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Things to Do in Salta

Things to Do in Salta

Salta Northwest Argentina, Argentina Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Salta’s diverse landscapes are a playground for outdoor enthusiasts.

Adventure Sports & Wildlife

Paragliding & Zip-lining

Experience tandem paragliding from Cerro San Bernardo for aerial views. Zip-lining and canopy tours are available at adventure parks.

Horseback Riding

Available at estancias or through tour operators in the Lerma Valley and Calchaquí Valleys, often with gaucho guides for an authentic countryside experience.

Wildlife Encounters

Birdwatching is rewarding in the Yungas cloud forest or high-altitude wetlands. Llama/vicuna spotting occurs in the Puna region.

Hiking, Water Sports & Cycling

  • Hiking & Trekking: Routes range from easy (Cerro San Bernardo, Quebrada de San Lorenzo) to challenging multi-day treks (Yungas cloud forest, Calchaquí Valleys). Inquire about conditions and fitness levels.
  • Water Sports: Dique Cabra Corral is a hub for kayaking, Stand-up paddleboarding, fishing (license required), sailing, and jet-skiing. Rafting/kayaking is also available on certain rivers.
  • Cycling & Mountain Biking: Popular in the Calchaquí Valleys (e.g., Quebrada de Cafayate for downhill tours) or around Dique Cabra Corral. Bike rentals and organized tours are available.
  • Always carry enough water, appropriate clothing layers, and navigation tools for outdoor activities.

Cultural Immersion

  • Cooking classes for local dishes.
  • Artisan workshops from local creators.
  • Folkloric dance/music classes.
  • Community-based tourism initiatives.

Relaxation & Wellness

  • Spa and wellness centers in upscale hotels.
  • Hot springs like Termas de Rosario de la Frontera.
  • Yoga and meditation retreats (limited).
  • Traditional healing practices.

Entertainment & Nightlife

  • Live music at Peñas Folklóricas (Balcarce Street).
  • Theater performances at Teatro Provincial.
  • Nightclubs ("boliches") and bars in Barrio Guemes.
  • Late-night cafes for quieter enjoyment.

Safety Alert

Always check local conditions and safety advisories before embarking on any outdoor adventure. Some treks require a local guide due to terrain. Purchase attraction tickets and tours from trusted providers like GetYourGuide.

Cultural Immersion

Deepen your understanding of Salta’s heritage through interactive cultural experiences.

Workshops & Community Initiatives

  • Cooking Classes: Learn traditional Salteño dishes like empanadas or humitas, a hands-on introduction to local cuisine.
  • Artisan Workshops: Inquire at Mercado Artesanal Salteño or in smaller towns like Seclantás about weaving or pottery workshops.
  • Folkloric Dance/Music Classes: Introductory classes may be available at peñas or cultural centers.
  • Community-Based Tourism: Homestays or cultural exchanges in rural communities offer learning opportunities and support local economies.

Performances & Language

Peñas Folklóricas

Essential for experiencing live traditional music and dance. Nightly performances on Balcarce Street offer an energetic and authentic cultural show.

Religious Processions

Massive, emotional processions, especially during the Señor y Virgen del Milagro festival in September, provide profound insight into local religious devotion.

Language Learning

Spanish language schools in Salta present short-term or intensive courses, a path to proficiency and local connections.

Cultural Festivals

Fiesta Nacional de la Vendimia Salteña (Wine Harvest Festival) in Cafayate (March) celebrates grapes with music, dance, and wine tasting.

Carnaval

in northern parts of Salta and Jujuy (Humahuaca, Tilcara), with traditional dances, colorful costumes, and unique customs.

Pachamama Ceremonies

May need specific invitations or guides for respectful participation.

Relaxation & Wellness

Find opportunities for rest and rejuvenation amidst your explorations.

Spas & Hot Springs

  • Spa and Wellness Centers: Many upscale hotels in Salta city offer spa facilities, including massages, facials, and hydrotherapy. Independent spas also exist.
  • Termas de Rosario de la Frontera: A historic hot springs resort south of Salta (approx. 2 hours drive). It has thermal baths and various spa treatments.
  • Termas de Caimancito (Jujuy): Another thermal spring option near Jujuy, also accessible for a day trip.
  • Pool Access: Salta is inland, so no beaches. Some hotels or private clubs around Dique Cabra Corral may offer pool access for a day use fee during warmer months.

Yoga & Healing

Yoga & Meditation Retreats

Limited dedicated retreats in Salta city, but some guesthouses or estancias in quieter, rural settings may offer yoga classes or wellness programs as part of their offerings.

Traditional Healing Practices

Traditional healing practices like "curanderos" (folk healers) exist but are generally not tourist attractions. Mate de coca is a common traditional remedy for altitude.

Wellness Focus

These experiences support overall well-being during your visit to Salta.

Health & Self-Care

Altitude Considerations

Be aware of altitude, especially when traveling to higher regions like San Antonio de los Cobres or Salinas Grandes. Hydrate and take it easy.

Hydration

Given the often dry climate, staying hydrated is important. Carry water, especially during outdoor activities.

Sun Protection

The sun can be intense. Use sunscreen, wear hats, and sunglasses, notably during peak daylight hours.

Shopping & Markets

Discover local crafts, regional products, and unique souvenirs in Salta's markets and shops.

Traditional Markets & Workshops

  • Mercado San Miguel: The main municipal market for fresh produce, meats, cheeses, spices, and local prepared foods. An authentic local experience.
  • Feria Artesanal Salteña: A weekend artisan market in Barrio Guemes (Sat & Sun afternoons) for handicrafts, textiles, leather goods, and local art.
  • Mercado Artesanal de Salta: An official artisan market with high-quality textiles (llama wool, alpaca), pottery, leather goods, wooden carvings, and silver jewelry. Certificates of authenticity often come with items.
  • Smaller workshops in traditional towns like Seclantás (known for ponchos and textiles) offer direct connections to artisans.

Souvenirs & Ethical Shopping

Handicrafts

Alpaca or llama wool textiles (ponchos, sweaters, scarves), ceramic pieces, woven baskets, and leather goods are excellent souvenirs.

Food & Drink

Salteño empanadas (frozen for travel), regional wines (Torrontés), artisanal cheeses, jams, traditional sweets, and spices make fine culinary souvenirs.

Ethical Shopping

Support local artisans by purchasing directly. Seek items made with local materials and traditional designs. Ensure animal products are sourced ethically.

Pricing & Value

Markets generally offer better prices for local goods than tourist shops.

Shipping

Major courier services are available, but can be costly. Correo Argentino is an option but can be slow for international mail.

Customs

Be aware of your home country's import regulations for food, agricultural products, and animal products. Declare all items.

Local Shopping Tips

Textiles
  • Alpaca and llama wool items are popular.
  • Look for ponchos, sweaters, and scarves.
  • Verify authenticity, especially for high-value items.
Food Products
  • Torrontés wine is an unique regional product.
  • Artisanal cheeses and regional jams are fine edible souvenirs.
  • Paprika from Cachi offers a local flavor for your kitchen.

Shopping Ethically

Opt for items that genuinely represent local culture and craftsmanship. Your purchases directly benefit the community and preserve traditional skills.

Activity Planning Summary

Top Experiences

  • Photography in Quebrada de Cafayate.
  • Enjoy Empanadas Salteñas and Locro.
  • Visit Cerro San Bernardo for panoramic views.
  • Experience a traditional Peña Folklórica.

Practical Tips

  • Book accommodation and tours in advance, especially during peak season.
  • A few Spanish phrases will assist your travels.
  • Carry local currency for smaller purchases and tips.
  • Dress in layers for varying temperatures and altitudes.