Skip to main content
EA
Salta
Northwest

Salta

Known as 'Salta la Linda' (Salta the Beautiful), this northwestern gem offers colonial architecture, dramatic desert landscapes, indigenous culture, and some of the lowest costs in Argentina.

Airport
SLA (Martín Miguel de Güemes)
Elevation
1,187m above sea level
Famous Route
Tren a las Nubes (Train to the Clouds)
Known For
Empanadas, Torrontés wine, Puna

About Salta

Salta is Argentina at its most dramatic and culturally rich. The capital city preserves some of the finest colonial architecture in the country — the pink Cathedral, the MAAM museum with its ancient Inca mummies, and the terracotta-roofed buildings that glow in the afternoon sun. Beyond the city, the landscapes are otherworldly: the rainbow-striped Quebrada de Humahuaca, the surreal salt flats of the Puna, the cloud forests of Yungas, and the crimson formations of Quebrada de las Flechas. For expats, Salta offers an authentically Argentine experience at bargain prices. The food scene is exceptional (empanadas salteñas are the national standard), the wine region (Cafayate) produces excellent Torrontés, and the pace of life is genuinely relaxed.

Expat Appeal

Perfect for culture-seekers and budget-conscious expats who want an authentic Argentine experience away from the tourist trail.

Cost of Living
$500–$1,000/month
Very Low

Estimated monthly budget for a single expat including rent, food, transport, and basic expenses.

Climate

Subtropical with dry season — warm year-round (15-30°C), distinct wet/dry seasons, cooler in the mountains

Safety

Very safe. Low crime rates. Friendly, welcoming community.

Internet

Moderate — 20-50 Mbps in the city. Can be limited in rural areas.

Major Cities

Salta
Guide
San Salvador de Jujuy
Cafayate
San Antonio de los Cobres

Highlights

Colonial architecture
Dramatic desert landscapes
Indigenous heritage
Excellent empanadas
Extremely affordable

Ready to Explore Salta?

Learn more about life in Argentina with our visa guides, cost of living breakdowns, and city-by-city comparisons.