The Train to the Clouds (Tren a las Nubes) is a high-altitude heritage railway in Salta Province, northwest Argentina, that climbs the Andes to the La Polvorilla Viaduct at roughly 4,220 m (13,845 ft) above sea level. The emblematic curved steel viaduct — about 224 m long and 63 m high — makes this one of the highest railway routes in the world; it runs on the Belgrano Railway's C-14 line, opened in 1948 and famous for scaling steep grades with zigzags and spirals rather than a rack system. Today it operates as a full-day excursion: travelers leave Salta by bus through the Quebrada del Toro gorge, board the train at San Antonio de los Cobres, and ride out to cross the viaduct before returning. As of 2026 it typically runs on select days during an April-to-November season, and popular winter dates sell out, so booking ahead is essential.
Crossing the La Polvorilla Viaduct — the iconic curved bridge at about 4,220 m, taken slowly for the full effect
The Quebrada del Toro gorge and the multicolored rock strata layering the Andean mountainsides on the climb
The stop at Santa Rosa de Tastil, a major pre-Inca archaeological site with a small museum
San Antonio de los Cobres, a high Puna town (around 3,770 m) with strong living Indigenous Andean culture
The vast, silent Altiplano around the viaduct — artisan stalls and folk music, with llamas and vicuñas on open highland plains
Good to know
SafetyYou pass above 4,200 m, where altitude sickness (soroche) can bring headache, nausea, or breathlessness. The train carries oxygen and a nurse, but avoid heavy meals and alcohol beforehand, drink water often, and move slowly; local coca-leaf tea is commonly used to ease symptoms.
SafetyIt is cold with a large temperature swing even in warmer months, and UV at this altitude is intense. Bring warm layers, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, and consider motion-sickness tablets for the long, winding bus roads.
SeasonThe service generally runs only from about April to November and pauses during the December–March rainy season, with days and times changing by season. Always confirm current operating days and departure times on the official site before you go.
RulesDemand is high and dates sell out, especially in the July winter-holiday peak, so book well in advance. Fares differ for foreign and resident passengers, so carry your passport, and check whether your ticket is the combined bus-plus-train package.
MannersIndigenous artisans sell handmade goods at the viaduct and along the way. Carry small amounts of cash in Argentine pesos, avoid aggressive haggling, and ask before photographing people or their llamas.
CautionBeware unofficial resale and inflated prices; buy through the official operator (trenalasnubes.com.ar) or an authorized agency. Watch for short-changing or vague 'extra' fees.
Practical info
Using Salta city as your base, you leave early by bus and board the train at San Antonio de los Cobres station to ride out and back across the La Polvorilla Viaduct (about 4,220 m), with the full round trip taking roughly 13–16 hours. Operating months and days, fares (broadly around USD 150–200), and departure times vary considerably, so confirm the latest details with the official website or an authorized agency.
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