From Salta: Salinas Grandes, Purmamarca, and Cuesta De Lipán

Exploring the stunning landscapes of northern Argentina is a must-do for adventurous travelers. This full-day tour from Salta takes visitors on an unforgettable journey through the region’s natural wonders, from the expansive Salinas Grandes salt flats to the iconic Hill of Seven Colors in Purmamarca. With a knowledgeable guide and comfortable transportation, participants can enjoy the vibrant local culture and capture breathtaking photos. Whether you’re seeking natural beauty, culture, or simply an unforgettable experience, this tour promises to exceed your expectations. But the true allure lies in the journey itself – a chance to witness firsthand the captivating landscapes that have drawn travelers to this corner of Argentina for generations.

Key Points

• This full-day tour from Salta visits Salinas Grandes, Purmamarca, and Cuesta De Lipán, showcasing the region’s natural wonders and Andean culture.
• Salinas Grandes, the third-largest salt flat in Latin America, offers unique geological formations and serene, mirror-like reflections.
• Purmamarca features a vibrant handicraft market and the iconic Hill of Seven Colors, providing an immersive Andean cultural experience.
• Cuesta De Lipán offers breathtaking photo opportunities along a scenic mountain road, with stops at Monolito 4170 MSNM and Mirador Cuesta de Lipán.
• The tour also includes visits to San Salvador de Jujuy, Volcán, Tumbaya, and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Humahuaca Gorge, exploring the region’s diverse landscapes and heritage.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The full-day tour from Salta starts at $42.90 per person and lasts 12 hours, including transportation by bus or coach.

Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the tour offers a reserve now and pay later option.

The tour includes visits to the Salinas Grandes salt flat, the handicraft market and hill of 7 colors in Purmamarca, and scenic stops along the Cuesta de Lipán.

The experience is led by a bilingual guide and includes hotel pickups within 15 blocks of the main square, but food, drinks, and tips aren’t covered.

Salinas Grandes

At the heart of the tour lies the Salinas Grandes, the third largest salt flat in Latin America. Spanning an impressive 12,000 square kilometers, this natural wonder is a breathtaking sight.

Visitors are granted 40 minutes to 1 hour to explore the vast expanse of pristine white salt, marveling at the unique geological formations and the mirror-like reflections.

The sheer scale and beauty of the Salinas Grandes make it a must-see attraction, offering a chance to capture stunning photographs and soak in the serene, otherworldly atmosphere.

With its vast, uninterrupted vistas, the Salinas Grandes is a highlight of the tour, showcasing the region’s natural splendor.

Purmamarca

Next, the tour takes visitors to the charming town of Purmamarca, known for its vibrant handicraft market and the iconic Hill of Seven Colors.

Travelers will have around 2 hours of free time to explore the market, browse local crafts, and admire the stunning natural formation of the Hill of Seven Colors.

An optional 30-40 minute trek along the Paseo de los Colorados offers panoramic views of the multicolored mountainscape.

Purmamarca’s unique blend of Andean culture and breathtaking scenery provides an immersive experience for visitors on the tour.

Cuesta De Lipán

After exploring the vibrant town of Purmamarca, the tour heads towards the scenic Cuesta de Lipán.

This section of the journey offers breathtaking views, with photo stops at Monolito 4170 MSNM and Mirador Cuesta de Lipán. The winding road climbs through the mountains, providing travelers with panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape.

This is a chance to capture the beauty of the region’s natural splendor. The Cuesta de Lipán serves as a highlight of the day’s activities, offering a chance to admire the dramatic scenery and take in the unique geological features that characterize this part of the Andean highlands.

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Included Locations

Along With the key highlights at Salinas Grandes and Purmamarca, the tour also includes visits to several other notable locations.

Along the way, travelers will stop in San Salvador de Jujuy, a provincial capital known for its colonial architecture. The route also passes through Volcán and Tumbaya, offering picturesque views of the surrounding mountains.

The final destination is the Humahuaca Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring dramatic geological formations and traditional Andean culture.

These additional stops provide a well-rounded experience, allowing visitors to explore the diverse landscapes and rich heritage of the region.

• San Salvador de Jujuy
• Volcán
• Tumbaya
• Humahuaca Gorge

Tour Inclusions

The tour includes essential provisions for a seamless experience.

Travelers will enjoy the services of a bilingual guide, fluent in both Spanish and English, to provide insights and narration throughout the day.

Pickup and drop-off services are conveniently offered from hotels or central locations within a 15-block radius of the main square.

Transportation is provided via transit, sprinter, or minibus, ensuring comfortable and efficient travel.

While meals and drinks aren’t included, this allows participants to explore the local cuisine at their own pace.

The tour operates regardless of weather conditions, ensuring a memorable experience for all.

Important Information

Certain items are prohibited on this tour, including alcohol, drugs, and pets.

The tour operates regardless of weather conditions, so travelers should come prepared for a range of weather.

According to customer reviews, the overall experience has been mixed, with a rating of 3.7/5 based on 19 reviews.

Common issues reported include:

• Poor guide performance
• Rushed itineraries
• Communication problems with booking confirmations

However, many travelers have appreciated the unique landscapes and abundant photo opportunities provided during the tour.

Customer Feedback

Customer feedback on the tour has been mixed. Some travelers appreciated the unique landscapes and ample photo opportunities.

However, others reported issues with the tour’s execution. Complaints included poor performance by the guides, rushed itineraries that left little time to explore, and communication problems with booking confirmations.

The tour has received a rating of 3.7 out of 5 stars based on 19 reviews. While the tour offers access to stunning natural sights, the quality of the experience seems to vary.

Potential travelers should weigh the pros and cons carefully before booking to ensure the tour meets their expectations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Water on the Tour?

Yes, you can bring your own food and water on the tour. The tour information doesn’t mention any restrictions on bringing your own provisions, so you’re free to pack your own snacks and drinks for the day.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, there’s an option to extend the tour duration, but it’s not mentioned in the overview. Travelers would need to contact the tour provider directly to inquire about any available extensions or customization options.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Children?

The tour does not appear to offer any discounts for seniors or children. The pricing information indicates the tour is priced at $42.90 per person, without any mention of reduced rates for specific age groups.

Can I Request a Different Language for the Guide?

Yes, you can request a different language for the guide. The tour operator offers bilingual guides in both Spanish and English, so you can make a request for a guide in your preferred language when booking the tour.

Is There a Dress Code or Recommended Attire for the Tour?

There’s no strict dress code, but travelers should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes for walking. Layering is recommended as the weather can be variable throughout the day.

Recap

This full-day tour from Salta offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the stunning natural wonders of Argentina’s Salinas Grandes, Purmamarca, and Cuesta De Lipán. Priced affordably at $42.90 per person, it provides breathtaking views, culture, and ample time for photography – making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking to discover the country’s diverse landscapes and vibrant heritage.

You can check if your dates are available here: