Argentina

How to get from Salta to Mendoza

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

⏱
FASTEST
≈ 1h 50min
💶
From
≈ 60€
📍
Distance
961 km
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⚡ Quick answer

Checked offer from Salta to Mendoza: Bus, about 18h 45min, from €77. Other options (estimates, not checked against a live listing): Flight.

Distance: 961 km. Data updated on .

There are 2 ways to get from Salta to Mendoza

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

Bus
18h 45min – 20h 15min
77 – 121 €
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Flight
1h 50min – 2h 18min
CHEAPEST FASTEST
≈ 60 – 250 € estimate
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🚌 Departure from Salta
📍For bus departures from Salta to Mendoza, you will typically leave from the main Salta Bus Terminal (Terminal de Ómnibus de Salta). It is a central hub for long-distance coaches, equipped with various services for travelers.
🚇The Salta Bus Terminal is conveniently located near the city center. You can reach it by local bus, taxi, or ride-sharing apps. A taxi ride from the main square (Plaza 9 de Julio) usually takes about 10-15 minutes and costs approximately 2-4€.
⏰Coach services from Salta to Mendoza are usually available daily, often with evening departures. It's common to find 1-2 departures per day for this long route, typically leaving between 18:00 and 22:00 for an overnight journey.
💸 Transport from 60€ per person
⚡ Fastest: 1h 50min
⭐ Recommended: Bus — 77€
🗓 Book now Secure payment · via 12go.asia
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Practical tips

💡
Book Ahead for Comfort

Especially during high season (summer, long weekends), coach seats, particularly cama or semi-cama, fill up fast. Booking online a few weeks in advance ensures you get your preferred seat and avoid fully booked services.

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Check Departure Terminals

Always confirm your exact departure terminal and platform well in advance. Argentina's larger cities might have multiple bus terminals or different wings. Double-checking prevents last-minute confusion and missing your bus.

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Consider Flight vs. Bus Timing

While a flight is faster, factor in airport transfers and security checks. A night bus can save you a hotel night and you travel while you sleep. Weigh total door-to-door time and cost for both options.

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Pack Smart for Overnight Coaches

For long bus journeys, have a small bag with essentials like a travel pillow, blanket (though some coaches provide them), snacks, water, entertainment, and earplugs accessible. Your main luggage will be stored underneath.

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Online Booking Confirmation

After booking online, ensure you receive an instant confirmation. This usually contains your ticket details, departure times, and terminal information. Keep it accessible on your phone or printed.

The journey experience

Planning your trip from Salta to Mendoza can feel daunting given Argentina's vast distances. You want to know if a long coach journey is worth it or if flying makes more sense for your itinerary and budget. Our goal is to give you a clear, side-by-side comparison of durations and price ranges so you can instantly choose the best option for your independent adventure.

For the Salta to Mendoza route, you have two main choices: a comfortable long-distance coach or a quick domestic flight. The bus takes around 19 hours and costs approximately 77€, offering a chance to see more of the landscape. Alternatively, a flight gets you there in just 2 hours for about 60€, saving significant travel time.

To avoid spending an entire day and night on a coach when a flight would be simpler, consider your overall schedule. If time is a priority, flying is clearly the smarter choice here. For those on a mid-range budget who enjoy the journey and scenery, the semi-cama or cama coach seats offer a very comfortable overnight experience, allowing you to wake up refreshed in Mendoza.

Frequently asked questions — Salta → Mendoza

Why visit Mendoza?

  • ✓ Explore world-class wineries and enjoy exquisite Malbec tastings in the Uco Valley.
  • ✓ Hike or horseback ride through the stunning Andes mountains, reaching viewpoints like Aconcagua.
  • ✓ Experience thrilling white-water rafting on the Mendoza River.
  • ✓ Indulge in gourmet dining experiences that perfectly pair with local wines.
  • ✓ Discover the vibrant city life of Mendoza, with its plazas, parks, and tree-lined avenues.
🌙
Recommended stay
3 to 5 nights — perfect for wine tours, adventure sports, and city exploration.

When to visit Mendoza?

ARID CONTINENTAL, ENSOLEILLÉ

October to April — warm, sunny weather perfect for outdoor activities and grape harvest.

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In Mendoza — Plan your stay
Accommodation, activities and tips selected for you
🏨 Accommodation
Hotels in Mendoza
Compare the best rates available
via trip.com

What to do in Mendoza?

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

INCONTOURNABLE
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Wine Tasting in Luján de Cuyo
Explore the heart of Mendoza's wine country. Many bodegas offer tours and tastings, showcasing Malbec and other varietals. It's recommended to book your tours in advance, especially during harvest season, and consider hiring a private driver or joining a guided tour for convenience.
⛰️
Trek Aconcagua Provincial Park
Discover the majestic Andes with a day trip to Aconcagua Provincial Park, home to the highest peak in the Americas. Various trails offer stunning views. A short hike to the Laguna de Horcones viewpoint is accessible and offers breathtaking panoramas, costing around 10€ for park entry.
🌳
Stroll General San Martín Park
This vast urban park is an oasis, perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride. Don't miss the Rose Garden, the Artificial Lake, and the Cerro de la Gloria monument for panoramic city views. Entry is free, and bike rentals are available near the park entrance for about 5€ per hour.
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Savor Asado at a Parrilla
Experience Argentina's iconic barbecue by visiting a local parrilla. Enjoy various cuts of grilled meat, often served with chimichurri and local wine. Many restaurants offer an 'all you can eat' asado experience for around 25-35€, a great way to sample different meats.
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Explore Plaza Independencia
The main square of Mendoza, surrounded by other smaller plazas, is a vibrant hub. It features a large fountain, a theater, and often hosts artisan markets. Visit in the late afternoon or evening to see it come alive with locals and street performers. Free to wander.
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Shop at Mercado Central
Dive into local life at the bustling Mercado Central. Find fresh produce, regional cheeses, olives, spices, and empanadas. It's an excellent place to pick up local ingredients or grab a quick, authentic lunch. Open typically from morning to early afternoon, closed Sundays.
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Bike the Cacheuta Dam
For an active escape, rent a bike and cycle along the scenic route to the Cacheuta Dam. The path offers stunning mountain views and leads to thermal baths if you wish to extend your trip. Bike rentals range from 10-20€ for a half-day. Pack water and snacks.
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Discover Calle Arístides Villanueva
This lively street is Mendoza's nightlife and dining hub. Lined with bars, pubs, and restaurants, it's perfect for an evening out. Enjoy a craft beer or a cocktail and soak in the local atmosphere. Most establishments open late, with happy hour deals often available between 18h and 20h.

How long to visit Mendoza?

3 to 7 days

For wine lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, a minimum of 3-4 days allows you to explore the main vineyards and enjoy a scenic hike. If you wish to venture further into the Andes or visit multiple wine regions, allocate 5-7 days for a more comprehensive experience. Consider renting a car for flexibility in vineyard hopping.

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