From Salta: Salinas Grandes, Purmamarca & Los Colorados Hike

The "From Salta: Salinas Grandes, Purmamarca & Los Colorados Hike" promises an unforgettable 12.5-hour adventure through Argentina’s stunning landscapes and vibrant cultural experiences. Departing from Salta, the tour guides visitors to explore the mesmerizing Seven Colors Hill and the picturesque village of Purmamarca. Along the way, travelers have the opportunity to enjoy the expansive Salinas Grandes salt flat, all while learning about the region’s fascinating geography and history from bilingual experts. Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply seeking to discover the breathtaking beauty of the Andean highlands, this tour offers a captivating glimpse into a world unlike any other.

Key Points

• This day-long tour from Salta explores the iconic Salinas Grandes salt flat, picturesque Purmamarca village, and the stunning multicolored mountains of Los Colorados.
• The tour includes transportation, a bilingual guide, and visits to scenic viewpoints like the Seven Colors Hill and the Cuesta del Lipán.
• Guests can expect to spend 45 minutes exploring the vast Salinas Grandes salt flat and have free time to discover Purmamarca’s local crafts and cuisine.
• The tour is not recommended for young children, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues due to the high altitudes and unpaved roads.
• With an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 based on 269 reviews, the tour is praised for its stunning landscapes, knowledgeable guides, and comfortable transportation.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The hike through the Salinas Grandes and Purmamarca offers an immersive experience starting from $32.54 per person.

The tour lasts 12.5 hours, providing ample time to explore the stunning landscapes. Travelers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve their spot without upfront payment.

The comprehensive itinerary includes visits to picturesque villages, breathtaking viewpoints, and the vast Salinas Grandes salt plain.

With a knowledgeable bilingual guide, the tour ensures an informative and memorable journey for participants.

Itinerary and Highlights

Departing from central Salta, the tour passes through the towns of Yala, Volcán, and Tumbaya before arriving at the first highlight – the stunning viewpoint of the Seven Colors Hill.

Visitors then explore the quaint village of Purmamarca, located at the base of the multicolored mountain.

The tour continues its ascent, climbing the Cuesta del Lipán, Cuesta del Saladillo, and Abra de Potrerillos before reaching the highlight – the vast Salinas Grandes salt flat, situated 4,150 meters above sea level.

After spending 45 minutes at the salt plain, the tour provides free time in Purmamarca for lunch and browsing the local craft market.

Transportation and Pickup Details

For the convenience of travelers, hotel pickup is available for centrally located accommodations within 8 blocks of the 9th of July square. Guests should be ready for pickup 15 minutes before the scheduled start time. The tour transportation will be either a bus or a minivan, depending on the group size.

Transportation	Group Size
Bus	Larger groups
Minivan	Smaller groups

This transportation method ensures a comfortable and efficient journey, allowing participants to focus on the stunning landscapes and highlights of the tour.

Tour Guide and Language

Live bilingual tour guides (English and Spanish) lead the tour, providing insights and support to participants throughout the journey.

Known for their attentiveness and expertise, the guides share compelling stories and historical context about the stunning natural landscapes.

Guests can engage in dialogue and ask questions, enriching their understanding of the Salinas Grandes salt flats and the Purmamarca village at the base of the Seven Colors Hill.

The tour’s multilingual format ensures all travelers can fully enjoy the cultural and geographical highlights of this remarkable excursion.

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Suitability and Recommendations

This tour may not be suitable for all travelers. It isn’t recommended for children under 5, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues.

The itinerary involves driving on unpaved roads and reaching high altitudes up to 4,200 meters. Participants should come prepared with a passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a sun hat.

The tour’s overall customer rating is 4.4 out of 5, with high praise for the attentive tour guides and smooth transportation.

Despite the challenges, the Salinas Grandes salt flats and the colorful Purmamarca village make this an unforgettable experience for those who are up for the adventure.

Customer Ratings and Reviews

The tour has earned an overall customer rating of 4.4 out of 5 based on 269 reviews.

Travelers have praised the tour’s live bilingual guides, who are recognized for their attentiveness and support throughout the journey.

The transportation, provided via bus or minivan, has also received high marks, with a 4.4/5 rating.

Customers have been satisfied with the tour’s organization and service, both scoring 4.5/5.

While the tour involves driving on dirt roads and reaching high altitudes, the stunning views and culture have made for a memorable experience, as reflected in the positive customer feedback.

Stunning Mountain Vistas

Towering peaks and vibrant hues dominate the landscape as the tour ascends the Cuesta del Lipán and Cuesta del Saladillo.

Visitors are treated to breathtaking vistas of the Andes mountains, with rugged cliffs and steep slopes in shades of ochre, rust, and gold.

The highlight is the stop at the Seven Colors Hill, where the layered sedimentary rock formations create a stunning natural artwork.

Reaching the Salinas Grandes salt flat at 4,150 meters above sea level, travelers are met with an otherworldly, glistening white expanse that stretches to the horizon.

This journey through the Andean highlands offers a unique visual feast, showcasing the raw beauty and grandeur of this remarkable region.

Salt Plain Exploration

After witnessing the stunning mountain landscapes, visitors now arrive at the Salinas Grandes, one of the highlights of the tour. At an impressive altitude of 4,150 meters, they spend 45 minutes exploring the vast, dazzling salt plain. The sheer magnitude and otherworldly beauty of this natural wonder leave a lasting impression.

Feature	Description
Size	The Salinas Grandes cover an area of over 12,000 hectares.
Composition	The salt plain is composed of a thick, crystalline salt crust formed by the evaporation of a prehistoric salt lake.
Unique Landscapes	Visitors are captivated by the stark, white expanse, the shimmering mirages, and the striking contrast against the surrounding mountains.
Recreational Activities	Visitors can walk on the salt, take unique photographs, and experience the serene, tranquil atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Salinas Grandes?

The best time to visit Salinas Grandes is during the dry season, from April to October. Visiting during this period ensures clearer skies, fewer crowds, and better conditions to fully appreciate the vast, dazzling salt flats.

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

Yes, travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour operator encourages bringing a packed lunch as there’s free time in Purmamarca to enjoy a meal not included in the tour price.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes Not Included in the Price?

The price quoted is inclusive of all fees and taxes. There are no additional charges not covered by the per-person rate. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Do I Need a Specific Type of Vehicle to Access the Salt Plain?

The tour uses a bus or minivan to access the Salinas Grandes salt plain, which is located at an altitude of 4,150 meters. The type of vehicle depends on the group size, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience.

Can I Extend the Tour to Include Additional Activities or Destinations?

Yes, the tour can likely be extended to include additional activities or destinations. Customers should consult with the tour operator to discuss customization options and any associated costs or changes to the itinerary.

Recap

This unforgettable 12.5-hour tour from Salta showcases the stunning landscapes and vibrant cultural experiences of the Andean highlands. Travelers will explore the mesmerizing Seven Colors Hill, the Salinas Grandes salt flat, and the picturesque village of Purmamarca, all while learning about the region’s geography and culture from bilingual experts. Suitable for adventurous travelers, this tour offers a breathtaking adventure through the breathtaking beauty of the Andean highlands.

You can check if your dates are available here: