Things To Do
in Cinco Saltos
Cinco Saltos is a small city in Argentina's Río Negro Province, tucked in the fertile Alto Valle along the Río Negro. Its economy centers on fruit farming—especially apples and pears—giving the town a distinctly agricultural rhythm. The streets are lined with plazas, cafes, and a friendly, down-to-earth vibe that invites easy exploration.
From here you can explore the fruit belt and use Cinco Saltos as a gateway to Patagonia's broader natural wonders.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely walk along the beautiful riverbanks of the Limay River. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere while observing local flora and fauna. Grab a packed breakfast from a local café and savor it while taking in the serene views.
In the afternoon, visit the nearby nature reserve for a guided bird-watching tour, where you can spot various species unique to the region. Take part in a picnic lunch among the scenic landscapes, highlighting regional culinary delights. Cap the day by dipping your toes into the refreshing waters of the river.
As the sun sets, head back to the town center for a casual dinner at a well-known parilla, savoring the flavors of Argentine barbeque. Join the locals for some live music at a nearby venue or a community event, experiencing the vibrant culture. Stroll the charming streets basked in evening lights before settling in for the night.
Visit the Museo de la Memoria to learn about the historical events that shaped the region. Engage with local guides who share personal stories and insights into the culture. Take your time to appreciate the exhibits and reflections on local history.
For lunch, sample traditional dishes at a local eatery before heading to a nearby artisan market. Spend the afternoon exploring the market, where you can interact with local craftsmen and buy unique handmade souvenirs. This hands-on experience gives you insight into the community's artistry.
Join a cooking class in the evening where you learn to prepare regional dishes. Share the meal you created with fellow cooking enthusiasts while enjoying local wine. This immersive experience not only fills your belly but also fosters connections with others.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕️Coffee and pastry | $2-4 |
| 🚖Short taxi ride within town | $5-8 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room per night | $25-60 |
| 🛒Groceries (basic weekly items) | $25-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly locals and relaxed pace
- Gateway to Patagonia and the fruit belt
- Good value for money and accessible day trips
- Walkable town center with river views
- Accessible base for orchard tours and nature walks
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Public transport beyond town is limited
- Fewer hotel options in peak seasons
- Longer trips required to reach major gateways like Bariloche
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Una mesa para dos, por favor" - A table for two, please
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "¿Aceptan tarjetas?" - Do you accept cards?
- "Ayuda, por favor" - Help, please
- "Salud" - Cheers
Places to Visit in Cinco Saltos
Visit one of these nice places.
Long, scenic riverbank with river reflections, especially striking at sunrise and sunset against the valley backdrop.
A leafy city park with tree canopies, statues, and open spaces ideal for candid city life and portrait shots.
Wide rows of trees with fruit-laden branches; harvest season provides warm light and colorful silhouettes.
Central square with historical touches and lively evening scenes; great for architectural and street photography.
Food in Cinco Saltos
Cinco Saltos Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Savory turnovers filled with spiced beef, a staple in bakeries and eateries.
Must-Try!
Traditional Argentine barbecue with an assortment of grilled meats and chimichurri.
Apple pie or tart made with apples from the Alto Valle, often enjoyed warm with coffee.
Slow-roasted Patagonian lamb seasoned with herbs—common in regional restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market offering fresh apples, pears, grapes, and other valley produce, plus bakery stalls and small bites.
Choripán, empanadas hot from the fryer, and fresh fruit cups appear around market areas and on main streets, especially in the evenings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is common in formal settings; friends and family may greet with a kiss on the cheek. Use polite words like por favor (please) and gracias (thank you).
If offered mate, accept graciously or politely decline; sharing a gourd is a social cue, and it’s polite to take the first sip to signal you’re ready to pass it on.
Casual but neat clothing is fine for most venues; dress a bit more formally for nicer restaurants or events.
People are generally relaxed about time; engaging in friendly conversation and asking about family and daily life is common.
Safety
Tipping in Cinco Saltos
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip around 10% is customary if service is not included; small tips for good service in cafés are appreciated but not required.
Cash in Argentine pesos is widely accepted, especially in markets and smaller shops. Cards (Visa, Mastercard) are common in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but carry some cash for markets and rural stops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with long daylight hours; occasional thunderstorms. Expect dry air, outdoor dining, and vibrant orchard activity during harvest season.
Milder temperatures and colorful foliage in the orchards; ideal for scenic drives and photography along the valley.
Cool to cold with crisp mornings; heating is common indoors. Occasional frost; riverfront and parks are peaceful but dress warmly.
Temperatures rise gradually; blossoms and new growth appear in the fruit farms, making for fresh, bright photography and pleasant walks.
Cinco Saltos at Night
Hiking in Cinco Saltos
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A gentle, scenic hike along the river with birdwatching opportunities and valley views.
Moderate hikes offering views of the valley and distant Andes; suitable for a half-day excursion.
Extended flat trail along irrigation canals; great for a long walk or casual multi-mile hike.
Airports
How to reach Cinco Saltos by plane.
The nearest major international gateway with domestic and regional flights; connected by road to Cinco Saltos.
A larger Patagonia hub offering frequent flights to Buenos Aires and other regions; longer drive from Cinco Saltos.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Historically rooted in agriculture, with many multi-generational households and community-driven events.
People who work in fruit harvests during peak seasons; you’ll see temporary housing in nearby rural areas.
Center of the Alto Valle’s ongoing growth; contributes to a lively daytime economy and café culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, with local clubs and casual games common in parks and schools.
Played at schools and clubs; more regional in scope than professional levels.
A traditional rural activity tied to the valley’s farming culture.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cinco Saltos.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer salads, grilled vegetables, and empanadas rellenas de verduras. Ask for dishes without meat or cheese if needed; many places can adapt grill options (vegetarian-friendly) or recommend vegetable-forward plates.