Private transfer Salta – San Antonio de los Cobres

San Antonio de los Cobres is a mining and railway town on the high plateau of Salta province, at more than 3,700 metres. Few people go for the town itself. They go for the road, which climbs the Quebrada del Toro, and for what lies beyond: the La Polvorilla viaduct or the gravel route to Salinas Grandes.

Why this trip is different

No other transfer from Salta gains so much height so quickly. Ruta Nacional 51 leaves the valley at Campo Quijano, climbs close to the railway line and crosses the Abra Blanca pass, above 4,000 metres, before dropping to the town.

• Start rested and take everything slowly on arrival.
• If you plan several outings in the region, keep this one for the end, after some days at intermediate heights.
• With a health condition, consult your doctor first.

The road and the weather

Most of it is paved, though some sections may be gravel or under repair. In summer, rain swells the rivers in the gorge and can close the road for a few hours. Beside the road are the ruins and small museum of Santa Rosa de Tastil, a good place to stretch your legs.

The town is cold and windy all year. Bring warm clothes even if Salta is hot.

The Train to the Clouds and the viaduct

The tourist train departs from San Antonio de los Cobres for the La Polvorilla viaduct. Tickets are sold by the company that runs it, which also has its own package from Salta. If you would rather reach the station by private vehicle, check with them which ticket you need and send us the departure time. The viaduct can also be reached by a gravel road; ask about it when booking.

Where to go next

• On to Salinas Grandes along gravel Ruta 40, subject to availability.
• Ruta 51 continues to the Sico Pass on the Chilean border. That crossing is confirmed at booking, and documents should be checked with the migration authority of each country.