San Antonio de los Cobres
Salta
San Antonio de los Cobres is a small town located in northwestern Argentina, serving as the capital of the Los Andes Department in Salta Province. Situated at approximately 3,775 meters (12,385 feet) above sea level, it is one of the highest towns in Argentina. Founded in 1641, the town developed around mining activities, particularly copper extraction from the nearby Sierra de Cobre. The region's harsh arid climate and scarce water resources have shaped both its environment and inhabitants. Remarkably, the local population has evolved a genetic mutation allowing them to tolerate high arsenic levels naturally present in the environment, a unique adaptation documented in human history. San Antonio de los Cobres is also an important stop on the famous Tren a las Nubes (Train to the Clouds) rail line, which features the impressive La Polvorilla viaduct nearby. The town's economy revolves around mining and traditional weaving using llama wool. Its strategic location in the Andes desert connects it historically and culturally to indigenous communities and trade routes crossing the Puna de Atacama. Visitors can explore the town’s mining heritage, experience the dramatic high-altitude landscape, and access nearby archaeological sites such as the ruins of Tastil.
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Consejo: The best time to visit San Antonio de los Cobres is during the milder summer months when temperatures are more comfortable and rainfall is minimal. Visitors should acclimate to the high altitude gradually to avoid altitude sickness. Purchasing tickets for the Tren a las Nubes in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. Local markets offer traditional llama wool textiles, and some discounts may be available for groups or with early bookings. Due to the town's remote location and limited water resources, bringing adequate hydration and sun protection is advised.
Datos interesantes
- •San Antonio de los Cobres sits at about 3,775 meters above sea level, making it one of Argentina's highest towns.
- •The local population has a unique genetic mutation allowing them to metabolize arsenic safely, an unprecedented human adaptation to a toxic chemical.
- •The town is a stop on the Tren a las Nubes, one of the highest railways in the world, famous for the La Polvorilla viaduct.
- •The nearby ruins of Tastil represent an ancient pre-Columbian city, highlighting the region's rich indigenous history.
- •The town's name honors Saint Anthony, the protector of mules and travelers, reflecting its historical role in trade and transport.
Historia
San Antonio de los Cobres was founded in 1641 as a settlement to support mining activities in the region, particularly copper extraction from the nearby Sierra de Cobre.
Originally inhabited by indigenous Atacameño peoples for approximately 4,000 years, it later became a strategic corridor between the Pacific Ocean and the Chaco plains.
The town served as a key passage during the Argentine War of Independence and subsequent regional conflicts.
In 1900, it became the capital of the Gobernación de los Andes, later integrated into Salta Province in 1943.
The construction of the Ferrocarril General Belgrano railway, including the famous Tren a las Nubes, further cemented its importance as a transport and economic hub in the high Andes.
Guía del lugar
La Polvorilla Viaduct1948
A remarkable railway bridge on the Tren a las Nubes line, known for its great height and unique ascending curved track with banked rails. It is an engineering marvel and a major tourist attraction near the town.
Ruins of Tastilcirca 12th century
Ancient pre-Columbian archaeological site located near San Antonio de los Cobres, showcasing the remains of a significant indigenous city that thrived in the region.
