From Jujuy: Salinas Grandes with Purmamarca
Location: Salta Province, Argentina
Country: Argentina
Rating: 3.9/5 (28 reviews)
Price: $39 per person
Supplier: La Quebrada Turismo
Engaging First Impressions
If you’re looking for a full-day adventure that combines striking natural landscapes and charming local towns, this tour from Jujuy might just be what you need. For around $39, you get a 10-hour journey that visits Salinas Grandes, the expansive salt flat that’s the third largest in Latin America, and the colorful town of Purmamarca, famous for its Hill of the 7 Colors.
Our guides’ warm knowledge makes the trip engaging — one guide was praised for their professionalism and ability to handle traffic challenges smoothly, ensuring everyone enjoyed the scenery. We loved the way the tour weaves through picturesque towns like Yala and Volcán, offering the chance for some top-tier postcard photos.
One of the biggest highlights? Reaching the Cuesta de Lipán, where you’ll ascend to 4,170 meters above sea level. The landscape here is surreal. Plus, the visit to Salinas Grandes offers incredible photo opportunities, especially if you’re keen to take some creative selfies.
A possible downside? Some reviews mention the tour’s pacing — you might find your time in Purmamarca and the salt flats a bit rushed, especially if you’re eager to explore every corner. Also, the tour mainly stops for brief visits, which suits some travelers better than others.
This experience suits travelers who love stunning scenery, authentic towns, and a structured day with an experienced guide. It’s ideal if you’re okay with high altitudes and want a comprehensive, hassle-free trip to some of Argentina’s most iconic landscapes.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Cost-effective: At $39, it offers a well-organized way to see key highlights without breaking the bank.
- Stunning landscapes: From salt flats to colorful hills and mountain panoramas, scenery is the star.
- High-altitude experience: Reaching over 4,000 meters, so prepare for possible altitude effects.
- Efficient itinerary: Stops include the Humahuaca Gorge, Purmamarca, Cuesta de Lipán, and Salinas Grandes.
- Guided tour: Bilingual guides make the experience more insightful and personable.
- Limited time in some spots: Some travelers feel that the stops could be longer to soak in the scenery.
In-Depth Review: What You’ll Experience
Getting There & Transportation
Starting from San Salvador de Jujuy, the tour kicks off early, with pickups beginning at 9 am. If you’re staying in Purmamarca, pickup is around 10:30 am. The transport is typically a sprinter or minibus, which keeps the group small enough for a personal feel. Riders seem to appreciate the comfortable ride, especially given the lengthy day.
Traveling along National Road 34, the scenery is captivating right from the start, with views of the Humahuaca Gorge providing a hint of what’s to come. The route takes you through a series of picturesque towns, each offering its own charm, from the rustic streets of Purmamarca to the vibrant scenery of Yala and Volcán.
Stops & Highlights
- Yala and Volcán: Brief stops here allow for photos and a quick taste of local life. Don’t expect long visits, but the scenic views make up for it.
- Purmamarca and the Hill of the 7 Colors: This is a highlight for many travelers. You’ll get a guided walk, some time to shop, and a chance to soak in the vibrant hues of this iconic mountain. Expect a lively scene with local artisans, and if you’re lucky, a friendly guide to tell you about the geology behind the colors.
- Lipan Slope & Cuesta de Lipán: The monolito at 4,170 meters offers dramatic vistas and photo opportunities. The drive up the Cuesta de Lipán is a thrill, as you ascend to high altitudes with unique flora and fauna. You’ll see the desert-like landscape morph into a striking mountain backdrop.
- Salinas Grandes: The salt flats are breathtakingly vast and surreal. On a clear day, the endless white expanse creates perfect conditions for impressive photos. One reviewer noted, “you can appreciate all its magnitude and take the most beautiful and creative selfies.” You’ll have about an hour here, enough to walk around, marvel at the shimmering salt crust, and take memorable pictures.
- Purmamarca revisit: After the salt flats, the tour allows for two hours here, giving you some free time to explore, shop, or have lunch. Many opt to try regional dishes with llama meat, enhancing the authentic experience.
- Tumbaya and return: The journey back includes a short stop at Tumbaya for a quick refresh before heading back to Jujuy.
What to Expect & Tips
The tour is structured but fast-paced, which works well if your goal is to see as much as possible in a day. However, some reviews pointed out that the time in each location is limited — if you love enjoying each spot, you might find it a bit rushed.
The high altitude (up to 4170 meters) is something to prepare for. Travelers have reported feeling the effects, so hydration and a light meal beforehand help. The guides are bilingual, making the explanations accessible for English-speaking travelers.
The Authentic Experience
What makes this tour stand out? It’s the combination of spectacular scenery, local towns, and the chance to see Argentina’s diverse landscapes in one day. The salt flats’ vastness and the colorful hues of Purmamarca provide unforgettable visuals. The guides reportedly do a good job of making the experience informative and engaging, even with the logistical challenges of high-altitude travel.
Crowd & Group Size
The small-group style of this tour offers a more personal experience, which many travelers appreciate. Expect a friendly, attentive guide who tries to make each stop meaningful.
Value & Cost
At $39, this tour offers excellent value considering the number of stops, transportation, and guiding services. It’s a convenient way to cover a lot of ground without the hassle of planning each detail independently. However, the limited time at each site might be a trade-off if you’re craving a slow, in-depth experience.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This trip suits travelers who are adventurous and love scenic drives, want a cost-effective way to see some of Argentina’s most iconic landscapes, and don’t mind a busy day with quick stops. It’s especially good if you’re okay with high altitudes, as the ascent to over 4,000 meters is part of the thrill. If you prefer longer visits or more leisurely exploration, this might feel a bit rushed.
Travelers who are interested in photography will find plenty of opportunities, from the salt flats to the vibrant hills, making this trip especially appealing. It’s also great for those who want a guided experience with bilingual commentary, helping you understand what you’re seeing without the hassle of navigating alone.
Final Thoughts
This tour offers a solid introduction to some of northern Argentina’s most distinctive landscapes. The stunning salt flats and colorful hills are truly memorable, and the guide’s professionalism adds to the overall experience. It’s a good choice for travelers seeking an affordable, well-organized day trip with enough scenic highlights to leave you awestruck.
While the pace can be brisk, the variety of sights packed into the day more than makes up for it. If you’re after a taste of the Argentine Puna’s dramatic vistas, this tour deserves a spot on your itinerary. Just be prepared for the altitude, bring your camera, and enjoy the ride.
More Great Tours NearbyFAQ
How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 10 hours, with pickup starting early in the morning and returning in the evening.
What is the starting point?
The meeting point is at Vea Supermarket in Ciudad de Nieva, with pickups from San Salvador de Jujuy at 9 am or from Purmamarca at 10:30 am, depending on your location.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 3 and over can participate, but keep in mind the high altitude and long hours.
What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and sports shoes. Hydration is important at high altitudes.
Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but you can buy regional dishes in Purmamarca or bring snacks.
Is the tour affected by weather?
The excursion generally runs regardless of rain or bad weather, thanks to the region’s dry climate, but check with your provider if conditions seem extreme.
How is the transportation?
Transportation is by transit, sprinter, or minibus, which is comfortable and suitable for the long drive.
Can I customize the stops?
The itinerary is fixed; however, the guide may offer some flexibility, especially in Purmamarca.
Will I get enough time at each spot?
Most travelers find the stops sufficient for photos and quick sightseeing but not for deep exploration. The day is quite full.
Is the altitude dangerous?
While most people tolerate it well, some might experience altitude sickness. Hydrate, take it slow, and listen to your body.
To sum it up, this tour from Jujuy offers a well-balanced mix of breathtaking landscapes, cultural charm, and practical convenience. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting a snapshot of what northern Argentina has to offer—especially if your time is limited and you love striking scenery. Just remember, the terrain is high and the pace brisk, so come prepared for an active, scenic adventure.
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