Alemanía, the eerie ghost town in Salta where fewer than ten families reside, is located in the Calchaquí Valley, halfway between Salta City and the wine-making region of Cafayate. Though it may be well off the beaten track, this beautiful mountain town is worth a visit, for its history and unusual setting make it a truly fascinating place.

[caption id="attachment_7049" align="aligncenter" width="540"]Alemanía: the ghost town in Salta where only eight families reside Alemanía: the ghost town in Salta where only eight families reside / source[/caption]  

History of Alemanía

The name Alemanía, which comes from the Spanish word for ‘Germany’, was supposedly given to the town by indigenous tribes as a tribute to the Germans who worked on the railway lines at the time. Alemanía was the last stop on the railway line from Salta, and it was the construction of this line that caused vast quantities of people to migrate there to partake in its expansion to Cafayate, a seemingly fantastic money-maker due to the abundance of work available. However, this soon backfired and the town became a haven of debauchery, whose residents would party constantly and drink to excess, leading it to become labelled as ‘possessed’. When the First World War began, the railway work was interrupted and the revelry soon died down, which caused many people to flee Alemanía and move elsewhere. The railway line was never completed and, gradually, the town became almost entirely abandoned.

Alemanía Today

Now the handful of people that remain in this ghost town in Salta live without phones, electricity or any other modern-day luxuries. Due to their lonely surroundings, they are always eager to welcome visitors and show them around the town while recounting spooky tales and telling them of the drastic changes that have taken place there over the years. As for the old train depot, this has now been converted into an art gallery, where you can purchase a selection of handmade arts and crafts.

[caption id="attachment_1640" align="aligncenter" width="540"]Old Train Station The old train station has now been converted into a gallery / source[/caption]  

Reasons to Visit

Visiting Alemanía is a totally unique experience, as it will undoubtedly be unlike anywhere you've been before. You can explore the 20th century buildings and rail wagons, chat with the few remaining locals and marvel at their incredible artistic creations that you won’t find elsewhere; since they have no radio, television or computers, the residents here dedicate a significant amount of time and effort to producing crafts. You can also go hiking in the stunning surroundings, take a dip in Río de La Conchas (Conchas River) and visit the Alemanía waterfall three hours away.

[caption id="attachment_7050" align="aligncenter" width="540"]The Conchas River runs through Alemanía The Conchas River runs through Alemanía / source[/caption] 

Useful information

Getting there: Alemanía is located on Route 68, at kilometer 107. You will pass it once you enter the Calchaquí Valley if you choose to take the popular scenic route, La Vuelta a los Valles, which runs through Salta and highlights the most beautiful parts of the province.

Accommodation: Where accommodation is concerned, camping is the only option, as there are no hostels or hotels in Alemanía. It is also essential to bring your own supplies, as the nearest place to buy food is a few kilometers away. There is no charge for the camping, and the locals will provide you with fresh water for free, but it is recommended to give them a few pesos, as they have very few other sources of income.

Whereas it may not be for everyone, visiting this ghost town in Salta is ideal for those who like to escape the tourist crowds and get off the beaten track to experience something completely unique.

For more information or to book tours and activities in Salta, visit our website.

Written by: Milly Day For: Argentina4u