Adventure in the Great Salt Flats in the White Desert
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Adventure in the Great Salt Flats in the White Desert

Active
12h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Salinas Grandes & Purmamarca: A journey to the heart of the white desert

Explore the surreal beauty of the Salinas Grandes, the vast salt desert in Jujuy, on this full-day tour. Accompanied by an expert local guide, you will discover stunning landscapes and the cultural importance of salt mining for Andean communities.

The trip is a constant visual adventure: marvel at the 7 Colors Hill in Purmamarca, walk the meandering ascent of the Lipan Hill to 4,170 meters above sea level and walk on the endless white salt crust. Along the way, get ready to capture amazing photos of llamas and vicuñas in their natural habitat.

This includes:

Daily departures : 7 : 00 AM (Duration : 12 hs).

Comfort : Door-to-door pickup at your accommodation.

Experience : Professional guide in local history and traditions.

Nature : Wildlife sighting and the best panoramic points.

Available options

Adventure in the Great Salt Flats in the White Desert

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation
Entrance fee
Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

Salinas Grandes : A Surreal Landscape in Jujuy, Argentina

Discover Salinas Grandes, a vast white desert of over 200 km2 in Jujuy, Argentina, known as the “White Sea” of South America. This ethereal landscape, formed by salt crystals, creates unique optical illusions in the sunlight and offers an almost mystical experience.

The tour includes the ascent of Lipan Hill and a stop in Purmamarca to admire the iconic Cerro de los Siete Colores. With door-to-door service and local guide, you can walk on salt, capture stunning photos and get to know the artisanal extraction process, a vital part of the economy and tradition of indigenous communities.

During the journey, it is common to spot flames and vicuñas, while enjoying constant changes of light that transform the environment. More than a tourist destination, Salinas Grandes is a cultural and natural treasure that invites you to connect with the greatness of the Andean world.

2

Experience the spectacular beauty of the Cuesta de Lipán, one of the most emblematic and scenic mountain passes in Argentina.

This legendary stretch of National Route 52 is a true engineering masterpiece. Through a series of winding curves, the route ascends from the colorful village of Purmamarca (2,100 meters above sea level) to the impressive heights of the Abra de los Potrerillos (4,170 meters above sea level).

As you climb over 2,000 metersl, you will witness an amazing transformation of the landscape: from the intense reds of the Quebrada de Humahuaca to the vast high desert of the Puna. This fully paved route is the gateway to the famous Salinas Grandes and offers panoramic viewpoints that are the dream of any photographer.

Although the path is smooth, the altitude makes the journey an exciting and unique experience. It’s not just a road; it’s a front row seat to admire the rawest and most majestic geography of Northern Argentina.

3
Stop 3

A natural masterpiece in Purmamarca
Witness the vibrant soul of northwest Argentina at the Cerro de los Siete Colores.

Rising majestically behind the ancient village of Purmamarca, the Hill of the Seven Colors is a geological wonder that looks more like a painting than a landscape. Formed over 600 million years of mineral sedimentation, its spectacular layers of terracotta, turquoise, violet and gold create an astonishing contrast against the deep blue of the Andean sky.

This iconic landmark is the heart of the UNESCO-listed Humahuaca Gorge. Whether you’re strolling through the town’s artisan market or walking the Los Colorados Trail — a gentle 3-kilometer path that surrounds the mountain — you’ll find breathtaking perspectives in every corner.

4

Trail Los Colorados : A journey through Martian landscapes Enter a world of deep reds and towering rock formations on the Paseo de los Colorados.

Located just a few minutes walk from the center of Purmamarca, this 3-kilometer circuit is one of the most accessible and visually stunning hikes in Northern Argentina. The trail winds behind the famous Seven Colors Hill, taking you through a hidden valley of crimson cliffs, natural monoliths and a dramatic desert landscape that will make you feel like you are on another planet.

Unlike the steep climbs typical of the Andes, Los Colorados is a smooth and mostly flat road, making it perfect for travelers of all physical conditions. As you walk, you will discover unique perspectives of the geological layers and the silent beauty of the Puna ecosystem, all under the shadow of the majestic mountain peaks.

5

Travel back in time in Purmamarca, where ancient traditions and natural beauty meet. At the foot of the Cerro de los Siete Colores, this "Historic Village" of dirt streets and adobe houses is the jewel of the Quebrada de Humahuaca, a UNESCO Heritage Site.

Beyond the landscape, it is a cultural center. Its artisan market offers textiles, ceramics and silver jewelry. Whether enjoying a patty on a rock or soaking up the silence of the mountains, Purmamarca offers an atmosphere of magic that will accompany you forever.

What's not included

Meals

Available languages

Guide guide
EN IT FR ES

Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Salta

Salta, known as 'Salta la Linda' (Salta the Beautiful), is a charming colonial city nestled in the northwest of Argentina. It's renowned for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and as the gateway to the stunning landscapes of the Andean highlands and Quebrada de Humahuaca.

Top Attractions

Catedral Basílica de Salta

This stunning cathedral is a prime example of neoclassical architecture and a must-visit in Salta.

Historical/Religious 1 hour Free

Museo MAAM (Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Salta)

A contemporary art museum housed in a historic building, showcasing works by local and international artists.

Museum 1-2 hours ARS 100-200

Cerro San Bernardo

A hill offering panoramic views of Salta. You can hike up or take the cable car.

Nature/Adventure 2-3 hours ARS 200-300 (cable car)

Quebrada de Humahuaca

A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring stunning landscapes, colorful villages, and historic sites.

Nature/Historical Full day Free to explore, guided tours available

Tren a las Nubes (Train to the Clouds)

One of the world's highest trains, offering breathtaking views of the Andean landscape.

Adventure Full day ARS 3000-5000

Must-Try Local Dishes

Humita

A savory or sweet dish made from fresh corn, similar to tamale but without the outer corn husk.

Main Dish Vegetarian

Empanadas Salteñas

A type of empanada filled with meat, potatoes, onions, and spices, known for their unique flavor.

Snack Contains meat

Locro

A hearty stew made with corn, beans, squash, and various meats, often served at festivals.

Main Dish Contains meat

Asado

Argentine barbecue featuring various cuts of beef, often served with chimichurri sauce.

Main Dish Contains meat

Popular Activities

Hiking in Quebrada de Humahuaca Tren a las Nubes (Train to the Clouds) Horseback riding in Cafayate Wine tasting in Cafayate Picnicking in Parque San Lorenzo Strolling in Plaza 9 de Julio Visiting Museo MAAM Exploring Catedral Basílica de Salta

Best Time to Visit

April to October (dry season)

This is the best time to visit Salta due to the pleasant weather and lower humidity. It's ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Spanish
  • Widely spoken: English (limited)
  • English: Limited

Currency

Argentine Peso (ARS)

Time Zone

GMT-3

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Salta is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken to avoid petty crimes like pickpocketing and scams.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
  • • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps.
  • • Be cautious when withdrawing money from ATMs.

Getting there

By air
  • Martín Miguel de Güemes International Airport • 15 km (9 miles) from city center
By train

Salta Station

By bus

Terminal de Ómnibus de Salta

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Salta. They are affordable and cover most of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Easy Taxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Centro Castañares San Lorenzo

Day trips

Cafayate
160 km (100 miles) • Full day

A picturesque town known for its vineyards, stunning landscapes, and outdoor activities.

Quebrada de Humahuaca
150 km (93 miles) • Full day

A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring stunning landscapes, colorful villages, and historic sites.

San Lorenzo
10 km (6 miles) • Half day

A small town near Salta known for its natural beauty, parks, and outdoor activities.

Festivals

Carnaval de Salta • February/March Festival Nacional de la Empanada • June Festival Nacional de la Chicha • October

Pro tips

  • Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
  • Book accommodations and popular activities in advance, especially during peak season and festivals.
  • Carry small bills for buses, street food, and small purchases.
  • Be cautious with street food and choose vendors with high turnover to ensure freshness.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, and dress appropriately for religious sites and cultural events.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 26-59
1
Childs
Age 6-14
0
Infants
Age 1-5
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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