From Jujuy: Full-Day Tour to Salinas Grandes and Purmamarca

Experience the Magic of Northern Argentina on a Full-Day Tour from Jujuy

This full-day excursion takes you from the vibrant city of San Salvador de Jujuy into some of Argentina’s most captivating natural scenery. For around $49.40 per person, you’ll visit Salinas Grandes, the Cerro de los Siete Colores, Purmamarca’s charming market, and scenic mountain passes like Cuesta de Lipán. The tour lasts about 8 to 9 hours, making it a solid choice for travelers eager to see the highlights of this stunning region without the hassle of planning every detail.

Two things stand out immediately: the spectacular panoramic views and the opportunity for authentic local shopping at Purmamarca’s craft market. These stops offer memorable photo moments and a real sense of the local culture. The guide’s knowledge also adds a lot to the experience, making the journey both educational and visually rewarding.

A possible consideration is that the entrance fee to Salinas Grandes isn’t included — you’ll need to set aside around $5,000 Argentine pesos for that. Also, the timing can be tight, especially if you love lingering in natural wonders or exploring towns at a relaxed pace.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy geographical beauty, vibrant markets, and scenic drives. It’s a great fit for curious travelers who want a well-organized day with plenty of opportunities for photos and local interaction, especially if they appreciate knowledgeable guides and stunning vistas.

Key Points

• Highlights include Cerro de los Siete Colores, Salinas Grandes, Purmamarca, and Cuesta de Lipán.
• Price offers good value, covering transportation, guide, and entrance fees to key sites.
• Timing is well-structured with free periods to explore each stop, though some might wish for more time at Salinas Grandes.
• The guide’s knowledge and friendly attitude are frequently praised.
• The tour covers approximately 270 km through diverse landscapes, reaching heights of 4,170 meters.
• The optional Salinas Grandes entrance fee is paid separately, so budget accordingly.

An In-Depth Look at the Full-Day Experience

Starting in Jujuy: Foundations of Your Day

The journey kicks off early at 9:30 a.m. from Av. Dr. Joaquín Carrillo 323. From here, the adventure heads northwest into the Quebrada de Humahuaca, a UNESCO-listed valley of dramatic mountain formations and colorful rock layers. Expect a small group — usually no more than 23 travelers — which strikes a good balance between intimacy and camaraderie.

The first part of the trip is a chance to get familiar with the region’s landscape and cultural setting, passing through towns like Yala and Volcán, where we’ll make a quick technical stop. These stops are practical moments for bathroom breaks or grabbing a snack, often appreciated by travelers wanting to stretch their legs after the bus ride.

Purmamarca and the Cerro de los Siete Colores

The first major stop is in Purmamarca, a tiny town famous for its Cerro de los Siete Colores — a mountain with layered hues that change with the sun’s position. We love how this stop offers a quick panoramic photo opportunity, giving us a snapshot of this geological marvel. As one reviewer put it, “The sun’s position in the morning radically changes its colors,” so timing here really matters for the best shots.

After this, the tour moves on to the Cuesta de Lipán, a winding mountain road peaking at 4,170 meters. Here, the scenery shifts to a stunning mix of green and brown puna landscapes, with opportunities to spot local flora and fauna. The ascent provides a sense of altitude and the raw power of nature, making it a highlight for photos and appreciation of the high Andes’ rugged beauty.

Salinas Grandes: Salt Flats and Scenic Wonder

Perhaps the most iconic stop is the Salinas Grandes, Latin America’s third-largest salt flat. We’ll have about 45 minutes to an hour here, enough to walk out onto the vast white expanse, explore salt sculptures, and snap some jaw-dropping photos. The salt flats create an otherworldly effect, especially when the sunlight hits the surface, casting reflections and emphasizing the vastness.

Please note, the entrance fee is separate (~$5,000 pesos), paid directly to local vendors. This is an important detail — the tour price covers the transportation and guide, but not this local fee, so plan accordingly.

Free Time in Purmamarca and Local Market

After returning to Purmamarca, you get a free two-hour window to wander the town. This is your chance to stroll the narrow cobbled streets, admire adobe houses, and haggle at the craft market for souvenirs. Many visitors enjoy this downtime to grab lunch or just soak up the peaceful mountain atmosphere.

The market is full of colorful textiles, jewelry, and handcrafted goods, providing a genuine glimpse into local artisanal crafts. As one traveler noted, “You can shop for souvenirs here — it’s a perfect place to find something authentic.”

Scenic Drive Back to Jujuy

The return route takes you back through the Quebrada de Humahuaca, with additional technical stops along the way. The entire return trip is designed to be relaxed, with plenty of opportunities to appreciate the changing scenery. The tour wraps up around 6:00 to 6:30 p.m. at your starting point.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Knowledgeable Guides: The majority of reviews mention guides like Jeremie, who are friendly, informative, and helpful, making the experience more meaningful. They often point out interesting facts about the landscape, local culture, and history, turning a scenic drive into an educational journey.

Stunning Views: Whether it’s the colorful Cerro de los Siete Colores, the sweeping salt flats, or the rugged mountain passes, this tour offers some of the most memorable vistas available in northern Argentina. Many travelers talk about the “amazing salt flats,” and the “wonderful place I’d visit again,” highlighting the scenery’s impact.

Authentic Local Experiences: Visiting Purmamarca’s vibrant market and seeing how locals craft their goods adds a genuine touch to the trip. It’s more than just sightseeing; it’s about connecting with the region’s culture.

Well-Organized Schedule: The itinerary balances structured stops with free time, allowing both guided insights and personal exploration. The timing works well for most travelers, though some mentioned wishing for longer at Salinas Grandes.

Considerations and Tips for Travelers

While this tour offers fantastic value, there are a few practical points to keep in mind. First, entrance to Salinas Grandes isn’t included — be prepared to pay around $5,000 pesos at the site. Also, the altitude reaches over 4,000 meters, so if you’re sensitive to high elevations, consider your health and hydration.

The duration of about 12 hours means it’s a long day, but if you’re eager to see the highlights without renting a car or organizing multiple stops, it’s a convenient option. Keep in mind, the group size is capped at 23, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses — the sun at high altitude can be quite strong.
• Wear layers: mornings can be cool, but the day warms up as you ascend.
• Budget extra for the Salinas Grandes entrance fee and any snacks or souvenirs.
• Have your camera ready — the scenery is incredibly photogenic.
• Confirm your pickup point in advance and arrive a little early to avoid missing the start.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day of natural beauty and cultural experiences. If you enjoy colorful landscapes, scenic mountain drives, and local markets, you’ll find plenty to love. It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate guided insight and want a balanced mix of sightseeing and free time.

While it might not suit travelers looking for a lounge-and-stay kind of experience, it’s perfect for those eager to see the highlights of northern Argentina without the stress of planning every detail. The reviews suggest that knowledgeable guides and stunning views truly make this a memorable day — and that’s what many travelers return home raving about.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 9:30 a.m., with pickup at the designated meeting point in Jujuy.

How long is the tour?
Expect about 8 to 9 hours, including travel time, stops, and free periods.

Is there an additional fee for Salinas Grandes?
Yes, the entrance fee to Salinas Grandes is paid separately — approximately $5,000 pesos — directly to local vendors.

What is included in the tour price?
Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, all fees and taxes for the stops included in the itinerary, and visits to Purmamarca, Cuesta de Lipán, and Salinas Grandes.

Can I buy souvenirs on the tour?
Yes, the free time in Purmamarca allows you to visit the craft market and purchase local handmade goods.

How much free time do I get?
You’ll have about 2 hours in Purmamarca to explore the town and enjoy lunch, plus 45 minutes to 1 hour at Salinas Grandes.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
It is generally suitable for most travelers, but be mindful of the altitude and make sure to stay hydrated.

Does the guide speak English?
While not explicitly stated, reviews emphasize the guide’s helpfulness and knowledge, which suggests good communication in the common languages used in tours.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, layers, a camera, water, and some cash for souvenirs or the Salinas Grandes fee.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to bad conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

To sum it up, this full-day tour from Jujuy offers a well-organized, scenic, and culturally rich experience that highlights some of the most iconic sights of northern Argentina. With expert guides, stunning landscapes, and authentic local interactions, it’s a fantastic way to connect with this unique part of the world. Travelers who love natural beauty and vibrant markets will find this trip both memorable and well worth the investment.