SALTA
This northwest gem is considered the pure criollo region of Argentina, offering
exquisite architecture reflective of its rich colonial heritage with Spain. Nestled in
the verdant Valle de Lerma, explorers first entered Salta in 1533.
The heart of Salta rests in Plaza 9 de Julio, where numerous benches invite you to
relax and toss corn kernels to the nearby flocks of pigeons, drawing them away
from surrounding statues and fountains. Travelers admire the central cathedral for
its vibrant pink exterior, as well as the San Francisco church for its striking hues
of red and gold. Local peñas provide live folclórica music and mouthwatering
asado served with empanadas. Authentic goods can be purchased in the
handicraft market, filled with stacks of fragile pottery and delicate woodcarvings.
On board the rustic Train to the Clouds, travelers endure a 15-hour journey that
traverses vast northern canyons and salt flats dotted with adobe villages.
Cafayate, known as the wine capital of the north, is located 110 miles south of the
provincial capital. To drink a local glass of Torrontés, one must drive through the
Calchaquí Valley, passing peculiar rock formations and red cliffs eroded by wind
and water. Cachi, a humble town set against a stunning backdrop of Andean
foothills, was once an indigenous trading post for wheat and corn.
This northwest gem is considered the pure criollo region of Argentina, offering
exquisite architecture reflective of its rich colonial heritage with Spain. Nestled in
the verdant Valle de Lerma, explorers first entered Salta in 1533.
The heart of Salta rests in Plaza 9 de Julio, where numerous benches invite you to
relax and toss corn kernels to the nearby flocks of pigeons, drawing them away
from surrounding statues and fountains. Travelers admire the central cathedral for
its vibrant pink exterior, as well as the San Francisco church for its striking hues
of red and gold. Local peñas provide live folclórica music and mouthwatering
asado served with empanadas. Authentic goods can be purchased in the
handicraft market, filled with stacks of fragile pottery and delicate woodcarvings.
On board the rustic Train to the Clouds, travelers endure a 15-hour journey that
traverses vast northern canyons and salt flats dotted with adobe villages.
Cafayate, known as the wine capital of the north, is located 110 miles south of the
provincial capital. To drink a local glass of Torrontés, one must drive through the
Calchaquí Valley, passing peculiar rock formations and red cliffs eroded by wind
and water. Cachi, a humble town set against a stunning backdrop of Andean
foothills, was once an indigenous trading post for wheat and corn.
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