Written by David Garcia, Keith Roberts, Maria Gaulto
06/08/2025
João Saplak, Pexels
Salto, Uruguay's second-largest city, is known for its natural thermal hot springs, offering a relaxing experience with mineral-rich waters. Beyond its renowned baths, it provides opportunities to explore historical sites, immerse oneself in local culture, and enjoy various outdoor activities along the Uruguay River.
For those looking to socialise, the city center, particularly around Calle Uruguay, offers a selection of cafes, bars, and clubs. Plaza Artigas serves as a lively main square, and hostels in the Centro area are known for their social atmosphere, making it easy to connect with other travellers. Parque Solari provides a relaxed setting for unwinding.
Top 6 Things to do in Salto
Activities in Salto primarily revolve around rejuvenating thermal experiences, exploring historical and cultural landmarks, and enjoying the natural riverside environment.
1. Relax at Termas del Daymán
Visitors can immerse themselves in the mineral-rich thermal waters of Termas del Daymán, a municipal complex featuring various pools with temperatures ranging from 38°C to 43°C (100°F to 110°F). The park offers saunas, hydrotherapy options, and specific areas for children, providing a family-friendly environment for unwinding. It is a popular destination, particularly during the cooler months, for those seeking the waters' therapeutic properties. Facilities for day camping, including showers and barbecue areas, are also available for public use.
Cost: General admission for adults is approximately $3.60 USD. Discounts may apply for retirees, with entry costing under $2 USD. Staying at a nearby hotel can reduce the admission fee to around $2.40 USD.
Transport: Termas del Daymán is located about 9-10.6 km from Salto city center. Visitors can take a public bus from Terminal Salto Shopping, which costs approximately $1 USD and takes about 20-25 minutes, with services operating twice daily. City buses also run hourly from central locations like Brasil Street. A taxi ride typically costs between $9 and $12 USD and takes about 12 minutes.
2. Explore the Salto Grande Dam
The Salto Grande Dam is an impressive hydroelectric power plant located on the Uruguay River, marking the border between Uruguay and Argentina. Visitors can embark on a free guided tour to learn about this significant engineering achievement, which includes a video presentation, an informative talk, and a shuttle tour of the facilities. The tour offers viewpoints to observe the dam's scale and the international bridge, showcasing its role in regional integration and energy production.
Cost: The guided tour to the Salto Grande Dam facilities is free of charge.
Transport: The dam is situated approximately 13 km north of Salto. Public transport options, including a tourist bus route from Terminal Salto Shopping, facilitate access to the dam. A taxi ride from the city center would have an estimated cost similar to the thermal baths, around $9-$12 USD.
3. Visit the Horacio Quiroga Museum
Located in what was once the childhood home of renowned Uruguayan writer Horacio Quiroga, this municipal museum offers insight into his life and works. The museum houses a collection of his personal items, including first editions of his famous books, correspondence, photographs, and even his bicycle. A unique feature is the wooden carving containing Quiroga's ashes, and there is also a dedicated room to the poet Marosa Di Giorgio.
Cost: Entry to the Horacio Quiroga Museum is free.
Transport: The museum is located on Av. Viera y Maciel, within Salto city. It is generally accessible by walking from the city center or via local bus services, with no specific transport costs typically incurred beyond standard city fares.
4. Wander through Plaza Artigas
Plaza Artigas serves as the vibrant main square of Salto, dedicated to Uruguay's national hero, General José Gervasio Artigas. It is a popular spot for both locals and visitors to relax amidst statues and shading palm trees. The plaza frequently hosts events or markets, offering an authentic glimpse into local life and providing a central point for starting exploration of the city.
Cost: Visiting Plaza Artigas is free.
Transport: Plaza Artigas is centrally located in Salto and is easily accessible on foot from most city accommodations.
5. Experience Teatro Larrañaga
Teatro Larrañaga is a historic theater in Salto, dating back to the late 19th century. Its architecture reflects the region's cultural heritage, making it a noteworthy stop for those interested in history and design. Visitors may attend local performances or simply appreciate the building's aesthetic and cultural significance, which showcases the enduring importance of drama to the local community.
Cost: Admission for performances varies; observing the exterior and interior architecture is free.
Transport: The theater is located in the city center, within walking distance of many central accommodations.
6. Enjoy Parque Solari
Parque Solari is a welcoming urban forest, providing a serene escape within Salto. It features walking trails for leisurely strolls, playgrounds for families, and designated barbecue areas. This park offers a peaceful green space ideal for relaxation and enjoying the outdoors, with some sources also mentioning a reptile zoo and an outdoor theater.
Cost: Entry to Parque Solari is free.
Transport: Parque Solari is situated within Salto city and can be reached by local bus services or a short taxi ride from the city center.
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