High in the rugged Andes of northern Argentina, the Tren a las Nubes (Train to the Clouds) is one of the most thrilling rail journeys in the world. Though the train itself departs from San Antonio de los Cobres, your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Salta, ascending through dramatic landscapes to this high-altitude town. From there, you board the iconic train, which takes you on an unforgettable ride to the Polvorilla Viaduct, an engineering marvel standing 4,220 meters (13,850 feet) above sea level. As part of the Buenos Aires to Lima: High Andes & Machu Picchu tour, this spectacular journey allows you to experience some of the highest and most remote landscapes in South America. From the breathtaking views to cultural insights, this day trip from Salta promises a truly unforgettable adventure.
Your adventure starts in the beautiful city of Salta, located in the Lerma Valley. Known for its colonial architecture, lively atmosphere, and rich cultural history, Salta is the perfect place to begin your high-altitude journey. Before boarding the bus to San Antonio de los Cobres, you might want to explore the city and consider staying at one of these top accommodations:
Once you’ve enjoyed a good night’s rest, the real adventure begins. After boarding a bus in Salta, the journey heads towards the small town of San Antonio de los Cobres, passing through awe-inspiring landscapes.
Though the Tren a las Nubes now begins with a bus journey, the drive from Salta to San Antonio de los Cobres is an experience in itself. The route winds through the Quebrada del Toro, a dramatic gorge carved by the Toro River, where towering cliffs and rugged mountains dominate the view. As you ascend into the Andes, the landscape gradually transforms from fertile valleys to the stark beauty of the altiplano.
The journey offers countless opportunities to spot unique wildlife, such as the Andean condor, soaring high above the valleys. You’ll also pass by large cacti known as Cardón, which grow at a slow rate of two centimeters per year but can reach up to 10 meters (33 feet) tall. These giant sentinels, scattered across the rugged terrain, provide an iconic image of the Andean highlands.
As you approach San Antonio de los Cobres, you’ll notice the deep purple hue of the soil—this striking color is due to the oxidation of minerals like iron and manganese, creating an almost surreal backdrop.
After the scenic bus ride, you’ll arrive in the remote highland town of San Antonio de los Cobres, sitting at 3,775 meters (12,385 feet) above sea level. Here, you’ll board the famous blue train for the highlight of your journey: the ride to the Polvorilla Viaduct.
As the train departs from San Antonio de los Cobres, it gently winds through the Puna region, a vast high-altitude plateau. The Tren a las Nubes offers panoramic windows, giving travelers unobstructed views of the arid landscape. The surrounding mountains, with their multicolored slopes, create a stunning contrast against the endless blue sky.
The most breathtaking moment of the journey arrives when the train approaches the Polvorilla Viaduct, an iconic feat of engineering that spans a deep ravine. The viaduct stretches 223 meters (732 feet) in length and rises 63 meters (207 feet) above the ground, standing proudly as one of the highest railway bridges in the world. As the train crosses this dizzying height at 4,220 meters above sea level, you’ll feel like you’re truly riding through the clouds.
The views from the viaduct are nothing short of spectacular, with the jagged peaks of the Andes and the expansive Puna desert stretching as far as the eye can see. This is the perfect moment to snap some unforgettable photos and take in the sheer scale and beauty of the surroundings.
At these extreme altitudes, it’s important to be mindful of altitude sickness, especially given the fast ascent from Salta to San Antonio de los Cobres. The altitude difference is primarily tackled during the bus ride, which can cause symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, or shortness of breath due to the rapid change in elevation. Once aboard the Tren a las Nubes, the train journey itself doesn’t involve significant altitude changes, allowing passengers to better acclimatize. To ensure comfort, the train is equipped with oxygen onboard, and there is a nurse available to assist with any health concerns. The guides recommend drinking plenty of water, moving slowly, and taking deep breaths to ease the transition. The captivating views from the train help make the altitude more manageable, keeping your attention focused on the stunning scenery rather than any discomfort.
After crossing the viaduct, the train returns to San Antonio de los Cobres, where you’ll have time to explore the town and enjoy a traditional Andean lunch. The local cuisine offers a unique opportunity to sample regional flavors, including llama meat—a specialty of the area. Served as a stew, sirloin, or crispy milanesa, llama dishes provide a hearty and delicious taste of the Andean highlands. Other local favorites include humitas (a corn-based dish) and the famous empanadas salteñas, which are a must-try for any visitor.
The return journey to Salta by bus offers yet another chance to take in the remarkable scenery of the Andes. Passing back through the Quebrada del Toro and descending into the Lerma Valley, you’ll witness the landscape once again transform from rugged mountains to green valleys. The contrast between these diverse environments makes the entire journey even more memorable.
By the time you return to Salta, you’ll have experienced one of Argentina’s most iconic travel experiences—riding the Tren a las Nubes is truly a journey to the clouds and beyond.
The Tren a las Nubes is just one of the unforgettable experiences featured on the Buenos Aires to Lima: High Andes & Machu Picchu tour. This grand adventure spans multiple countries, taking travelers from Argentina’s bustling capital, through the breathtaking highlands of Chile and Bolivia, and finally to the world-renowned citadel of Machu Picchu in Peru. Along the way, you’ll discover some of South America’s most iconic destinations, including the Uyuni Salt Flats, Lake Titicaca, and the historic city of Cusco.
Whether you’re drawn by the thrill of riding one of the highest trains in the world or the chance to explore remote and spectacular landscapes, the Tren a las Nubes is an essential part of this extraordinary journey.
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