Salta Travel Hacks. Money Saving, Time Saving, Local Secrets

Money-Saving Approaches

Maximizing your budget in Salta is simple with these strategies.

Smart Spending

Specific tourist discount cards are not common; the SUBE card for public transport is a purchase.
Explore plazas like Plaza 9 de Julio, visit churches (Catedral Basílica, San Francisco) for free.
Look for "menú del día" (set lunch menus) for cheaper meals, often including a drink.
Public buses with a SUBE card offer the most affordable city transport.

Budgeting Options

Hostels, especially dorm rooms, present budget-friendly accommodation.
Apartments via Airbnb allow self-catering, reducing meal expenses.
Joining group tours for day trips pools costs.
Bring a Reusable coffee cup for personal use and waste reduction.

Transport Considerations

Renting a car for multiple people divides fuel and rental fees.
For day trips, group tours or long-distance buses are viable options.
Long-distance buses serve as an affordable mode for inter-city travel.
Exchanging money on the blue market or via Western Union results in financial gains.

General Cost Advice

Carry a supply of Argentine pesos, especially smaller bills, for cash-only vendors.
Consider language learning apps like Babbel to improve communication and cultural immersion.
Using a VPN such as NordVPN helps secure public Wi-Fi connections.
Travel organization products from Eagle Creek assist in efficient packing.

Time-Saving Strategies

Optimizing Visits

Lines for attractions are rarely lengthy, making skip-the-line options generally unnecessary.
Visit museums (MAAM, Cabildo) right at opening or late afternoon.
Go to Cerro San Bernardo early morning for fewer crowds and clear views.
Taxis or remises are quicker than buses for direct routes.

Effective Movement

Group attractions by geographical proximity for efficient routing.
Pre-booking for Tren a las Nubes tickets is critical due to quick sell-outs.
Book popular hotels during high season and specific popular day tours in advance.
Pre-booking tours secures your spot, not necessarily skips a line.

Planning Ahead

Salta province is vast; mountain roads can be slow, so plan travel days accordingly.
Factor in distances for multi-stop road trips or day trips.
Book popular hotels in advance, especially during high season.
Tren a las Nubes tickets often sell out, so book early.

Local Rhythm

Many restaurants open for dinner at 8:30 PM or 9:00 PM.
Small shops close for siesta in the afternoon (approx. 1:30 PM - 5:30 PM).
Underestimating the sun and altitude can impact your day; use sun protection.
Hydrate regularly, especially at higher altitudes.

Local Insights

Common Missteps

Not exchanging money on the blue market or Western Union results in higher costs.
Do not underestimate distances and travel times in Salta province.
Many smaller establishments are cash-only; carry sufficient pesos.
Sun protection and gradual acclimatization to altitude are advisable.

Local Customs

Many small shops observe siesta (afternoon closure).
Dinner is typically a late affair; adjust your schedule.
Politeness through simple phrases ("por favor," "gracias") is appreciated.
Be prepared for lively conversations and animated gestures.

Social Norms

Punctuality for appointments often runs on "hora argentina" (relaxed time).
When offered mate, drink all liquid then return the gourd to the "cebador."
Do not touch the bombilla (mate straw).
Phrases like "¡Qué lindo!" (How beautiful!) and "¡Qué rico!" (How delicious!) impress locals.

Helpful Phrases

"¡Salud!" (Cheers!) when toasting.
"Un gusto" (My pleasure/Nice to meet you).
"Permiso" (Excuse me) is a polite expression.
A few basic Spanish phrases greatly enrich your experience.

Solo, Family & Group Advice

Your approach benefits from tailoring based on travel companions.

Solo Traveler Tips

Salta has a safe environment for solo travelers.
Stay in hostels to connect with others and find day trip companions.
Join organized day tours for safe exploration and social connection.
Use reputable taxis or ride-sharing apps at night.

Safety for Solo Travelers

Inform someone of your itinerary, especially for remote treks.
Share your location if possible during excursions.
Maintain communication with family or friends while traveling.
Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

Family-Friendly Adaptations

Apartment rentals offer more space and self-catering facilities for families.
Hotels with pools provide recreation for children.
Activities like Teleférico San Bernardo or Parque San Martín attract kids.
Pack Kid-friendly snacks and activities for long journeys.

Group Travel Management

Book accommodations, tours, and restaurants in advance for groups.
Consider a larger van or private driver for group day trips.
Agree on a budget and itinerary beforehand to avoid disagreements.
Use WhatsApp or another messaging app for group communication.

Accessibility Information

Research specific accessibility needs in advance. Uneven sidewalks are common; consider this for mobility challenges or strollers. Communicate needs clearly to hotels and tour operators.

Salteño Culture & Charm

Salta's unique character blends history, art, and natural beauty. Its spirit is distinct.

Folklore & Peñas

Experience the heart of Salteño music and dance at traditional peñas.

Regional Flavors

Savor authentic Salteño empanadas and other local specialties.

Natural Serenity

Find tranquility in Salta's natural landscapes and viewpoints.

Cultural Experiences

Architectural Exploration

Wander through Salta's historic streets, admiring colonial architecture.
Visit the Catedral Basílica and San Francisco church exteriors and interiors.
Many viewpoints, except the cable car to San Bernardo, are accessible on foot for free.

Museum Insights

The MAAM (Museum of High Altitude Archaeology) offers insights into Inca culture.
The Cabildo Museum details Salta's colonial and independence history.
Visit popular museums at opening or later in the afternoon for smaller crowds.

Travel Insight

Salta provides a distinctive blend of historical charm, cultural richness, and natural wonders, offering a different Argentine travel experience.

Salta Travel Hacks