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Salto is a charming riverside city for travelers looking to experience a slower pace of life or hot springs in South America.
This post covers Salto, when to visit, getting around, where to stay, safety, and attractions. We’ll also delve into considerations for those seeking to remain long-term, like living costs and healthcare.
Overview
Salto is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors like Montevideo or Colonia del Sacramento, but it’s a destination rich in natural beauty, history, waterparks, and outdoor fun.
One of the most compelling reasons to visit Salto is its renowned hot springs, or “termas.” The nearby Termas del Daymán and Termas de Arapey attract visitors from around Uruguay and beyond. These thermal baths are famous for their soothing waters and therapeutic properties, making them an ideal spot for rest and rejuvenation.
Salto is a city with a rich historical background. As you stroll through its streets, you’ll notice a mix of colonial and modern architecture that reflects the city’s past. One of the highlights is the Museo del Hombre y la Tecnología, a museum showcasing the area’s history, particularly its industrial and agricultural roots. The city played a crucial role in Uruguay’s early economic development, and learning about this history adds depth to your visit.
If you’re a nature lover, the area around Salto offers plenty to explore. The picturesque surroundings, including the rolling hills and the riverfront, are perfect for outdoor activities. A visit to the Salto Grande Dam, a natural border with Argentina, offers an impressive view of the river and the surrounding landscape. There are also parks and nature reserves in the area where you can go hiking, birdwatching, or enjoy the serenity of the countryside.
Food lovers will also find Salto a delight, with various local flavors. Uruguay is famous for its beef, and Salto’s parrillas (steak houses) won’t disappoint. Pair a juicy steak with a glass of Tannat, Uruguay’s signature wine, for an authentic taste of the region. From charming local markets to laid-back restaurants, dining in Salto is an experience that reflects the warmth and hospitality of the people.
Salto
- Department: Salto
- Population: 135,000
- Official language(s): Spanish
- Currency: Uruguayan peso ($U, UYU)
- Climate: Cfa (humid subtropical)
- Safe to visit: Yes
- Cost of living: Moderate to high
When to Visit
The best time to visit Salto depends on what you want to experience. Generally, the ideal months for a visit are fall (March to May) and spring (September to November) when the weather is mild and outdoor activities are pleasant.
Fall (March to May): Temperatures are comfortable, ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), making it perfect for exploring the city and enjoying the hot springs without the intense summer heat. It’s also less crowded, ideal if you prefer a quieter atmosphere.
Spring (September to November): Like fall, spring weather is mild and refreshing. It’s a beautiful time to enjoy Salto’s parks, gardens, and riverside areas as everything blooms, making outdoor activities more enjoyable.
Winter (June to August): Winter in Salto is cooler, with temperatures between 7°C and 17°C (45°F to 63°F). While it may be too chilly for some outdoor adventures, it’s the perfect time to enjoy the hot springs, which feel even more soothing in the colder weather. This season is quieter with fewer tourists, making it a great time to enjoy the city’s attractions in peace.
Summer (December to February): Summer is the hottest time, with temperatures often climbing above 30°C (86°F). While the heat can be intense, it’s a popular time for locals to visit the thermal baths and the riverfront. If you don’t mind the warmth and want to enjoy the livelier atmosphere, this could be an exciting time to visit.
Getting Around
Nueva Hesperides International Airport (STY) is Salto’s main airport. The LATAM Group, Avianca, COPA, and Aerolineas Argentinas support international flights into Uruguay. Domestic airlines are limited.
Rental car options include Thrifty and Europcar. Consider getting an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) to drive in Uruguay. It translates your home license, making it understandable to local authorities. That can be helpful in Uruguay, where English is not widely spoken.
Salto’s main bus terminal is at Avenida Blandengues. To take local buses, you may need a transit pass.
Uber, Viatik, and taxis are available in Salto.
Where to Stay
The best neighborhoods to stay in Salto are Termas del Daymán for easy access to the city’s famous hot springs and Downtown Salto, where you’ll find most of the city’s restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions, making it convenient for sightseeing. For a quieter, local experience, consider Barrio La Amarilla, a residential area with parks and proximity to the river.
Salto offers various accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to affordable hotels.
Airbnb is available in Salto. For long-term stays, you can book one to three months through the platform and then deal with the host privately. Many homeowners and travelers prefer private arrangements to avoid Airbnb’s high fees. You can also search Vrbo for vacation rentals and private homes.
Things to Do
The top things to do in Salto include:
Plaza Artigas is the main plaza in Salto. Watch people, relax, and see local life unfold.
Termas del Daymán: Visit the area’s most popular thermal springs, known for their soothing hot waters and wellness treatments. There are also waterparks nearby.
Termas de Arapey: Another top thermal resort offering a peaceful, scenic retreat surrounded by nature.
Salto Grande Dam: Explore this impressive hydroelectric dam, which serves as a border with Argentina and offers excellent views of the Uruguay River.
Museums: Visit one of the region’s many museums to learn about its industrial, agricultural, art, and cultural history.
Beaches: Sunbath on one of many beaches in Salto and Concordia (Argentina).
Parque Harriague: Enjoy a leisurely stroll through this large, scenic park, which is perfect for picnics, outdoor activities, and relaxation.
San Juan Bautista Cathedral: This historic 19th-century church features beautiful architecture and is centrally located in downtown Salto.
Salto’s Riverside Walk: Take a walk or bike ride along the scenic riverside promenade, offering beautiful river views, parks, and outdoor art displays.
Concordia, Argentina: Hop across the Uruguay River to explore the Argentines’ way of life.
Discover more things to do, attractions, and tours in Salto and surrounding areas.
Shopping and Gyms
The best shopping malls in Salto are Salto Shopping and Paseo de Compras.
Salto’s best gyms include Golden Gym, Action, and Sport Life.
The best supermarkets in Salto are Ta-Ta, El Revoltijo, and Supermercados Oeste.
Safety and Crime
Salto is safe to visit. The thermal resort areas and downtown Salto are typically safe for tourists but always exercise common sense when traveling. Overall, Salto is known for its relaxed atmosphere; most visitors have a trouble-free experience.
Consult your government’s travel advisories for more details.
Cost of Living
Salto’s living costs are moderate to high, like other Uruguayan cities.
Dallas, Texas, is a good representation of the average cost of living in the U.S.; it is neither extremely expensive like New York or San Francisco nor particularly cheap like Mississippi or Arkansas.
Salto’s living costs are roughly 45% lower than Dallas’s.
- Rent prices in Salto are 80% lower than in Dallas, TX.
- Restaurant prices in Salto are 28% lower than in Dallas, TX.
- Groceries prices in Salto are 30% lower than in Dallas, TX.
Healthcare
Uruguay’s healthcare system includes public and private hospitals (sanatorios). Public hospitals suffer from supply shortages, overcrowding, and long wait times. Private hospitals charge a premium and provide better care, equipment, and services.
The best hospitals and medical centers in Salto include Sanatorio Uruguay, Sanatorio Panamericano, and Sanatorio Salto. Pharmacies include independents and chains, like San Roque and Farmshop.
Health insurance providers are available nationally and locally. They operate in Spanish, so you might consider getting insurance from a company that operates globally, like SafetyWing and WorldTrips. That will make policy and claim management much easier should a medical concern or incident arise.
Real Estate
Visit InfoCasas, REMAX Uruguay, and Century21 Uruguay for Uruguayan real estate and rentals.
Nearby Cities
- Paysandú
- Artigas
- Tacuarembó
- Rivera
- Concordia (Argentina)
Updated: October 17, 2024