Salinas Grandes and Purmamarca Full Day Tour: A Journey Through Argentina’s Spectacular Landscapes

When we think about exploring northern Argentina, few experiences match the visual impact of this full-day tour from Salta. For around $75 per person, you get a comprehensive journey that covers some of the most iconic sights — from the shimmering salt flats of Salinas Grandes to the vibrant hues of Purmamarca’s Seven Colors Hill. The tour lasts about 11 hours, beginning early with hotel pickup, and offers a smooth, guided way to see these extraordinary landscapes without the hassle of driving yourself.

What we love most are the breathtaking photos you’ll take at Salinas Grandes, with its vast white salt plains stretching endlessly and sparkling under the clear blue sky. Plus, the visit to Purmamarca lets you wander through a charming town with a strikingly colorful mountain backdrop that seems almost painted. Another highlight is the Lipan Slope, a winding mountain road that showcases impressive engineering while offering panoramic views.

A possible consideration is that the tour can feel lengthy, especially if you’re not used to long days on the road — some reviews mention it might be a little too much for those eager to keep their sightseeing shorter. However, if you love natural vistas and immersive experiences, this tour suits travelers who want a full day of exploring iconic Argentine scenery with knowledgeable guides.

This experience is perfect for those who enjoy spectacular landscapes, cultural insights, and photo opportunities. If you’re traveling from Salta and want an organized, immersive day to see the salt flats and multicolored mountains, this tour delivers real value — especially with a guide who can bring the sights to life.

Key Points

Stunning scenery at Salinas Grandes and Purmamarca
Expert guide providing context and local insights
Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off included
Long but rewarding day with visits to multiple highlights
Excellent photo ops of salt flats and colorful mountains
Authentic local experience with salt workers and traditional villages

Exploring the Route and Key Stops

This tour kicks off early in the morning — around 7:00 am — with a pickup from your central Salta hotel. From there, the trip begins with a brief city tour, including a stop at the Santa Rosa de Lima Church, giving you a glimpse of local architecture and history before heading into the dramatic landscape. The city tour is free and sets a nice tone for the day ahead, offering some context about the region.

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Purmamarca and the Seven Colors Hill

Your first substantial stop is in Purmamarca, a picture-perfect town with cobblestone streets and welcoming locals. Here, the highlight is Cerro de los Siete Colores (Seven Colors Hill), a naturally vibrant mountain featuring stripes in cream, green, and purple hues. The guide will point out the geological layers that give the mountain its distinctive look, which travelers universally find unforgettable.

You’ll spend about two hours wandering around Purmamarca, soaking up the relaxed atmosphere, browsing local crafts, and capturing photos of the colorful backdrop. Many reviewers, like Luc_C, noted that “Purmamarca was really cool to see” and appreciated the time spent there, despite some delays.

The Winding Road Up the Lipan Slope

Next, you’ll ascend the Lipan Slope (Cuesta de Lipán) — a mountain pass over 4,000 meters above sea level. The journey along this winding road is a highlight, offering sweeping views of the surrounding terrain and showcasing how engineers have managed to craft a route through such steep terrain. The hour-long drive provides ample opportunities for photos and marveling at the natural beauty, as well as understanding the geological forces that shaped the landscape.

Salinas Grandes — The Salt Flats

The tour’s climax is the visit to Salinas Grandes, one of the most iconic natural features in Argentina. Stretching over vast, flat white salt plains, this site offers spectacular photo opportunities, especially when reflecting the sky. Visitors can see salt workers at work, and learn about their traditional handicrafts and salt extraction methods — an authentic glimpse into local livelihoods.

Reviewers like Giulia_S mentioned the salt flats as “amazing,” while others appreciated the chance to walk on the shimmering salt, which provides an almost surreal experience. The salt flats are a great spot to snap some memorable images, which makes the outing especially worthwhile for photography lovers.

Return and Reflection

After a full day of sightseeing, the group heads back to Salta for hotel drop-off, typically arriving around 6 pm. The long day is packed with visual treats and cultural insights, making it a well-rounded experience for most travelers.

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The Experience of Guided Tours

Our guide, often praised for energy and clarity—as noted by Luc_C—makes a significant difference. A knowledgeable guide can turn a long day into an engaging journey, sharing stories and historical context that deepen your appreciation for the scenery.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which adds convenience, especially if you’re staying centrally. The vehicle is air-conditioned, helping keep everyone comfortable during the drive, which can be a relief given the long hours.

While most reviews are positive, some mention the length of the tour — it can be tiring, especially if you prefer shorter day trips. One traveler noted, “the tour itself is a bit too long,” but many agree that the sights and the overall experience justify the time investment.

What to Expect and Practical Tips

Timing is key — starting early means you’ll beat some of the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water.
Photo opportunities are plentiful — so keep your camera or phone charged and handy.
Dress comfortably — layers are useful as temperatures can vary with altitude and the time of day.
Consider your stamina — if you’re sensitive to long bus rides, prepare for a full day on the road.
Book ahead — this tour is popular (booked 29 days in advance on average), so secure your spot early to avoid disappointment.

Overall Value and Who It’s For

This tour offers a compelling combination of visual splendor, cultural insights, and logistical convenience. For those visiting Salta and eager to see the stunning salt flats and colorful mountains without the hassle of self-driving, it’s hard to beat. The price is reasonable considering all the stops, guided commentary, and transportation included.

It’s especially well-suited for travelers who value guided storytelling, enjoy multiple photo stops, and don’t mind a long, full day on a bus. If you prefer shorter trips or are sensitive to altitude and long hours, you might want to consider a more relaxed schedule or splitting the experience into two days.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off (from selected hotels), a professional guide, and air-conditioned transportation. Entrance fees to parks and sites are not charged, and food or drinks are not included unless specified.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 11 hours, starting early at around 7 am and returning to your hotel by about 6 pm. It covers multiple stops and a lot of scenic driving.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult. Be mindful of the long hours on the bus and altitude changes.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, comfortable clothing, and plenty of water. A camera or phone for photos is essential. Dress in layers for temperature fluctuations at higher altitudes.

Is this tour canceled if it rains?
The provided data does not specify weather policies, but keep in mind that heavy rain might affect the experience, especially at the salt flats. It’s wise to check with the provider beforehand.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour follows a set schedule with specific stops, so if you have special requests, you should clarify with the operator, although most bookings are fixed.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of breathtaking scenery, expert guides, and smooth logistics makes it a valued choice for travelers wanting a full, scenic day out from Salta. The authentic salt workers and colorful mountains add a layer of cultural richness that enhances the visual experience.

In summary, this full-day tour from Salta offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural insights, and photo opportunities, all delivered with the convenience of guided transportation. Perfect for travelers eager to witness the iconic salt flats and the vibrant hues of Purmamarca, this experience is a solid investment in memorable Argentina scenery. Just be ready for a long day, and you’ll come away with stunning images and stories to tell.