San Antonio de los Cobres - Discovering Argentina

Travelling to San Antonio de los Cobres

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in San Antonio de los Cobres, a pretty good destination in Argentina (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to San Antonio de los Cobres and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around San Antonio de los Cobres, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Argentina, here's everything to know about San Antonio de los Cobres for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to San Antonio de los Cobres

San Antonio de los Cobres is a small town located in the Andes Mountains of Argentina, in the province of Salta. It sits at an altitude of approximately 3,775 meters above sea level and is known for its stunning views of the surrounding mountains, mineral mines, and indigenous communities. The town is also a popular starting point for treks into the nearby Salinas Grandes, a vast salt desert located between Salta and Jujuy provinces. The population is approximately 6,000 people and the economy is largely based on mining and tourism. The climate is dry and cold, with temperatures ranging from -12°C to 20°C, depending on the season.

What to visit in San Antonio de los Cobres

San Antonio de los Cobres is a small town located in the northwestern region of Argentina that offers amazing scenery, rich culture, and diverse tourist attractions. Here are some of the most popular tourist attractions in San Antonio de los Cobres: 1. Santa Rosa de Lima Church: The Santa Rosa de Lima Church is a beautiful colonial-style church built-in 1906 with wooden ceilings and white adobe walls. It is an impressive example of the religious architecture and is located in the town square of San Antonio de los Cobres.
2. Tren a las Nubes (Train to the Clouds): Tren a las Nubes is one of the most popular attractions of San Antonio de los Cobres. This train ride takes you through the breathtaking landscapes of the Andes Mountains. The train passes through ravines, bridges, and tunnels at a height of more than 4,000 meters above sea level.
3. Salinas Grandes: Salinas Grandes is a massive salt flat that spans across the Puna de Atacama region, shared by Argentina and Chile. The salt flat is approximately 3,200 square kilometers long and is over 3,400 meters above sea level. Visitors can walk on the flat and take some amazing photos.
4. La Ovejeria Thermal Waters: Located approximately 10 kilometers from San Antonio de los Cobres, La Ovejeria Thermal Waters is a natural hot spring. Visitors can relax in the thermal pools while enjoying the surrounding natural beauty.
5. Quebrada del Toro: The Quebrada del Toro is a narrow canyon that stretches for over 60 kilometers, located between San Antonio de los Cobres and Salta. It is a popular destination for hikers and adventurous travelers looking to explore the unique geological features and enjoy stunning vistas.
6. Archeological Inca Sites: The San Antonio de los Cobres region is dotted with Inca ruins, including the Incahuasi Ruins and the Tastil Ruins. These ancient structures offer visitors a glimpse into the fascinating history and legacy of the Inca civilization.
7. Parque Nacional Los Cardones: The Parque Nacional Los Cardones is a national park located approximately 100 kilometers from San Antonio de los Cobres. The park is known for its incredible landscape, which is dominated by tall, flowering cactus plants known as cardones. Visitors can enjoy hiking, bird watching, and other outdoor activities in the park.

You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in San Antonio de los Cobres.

When to go on holiday to San Antonio de los Cobres

The best time to visit San Antonio de los Cobres is during the autumn months of March to May or the spring months of September to November. During these seasons, the weather is generally pleasant with less rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the local culture. The summer months of December to February can be quite hot and dry, while the winter months of June to August can be very cold and snowy, which may limit outdoor activities.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to San Antonio de los Cobres

To get to San Antonio de los Cobres in Argentina, one can take a bus or drive from Salta. Here are the steps for each option: By Bus: 1. Go to the Salta bus terminal.
2. Look for a bus company that serves the Salta-San Antonio de los Cobres route. Examples of these include Flecha Bus, Andesmar, and Balut.
3. Purchase a ticket for the bus ride.
4. Wait for the bus to depart from the terminal.
The travel time for this option typically takes around 5-6 hours.
By Car: 1. Rent a car from Salta or bring your own vehicle.
2. Drive towards Route 51 which will take you to San Antonio de los Cobres.
3. Once you reach the town, follow the signs to the designated parking areas.
The travel time for this option usually takes around 3-4 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit San Antonio de los Cobres, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in San Antonio de los Cobres

San Antonio de los Cobres is a town located in the northwestern region of Argentina, known for its rich cultural heritage and delicious cuisine. Here are some typical foods of San Antonio de los Cobres and a brief description of each: 1. Locro: Locro is a hearty stew made with corn, beans, potatoes, meat, and spices. It's a staple dish in Argentina, and San Antonio de los Cobres is no exception. Locro is typically served during special occasions, such as Independence Day or religious festivals.
2. Empanadas: Empanadas are one of the most popular snacks or appetizers in Argentina. They are small pastries filled with meat, cheese, vegetables or any other savory filling. San Antonio de los Cobres is known for its "empanadas salteñas", which are filled with beef, onions, potatoes, and spices.
3. Humitas: Humitas are similar to tamales, but they are made with fresh corn instead of masa harina. The corn is mixed with milk, butter, and spices, and then wrapped in corn husks and steamed. In San Antonio de los Cobres, humitas are often filled with cheese or shredded meat.
4. Carbonada: Carbonada is a stew made with beef, potatoes, corn, and squash. It's typically seasoned with cumin, paprika, and bay leaves, and served hot. Carbonada is a comforting dish that's perfect for cold winter nights.
5. Asado: Asado is a traditional Argentinean barbecue that features various cuts of beef grilled over an open flame. In San Antonio de los Cobres, asado is often served with chimichurri sauce and a side of grilled vegetables.
6. Dulce de leche: Dulce de leche is a sweet spread made from condensed milk that's been cooked until it caramelizes. It's a popular topping for cakes, cookies, and ice cream in Argentina, and San Antonio de los Cobres is no exception.
You can find general info about typical foods in Argentina here.

Is San Antonio de los Cobres an expensive destination for tourists?

San Antonio de los Cobres is not considered a particularly expensive destination for tourists in Argentina. However, prices may vary depending on the season and the type of activities you want to do. Overall, accommodation prices in San Antonio de los Cobres are relatively affordable, with a variety of options ranging from basic hostels to more upscale hotels. Food and drink can also be quite reasonable, especially if you opt for local options such as empanadas and regional dishes. Keep in mind that transportation costs to and from San Antonio de los Cobres can be more expensive, as the town is located in a remote region of Argentina. However, the stunning landscape and unique cultural experiences make the journey worthwhile.

Where to find accomodation in San Antonio de los Cobres

San Antonio de los Cobres is a small town located in the Andes Mountains in the province of Salta, Argentina. There are a few options for accommodation in the town itself, as well as in the surrounding areas. 1. San Antonio de los Cobres town: There are a few hotels, hostels and guesthouses in the town itself, which is the most convenient option if you want to explore the town's attractions like the Pucará de Tilcara or the Train to the Clouds. This area offers budget to mid-range accommodation, ranging from $15 to $60 per night.
2. Tolar Grande: A small town located about 70 kilometers south of San Antonio de los Cobres, which is known for its stunning natural landscapes, salt flats, and volcano views. There are a couple of guesthouses and hostels available in Tolar Grande, which is a great option if you want an off-the-beaten-path experience. Prices range from $20 to $70 per night.
3. Campo Quijano: A town located about 50 kilometers east of San Antonio de los Cobres, which is a good option if you want to explore the Lerma Valley, with its colonial architecture and historical sites. Campo Quijano offers budget to mid-range accommodation, from $15 to $70 per night.
4. Salta city: The provincial capital, located about 160 kilometers east of San Antonio de los Cobres, which is a great base if you want to explore the region's cultural and natural attractions, with a wider range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to high-end hotels, ranging from $10 to $150 per night.
You can check hotel prices at San Antonio de los Cobres here:
Booking.com

Is San Antonio de los Cobres a safe destination for tourists?

San Antonio de los Cobres is considered a safe place for tourists. However, as with any place, it's always recommended to take some basic safety precautions such as not leaving your belongings unattended, being aware of your surroundings, and avoiding walking alone at night. It's also important to keep in mind that San Antonio de los Cobres is located at a high altitude (roughly 12,000 feet above sea level), so it's recommended to take some time to acclimate before undertaking any strenuous activities.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Argentina here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting San Antonio de los Cobres.

What type of travelers will enjoy San Antonio de los Cobres the most?

San Antonio de los Cobres is a beautiful place in northern Argentina, known for its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage. It is a great destination for anyone who loves nature, adventure, and exploration. That being said, the town and its surrounding areas can be enjoyed by all types of travelers. Couples who appreciate unique landscapes and peaceful surroundings will find many romantic spots to enjoy. Families with kids of all ages will find many outdoor activities including hiking, horseback riding, bird-watching, and more. Young people looking for adventure will find plenty to explore in the town and its surrounding mountains, with opportunities for climbing, biking, and trekking.
Ultimately, any traveler who is looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and be immersed in nature and culture will enjoy San Antonio de los Cobres.

How to get around San Antonio de los Cobres

In San Antonio de los Cobres, the most common form of transportation is by mini buses or vans that are used as a collective taxi system. There are also taxis available for hire, although they may be more expensive. If you are looking to explore the surrounding areas, car rental is also an option. However, it's important to note that the roads in this part of Argentina can be rugged and unpaved.

What to see around San Antonio de los Cobres

Here are a few options for day trip destinations from San Antonio de los Cobres: 1. Salinas Grandes: This is a beautiful salt flat located about 90 minutes by car from San Antonio de los Cobres. It's a great destination for photography or just to enjoy the unique scenery.
2. Purmamarca: This town is located about 2.5 hours from San Antonio de los Cobres and is known for its colorful mountains and traditional handicrafts. It's a great place to explore the local culture and enjoy the views.
3. Cafayate: This beautiful town is located about 4 hours from San Antonio de los Cobres and is home to some of Argentina's best wineries. It's a great destination for wine enthusiasts or anyone looking for a beautiful scenic drive.
4. Quebrada de las Conchas: This beautiful canyon is located about 3 hours from San Antonio de los Cobres and is known for its dramatic rock formations and vibrant colors. It's a great place for hiking and photography.
5. Cachi: This historic town is located about 4 hours from San Antonio de los Cobres and is surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery. It's a great place to explore the local history and culture, and to enjoy the stunning views.
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