watches a great performance of the typical folk dance by the dancers and musicians and is invited to participate in the dance.
11. Visit Cafayate and its Wine Country
The city of Cafayate is famous for its wines, especially the white wine called Torrontés.
Many wine producers are located in the area, and visitors can take tours of the various wineries.
The wine manufacturers will probably allow you to taste one or more of their brands.
12. Explore Cuesta del Obispo
Undoubtedly, this destination offers a scenic drive through the twisting roads of the mountains.
Along the way, you can admire the beautiful reddish rocks and the Enchanted Valley or Valle Encantado Valley.
The road goes to the colonial town of Cachi, where you can visit the central part and observe local artisans.
13. Discover Humahuaca
The Quebrada de Humahuaca is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Most people know it for its stunning terrain and rich aboriginal populations.
Some of the major attractions to visit in Humahuaca include the Hill of Seven Colors and the historical town of Humahuaca.
14. Enjoy The Beautiful Sights From Salinas Grandes
Salinas Grandes is extensive and excellent for photography due to the amazing views of the landscapes.
The way to the flats is also beautiful, driving through the Andes foothills and picturesque Tumbaya and Volcan towns.
15. Visit And Hike At The Quebrada De Las Conchas
Cuesta del Obispo is another gorge situated near the town of Cafayate and it is famous for the red color of the rocks.
Some of the most visited points are the Devil’s Throat (Garganta del Diablo) and The Amphitheater.
16. Explore the Town of Purmamarca
Purmamarca is a small village inhabited by indigenous people. It has become a famous tourist spot because of the Cerro de los Siete Colores.
In simple terms, it’s a hill with a colorful layer. Ideally, Purmamarca is a very important place for tourists who want to shop for local crafts.
17. Visit the Museum of Fine Arts
Museo de Bellas Artes exhibits artworks by artists within the Salta region and other artists from other parts of the country.
So visit here and see the arts in different styles and from historic periods.
18. Learn about The Pajarito Velarde Museum
The Pajarito Velarde Museum is found inside colonial architecture.
Actually, it aims to showcase the life and creations of the artist Pajarito Velarde and other aspects of history and heritage.
19. Horseback Riding in the Lerma Valley
Several local ranches offer horseback riding services in Salta, Argentina.
In that case, you can choose to tour the Lerma Valley, which provides an up-close view of the area’s natural beauty.
20. Go to Iruya for a Day Trip
Iruya is a very small village located in the highlands of the Andes. It offers breathtaking views of the landscape and has a native culture.
Getting to Iruya is quite an experience in its own right. The roads leading up to the town are curvy and offer stunning vistas.
21. Take a Break at Parque San Martín
Parque San Martín is a large park in the city ideal for walking, jogging, or having a picnic.
It has a lake, a zoo, and many green areas to play in.
22. Enjoy Local Cuisine
Salta, Argentina, has many local specialties. In fact, most are very tasty and very satisfying.
Among the foods you should try are empanadas salteñas, tamales, and locro.
Regarding the highly recommended restaurants, try out Doña Salta and La Criollita.
23. Visit the Mercado Artesanal
Mercado Artesanal market is a market full of traditional products. The ideal accessories are textiles, pottery, and jewelry.
Tourists say Mercado Artesanal is a good place to buy small trinkets and products from local artists.
24. Go to the Salta Culture Festival in April
This one-month music and dance event also features handicrafts and parties.
Salta, Argentina, is proud of its rich and diverse culture, and now is the perfect time to explore it.
25. Explore San Lorenzo
San Lorenzo is also located in Salta, Argentina. Wondering what you can do here? Well, this area is famous for its green landscapes and beautiful nature.
Before you walk out don;t forget to catch up for horseback riding and hiking.
Conclusion
Salta, Argentina, is a great destination to explore beautiful scenery and interesting history.
Again, apart from enjoying the delicious food, you can visit historical plazas and museums.
Since Salta, Argentina, has a pulsating nightlife and engaging folk music it’s the perfect place for travelers seeking action and leisure.
As you visit Salta, be ready for a memorable adventure in the middle of northwestern Argentina.
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