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How to Get to Cafayate

How to Get to Cafayate

Cafayate Northwest Argentina, Argentina Travel Guide

Air Travel Details

Airport Access

Flying offers the fastest way to approach Northwest Argentina. Salta serves as your main gateway.

Airports & Airlines

  • Nearest Airport: Martín Miguel de Güemes International Airport (SLA) in Salta, 190 km (118 miles) north of Cafayate.
  • Domestic Flights: Major airlines like Aerolíneas Argentinas, Flybondi, and JetSmart serve Salta from Buenos Aires (EZE or AEP) and other cities.
  • International Connections: No direct international flights from major global hubs. Connect via Buenos Aires (EZE) first. Allow ample layover time for transfers.

Seasonal Dynamics & Transfers

Flight availability and prices vary seasonally. Plan your airport transfer for a smooth transition.

Seasonal & Transfer Tips

  • Seasonal Prices: Higher during Argentina’s high seasons (Jan/Feb, Easter, July, Spring/Autumn). Book domestic flights in advance.
  • SLA Facilities: Modern, compact airport with car rental, taxis/remises, basic food, Wi-Fi, ATMs.
  • Airport Transfers: Taxis/remises (personal vehicles) are the most direct to Salta city. Shared minibuses cost less. Public buses exist but are less convenient. Rent a car at SLA for immediate travel to Cafayate.

Efficient Approach

Flying to Salta offers the fastest entry to the region, minimizing travel time.

Broad Reach

Domestic flights connect Salta to Argentina's major cities, widening your travel options.

Seamless Transfers

Salta airport provides various transfer options, from taxis to car rentals, for onward journey.

Flight Booking Resources

Discover Deals

  • Find cheap flights with Dollar Flight Club.
  • Compare prices across airlines using Skyscanner.
  • Use flexible date searches for better fares.
  • Set up price advisories for desired routes.

Passenger Rights

  • AirHelp assists with compensation for delayed or canceled flights.
  • Ensure your passport validity meets airline requirements.
  • Check baggage allowances for all flight segments.
  • Verify transfer options if changing airports in Buenos Aires.

Local Transit Insights

Bus Travel to Cafayate

The most common and reliable way to reach Cafayate from Salta. Companies like Flecha Bus and La Veloz del Norte offer multiple daily departures.

Scenic Route

The journey along Ruta Nacional 68 through the Quebrada plural) Conchas has incredible scenery. Buses often stop at viewpoints.

Self-Drive Freedom

Renting a car in Salta grants flexibility for exploring the Quebrada and vineyards at your own pace. An International Driving Permit is highly recommended. Book via DiscoverCars.com.

Road and Bus Journeys

Bus Travel to Cafayate

The main public transport option from Salta. It offers a scenic journey.

Bus Journey Facts

  • Main Option: Long-distance buses are the common, reliable way from Salta. Flecha Bus and La Veloz del Norte are main operators.
  • Frequency: Multiple daily departures from Salta’s bus terminal. Check schedules in advance.
  • Scenic Route: Journey along Ruta Nacional 68 through Quebrada de las Conchas. Buses often make short photo stops.

Self-Driving & Flexibility

Driving Essentials

  • Car Rental: Best arranged in Salta (airport or city). Cafayate has limited or no agencies. International companies like Hertz, Avis, Alamo operate.
  • Requirements: Valid driver's license from home country, International Driving Permit (IDP) (highly recommended), credit card for deposit.
  • Route Conditions: Ruta Nacional 68 is paved and generally good. Secondary streets to wineries may be unpaved (ripio), summoning caution.

Driving Preparedness

Awareness of road conditions and local habits makes for safer travels.

Navigating Safely

  • Road Quality: Ruta Nacional 68 is paved. Ripio (gravel) roads to little wineries require slower speeds.
  • Winding Roads: Quebrada de las Conchas roads wind. Drive safely, note oncoming traffic.
  • Animals: Rural roads may have cattle, goats. Drive defensively.

Important Driving Advisories

safety points for driving in the region.

Safety Notes

  • Night Driving: Not recommended on rural Argentine roads due to lighting, animals, poor markings. Drive during daylight.
  • Fuel: Stations in Salta and Cafayate. Fewer on Ruta 68. Keep tank full.
  • Driving Habits: Local driving habits may differ. Exercise caution.

Sea & River Travel

  • Ferry Services: Not applicable.
  • River Transportation: Not applicable.
  • Border Crossings: Not directly relevant to Cafayate, an internal Argentine destination.
  • Cruise Ports: Not applicable.
  • Immigration at Seaports: Not applicable.
  • Connections to Land Transport: Not applicable for sea/river.

Departure Logistics

Exit Procedures

Understand the steps for an easy departure from Argentina.

Departure Overview

  • Exit Fees: Argentina generally does not impose a departure tax for international flights. Airport fees may be included in ticket fare.
  • Bus Departure: Purchase bus tickets from Cafayate to Salta in advance. Arrive at terminal 20-30 minutes before departure.
  • Airport Arrival: For domestic flights from Salta (SLA), arrive 2 hours prior. For regional international, 2-3 hours. Factor in 3-4 hour travel time from Cafayate.

Station & Airport Support

Facilities available to ease your journey home.

Terminal Information

  • Cafayate Bus Terminal: Small terminal with basic amenities: ticket offices, waiting area, kiosk for snacks.
  • Salta Airport (SLA): Offers car rental return, taxi stands, basic food/drink, Wi-Fi. Check luggage, clear security, find gate.
  • Rental Car Return: If returning a rental car at Salta airport, allow ample time for the drive from Cafayate, city traffic, refueling, and return procedures.

Traveler's Insight

The bus journey through the Quebrada of the (feminine Conchas is a highly scenic experience. Even without a rental car, you will appreciate the scenery from the bus window.

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