Full-Day Salinas Grandes Tour From Salta

The Full-Day Salinas Grandes Tour from Salta offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore Argentina’s captivating landscapes. Departing early, this 13-hour excursion immerses travelers in the region’s rich cultural heritage and natural wonders. From the ancient ruins of Tastil to the mesmerizing Salinas Grandes salt flats, the tour promises an unforgettable journey. With a knowledgeable guide, comfortable transportation, and included meals, the experience is both seamless and comprehensive. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a first-time visitor, this tour is sure to leave you with lasting memories. What secrets await as you venture into this remarkable region?

Key Points

• A full-day excursion from Salta to the stunning Salinas Grandes salt flats, including visits to ancient ruins, a mountain town, and the picturesque Purmamarca.
• The tour features hotel pickup/drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and a professional guide, with a maximum group size of 99 and an average rating of 4.5/5.
• Highlights include the Tastil ruins, showcasing rich cultural heritage, and the breathtaking Salinas Grandes, known for their otherworldly scenery.
• The tour includes a lunch stop in San Antonio de Los Cobres, where visitors can sample local Andean cuisine like empanadas, quinoa salad, and locro.
• Practical considerations include the high elevation, the need for comfortable clothing and proper footwear, and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

Tour Overview

The Salinas Grandes Tour from Salta is a full-day excursion that allows visitors to explore the stunning salt flats of northwestern Argentina.

This 13-hour tour takes travelers to a variety of captivating sites, including the ruins of Tastil and the village of Purmamarca. Along the way, guests can enjoy scenic views of blooming cacti and diverse landscapes.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an air-conditioned vehicle, and a professional guide. With a maximum group size of 99, the tour is family-friendly and receives an average rating of 4.5 out of 7 reviews.

Prices start from $236.29 per person, varying by group size.

Itinerary Highlights

Departing centrally-located Salta hotels around 7 am, the tour takes travelers on a captivating journey through the region’s diverse landscapes.

The itinerary includes:

1. A visit to the ruins of Tastil, offering a glimpse into the area’s rich cultural heritage.
2. A lunch stop in San Antonio de Los Cobres, a charming town nestled in the mountains.
3. The highlight of the tour – the stunning Salinas Grandes salt flats, where visitors can marvel at the otherworldly scenery.
4. A final stop in the picturesque village of Purmamarca, surrounded by the vibrant colors of blooming cacti and breathtaking vistas.

Included in the Tour

The Salinas Grandes Tour from Salta includes several key amenities to enhance the experience.

A professional guide accompanies travelers throughout the day, sharing insights and expertise.

Hotel pickup and drop-off services are provided for select properties, ensuring a seamless start and end to the tour.

Travelers ride in an air-conditioned vehicle, which offers comfort during the scenic journey.

Food and drinks are also included, so guests can refuel during the 13-hour excursion.

Gratuities are covered, so there’s no need to worry about tipping.

With these inclusions, the tour provides a hassle-free way to explore the region’s stunning salt flats and diverse landscapes.

Practical Considerations

Travelers generally depart Salta around 7 am for the full-day Salinas Grandes Tour. This scenic excursion covers several highlights, but there are a few practical considerations to keep in mind:

1. The tour reaches heights over 4,200 meters above sea level, so it’s recommended to consult a doctor beforehand, especially for those with any medical conditions.

2. Comfortable clothing and proper footwear are advised, as the tour involves walking on the salt flats and exploring diverse landscapes.

3. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so travelers with mobility limitations should consider this when booking.

4. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start of the experience.

Stunning Scenery Awaits

Beyond the practical considerations, the Salinas Grandes Tour promises a breathtaking journey through Argentina’s stunning natural landscapes.

The tour takes visitors through the ruins of Tastil, offering a glimpse into the region’s ancient history. As the journey continues, the iconic Salinas Grandes salt flats come into view, their dazzling white expanse stretching out beneath the expansive sky.

Along the way, travelers are treated to scenic vistas of blooming cacti and diverse terrain, from rugged mountains to rolling hills.

The final stop in Purmamarca provides an opportunity to explore a charming village and soak in the vibrant colors of the surrounding landscape.

This full-day excursion offers an unforgettable immersion in Argentina’s natural splendor.

Exploring the Ruins

One of the first stops on the Salinas Grandes Tour is the ancient ruins of Tastil. This archaeological site offers a glimpse into the past, with the remnants of a once-thriving pre-Incan civilization.

Visitors can explore:

1. The well-preserved stone structures that once housed the Tastil people.
2. Intricate petroglyphs and rock carvings that provide clues about the site’s history.
3. The atmospheric setting, with the rugged Andes mountains serving as a dramatic backdrop.
4. The opportunity to learn about the site’s significance from the knowledgeable tour guide.

Exploring the Tastil ruins adds depth and cultural richness to the Salinas Grandes tour, providing a deeper understanding of the region’s history and heritage.

Lunch Stop in San Antonio

After exploring the ancient ruins of Tastil, the tour continues onward to the charming town of San Antonio de Los Cobres for a well-deserved lunch break. This quaint mountain town provides a delightful respite from the day’s activities, offering visitors a chance to sample local cuisine and soak in the unique Andean atmosphere.

Dish	Price	Description
Empanadas	$3	Traditional Argentine pastries filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables
Quinoa Salad	$5	Refreshing salad made with the ancient Andean grain, quinoa
Locro	$8	A hearty stew of corn, beans, and regional meats
Mate Tea	$2	The national drink of Argentina, served in a traditional gourd

Refueled and energized, the tour presses on towards the mesmerizing Salinas Grandes salt flats.

Customer Feedback

Customers have provided largely positive feedback for the Salinas Grandes Tour.

The tour garners an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7 reviews.

Key highlights from customer feedback include:

1. Praise for the professionalism and knowledgeability of the tour guide.
2. Awe-inspiring descriptions of the stunning Salinas Grandes salt flats and diverse landscapes.
3. Mixed reviews, with one unfavorable comment among the generally positive ratings.
4. Memorable experiences exploring the ruins of Tastil and visiting the village of Purmamarca.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the tour. The tour operator’s policy prohibits bringing animals due to safety and logistics considerations. Customers are advised to make alternative arrangements for their pets during the day-long excursion.

Is There Wifi Available on the Bus?

Unfortunately, the tour information does not mention if there is WiFi available on the bus. It’s likely that WiFi may not be provided, as this is an outdoor tour to remote natural areas. Travelers should plan accordingly.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs at the Salt Flats?

Yes, travelers can purchase souvenirs at the Salinas Grandes salt flats. The tour stop includes local shops and stalls selling a variety of salt-based products, handicrafts, and other regional items for visitors to browse and buy.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Reschedule?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, allowing flexibility to reschedule if needed. Guests can review the cancellation policy details provided during booking.

Is the Tour Suitable for Those With Mobility Issues?

The tour may not be suitable for those with mobility issues, as it’s noted the tour is not wheelchair accessible. Travelers should consult a doctor if they have concerns about the high altitude locations on the itinerary.

Recap

This full-day Salinas Grandes tour from Salta offers an unforgettable adventure through Argentina’s stunning landscapes. With visits to ancient ruins, the breathtaking salt flats, and a picturesque town, it provides a hassle-free experience that immerses travelers in the region’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Rated highly by past participants, this tour is an excellent way to explore the wonders of northern Argentina.