Safari to the Clouds: Salinas Grandes and Purmamarca by Movitrack

Safari to the Clouds: Salinas Grandes and Purmamarca by Movitrack offers a full-day escape from Salta into the breathtaking highlands of northwestern Argentina. For around $265 per person, you get to witness some of the most iconic landscapes in the region, including the famous Train to the Clouds, the vast salt flats of Salinas Grandes, and the colorful hill of Purmamarca. This tour lasts approximately 14 hours, making it a long but deeply rewarding day — perfect for travelers eager to see the diverse beauty of the Argentine Puna.

Two things we love about this experience are the seamless combination of scenery, history, and local culture, and the inclusion of breakfast, lunch, and round-trip transport. It’s rare to find such a comprehensive package that takes you from engineering marvels to natural wonders without the hassle of organizing transportation or meals yourself. Conversely, a potential drawback is the lengthy schedule — if you prefer relaxed, shorter excursions, this might feel a bit intense, especially given the altitude and the early start.

This trip suits travelers who crave authentic landscapes and appreciate guided insights, especially those interested in high-altitude scenery, ancient salt flats, and iconic landmarks like the Seven Colors Hill. It’s especially beneficial if you enjoy structured tours with included meals and transportation, as it takes a lot of planning off your plate.

Key Points

• Comprehensive full-day experience exploring northwest Argentina’s top sights.
• Includes meals and transport, providing excellent value for a hassle-free trip.
• Highlights include the Train to the Clouds, Salinas Grandes, and Purmamarca.
• Guides are knowledgeable and friendly, enhancing the journey.
• Long duration means a full immersion, but could be tiring at high altitudes.
• Suitable for those who love natural beauty, engineering feats, and cultural stops.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Location, Duration, and Overall Value

This tour departs early from Salta at 06:15 a.m., giving you a full 14 hours to explore some of the most striking landscapes of Argentina’s northwest. For $265, you receive a package that includes transportation in a specially equipped vehicle, breakfast, lunch, beverages, and snacks — all crucial for a day spent at high elevations and under the sun.

In terms of value, this tour packs in multiple distinct experiences — from engineering marvels like the Train to the Clouds to the natural spectacle of the Salinas Grandes. The included meals mean you won’t need to worry about finding food during the busy day, which can be especially handy in remote areas.

Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll See and Experience

Start at Salta at dawn, with a quick transfer to the first stop, Alfarcito. Here, you’ll enjoy breakfast in a community led by Father Schiffrin — a chance to see local life and start your day with local flavors. This is a thoughtful touch that sets the tone for an experience rooted in Argentine culture.

Next, the journey continues along the “Road to the Clouds”, following the famous railway track through Bulls Gorge (Quebrada del Toro). This area is stunning, with rugged cliffs and a sense of remote wilderness. It’s also where you get your first glimpse of the Train to the Clouds, one of the world’s highest railways, and its engineering feats from the 1920s.

A stop at San Antonio de los Cobres offers a taste of local highland life and fantastic photo opportunities, notably at the La Polvorilla Viaduct. Guides often point out the engineering intricacies and the cultural significance of these structures.

Moving on, the landscape shifts dramatically as you reach Salinas Grandes, a vast salt flat that appears almost otherworldly. Here, the reflective salt surface creates stunning visuals, especially with the sporadic turquoise lagoons and the possibility of encountering llamas and vicuñas. A local guide joins this part of the visit, providing insights into the salt flat’s ecological and cultural importance. As one reviewer put it, seeing the “white expanses” with “almost perfect reflections” truly leaves an impression.

The next phase takes you through Cuesta de Lipán, descending 2,000 meters over 35 km. This route offers spectacular views of the transition from the dry desert of the Puna to lush valleys. It’s a scenic highlight that underscores the high-altitude diversity of the region.

Finally, your day culminates in Purmamarca, where the Seven Colors Hill dominates the landscape. This iconic hill, with its vibrant, layered strata, is a photographer’s dream and a perfect spot for a short walk or a quick look around the town.

On the return journey, a snack provides a touch of refreshment before you head back to Salta, typically arriving in the early evening. The entire experience blends natural beauty, engineering marvels, and local culture into a cohesive adventure.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Perspectives

Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery. One review describes the trip as “fantastic,” noting that “the nature is wonderful” and that they “cried seeing so much beauty.” This emotional reaction speaks to how impactful the landscapes are.

Others highlight the smooth organization and the good value, with reviewers mentioning the “excellent guides,” “delicious meals,” and “long, but worthwhile” nature of the tour. The inclusion of meals and transportation seems to be a big plus, removing the stress of logistics.

A few reviews mention the high-altitude challenge, with some recommending caution for travelers with health issues or those who are overweight. The tour’s altitude exceeds 4,200 meters, so it’s wise to consult your doctor if you have respiratory or cardiac concerns.

Transportation and Comfort

Traveling in a specially equipped vehicle, you’ll have plenty of space and comfort for a long day on the road. The early start means you get a full day of exploration but also demands some stamina. The group size caps at around 30, which helps keep the experience intimate and guided.

Practical Tips

• Be prepared for high altitudes — bring layers and consider altitude sickness remedies if needed.
• Since meals are included, you don’t need to worry about finding food in remote areas.
• The early start is ideal for maximizing sightseeing but requires waking up early.
• The tour is not recommended for travelers with respiratory or cardiac difficulties or those who are overweight.

Who Should Take This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves natural landscapes, cultural experiences, and engineering feats, this full-day adventure is a great pick. It’s especially suitable for travelers comfortable with early mornings and long days, who want an all-in-one trip that covers a lot of ground and includes meals.

Travelers with an interest in photography will find plenty of opportunities — the salt flats, mountain vistas, and colorful hills are truly picture-perfect. The guided element ensures you learn about the region’s history and ecology, making it more than just a sightseeing ride.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines high-altitude landscapes, cultural insights, and engineering marvels — all packed into a single day. With knowledgeable guides, excellent logistical support, and an emphasis on authentic local experiences, it’s a strong choice for those wanting to see Argentina’s northwestern corner without the hassle of planning every detail.

While the day is long and involves some altitude challenges, the stunning vistas and memorable stops mean it’s worth the effort for most travelers. It’s best suited for those who want a comprehensive, guided look at this unique region and don’t mind a full schedule.

Overall, “Safari to the Clouds” by Movitrack delivers quality, value, and unforgettable scenery, making it a highlight for any trip to Salta. Just pack your camera, some patience, and an appetite for adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
While most travelers can participate, those with respiratory, cardiac issues, or who are overweight should consult their doctor beforehand due to the high altitudes over 4200 meters.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, transportation is included in a specially equipped vehicle that provides a comfortable ride throughout the long day.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour provides breakfast, lunch, beverages, and snacks, so you won’t need to worry about finding food in remote areas.

What are the main highlights of this trip?
Key sights include the Train to the Clouds, the salt flats of Salinas Grandes, and the vibrant Seven Colors Hill in Purmamarca.

How long is the total duration?
Approximately 14 hours, from early morning departure to return in the evening.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book 105 days in advance, as this popular tour tends to fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.

This detailed review helps you understand what makes “Safari to the Clouds” a worthwhile addition to your Argentine itinerary, balancing scenery, culture, and comfort in one memorable day.