Magpie
4.0(23 reviews)

Train to the Clouds Experience from Salta

FromARS 301
14 hours
Cafayate, Argentina

About this activity

Embark on a breathtaking 14-hour journey from Salta to the clouds, crossing the Andes and experiencing the world's highest railway.

Highlights

  • Scenic journey through the Andes Mountains
  • Crossing the famous La Polvorilla Viaduct
  • Breathtaking views of the Puna Desert
  • Visit to the town of San Antonio de los Cobres
  • Experience the highest railway in the world

Full description

Experience the thrill of the Train to the Clouds, a 14-hour adventure departing from Salta, Argentina. This iconic journey takes you through the stunning Andes Mountains, offering panoramic views of the Puna Desert and the opportunity to cross the famous La Polvorilla Viaduct. Along the way, you'll visit the charming town of San Antonio de los Cobres, immersing yourself in the rich culture and history of the region. With round-trip transfers from Salta hotels, guided tours, and onboard snacks and beverages, this excursion promises an unforgettable adventure. Don't miss the chance to ride the world's highest railway and witness the breathtaking landscapes of northwest Argentina.

Included / Excluded

  • Round-trip transfers from Salta hotels
  • Guided tour of the Train to the Clouds
  • Snacks and beverages onboard
  • Meals during the journey

Itinerary

1

The meeting point is in Plaza Antofagasta at 6:15am, in front of the SaltaTrain Station, all the passengers will do the check-in with tickets and passports. Once everyone is registered and seated inside the bus, the journey begins. At 7:35am, your first photographic stop is in Campo Quijano, located 18.5 miles (30 kilometers) from the capital. Return to the bus at 8:05am, and make the second stop at Viaducto del Toro, located on the Quebrada.

Duration: 2 hoursAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
2

Continue on and stop at El Alfarcito, a place where the tradition of local handicrafts is kept alive. Enjoy a country breakfast, and visit the craft fair. Also we will be visiting the Father Chifri Fundation, an organization that helps to obtain resources and provides education and training to local people.

Duration: 1 hourAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
3

Then we go straight to San Antonio de los Cobres, a town at the foot of the Terciopelo Hill. Arriving at 11:40am, we will reach the train station and embark on the emblematic Train to the Clouds.

Duration: 2 hoursAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
4

At 12pm, start the train ride, and experience the beauty of nature, stillness, and immensity. Onboard there is bar service, postal service, and merchandising to make this trip an enjoyment and an unforgettable memory. Around 1pm, arrive to the Viaduct of Polvorilla, the most recognized bridge of the area. Here, descend from the train and have 30 minutes to tour the place and take incredible photos. Get back on the train and start the return to San Antonio de los Cobres, arriving at the station around 2:45 pm.

Duration: 2 hoursAdmission: YES
5

Here we will have two hours of free time where we can tour the town, experience different activities with the native communities, among them, you can visit the Craft Market, create a clay pot with your own hands, or make a trekking with llamas (optional, not included). Also, it is the ideal time to enjoy lunch (not included).

Duration: 2 hoursAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
6

Around 4:30 pm, go back on board the bus and start our return. After an hour's drive, make our last stop in the village of Santa Rosa de Tastil, where one of the largest archaeological sites in our country is located. It is estimated that it hosted 3,000 people approximately.

Duration: 30 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
7

After this 20-minute stop, begin the final section of our trip, arriving at the city of Salta around 8:15pm.

Duration: 3 hoursAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE

Important information

Know before you book

  • The tour operates on specific dates; check availability before booking.
  • Meals are not included; plan accordingly for food during the journey.
  • The tour involves high-altitude travel; consider acclimatization if necessary.

Know before you go

  • Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear suitable for high-altitude travel.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and unique moments.
  • Ensure you have a valid ID or passport for the journey.

Cancellation policy

0

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Good to know

  • Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical conditions because of extreme heights
  • The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions
  • Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants
  • Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
  • Minimum age is 4 years

Traveler reviews

4.0
23 reviews
5
13
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Interesting day trip

This was a great day out. The coach was comfortable and there were quite a few stops along the way to break up the journey. We were lucky with the weather too.

Clare PMay 10, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Great

An excellent tour - meeting point is clearly signposted, and transport is clean and modern. The train/viaduct is stunning and well organized but the journey to San Antonio is every bit it’s equal - the scenery is amazing. Well worth the time and expense.

SimonS348Dec 21, 2025TRIPADVISOR

Above the clouds!

Stunning views. A well organised day. The guides are very informative. Potential altitude sickness taken seriously with the attendance of medics.

ianwH7006GKNov 20, 2025TRIPADVISOR

Brilliant excursion.

This experience was a real highlight from our time in North West Argentina. Such a unique way to experience the mountains and get a feel for what traditional life was like there. Whilst also seeing the places where mining is happening and thermal pools are planned. Beautiful surroundings at a lovely pace. Highly recommend. If you come to this area and don’t do it, you’ve missed out. Note-only pesos are accepted on the train and by the traditional peoples selling their goods.

946salhNov 9, 2025TRIPADVISOR

Maravilhosa

Very good experience. Just a repair: travelers should be advised to have lunch on the train as the suggested restaurant is very bad and the time for meals is small.

Maurici_MJul 18, 2025VIATOR

Additional information

Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical conditions because of extreme heights The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately Minimum age is 4 years
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