Where to Buy Train to the Clouds Tickets: Top Booking Locations
Are you planning a trip to the Andes? Knowing where to buy Train to the Clouds tickets is the first step. This high-altitude railway is one of the world's most famous attractions. It takes you across the stunning landscapes of northern Argentina. Tickets sell out very fast during the peak season. You should plan your purchase well in advance to avoid disappointment. This guide highlights the best spots in Salta to secure your seat today.
Best Ways to Purchase Your Tickets
You can buy tickets through several official and private channels. Most travelers prefer booking online to save time. This ensures you get a seat on your preferred date. Physical offices are also available if you prefer face-to-face service. You can pay with cash or credit cards at these locations.
The Train to the Clouds tickets often include a bus portion. This is because the train starts high up in the mountains. This makes the journey more comfortable and organized for visitors. You can choose different packages based on your personal travel budget.
Check the Salta Turismo site for seasonal updates. They provide the latest info on schedules and local weather changes. Always keep your passport ready when making a purchase. You will need it to register your personal details correctly.
9 Top Places Where to Buy Train to the Clouds Tickets
Finding the right place to buy your tickets makes your trip easier. Here are nine reliable options in and around Salta.
- Quick picks: Best overall is the official website for convenience. Best for help is the Caseros street office. Best last-minute is the airport desk.
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Name: Tren a las Nubes Official Website
Type: Online booking
Why go: It is the most reliable way to secure seats early.
Best for: International travelers.
Where: Global access online.
Time: 10 minutes.
Cost: Standard official rates.
Getting there: Use any internet browser.
Tip: Print your confirmation or save the PDF on your phone. -
Name: Central Sales Office (Calle Caseros)
Type: Physical office
Why go: You can ask staff specific questions about the route.
Best for: Those already in downtown Salta.
Where: Caseros 441, Salta City.
Time: 20-30 minutes.
Cost: Official rates (AR$ or USD equivalents).
Getting there: Walk from Plaza 9 de Julio.
Tip: Visit during morning hours to avoid long queues. -
Name: Salta Airport Tourism Desk
Type: Information kiosk
Why go: You can book as soon as you land in the city.
Best for: Short-stay visitors.
Where: Martin Miguel de Güemes International Airport.
Time: 15 minutes.
Cost: Standard pricing.
Getting there: Located in the arrivals terminal.
Tip: Ask for a city map while you are there. -
Name: San Antonio de los Cobres Station
Type: On-site ticket office
Why go: This is for travelers who only want the train-only segment.
Best for: Independent drivers who reach the mountains themselves.
Where: San Antonio de los Cobres.
Time: 10 minutes.
Cost: Lower for the train-only portion.
Getting there: A 3-hour drive from Salta city.
Tip: Always check if how much are Train to the Clouds tickets for this segment varies seasonally. -
Name: Plaza 9 de Julio Authorized Agencies
Type: Travel agency
Why go: They offer combined tours with other local sights.
Best for: People booking multiple excursions.
Where: Surrounding the main city square.
Time: 30 minutes.
Cost: May include booking fees.
Getting there: Easily reachable by foot in center.
Tip: Check for a valid tourism license in the window. -
Name: Argentina Travel Digital Portal
Type: Official tourism site
Why go: This Argentina Travel site connects you to vetted operators.
Best for: Researching full-day package deals.
Where: Online.
Time: 15 minutes.
Cost: Competitive package rates.
Getting there: Access via web.
Tip: Look for the "Bus-Train-Bus" option for better value. -
Name: Hotel Concierge Desks
Type: In-house booking
Why go: It is the most convenient way if you are staying in a major hotel.
Best for: Families and luxury travelers.
Where: Locations like Hotel Alejandro I or Sheraton Salta.
Time: 10 minutes.
Cost: Standard or slightly higher due to service.
Getting there: Just walk to the lobby.
Tip: Ask your hotel to arrange the station transfer too. -
Name: Calle Alberdi Information Center
Type: Local tourism hub
Why go: It provides a mix of public and private booking options.
Best for: Budget-conscious travelers comparing prices.
Where: Calle Alberdi, Salta.
Time: 20 minutes.
Cost: Official prices.
Getting there: Short walk from the main pedestrian streets.
Tip: Grab a free brochure about the high-altitude route. -
Name: Licensed Online Tour Platforms
Type: Global booking sites
Why go: Good for reading reviews from other tourists before buying.
Best for: Trusting established global brands.
Where: Online (Viator, GetYourGuide).
Time: 10 minutes.
Cost: Usually matches official rates plus small fees.
Getting there: Use your smartphone or laptop.
Tip: Ensure the tour includes the Polvorilla Viaduct.
What to Know Before You Book
The journey reaches very high altitudes. Booking your tickets is just the first step. You should spend a day in Salta to adjust to the elevation. Many people ask is the Train to the Clouds worth it? The answer is usually a loud yes for the views alone.
Remember to check the weather forecast for the Puna region. Mountains can be much colder than the city. Pack a warm jacket even in the summer months. Most tickets include breakfast and snacks on the bus. However, you should bring extra water to stay hydrated.
Ticketing for 2026 often opens several months in advance. Digital tickets are widely accepted now. You do not always need to print them. Just show the QR code on your mobile device at the station. This makes the boarding process very smooth and fast.
If you enjoy day trips, explore top attractions near Salta as well. This will make your stay in northern Argentina more complete. Plan your train trip for the middle of your visit. This gives you time to rest before it starts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy Train to the Clouds tickets at the station?
Yes, you can buy them at the San Antonio de los Cobres station. however, this is risky as seats often sell out months ahead. It is much better to buy them online or at the Salta city office before you travel to the mountains.
What is the best time to book tickets online?
You should book at least 2 to 3 months in advance. During the peak summer and winter holidays, seats disappear very quickly. Booking early ensures you get the "Bus-Train-Bus" package which is the most popular way to experience the trip.
Do I need a passport to buy my tickets?
Yes, you must provide a valid passport or DNI. The ticket is personal and non-transferable. You will also need to show your ID when boarding the bus or the train. Make sure the name on the ticket matches your ID exactly.
Securing your seats for this legendary ride is simple if you plan ahead. Now you know where to buy Train to the Clouds tickets via official offices or handy online sites. Book early to ensure you don't miss the breathtaking Polvorilla Viaduct. For more help planning your trip, check out our guide on Train to the Clouds details and local highlights. Have a safe journey into the sky!
Official resources
Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.
- Salta Turismo — unverified
- Municipalidad de Salta — unverified
- Argentina Travel — unverified
- UNESCO World Heritage Centre — unverified
- Lonely Planet Salta — unverified
