Cerro San Bernardo

Information

It is a hill located in the city of Salta, approximately 1 or 2 km away from the city centre.

It belongs to the Yungas ecoregion and is a mountain always covered with vegetation. In the different places where it can be accessed, it is common to observe some bird species of interest such as the black-backed grosbeak (Pheucticus aureoventris) and the stripe-crowned sparrow (Arremon dorbignii).

Its summit is 1471 metres above sea level. It has a cross, artificial waterfalls, a cafe and toilets. It has a vantage point with an excellent view of the city some 284 metres below and of the Lerma Valley. This summit can be reached from the base of the hill in three different ways:
- Walking: you can go up a stone staircase, which is a Way of the Cross where you can see the stations of it. Bear in mind that it is an uphill climb, since it goes from the base to the top of the hill, which means that it is only suitable for people in good physical condition. The beginning of the trail is located behind the monument to General Martín Miguel de Güemes, next to the Museo de Antropología (Museum of Anthropology). A good option is to take the cable car ascent, and the descent walking down this stairway.
- Car: there is an paved road that goes up the hill, and there is a car park at the top.
- Cable car: it is one of the great attractions of the city. Its base and entrance is in the San Martín Park, in front of its lake and very close to the city centre. Cars come and go permanently, and leave at the station at the top of the hill. The ride takes about 10 to 15 minutes (one way), and on the way there are breathtaking views of the mountain and the city.