In Capital Department, you can explore different sides of the area: in San Lorenzo, protected landscapes and birdlife take center stage; in the city of Salta, viewpoints, parks and museums complement the natural experience with urban cultural history.
San Lorenzo: Birdlife and Guided Nature Experiences
Several zones in San Lorenzo are classified as AICAS, areas of special interest for bird conservation. More than 230 bird species have been recorded in San Lorenzo, particularly in the Reserva Privada El Huaico; species counts may change over time. This makes birdwatching a natural focus for exploring the area.
The Reserva Natural del Huaico offers guided hikes of about four hours, led by experts. Visitors can observe and identify hundreds of bird species along the way. The approximate duration gives you a specific time frame for this nature experience.
Guided trekking tours also reveal different perspectives on the landscape: they pass through jungle and hills, offer panoramic views, and provide insights into local flora and fauna. Visitors interested in handicrafts can arrange visits to workshops in San Lorenzo. The focus is on unique pieces, especially those associated with rural or gaucho life. Arrange a visit in advance.
Cycling Route and Practical Information
The Circuito con Bicicletas eléctricas San Lorenzo - Las Costas passes through San Lorenzo, leads to Finca Las Costas and then continues to the Quebrada de San Lorenzo. The route therefore connects several named places and landscape features. Avenida Juan Carlos Dávalos, also called “Camino a la Quebrada,” also leads to the Quebrada de San Lorenzo. The terminus of public transport from the city of Salta is located on this road. As traffic routes may change, check the connection before setting out.
Views and a Park in the City of Salta
Cerro San Bernardo is an urban nature reserve offering panoramic views across the entire Valle de Lerma. You can reach the summit by cable car, via a scenic path or by stairs. The TelefĂ©rico San Bernardo is located in Parque San MartĂn; the ride to the summit takes ten minutes. Another cable car, the TelefĂ©rico Ala Delta, connects the summit of Cerro San Bernardo with Cerro Ala Delta. The panoramic route, more than a kilometer long, passes above the city and its surrounding hills.
Parque San MartĂn also has an artificial lake where visitors can rent boats. Performances by local artists in different disciplines take place at the “Cuchi LeguizamĂłn” amphitheater. This means nature, a boat ride on the lake and a venue for local arts are all found in the same park.
City History and Museums
Salta was founded on April 16, 1582. The historic center brings together notable examples of architectural heritage. There is a pedestrian area around Plaza 9 de Julio and along the Corredor de la Fe. These places provide a tangible setting for the city’s history before you explore individual museums.
The Museo HistĂłrico del Norte is housed in the Cabildo de Salta. The Cabildo was declared a National Historic Monument in 1937 and has been home to the museum since 1949. Its collections include archaeology and sacred art sections, as well as exhibitions about General MartĂn Miguel de GĂĽemes and Manuel Belgrano.
The Museo de ArqueologĂa de Alta Montaña (MAAM) preserves and presents the archaeological find discovered at the Llullaillaco volcano in 1999: three Inca children and their grave goods. The children were sacrificed more than 500 years ago as part of the “Capacocha” ceremony. The MAAM is housed in a renovated 19th-century historic building and features permanent and temporary exhibitions.
The Museo GĂĽemes offers another perspective on history. Across ten galleries, a variety of theatrical and audiovisual elements tell the story of General MartĂn Miguel de GĂĽemes and the struggle for independence.
Discover more destinations: Salta, Rivadavia Department, Cachi Department, Orán Department, Rosario De La Frontera Department, Libertador General San MartĂn Department, Rosario De Lerma Department, Anta Department
Back to the main travel overview: Salta.
