Salta

Salta is one of the biggest cities in the north of Argentina. It is a pleasant city with a number of interesting things to see and do. It is also a good base from which to pursue adventure activities.

Salta has a population of nearly 500,000 people. It is a spread out city with a big hill near the centre called Cerro San Bernardo. You can catch a teleferico (cable car) to the top or spend 30 odd minutes following the winding path up to Parque San Martin. On a clear day the views are great.

Other places of interest in Salta include the Cathedral and Town Hall on Plaza 9 de Julio. Also the San Francisco Church is an imposing building and the nearby San Bernado Convent with its big hand carved carob doors are worth a look.

The Museo Arqueologico de Alta Montana has a good selection of Indigenous artifacts and there are some interesting paintings in the Museo de Belles Artes.

In June Salta hosts a guacho or cowboy festival that culminates in a big parade through the town.

Near Salta is the Cabra Corral Dam where you can do a number of adventure activities including kayaking, water skiing, bungee jumping and rafting.

There are a number of reasonably priced hostels in Salta. They are in the centre of the city not far from the bus terminal. The Terra Occulta Youth Hostel is cheap, clean and has a roof top bar.