Argentina

How to get from Buenos Aires to Salta

Compare all transport options: bus, ferry, flight. Prices, durations and practical tips.

⏱
FASTEST
≈ 2h 17min
💶
From
≈ 60€
📍
Distance
1285 km
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⚡ Quick answer

Checked offer from Buenos Aires to Salta: Bus, about 20h 45min – 24h 54min, from €78. Other options (estimates, not checked against a live listing): Flight. Main companies selling this route on 12Go (checked on October 13, 2026): Aerolineas Argentinas, JetSmart, JetSMART Airlines; main departure point: Jorge Newbery Airpark.

Distance: 1285 km. Data updated on .

There are 2 ways to get from Buenos Aires to Salta

Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.

Flight
2h 17min – 2h 51min
CHEAPEST FASTEST
≈ 60 – 250 € estimate
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Bus
20h 45min – 24h 54min
78 – 79 €
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🚌 Departure from Buenos Aires
📍Most long-distance coaches depart from the Retiro Bus Terminal (Terminal de Ómnibus de Retiro) in Buenos Aires. It is one of the largest bus terminals in the world, with numerous platforms and services including restaurants, shops, and waiting areas.
🚇The Retiro Bus Terminal is easily accessible from downtown Buenos Aires. You can take a taxi or ride-sharing service (approx. 15-20 min, €5-€10), or use public transport like the Subte (metro) Line C to Retiro station, which is a short walk away.
⏰Coach departures for Salta are frequent, especially overnight. Services usually run several times a day, with multiple operators. It's common to find departures from late afternoon through the evening.
💸 Transport from 60€ per person
⚡ Fastest: 2h 17min
🗓 Book now Secure payment · via 12go.asia

Companies selling this route on 12Go

Offers listed on 12Go on October 13, 2026 for a departure on November 3, 2026. Timetables and prices change with the date: check them before booking.

CompanyModeDeparts fromFromOffers
Balut Bus Terminal Dellepiane €76 1
JetSMART Airlines Flight Ministro Pistarini Airport €53 3
Aerolineas Argentinas Flight Jorge Newbery Airpark €56 10
JetSmart Flight Ministro Pistarini Airport €63 6

See all offers on 12Go ›

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Practical tips

💡
Book Flights in Advance

To secure the best fares for flights, especially during high season or long weekends, it's highly recommended to book several weeks or even months ahead. Prices can increase significantly closer to the departure date.

💡
Choose Your Coach Seat Wisely

If you opt for the coach, consider upgrading to a 'cama' (bed) or 'semi-cama' seat. These offer more recline, footrests, and often meals, making a 21-hour journey much more comfortable than a standard seat.

💡
Arrive Early at the Terminal

To avoid missing your bus or flight, plan to arrive at the terminal or airport at least 1-2 hours before departure. This allows ample time for check-in, security, and finding your gate or platform.

💡
Check Terminal Information

Always double-check the exact departure terminal or airport before you leave. Buenos Aires has multiple terminals and airports, and confirming this detail will prevent any last-minute stress or confusion.

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Pack Essentials for Coach Travel

For a long coach trip, bring snacks, water, a neck pillow, earplugs, and an eye mask. While some coaches offer services, having your own comfort items will significantly enhance your experience.

The journey experience

Planning your trip from Buenos Aires to Salta can feel like a big decision, especially in a country as vast as Argentina. You want to make the smartest choice instantly, knowing whether a coach or a flight suits you best. This guide provides a clear comparison of durations and price ranges, helping you decide with confidence.

For this route, you have two main options: flying or taking a long-distance coach. A flight offers a quick journey of approximately 2 hours, with prices starting around €60. This is ideal if you're short on time and prefer to maximize your exploration days. Alternatively, the coach journey takes a significant 21 hours, with fares from €78. While longer, it offers a different perspective on Argentina's landscapes and can be a cost-effective choice for some.

Argentina's scale means the same trip can indeed be an overnight coach or a short flight. For Buenos Aires to Salta, considering the vast difference in travel time, flying is often the smarter choice to save you a full day of travel. However, if budget is paramount and you enjoy the journey, a comfortable semi-cama or cama coach seat is a valid option, ensuring you don't miss any connections or get bogged down by travel logistics.

Frequently asked questions — Buenos Aires → Salta

Why visit Salta?

  • ✓ Explore the stunning Quebrada de Humahuaca, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its colorful mountains and charming villages.
  • ✓ Visit the High Mountain Archaeology Museum (MAAM) to see the remarkably preserved Llullaillaco Children mummies.
  • ✓ Take the Tren a las Nubes (Train to the Clouds), one of the highest railways in the world, offering breathtaking Andean views.
  • ✓ Wander through Salta's historic city center, admiring colonial architecture like the Cabildo and the pink Cathedral.
  • ✓ Discover the unique high-altitude vineyards and taste excellent wines along the Calchaquí Valleys Wine Route.
🌙
Recommended stay
4 to 6 nights — allows exploration of the city and key surrounding natural and cultural attractions.

When to visit Salta?

SUBTROPICAL ARIDE MONTAGNEUX

April to November — dry season with pleasant temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities and mountain excursions.

Jan 😞
Feb 😞
Mar 😐
Apr 😊
May 😊
Jun 😊
Jul 😊
Aug 😊
Sep 😊
Oct 😐
Nov 😞
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In Salta — Plan your stay
Accommodation, activities and tips selected for you
🏨 Accommodation
Hotels in Salta
Compare the best rates available
via trip.com

What to do in Salta?

Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you

INCONTOURNABLE
⛰️
Quebrada de Humahuaca Day Trip
Explore the stunning multi-colored mountains and indigenous villages of the Quebrada de Humahuaca, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This full-day trip from Salta offers breathtaking landscapes, especially the Hill of Seven Colors in Purmamarca. Start early, around 7 AM, to maximize daylight for photos. Consider booking a small group tour for a more intimate experience.
🏛️
High Mountain Archaeology Museum (MAAM)
Discover the fascinating history of Inca child mummies discovered on Llullaillaco volcano. The MAAM houses one of the best-preserved collections in the world, displayed in a carefully controlled environment. Only one mummy is shown at a time, rotated periodically. Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends, as entry can be time-slotted.
🚂
Tren a las Nubes (Train to Clouds)
Embark on an iconic journey aboard the 'Train to the Clouds', one of the highest railways in the world, traversing spectacular Andean landscapes. It's now often combined with a bus segment from Salta. Book well in advance, especially during high season, as tickets sell out quickly. The full experience can cost upwards of 150€ per person.
🍷
Cafayate Wine Route & Valleys
Explore the unique high-altitude vineyards of Cafayate, famous for its Torrontés wine. The scenic route through the Calchaquí Valleys offers stunning rock formations like the Garganta del Diablo. Rent a car for flexibility to visit various bodegas, or join an organized tour. Most bodegas offer tastings for around 5-10€.
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San Bernardo Hill & City Views
Ascend Cerro San Bernardo for panoramic views of Salta city and its surrounding valleys. You can take the teleférico (cable car) for around 5€ round trip, or for the more adventurous, hike up the winding path. Go at sunset for spectacular golden hour photos and cooler temperatures.
🎨
Salta Cathedral & Main Square
Visit the stunning pink neoclassical Salta Cathedral, a prominent landmark on Plaza 9 de Julio. Its opulent interior and the Pantheon of the Glories of the North are worth exploring. The plaza itself is a lively spot for people-watching and enjoying local street performers. Entry to the cathedral is free, but donations are welcome.
🥘
Taste Local Empanadas & Tamales
Indulge in Salta's renowned culinary delights: empanadas salteñas and tamales. These savory pastries and corn-based dishes are staples of the regional cuisine, often found in 'peñas' or local markets. Look for 'La Criollita' or 'Doña Salta' for authentic flavors. Expect to pay around 1-2€ per empanada.
🐎
Gaucho Traditions in San Lorenzo
Experience the rich gaucho culture in the charming town of San Lorenzo, just a short drive from Salta. You can visit a finca (ranch) for a traditional Argentine 'asado' (barbecue) and equestrian show. Many estancias offer day passes starting from around 40-50€. It's a great way to delve into rural Argentine life and enjoy the natural surroundings.

How long to visit Salta?

3 to 10 days

For Salta, plan 3-4 days to explore the city and its immediate surroundings. If you wish to visit the Quebrada de Humahuaca and the Calchaquí Valleys, allocate 7-10 days for a more complete experience.

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