Salta and Jujuy: A Journey Through the Colors of Northern Argentina

Northern Argentina is a gem that combines majestic landscapes, a rich cultural heritage, and the warmth of its people. Salta and Jujuy, two neighboring provinces, offer travelers a wide range of experiences, including towering mountains, age-old traditions, and unforgettable flavors. If you're looking for a destination that awakens your senses and connects you with authenticity, Salta and Jujuy await you with open arms.

Salta: The Pearl of the North

Salta, known by its nickname “La Linda” ("The Beautiful"), boasts a mild climate that makes it an attractive destination all year round. Autumn (April to June) and spring (September to November) bring ideal temperatures and clear skies, perfect for exploring its landscapes and enjoying outdoor activities. But summer is when the experience becomes truly unforgettable:

Special Summer Activities in Salta

During the summer months (December to March), Salta comes alive with unique options to enjoy the warmth and nature:

• Explore waterfalls and rivers: Visit spots like Escoipe Waterfall or natural pools in the Juramento River, perfect for cooling off.

• Serenata a Cafayate Festival: This February event brings together folk music artists in a joyful and traditional setting.

• Hiking in lush valleys: The rains rejuvenate the landscapes, making trails like Cuesta del Obispo and Cerro San Bernardo even more spectacular.

• Outdoor wine tasting: The wineries in Cafayate offer al fresco experiences where Torrontés wine is even more delightful under the summer sun.



In summer, Salta transforms into a vibrant paradise that combines adventure, culture, and landscapes refreshed by nature. It’s an ideal time to connect with the energy of northern Argentina!

Main Attractions

Salta’s Mountains: The Andes Mountain Range and the Calchaquí Valleys are Salta's most remarkable natural treasures. Highlights include the Quebrada de las Conchas, known for its unique formations like the Devil’s Throat and the Amphitheater, and the multicolored hills that dominate the horizon.

Notable Activities:

• Trekking and Hiking: Explore trails like Cuesta del Obispo or Los Cardones National Park, with its giant cacti and desert landscapes.

• Adventure Tourism: Cabra Corral Dam offers rafting, zip-lining, and kayaking, while nearby hills challenge climbers and mountain bikers.

• Train to the Clouds: A journey over 4,200 meters above sea level, crossing viaducts and canyons with breathtaking views.

Local Gastronomy

Salta’s cuisine delights the senses. Be sure to try the famous empanadas salteñas, filled with beef, potato, and onion with a hint of spice. Other typical dishes include locro, humitas, and tamales, perfect for warming up in the highlands. Pair your meal with a Torrontés wine from the wineries of Cafayate.

Culture and Traditions

Music and dance are pillars of life in Salta. The folk clubs ("peñas") on Balcarce Street are ideal for enjoying zambas and chacareras while savoring traditional dishes. Additionally, Salta celebrates the Feast of the Lord and the Virgin of the Miracle each September, drawing thousands of pilgrims in devotion.

Jujuy: Colors and Traditions

Location and Access

Located to the north of Salta, Jujuy is easily accessible by road or air. Its proximity allows travelers to explore both provinces in a single trip, offering a comprehensive Northern Argentina experience.

Main Attractions in Jujuy

• Purmamarca and the Hill of Seven Colors: This small village is renowned for its multicolored hill, a natural masterpiece that shifts tones with the day’s light. Its artisan market is perfect for finding textiles, ceramics, and local products.

• Quebrada de Humahuaca: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this valley takes visitors back in time with villages like Tilcara, home to the Pucará (an ancient fortress), and Humahuaca, with its iconic Monument to the Heroes of Independence.



• San Salvador de Jujuy: The provincial capital blends history and culture, with attractions like its cathedral, Government House, and Central Market, a great spot for tasting local produce like quinoa and Andean corn.

Summer’s Unique Charms

During summer (December to March), the rains enhance the vibrant tones of the hills and valleys:

• Waterfalls and Rivers: Increased river flows create refreshing and spectacular landscapes.

• Brilliant Colors: The rains bring out the brightness and saturation of the hills, such as the famous Hill of Seven Colors in Purmamarca and the Hornocal.

• Cultural Festivities: Summer coincides with preparations for the Quebrada Carnival, filled with music, dance, and ancestral traditions.

Local Gastronomy

Jujuy’s cuisine showcases a blend of indigenous and Creole influences. Highlights include quinoa stew, peanut soup, and goat casseroles. For dessert, try quesillo with cane honey, a regional specialty.

Activities Common to Both Provinces

• Craftsmanship: From llama wool textiles to alpaca jewelry and hand-painted ceramics, Northern Argentina’s crafts reflect its rich history and culture.
• Music and Dance: Andean tunes and Argentine folklore come alive in peñas and festivals across both provinces.
• Traditions and Festivities: Celebrations like Carnival and Pachamama reveal ancestral customs and beliefs that remain vibrant today.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Where to Stay: Salta offers boutique hotels and budget hostels, while Jujuy features rustic and eco-friendly options in villages like Tilcara and Purmamarca.
• What to Pack: Bring comfortable clothing, sunscreen, warm layers for cool nights, and sturdy footwear for hiking. Don’t forget a water bottle to stay hydrated at higher altitudes.

Flights to Salta and Jujuy

Direct Flights:

• Paranair from Asunción to San Salvador de Jujuy
• Paranair from Asunción to Salta (starting February 2025)
• Aerolíneas Argentinas from São Paulo to Salta
• Latam from Lima to Salta

Plus, multiple connections from Buenos Aires and other Argentine destinations.

Salta and Jujuy are more than tourist destinations; they’re gateways to the history, culture, and nature of Northern Argentina. With stunning landscapes, authentic flavors, and a rich cultural heritage, these provinces invite you to discover their magic and embark on an unforgettable adventure. Pack your bags and get ready to experience the colors and traditions of this extraordinary region!