How to Get to Salta. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel to Salta

Major Airports

Martín Miguel de Güemes International Airport (SLA) is the main airport serving Salta and Argentina's Northwest, located about 7 km (4.3 miles) southwest of the city center.

Hubs

SLA provides convenient access to Salta city.
Most international travelers connect via Buenos Aires (EZE or AEP).
Allow ample time for transfers, especially if changing airports in Buenos Aires.

Airlines & Routes

Major Argentine airlines include Aerolíneas Argentinas, Flybondi, and JetSMART. Direct international flights to Salta are limited (e.g., Boliviana de Aviación to Santa Cruz de la Sierra).

Domestic Connections

Frequent flights link Salta (SLA) to Buenos Aires (AEP/EZE).
Connections to Córdoba, Mendoza, Bariloche, Iguazú, and Rosario.
Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for flight deals.

Direct Flights

No direct flights from major global hubs operate directly to Salta. All international journeys require a connection, typically through Buenos Aires.

Seasonal Prices

High season (July, Jan-Feb, long weekends) sees more frequent flights but significantly higher prices. Shoulder season (Apr-May, Sep-Nov) offers a good balance of availability and price.

Airport Facilities

Martín Miguel de Güemes International Airport (SLA) is a smaller, modern airport with duty-free shops, car rental agencies, ATMs, and cafes. Wi-Fi is available.

Airport Transfers

Transfer Options from SLA

Taxi/Remis: Most convenient and fastest, readily available outside the terminal (15-20 min to city center).
Shared Shuttle (Transfer): Cheaper than private taxis, but takes longer due to multiple drop-offs.
Public Bus (SAETA): Line 8B connects the airport to Salta city center. Need a SUBE card. (40-60 min).
Remises often offer fixed rates, providing transparent pricing.

Considerations

Public bus is the cheapest option and good for budget travelers.
Journey times vary based on traffic and chosen transfer type.
Confirm your accommodation location to determine the best transfer option.
Pre-booking private transfers can be an option for convenience.

Land Connections

Border Crossings

Salta is near international borders. To Bolivia: La Quiaca-Villazón or Agua Blanca-Bermejo. To Chile: Paso de Jama (via Jujuy) or Paso Sico. Expect passport/immigration checks. Do not carry fresh produce.

Long-Distance Buses

Salta's Terminal de Ómnibus connects to cities like Buenos Aires (20-24 hrs), Córdoba (12-14 hrs), Mendoza (12-14 hrs), Cafayate (3-4 hrs), and La Quiaca (6-7 hrs). Companies: Flechabus, Andesmar, DiscoverCars.com.

Bus Classes

"Cama" (sleeper) for fully reclining seats. "Semi-Cama" for significant recline. "Ejecutivo" for more spacious seating and services. Higher classes offer better comfort for long journeys.

Driving & Road Conditions

Self-Driving Requirements

Renting a car offers flexibility for exploring Salta province. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required in conjunction with your national driver's license.

What you need

Valid national driver's license and IDP.
Passport and major credit card for security deposit.
Minimum age for rental is usually 21 or 25, depending on the company.

Road Conditions & Safety

Road conditions vary significantly. Main routes are generally good. Many scenic routes can be unpaved ("ripio"), winding, and narrow. These roads call for careful driving.

Driving Considerations

Consider a SUV or 4x4 for unpaved roads (parts of Ruta 40, Quebrada de las Conchas).
Heavy summer rains (Dec-Mar) can make unpaved roads impassable due to mud or landslides.
Avoid driving at night on rural roads due to poor lighting and animal crossings.

Rental Insurance & Fuel

Ensure comprehensive insurance ("seguro todo riesgo") is included in your rental agreement. Understand the deductible amount.

Essential Notes

Fill up your tank whenever possible; gas stations can be sparse in remote areas.
Always check road conditions before departing, especially for remote or unpaved sections.
Local tourism offices or rental car companies can provide updates on road status.

Train Connections

The Tren a las Nubes is mainly a tourist excursion, not a regular transportation service for point-to-point travel.

Train Information

The journey includes a bus transfer from Salta city to San Antonio de los Cobres.
Passengers board the train for a scenic ride to the Polvorilla Viaduct, then return.
No regular passenger train services for intercity travel operate from Salta to other major Argentine cities.

Important Driving Reminders

Drive on the right side of the road.
Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
Zero tolerance for alcohol while driving is increasingly enforced.

Children under 10 must ride in the back seat.
Animals (llamas, donkeys, cattle) on roads are a common hazard in rural areas.
Snow or ice can close high mountain passes in winter.

Sea/River Travel

Water Transportation

Salta is an inland province, located far from any major coastlines or navigable rivers for public transportation.

Ferry Services

Ferry services and cruise ports are not applicable to Salta.
There are no river transportation options for public travel in Salta.
Travelers typically arrive by air or bus.

Port Procedures

Immigration procedures at seaports are not applicable to Salta due to its inland location.

Connections

Connections to land transportation from seaports are not relevant for Salta travel.
The main travel routes involve land or air.
Focus on airport and bus terminal information for arrival and departure.

Departure Fees

Argentina typically does not charge a separate exit fee for international air departures; airport taxes are generally included in the airline ticket price. Confirm with your airline for the most current information.

Departure Timing

For domestic flights, arrive at SLA 1.5-2 hours before departure. For international flights connecting via EZE, allow 4-5 hours for transit, especially if changing airports in Buenos Aires.

Terminal Facilities

SLA airport offers check-in, security, cafes, and shops. The bus terminal has ticket counters, waiting areas, restrooms, kiosks, and cafes for departing travelers.

Departure Checklist

Pre-Flight/Bus Reminders

Ensure you have all necessary documents and sufficient time for check-in and security.

Steps

Passport, tickets, and any immigration slips ready.
Check luggage weight limits to avoid extra fees.
Charge all electronics; remove liquids from carry-on for security.

Security & Logistics

Standard airport security procedures apply. Be prepared to remove electronics and liquids for screening.

Smooth Departure

Secure your valuables and keep essential documents accessible.
Know your terminal/gate number and check for any last-minute changes.
If departing by bus, ensure your luggage is tagged correctly.

Additional Departure Tips

Currency Exchange

Spend remaining local currency or exchange it before departure. Airport exchange rates may be less favorable.

Souvenirs

Allow time for duty-free shopping at the airport or last-minute souvenir purchases at the bus terminal if desired.

Feedback

Consider leaving feedback for services used during your trip to help future travelers.

Final Departure Note