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Where to Stay in Salta

Where to Stay in Salta

Salta Northwest Argentina, Argentina Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

Urban Lodging

  • Hostels (Hostales)

    Budget-friendly, with dorm beds and private rooms. Common in the city center and Barrio Guemes, often featuring communal kitchens and social areas. Appealing for solo travelers.

  • Hotels (Hoteles)

    Options range from economical to upscale. Many charming colonial-style hotels stand in the historic center. Modern hotels exist near the city's edges, complete with contemporary amenities.

  • Boutique Hotels

    Smaller, stylish hotels, often in beautifully renovated colonial buildings. They offer personalized attention and an intimate setting. A choice for character and comfort.

  • Aparts-Hotels/Apartments (Departamentos)

    Fully equipped apartments suited for short-term stays, families, groups, or longer visits. These often come with more space, a kitchen, and laundry facilities. Booking.com and Vrbo are sources for these.

Rural & Specialty Stays

  • Guesthouses/B&Bs (Hospedajes/Posadas)

    Smaller, family-run establishments that present an intimate and local feel. They frequently include breakfast and provide specific recommendations from the owners.

  • Estancias

    Traditional Argentine ranches, often found outside the city in the Lerma Valley or Calchaquí Valleys. Some offer overnight stays, while others welcome day visits.

  • Camping

    Limited options within Salta city. Campgrounds are available in nearby natural parks or towns like Cafayate and Cachi, presenting a rustic experience for outdoor lovers.

  • House Sitting

    A unique option for longer stays, exchanging accommodation for pet or home care. TrustedHousesitters is a platform for this.

Neighborhood Guide

Salta city features distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character and qualities for lodging.

Centro City Center

Advantages
  • Central location, walking distance to major attractions.
  • Good public transport connections.
  • Abundant restaurants and cafes.
Considerations
  • Can be noisy, especially during peak times.
  • Less quiet at night on certain streets.
  • Hotels can be at a higher price point.
  • Exercise caution regarding pickpockets in crowded areas.

Barrio Guemes

Advantages
  • Active dining and nightlife atmosphere.
  • Charming vibe with renovated historic buildings.
  • Home to the artisan market.
Considerations
  • Further from Plaza 9 de Julio (15-20 minute walk).
  • Can be noisy on weekend nights.
  • General urban awareness recommended.

Macro Centro / Residential

Advantages
  • Quieter environment.
  • Potentially more economical lodging.
  • Good value for money.
  • Relatively near attractions (short walk/taxi/bus).
Considerations
  • May need a longer walk or short transit to main sights.
  • Fewer immediate dining or nightlife venues.
  • Calm residential atmosphere.

Booking Insights

Peak Season Booking

During high season (July, Holy Week, national holidays, Christmas/New Year), reserve lodging several months in advance as demand is high and rooms fill quickly.

Off-Season Flexibility

More flexibility stands during the low season (summer rain season). Good deals are often found a week or two prior, or walk-in options could be explored (though prior booking offers peace of mind).

Booking Strategies

Planning your accommodation in Salta benefits from considering seasonal variations and reservation methods.

Booking Timelines

  • High Season: Book several months ahead.
  • Shoulder Season (April-May, Sep-Nov): Book a few weeks to a month ahead for best selection.
  • Low Season (Dec-Mar): More flexibility, consider a week or two prior.
  • Direct booking with smaller guesthouses may yield better rates.

Booking Platforms

  • International platforms: Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia, Hotels.com are widely used.
  • Apartment rentals: Vrbo is popular for unique stays.
  • Negotiating walk-in rates: Infrequent in established hotels, but possible with smaller "hospedajes" during off-season, especially with cash payment.
  • Always check deposit and cancellation policies prior to reservation.

Considerations for Your Stay

Season-driven Prices
  • Prices are significantly higher during peak season and major festivals due to elevated demand.
  • Rates typically decrease during the low season (summer rain season) when fewer tourists visit.
Extended Stays
  • Apartments ("departamentos") or aparthotels present better value for extended stays.
  • They often include kitchens and laundry facilities.
  • Inquire about weekly or monthly rates for potential savings.
  • Hostelworld for budget long stays.
  • IHG Hotels for longer corporate or leisure stays.

Important Note

Currency

Local currency dynamics may favor cash payments for owners.

Privacy

Hostels generally mean less privacy and shared bathrooms.

Noise Levels

City center and Barrio Guemes can be noisy, especially on weekends.

Accommodation Recommendations

Here are specific suggestions to guide your choice across various budget levels and preferences.

Budget Options

Coloria Hostel

A social atmosphere in the city center.

  • Social opportunities
  • Central setting
  • Value-oriented
Backpacker's Hostel Salta

A popular site for meeting fellow travelers, with dorms and private rooms.

  • Community focus
  • Dorm & private options
  • Traveler reviews favor it

Mid-Range Choices

Hotel Salta

A classic, historic hotel facing Plaza 9 de Julio, with traditional charm and a prime locale.

  • Historic charm
  • Central Plaza location
  • Traditional aesthetic
Design Suites Salta

A modern alternative with solid amenities, including a pool.

  • Modern facilities
  • Swimming pool
  • Contemporary appeal

Luxury / Boutique Stays

  • Legado Mítico Salta

    A boutique hotel in a beautifully restored mansion, with themed rooms dedicated to Argentine historical figures.

  • Solar de la Plaza

    An elegant boutique hotel with high-quality service and a charming atmosphere.

  • Finca Valentina

    (Slightly outside the city) A luxury rural retreat experience.

  • Hotel Colonial Salta

    A comfortable stay with a colonial aesthetic.

Traveler Specific Options

  • Family-friendly Options

    Look for hotels with pools, like Design Suites Salta, a refreshing break for children. Apartment rentals (e.g., via Booking.com, Vrbo) offer more space and self-catering facilities.

  • Solo Traveler Recommendations

    Hostels present a fine choice for solo travelers desiring social interaction. Mid-range hotels in the city center offer convenience and safety.

  • Cultural & Historical Properties

    Legado Mítico Salta provides an unique stay where each room recounts an important Argentine figure. Hotel Salta, directly facing Plaza 9 de Julio, has traditional charm and a connection to the city's past.

  • Kkala Hotel

    A boutique-style hotel that maintains comfort and good service.

Other Accommodation Types

Posada del Cielo

An intimate guesthouse option that has good value.

  • Value for money
  • Intimate setting
  • Guesthouse style
Hostelworld & IHG Hotels

For budget-friendly stays and global hotel chains, explore options on Hostelworld and IHG Hotels.

  • Broad selection
  • Global coverage
  • Varying price points

Summary of Accommodation Styles

Budget Stays

Hostels and smaller guesthouses are ideal for cost-conscious travelers seeking social opportunities.

Mid-Range to Luxury

Hotels and boutique options offer varied comfort levels, from classic charm to modern amenities.

Unique Experiences

Estancias and apartment rentals present distinct options for cultural immersion or extended family visits.