Full-Day Salinas Grandes Tour from Salta

Experience the Magic of the Salinas Grandes on a Full-Day Tour from Salta

If you’re looking to see some of Argentina’s most striking landscapes, this full-day Salinas Grandes tour offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural charm. Starting early from your hotel in Salta, you’ll visit the ancient Tastil Ruins, drive through breathtaking scenic routes, and stand in awe of the vast, shimmering salt flats. The day ends with a visit to the colorful town of Purmamarca, renowned for its Seven Colors Hill.

One of the highlights we loved is the expert guide who keeps the journey engaging and informative, making sense of the striking scenery and history. The comfortable vehicle and hotel pickup make it easy to relax and enjoy the experience, especially if you’re not keen on navigating remote roads on your own.

A minor consideration is the long duration—about 13 hours—which might feel exhaustive if you’re not used to full-day excursions. Also, since lunch isn’t included, you’ll want to bring snacks or plan accordingly. This tour suits travelers who enjoy landscape photography, cultural insights, and natural wonders, and who are ready for a full day of exploring some of Argentina’s most iconic sights.

Key Points

• Stunning landscapes: The salt flats and surrounding scenery are truly surreal.
• Expert guidance: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local insights.
• Comfortable transport: Air-conditioned vehicles and hotel pickup add convenience.
• Cultural stops: Visit historic ruins and colorful towns along the way.
• Value for money: For about $230, you get a full day of diverse and memorable sights.
• Long but rewarding: A full 13 hours, perfect for dedicated explorers.

The Complete Breakdown of the Salinas Grandes Tour

This tour is a well-balanced mix of history, geography, and local culture, designed to give you a comprehensive peek into northwest Argentina’s unique environment. It’s priced at $232.77 per person and is popular enough to be booked roughly 20 days in advance—so planning ahead is wise if you’re traveling during peak season.

Getting Started: Hotel Pickup and Departure

Your day begins around 7 am with hotel pickup—a major convenience that sets the tone for a smooth experience. The tour operates in a group setting, often with up to 99 travelers, but most reviews suggest the guide makes it feel intimate and personalized despite the group size.

First Stop: Ruins of Tastil

Leaving Salta, your journey kicks off with a visit to the Tastil Ruins—an important archaeological site that offers a glimpse into the region’s ancient past. While the admission is free, the real value here is the sense of stepping back in time and understanding the area’s indigenous history. It’s a peaceful introduction before heading to the more modern landmarks.

Lunch at San Antonio de Los Cobres

Next, you’ll stop in San Antonio de Los Cobres, a small village in the Puna region. Here, you’ll have a chance to grab lunch (note that this isn’t included in the tour price), and explore this quaint town. We loved the opportunity to stretch our legs and enjoy local cuisine, which adds a cultural flavor to the trip.

The Scenic Drive Along Route 40

The drive along Route 40 is a feast for the eyes—one of Argentina’s most famous roads, crossing desert landscapes, high-altitude plains, and mountain vistas. The scenery is what makes this trip stand out, with blooming cacti, rugged terrain, and the endless horizon drawing you in.

The Salt Flats: Salinas Grandes

The highlight is, of course, Salinas Grandes—a vast, shimmering expanse of white salt, stretching as far as the eye can see. The shiny, reflective surface makes it a photographer’s dream, and walking on the salt feels almost otherworldly.

Visitors have described it as a place where “the immensity of the area and the white, shiny salt invites you to relax and take good pictures.” You’ll spend about 3 hours here, giving ample time for photos, exploration, and simply absorbing the landscape.

What makes Salinas Grandes special?

Travelers like Anne note that “the tour is wonderful,” and highlight the stunning scenery as the main draw. The guide’s commentary helps you appreciate the salt flats’ geological significance and cultural history.

Continuing to Purmamarca: The Seven Colors Hill

After the salt flats, the journey continues down the Lipán Cliff to the town of Purmamarca. This colorful village is famous for its Seven Colors Hill, a natural formation with vibrant stripes of mineral-rich earth.

We found this stop particularly charming—it’s a perfect place for a stroll, photos, and soaking in the local atmosphere. The 4-hour window here is enough to enjoy the views, perhaps buy some local crafts, and marvel at the natural palette.

Final Stretch and Return

The last leg takes you through San Salvador de Jujuy, with a scenic drive back to Salta, arriving around 8 pm. While the day is long, reviewers agree that the stunning scenery and cultural insights make it worthwhile. Francesca H simply states, “The day was long but worth it,” emphasizing how memorable the experience is despite the time commitment.

What to Expect: Practical Details

• Transportation: The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort across rougher, winding roads.
• Guide: The friendly and professional guide enhances your understanding of the sights, making the journey more engaging.
• Group Size: Though up to 99 travelers can join, reviews suggest the experience remains intimate and well-managed.
• Meals: Lunch is not included, so plan to bring snacks or purchase locally.
• Altitude: Some parts of the trip reach high elevations, so if you’re sensitive to altitude, it’s wise to consult your doctor beforehand.

Why the Tour Offers Good Value

Compared to the cost, this tour packs in a full day of diverse sights—from archaeological sites and salt flats to vibrant towns. The hotel pickup and drop-off elevate the convenience factor, especially after a long day of sightseeing. While it’s a long journey, most travelers agree the scenery, guide expertise, and cultural insights make it a worthwhile investment.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a photography enthusiast, the vast salt flats and colorful hills will appeal tremendously. Those interested in cultural history will appreciate the visit to Tastil and Purmamarca. The tour is perfect for adventurous travelers eager for a full day of exploring remote landscapes without the hassle of self-driving.

However, if you prefer shorter outings or are sensitive to long hours on the road, this might be a demanding day. It’s best suited for active travelers prepared for a full day of outdoor scenery and comfortable with some altitude changes.

FAQ: Questions & Answers

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour includes free hotel pickup and drop-off at selected locations within Salta.

How long is the tour?
The full day lasts approximately 13 hours, starting at 7 am and returning around 8 pm.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothes, sun protection, water, snacks, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are stops in San Antonio de Los Cobres where you can buy food.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s family-friendly, but those sensitive to high altitudes should check with their doctor.

How is the guide?
Reviews highlight the knowledgeable and friendly guide who keeps the group informed and engaged throughout the day.

What about the salt flats?
Expect to spend about 3 hours at Salinas Grandes, walking, taking photos, and experiencing the vast salt surface.

Is there a lot of walking?
Most of the trip involves driving and brief walks at stops, so it’s manageable for most people.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This tour provides a well-rounded experience for those wanting to see Argentina’s spectacular northwest landscapes. It’s especially valuable for photographers, culture lovers, and adventurers who don’t mind a full day on the road. The expert guide, scenic routes, and diverse stops make it a memorable way to explore beyond Salta’s city limits.

While the length might seem daunting, the stunning salt flats and vibrant towns make every minute worthwhile. For travelers seeking an authentic, immersive day out that combines history, natural beauty, and local culture, this Salinas Grandes tour hits the mark.

In summary, if you’re after a full-day adventure that offers spectacular scenery and insightful commentary—and you’re prepared for the journey—you’ll find this tour a valuable and memorable addition to your Argentine itinerary.