Things To Do
in San Antonio de los Cobres
San Antonio de los Cobres is a remote high-altitude town perched on the edge of the Argentine Puna in Salta Province. It sits along the route of the famed Tren a las Nubes, serving as a gateway to stark desert landscapes and dramatic Andean backdrops. At about 3,700–4,000 meters above sea level, the town experiences thin air and wide, clear skies that make for memorable sunrises and starry nights.
It’s a quiet, minimalist destination that appeals to travelers seeking solitude, desert scenery, and a taste of the high Andes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at San Antonio de los Cobres and take in the breathtaking vistas of the Andes. After settling into your accommodation, grab a traditional breakfast at a local café. Spend some time exploring the charming town square and its artisan markets, getting a taste of the local culture.
Visit the Train to the Clouds museum to learn about the historical significance of the railway in this region. A scenic lunch at a local eatery will fuel your adventure ahead. Take a stroll around the town, visiting local shops and interacting with friendly residents.
Enjoy a dinner featuring local ingredients and flavors, perhaps trying traditional empanadas. As the sun sets, take a walk to appreciate the tranquil desert landscape under the stars. End your day with a cozy cup of mate at your accommodation.
Embark on a guided tour of the Salinas Grandes salt flats, marveling at the vast expanse of white salt against the vibrant blue sky. Capture stunning photographs as you learn about the salt extraction process from local guides. Enjoy a packed breakfast prepared for your adventure amidst the striking landscape.
Have lunch at a nearby village, trying the local delicacies, including a hearty llama stew. Post-lunch, explore the surrounding environment, spotting unique flora and fauna adapted to the salt flats. Consider engaging with local artisans to buy unique handicrafts made from salt and other native materials.
Return to San Antonio de los Cobres for a relaxing evening at your hotel. Share stories with fellow travelers about your day's adventures over dinner. Allow yourself some time to reflect on the magnificent landscapes you witnessed throughout the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at cafe | $1-3 |
| 🍺Domestic beer | $2-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel/guesthouse (per night) | $20-40 |
| 🗺️Local tour or activity | $20-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Dramatic high-desert landscapes and clear night skies
- Quiet, authentic small-town atmosphere away from crowds
- Limited dining and nightlife options within town
- High altitude can cause shortness of breath and fatigue
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in San Antonio de los Cobres
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic high-altitude viaduct set against clear blue skies and desert mountains; dramatic sunrise or sunset photography opportunities.
Colorful, sunlit streets and traditional architecture provide classic high-desert portraits and street photography moments.
Wide-angle shots of the arid Puna landscape, with distant mountain silhouettes and pristine skies.
Reflective light and expansive flats create striking compositions, especially during early morning and late afternoon.
Food in San Antonio de los Cobres
San Antonio de los Cobres Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Savory turnovers filled with beef, onions, peppers, and spices; a staple at local bakeries and casual eateries.
Must-Try!
A thick corn and bean stew often enriched with pork; a warming choice for cool evenings.
Dishes featuring quinoa, a traditional Andean grain; look for quinoa soup or pilaf on menu boards.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal produce, simple snacks, and crafts. A good place to sample empanadas and baked goods while mingling with residents.
Pequeño bites like tamales and humita in chala; great for a quick, inexpensive feed on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite handshake is common; in social settings, eye contact and a friendly verbal greeting go a long way. Use basic Spanish phrases when possible and thank people with gracias or muchas gracias.
Sharing mate is a social ritual; if offered, accept respectfully and pass it on. Do not rush conversations; politeness and warmth are valued.
Casual, modest dress is appropriate in most settings; avoid overly casual swimwear in town centers and respect local norms when visiting churches or cultural sites.
Safety
Tipping in San Antonio de los Cobres
Ensure a smooth experience
In Argentina, tipping is customary at restaurants (roughly 5–10% if service is not included). Round up taxi fares and tip guides or drivers for service. If a service charge is included, tipping is optional.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming high-desert flora; carry layers for cool mornings and evenings; occasional winds.
Dry and hot by day, with cooler nights. Stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and plan early hikes to avoid midday heat.
Cool days and chilly nights; excellent visibility for photography and clear skies for stargazing.
Cold nights with possible frost; days are sunny but temperatures drop after sunset. Pack warm layers and a windproof jacket.
San Antonio de los Cobres at Night
Hiking in San Antonio de los Cobres
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate day hike along ridgelines offering panoramic views of the town and surrounding mountains; start early to avoid heat.
Short to moderate trails near salt flats with expansive horizon views and reflective light—great for photography.
Airports
How to reach San Antonio de los Cobres by plane.
Main gateway to the northwest region; from here you can transfer by road or rail to San Antonio de los Cobres. Availability of flights can vary seasonally.
A small airstrip used primarily for charter flights or limited regional service; verify operations in advance.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of mestizo and Indigenous heritage with long-standing rural and mining ties; communities are tight-knit and welcoming to visitors.
Some residents work in tourism, transportation, or nearby mining operations; the population can fluctuate with seasonal demand.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Argentina, including the Salta region; local games and informal matches are common in town and nearby communities.
Traditional rural activities show in the countryside; short horseback rides can be arranged with local guides.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Antonio de los Cobres.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer vegetarian options such as salads, quinoa dishes, and vegetable stews; communicate clearly about ingredients and avoid bone-in broths or meat stocks; consider self-catering for guaranteed options in more remote settings.