Train to the Clouds Experience with Transfers from Salta Hotels

Experience the breathtaking Train to the Clouds from Salta, Argentina. For $252.92 per person, you’ll enjoy a full-day journey that combines scenic drives, cultural stops, and a ride on one of the highest railroads in the world. This 14-hour tour includes round-trip transportation from your hotel, making it a hassle-free way to explore the Andean highlands, the Toro Gorge, and the charming town of San Antonio de los Cobres.

What we love about this experience is the chance to see Vast mountain vistas and engineering marvels like the Viaducto del Toro — a highlight for any rail enthusiast. Plus, the stops at El Alfarcito and Tastil give a genuine taste of local crafts and history. However, the day is quite long, with over 3 hours of transfers, and you’ll want to be prepared for high altitudes and variable weather. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic journeys, culture, and don’t mind a full day on the move.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The train ride offers incredible vistas of the Andes and the high-altitude landscape.
• Cultural Stops: Visits to local craft markets and the Tastil archaeological site add depth to your experience.
• All-Inclusive Transport: Hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics straightforward.
• Long but Rewarding Day: Expect about 14 hours from start to finish, with plenty of opportunities for photography and exploration.
• Optional Activities: After the train, you can explore San Antonio de los Cobres, with options like llama treks (own expense).
• Weather and Altitude: Prepare for high elevations and variable weather conditions, especially if you’re sensitive to altitude sickness.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The journey begins early, with hotel pickup in Salta around 6:00 am. We like that this included round-trip transport simplifies the day, allowing us to focus on the scenery and stops without worrying about logistics. The first stop is in Campo Quijano, 30 kilometers from Salta, where you can snap photos of the rugged Toro Gorge — a striking introduction to the region’s dramatic landscape. Our guide explained that this is a favorite spot for photography, offering sweeping views of the river and canyon.

Next, you’ll visit Viaducto del Toro, an engineering feat that crosses the gorge, giving a dramatic backdrop for photos. This stop is brief but memorable, and the views are undeniably impressive. One review mentioned how the stops at these sites are “fine” but do feel a bit rushed, so if you’re into photography, bring your patience and a charged camera.

The tour continues to El Alfarcito, a charming spot where local artisans keep traditional crafts alive. Here, you’ll enjoy a hearty country breakfast and browse a craft fair, which is a wonderful chance to pick up handmade souvenirs. The visit to the Father Chifri Foundation is a nice touch — it shows how this tour also supports local initiatives that prioritize education and community resources. This stop lasts about an hour, and many travelers find it a welcoming insight into local culture.

From there, you head to San Antonio de los Cobres, a small mountain town nestled at the foot of Terciopelo Hill. Arriving around 11:40 am, you’ll board the famous Train to the Clouds at noon. The train ride is the core of this experience, and it’s easy to understand why it’s considered one of the world’s highest railroads. The train climbs through rugged landscapes, crossing high-altitude bridges and offering spectacular views of the Andes.

Onboard, amenities like bar service and a postal service make the journey comfortable and enjoyable. Nearly everyone agrees the scenery is stunning, and one reviewer described the trip as “visually stunning.” The highlight is the Polvorilla Viaduct, where you’ll disembark for about 30 minutes to explore and snap photos of this iconic structure. The bridge’s dramatic height and engineering make it a must-see.

The return trip to San Antonio de los Cobres is approximately 2 hours, giving you time to relax or chat with fellow travelers. After disembarking, there’s a two-hour free period in the town, where you can wander the streets, visit craft markets, or even try a llama trek (though this is at your own expense). This flexibility is appreciated; one traveler loved exploring local activities, quoting that it’s “the ideal time to enjoy lunch and experience local life.”

Later, the tour visits the archaeological site of Tastil, one of Argentina’s largest ancient settlements, with an estimated population of 3,000 people. The 30-minute stop offers a glimpse into the region’s history, and many found this archaeological site to be a fascinating addition to the day.

The return to Salta is about a 3-hour drive, arriving around 8:15 pm. It’s a long day, but the variety of stops, the train ride, and the scenery make it worthwhile for those eager to see the high Andes and learn about local culture.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s price of $252.92 covers round-trip bus transfers, hotel pickup and drop-off, and the Train to the Clouds ticket. That’s a solid value considering the exclusivity of the train ride and the full itinerary. On the downside, food and drinks are not included, so packing snacks or planning to buy lunch in San Antonio de los Cobres is wise.

One aspect travelers should consider is the length of the day. Reviews mention it’s a “really long day” — expect to be on the move from early morning to late evening. The transfers alone can take over three hours total, depending on traffic and weather. If you prefer shorter days or have mobility issues, this might be a challenge.

The Experience’s Strengths

The stunning scenery is the primary draw. The photos of the train crossing high bridges and traversing mountain passes speak for themselves. You’ll love how the train climbs to over 4,200 meters (about 13,800 feet), giving you a sense of the grandeur of the Andes without strenuous hiking.

Cultural stops like El Alfarcito and Tastil enrich the experience, providing insight into local crafts and history. The opportunity to browse handmade items and learn about ancient settlements makes this more than just a scenic train ride.

The hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics simple, especially for travelers staying in Salta. The inclusion of the train ticket itself means you won’t have to worry about additional costs or reservations once booked.

Considerations and Potential Drawbacks

Despite its many strengths, there are some considerations. The long duration may be tiring, especially for travelers unaccustomed to high altitudes or extended bus rides. The altitude can cause discomfort; travelers are advised to prepare accordingly, perhaps taking altitude medication like Diamox, as some reviews suggest.

The seating arrangement on the train can be a mixed bag—about half face forward, half face backward—meaning some may find themselves traveling “backwards,” which can cause nausea for sensitive travelers. This is worth noting if you’re prone to motion sickness.

Finally, the language barrier might be an issue for some non-Spanish speakers, despite claims of English guides. A few reviewers noted that guides spoke more in Spanish or shortchanged English speakers, so don’t expect a fully bilingual commentary all the time.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for adventure-seeking travelers who appreciate scenic rail journeys and cultural experiences. It’s perfect if you’re eager to see high-altitude landscapes and are comfortable spending a full day on the move. It’s also well-suited for history buffs interested in archaeological sites and craft lovers who want to support local artisans.

However, if you’re sensitive to high altitudes, dislike long days, or prefer shorter, more relaxed excursions, you might find this tour a bit taxing. It’s not recommended for travelers with serious medical conditions related to altitude or mobility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the minimum age is 4 years, making it accessible for families with older children who can handle a long day of sightseeing.

Does the tour run in all weather conditions?
Yes, it operates regardless of weather, so dress appropriately for potential rain, wind, or high-altitude sun.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring comfortable clothing, layers for temperature changes, sunscreen, a hat, camera, and possibly snacks, since food and drinks are not included.

How much time do I have in San Antonio de los Cobres?
You’ll have about two hours to explore the town, visit markets, or go on optional activities like llama treks (own expense).

Can I buy souvenirs during the tour?
Yes, there are craft fairs at El Alfarcito and local markets in San Antonio de los Cobres, ideal for authentic handmade souvenirs.

What is the main highlight of this experience?
Undoubtedly, the Train to the Clouds ride itself, crossing high bridges like Polvorilla, with awe-inspiring mountain views that are hard to match anywhere else.

In sum, the Train to the Clouds from Salta offers a memorable mix of engineering marvels, scenic vistas, and cultural insights. While the day is long and altitude can be challenging, the chance to see some of Argentina’s most dramatic landscapes from the comfort of a train and enjoy authentic local stops makes it a worthwhile adventure for those seeking a full, authentic experience of the Andean highlands. If you’re prepared for a long day and eager to explore beyond the city, this tour will reward you with unforgettable sights and stories.