Exploring Northern Argentina’s Natural Wonders with the Salinas Grandes, Purmamarca & Los Colorados Hike Tour
If you’re looking for a full-day adventure that combines breathtaking scenery with authentic local culture, this tour from Jujuy might be just what you need. For around $42 USD, you’ll spend approximately 8.5 hours exploring some of the most striking landscapes in Salta Province, including the vast Salinas Grandes salt flats, the multi-hued slopes of Seven Colors Hill, the charming village of Purmamarca, and the scenic Los Colorados trail.
What we really love about this experience is how it condenses a diverse array of sights into one manageable day—no need to rent a car or plan multiple excursions. Plus, the opportunity to hike up to 4,150 meters (about 13,615 feet) and enjoy panoramic views of salt flats and volcanic formations makes it a memorable journey. However, keep in mind that this tour involves some driving on dirt roads and reaching high altitudes; it’s not suited for those with mobility issues or pregnant women.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive outdoor experience with a focus on spectacular landscapes and local culture. If you’re eager to see the famous multicolored mountains and salt flats while learning about the area’s geology and wildlife, you’ll find this trip suits your interests well.
Key Points
- Stunning Landscapes: Witness the vibrant colors of Seven Colors Hill and the vast white salt flats of Salinas Grandes.
- Hiking Adventure: Enjoy a guided trek along Los Colorados trail with panoramic views and wildlife sightings.
- Cultural Charm: Explore the quaint village of Purmamarca and its vibrant craft market.
- High-altitude Experience: Reach elevations up to 4,150 meters, offering spectacular vistas and that invigorating mountain air.
- Expert Guides: Benefit from bilingual guides who explain both the natural and cultural significance of each site.
- Cost-Effective: For under $50, you get a full day of diverse scenery and outdoor activity, making it good value.
An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience
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Starting from Jujuy: What to Expect
We kick off early in the morning, with pickup arranged from a designated meeting point in YPF gas station, San Salvador de Jujuy. From there, the journey takes us through charming towns like Yala, Volcán, and Tumbaya. These towns aren’t just transit points—they’re part of the regional backdrop that adds authenticity to your trip.
The drive itself is quite scenic, giving you a taste of the small-town life of northern Argentina. Expect to see local villages, fields, and distant volcanic peaks as you head towards your first major stop—the Seven Colors Hill viewpoint. This spot offers an immediate visual feast: layered, multicolored mineral deposits that glow under the sunlight. It’s a perfect photo op and a great way to get your camera ready for the day ahead.
Purmamarca: The Heart of the Trip
Once in the village of Purmamarca, you’ll encounter a picturesque setting with narrow cobbled streets, adobe houses, and the iconic Seven Colors Hill looming overhead. It’s a charming spot to stretch your legs and take some photos before heading into the hiking portion of the day.
The hike begins here, ascending the slopes of Cuesta del Lipán, Cuesta del Saladillo, and Abra de Potrerillos. This part of the trip offers more than just beautiful views; it’s an active way to connect with the landscape. Along the way, you might spot vicunas and llamas, which add that genuine wildlife element to your experience.
Reaching the Salt Flats: Salinas Grandes
At 4,150 meters, you’ll pause at the top of the trail for about 45 minutes, where the Salinas Grandes salt flats stretch out in dazzling white, contrasting sharply with the deep blue sky. Here, you can wander across the salt crust, take in the surreal scenery, and marvel at the blue volcanoes in the distance. Many travelers mention that the salt flats are even more impressive in person than in photos—an expansive, almost otherworldly landscape.
The guide will share insights on how salt extraction works and the regional geology, making this stop both beautiful and educational. One reviewer noted that the short 40-minute stop at Salinas Grandes felt rushed, but it’s enough time to snap some memorable photos and appreciate the scale of the flats.
More Great Tours NearbyLunch and Cultural Exploration
After descending back to Purmamarca, you’ll have some free time for lunch—though the tour price doesn’t include this, so bringing cash and some snacks is wise. The village offers small cafes and craft shops, perfect for sampling local snacks or browsing handcrafted souvenirs. The relaxed atmosphere allows you to soak up the local vibe before heading into the afternoon.
Los Colorados Trail: A Scenic Hike
Post-lunch, the adventure continues with a 30-40 minute hike along the Colorados trail. This trail offers a different perspective, leading you into desert landscapes framed by mountains. The rugged beauty here is ideal for those who love hiking and want to experience the desert flora and fauna up close.
Returning to Jujuy
By late afternoon, you’ll board the bus or minivan for the return trip, passing through familiar towns, and returning to your starting point in Jujuy. The whole experience leaves you with a strong sense of the area’s natural diversity and cultural richness.
Practical Tips for the Tour
- Altitude Awareness: Since you’ll reach over 4,200 meters, be mindful of altitude sickness—stay hydrated, move slowly, and listen to your body.
- Clothing: Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and layering clothing—mountain weather can change quickly.
- Sun Protection: Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen—UV rays are stronger at high elevations.
- Money: Allocate about $5 USD for local entrance fees at Salinas Grandes and Los Colorados.
- Timing: Check the availability and starting times, as they can vary. Arriving 15 minutes early at the meeting point ensures a smooth start.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This trip caters well to travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures in spectacular settings. If you’re eager to see the famous multicolored mountains, vast salt flats, and hike high in the mountains, this will suit you. It’s also ideal if you want a cost-effective way to cover multiple highlights without organizing your own transport.
However, if you have mobility issues, are pregnant, or prefer a more leisurely or flexible itinerary, you might want to consider other options. The high altitude and some walking on uneven terrain mean this is best suited for those in good health and comfortable with a bit of physical activity.
FAQ
Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation from Jujuy in a bus or minivan is included for the entire day.
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8.5 hours, including travel, stops, and hikes.
What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, and some cash for entrance fees and snacks.
Are meals included?
No, lunch isn’t included, but there will be free time in Purmamarca to grab something at local cafes or markets.
Is this tour suitable for children or people with limited mobility?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 5, pregnant women, or those with mobility impairments due to the high elevations and some walking involved.
What’s the significance of the high altitude?
You’ll reach up to 4,150 meters, so altitude sickness can be a concern. Hydration and pacing are important.
Can I expect bilingual guides?
Yes, guides speak both Spanish and English, although some reviewers mention that the guide’s explanations in English might be brief.
How much does the tour cost?
The price is typically around $42 USD per person, which covers transportation, guides, and the main sightseeing stops.
Final Thoughts
This tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of northern Argentina’s unique geology, vibrant colors, and rural charm. It’s a great value for those craving an active day filled with stunning photo opportunities and cultural insights. The guides generally do a good job of explaining the sites, and the scenery is genuinely breathtaking.
While some may find the short stops at key sights a little rushed, the overall experience provides a satisfying taste of the region’s diversity. It’s ideal for travelers who want an accessible, guided way to explore the highlights without the hassle of planning logistics themselves.
For anyone with a sense of adventure, a love of high-altitude mountain scenery, and curiosity about local culture, this trip is a solid pick. Just come prepared for a full day of exploration and some early mornings, and you’ll likely leave with lasting memories of Argentina’s high desert wonderland.
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