The Tren a las Nubes, translating as the Train to the Clouds is one of the most extraordinary railway experiences in the world. Rising to more than 4,200 meters (13,800 feet) above sea level, this iconic train journey in northern Argentina combines breathtaking landscapes, remarkable engineering and rich cultural heritage.
Often listed among the world’s most spectacular train rides, or certainly one of the highest in the world. the Tren a las Nubes is one of the top things to do in Salta province.
What is the Tren a las Nubes?
The Tren a las Nubes is a scenic tourist train that runs through the Andes in the province of Salta Province, Argentina. The journey follows part of the historic C-14 railway line, originally designed to connect Argentina with Chile across the Andes.
Its name comes from the astonishing altitude the train reaches, often traveling above cloud level. Passengers experience panoramic views of mountains, deep ravines, and remote mines making it one of the most visually striking rail journeys on Earth.
What are the origins of Tren a las Nubes
The origins of the Tren a las Nubes date back to the early 20th century. The railway was designed by American engineer Richard Maury, who faced immense challenges due to the extreme terrain, steep gradients, and high altitude.
Rather than using tunnels to cut through mountains, Maury implemented an ingenious system of zigzags, loops, bridges, and viaducts to gradually gain elevation. This innovative approach minimised excavation while allowing trains to climb safely into the Andes.
Unfortunately due to cost, it’s not possible to ride the entire train journey now and many sections of the railway have fallen into disrepair.
How to book tickets for Tren a las Nubes?
It is necessary to book a ticket for the Tren a las Nubes and you will need to bring your passport to book the ticket and to. collect the ticket in person.
Tickets should be booked in advance either at the station or online as they often sell out especially at peak times.
Where does Tren a las Nubes start?
The train to the clouds unfortunately for many, also involves a lot of time on a bus. It’s not the most clear on the tickets unless you speak Spanish, but if you start your journey in Salta then you’ll actually be starting your journey on a bus.
From 6am a number of buses line up outside Salta railway staton (Planta Baja Local 33 Galería Baccaro, A4400 Salta, Argentina.) You will be expected to arrive from 6am until 645am at the very latest and then go inside the ticket office where you will have your passport checked and then are assigned a bus to travel on.
On the bus you’ll have a guide who will inform you of viewpoints you’re going past, and possibly talk a bit too much and a bit loudly. The coaches are fairly modern and comfortable enough, with slightly reclining seats, air conditioning and a chemical toilet – which had the amusing announcement of ‘for liquids only please’.
Keep in mind that you’ll be travelling by bus for 3 hours before even getting on the train (at around midday).
Where does the bus stop on the way?
The buses to San Antonio de las Cobras stop 3 or 4 times at scenic viewpoints. Honestly I didn’t need that many stops, but it does break up the journey a bit.
Most of the stops included a small craft market that locals had set up to greet guests, and you’ll have the chance to buy souvenirs as well as hot drinks and food. We stopped at El Alfarcito for breakfast (which was a dry bread bun and an apple) as well as Vidaducto del Toro which was quite impressive with the low cloud cover.
What to expect on board Tren a las Nubes
When you arrive in San Antonio de las Cobres, you’ll have around half an hour to check out the local markets and take photos before you’re expected to board the train.
Seats are allocated and you will likely be sat next to rather than opposite your travel companion. Seats are comfortable and there are big windows that you can pull all the way down to look out of, meaning it does get quite windy in certain patches of the journey.
There are guides in each carriage giving information in Spanish as well as as Portuguese and English. In my opinion the information was way over the top and loud, it was actually quite distracting to the journey as they didn’t stop talking for most of the way, so it didn’t feel particularly relaxing to watch the views go by.
There are toilets on board and a souvenir shop as well as a medical cart if you’re feeling sick from the altitude. There is an entire dining carriage, which you don’t need to book. They served sandwiches and empanadas, as well as beers and soft drinks. When I went to eat there they had sold out of most things and there wasn’t much in the way of choice, so if you’re someone with any dietary requirements I’d recommend you bring your own food.
The iconic Viaducto La Polvorilla
The highlight of the journey for most people is undoubtedly the Viaducto La Polvorilla. This massive steel viaduct stands 63 meters (207 feet) high and stretches 224 meters (735 feet) across a vast canyon.
At an elevation of 4,220 meters above sea level, the viaduct is the highest point of the trip. When the train slowly crosses it, passengers are treated to jaw-dropping views of the surrounding mountains and sky.
It wasn’t explained very clearly when I made the journey but when the train crosses, one side of passengers will get a better view – therefore on the return crossing you will swap places with the people in the better seats opposite you, so that everyone gets a chance to take photos over the viaduct.
Of course normally it’s not recommended to put your head out of the window of a moving train, but whilst going over the viaduct it’s encouraged as there are no overhangs or posts.
Best Time to Ride the Tren a las Nubes
The Tren a las Nubes operates year round but is dependent on weather conditions.
Best months to visit:
- May to September: Cooler temperatures, clearer skies, and dramatic mountain views
- April and October: Fewer crowds and pleasant weather
Summer months (December to March) often bring heavy rains, which can affect operations and visibility. I went in January and whilst the train journey itself had good weather, due to the heavy rains one of the stops on the way back to Salta by bus was cancelled.
Altitude considerations and health tips
The journey reaches extreme altitudes and travellers should be mindful of altitude sickness. Both the coaches and train had medical staff with oxygen if it was required. Some people, especially the elderly and unfit did seem to struggle during the journey.
Helpful tips include:
- Stay hydrated – drink water continuously throughout the journey.
- Eat lightly before and during the trip
- Avoid alcohol the night before
- Walk slowly at high elevations
- Consider coca tea, a traditional Andean remedy. You’ll be able to buy some coca and honey sweets when you get to San Antonio de las Cobras
Practical Information for Travellers
- Location: Salta Province, Argentina
- Duration: Full-day excursion
- Highest point: 4,220m (13,845 feet)
- Languages: Spanish (some English support available)
- Tickets: Should be booked in advance, especially during peak season from either the station itself or online.
- Take your passport, water, a camera, altitude tablets, a waterproof jacket, sunglasses and wear layers as weather in changeable.
Book tickets here.
