The name Salta comes from the word 'sagta', meaning 'the very beautiful one'.
The city was founded in 1582 and has great historic and cultural richness, ancient Inca traditions, Spanish colonial legacy and this mixture of races and traditions which has given the gaucho and its people their character.
The city is located in the Lerma Valley, surrounded by steep and forested mountains, and is one of the most naturally fertile areas in the region, located at 1,187 m above sea level, at the bottom of mountains 20 de Febrero and San Bernardo. Summer is mild and Winter is warm and dry, with records of an annual average temperature of 22ºC, which makes the city an ideal place to live or visit.
The heart of Salta is Plaza de 9 Julio, with many fine colonial buildings and fringed with palm trees. The Hispanic architecture of the city stands out from the other cities in the country, and the colonial spirit can be seen in the houses, streets, monuments and narrow sidewalks. Visitors to the city should try to see the numerous statues, and visit the San Francisco Church, the Cathedral and the interesting museums.
Excursions that can be taken from the city include 'El Tren a las Nubes (The Train in the Clouds), which is truly amazing (see below). You should also not miss trying some 'empanadas'!
If we're talking food, we should talk wine ... The most important region is Cafayate, a valley surrounded by mountain ranges. With an average height of 1,700m above sea level, more than 300 days of wunshine a year and other perfect conditions, these conditions make the perfect micro-climate. Although the typical variety of the area is the Torrontés, the area is also perfect for varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Syrah and Chardonnay.
El Negro (Black Hill?) ... Edwin to supply copy
- Cable Car Ride ~ Take the cable car and enjoy the view of the city from San Bernardo Hill, and visit the local Mercado Artesenal for delightful crafts and local products.
- High Mountain Museum ~ In 1999, one of the highest Inca sanctuaries was found in the summit of Mount Llullaillaco, at over 6,735 m which has been undiscovered for over 500 years. It sheltered the frozen bodies of children offered as a sacrifice to the Gods.
- Anthropological Museum ~ The mummies from the High Mountain Museum are on display in this museum in Salta so that visitors can share and appreciate the remains of the Inca culture.
- Train to the Clouds ~ Completed in 1948 after 27 years of construction, this is widely regarded as one of the greatest feats of South American engineering, with 21 tunnels, 31 bridges, 13 viaducts and countless bends. The return journey between Salta and La Poverilla Viaduct, which includes switchbacks and 360-degree loops, can be taken on Saturdays from April to October.
- Activities ~ Rafting: Including an introduction to safety and instruction, professional guide and all equipment and clothing, 2 hours rafting down the Juramento River, snack and BBQ lunch. Rappel: 15m and 23m descent down a natural wall. Trekking: Combine all three activities in a one-day Adventure package.
- Quad Biking ~ Safaris organised, either an easy 1 hour excursion, or longer, up to 4 hours. Over-16's only.
- El Aujero ~ This museum-restaurant which, in addition to offering excellent home made cuisine, rescues the memories and customs of this northern town.
