Tren a las Nubes, Salta Travel Guide

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Experience the breathtaking Tren a las Nubes, one of the world's highest railways, journeying through the stunning landscapes of the Argentine Andes.

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Tren a las Nubes

The Tren a las Nubes (Train to the Clouds) is a remarkable tourist train service in Salta Province, Argentina, ascending over 4,220 meters (13,850 ft) above sea level. This heritage railway traverses the eastern part of the Salta–Antofagasta railway line, offering breathtaking views of the Andes and a unique travel experience. Originally built for economic reasons, it now primarily serves tourists seeking adventure and stunning landscapes.

A brief summary to Tren a las Nubes

Planta Baja Local 33 Galería Baccaro, Salta, 20 de Febrero, Salta Province, A4400, AR
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Tren a las Nubes.

Acclimatize to the altitude in Salta for a couple of days before taking the train to avoid altitude sickness.
Bring layers of clothing as temperatures in the Andes can fluctuate dramatically.
Book your tickets in advance, as the Tren a las Nubes is a popular attraction and tickets sell out quickly.
Consider bringing coca candies or tea, which are sold at train stops and can help alleviate altitude sickness.
Wear sunglasses and sunscreen due to the intense sun at high altitudes.

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Getting There

Public Transport

To reach Tren a las Nubes, begin at the Salta train station. From there, a bus will take you to San Antonio de los Cobres, where you'll board the train. The bus trip includes stops in Campo Quijano, Viaducto del Toro, and the Yacoraite geological formation. The bus portion of the trip also includes a stop in El Alfarcito for a country breakfast. The train then travels 22 km to Viaducto La Polvorilla. The round trip, including the bus and train, costs Argentinos: $98,600 (Adults), $74,600 (Minors), $82,000 (Retirees). For foreign travelers the cost is $139,000. These prices include the bus transfer.
Taxi

To get to the Tren a las Nubes office located within the Galería Baccaro in Salta, a taxi from the city center (e.g., Plaza 9 de Julio) is a convenient option. The ride typically takes 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated taxi fare for this short trip is between $500 and $1000 ARS. Keep in mind that fares can vary based on the time of day and traffic conditions.
Walking

If you are near the city center, walking to the Tren a las Nubes office is feasible. Start at Plaza 9 de Julio and head southeast on Calle Buenos Aires. Continue straight until you reach Av. San Martín, then turn right. Follow San Martín until you reach Ameghino Street, and turn left. The Galería Baccaro will be on your left. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes.

Discover more about Tren a las Nubes

The Tren a las Nubes, or Train to the Clouds, is one of the highest railways in the world, offering a thrilling journey through the Andes. The service operates on the C-14 branch of the General Belgrano Railway, ascending to a staggering 4,220 meters above sea level. The train departs from Salta, winding through the Valle de Lerma and Quebrada del Toro before reaching the Puna de Atacama.The railway's construction began in 1921, spearheaded by engineers Josep Heinrich Theodor Rauch and Richard Maury, and involved over 1,300 workers. The project took 27 years to complete, overcoming extreme weather and challenging terrain. The first official tourist trip took place on July 16, 1972. The railway was initially intended to transport goods from Argentina to northern Chile.The name "Tren a las Nubes" originated from a film made by two university students in the 1960s, who captured the journey from Salta to Socompa aboard a passenger train. The train travels to the Polvorilla Viaduct, an impressive feat of engineering. Along the way, passengers can witness stunning landscapes, including frozen streams and remote churches. Today, the Tren a las Nubes remains an iconic symbol of Argentine ingenuity and a must-see attraction for visitors to the Salta region.