Salinas Grandes and Purmamarca: Full Day Excursion From Salta Capital

Explore the breathtaking landscapes of northwestern Argentina on a full-day excursion from Salta Capital. This well-rated tour immerses visitors in the unique cultural heritage and natural wonders of the region, from the mesmerizing salt flats of Salinas Grandes to the vibrant artisanal markets of Purmamarca. Comfortable transportation, bilingual guides, and a flexible itinerary ensure a seamless and enriching experience. Whether you’re seeking stunning vistas, insights into salt harvesting, or a deeper connection with the local community, this excursion promises an unforgettable adventure that just might leave you yearning for more.

This experience made our list of the 6 Best Full-Day Tours In Salta.

Contents hide

1 Overview of the Excursion

2 Inclusions and Transportation

3 Pickup Options and Start Time

4 Highlights and Tour Guide

5 Accessibility and Health Recommendations

6 Traveler Feedback: Positive Experiences

7 Traveler Feedback: Negative Experiences

8 Recommendation

9 Frequently Asked Questions

Key Points

This full-day excursion from Salta Capital explores the iconic Salinas Grandes salt flats and the charming town of Purmamarca.
The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, meals, WiFi, and knowledgeable bilingual guides, providing a comfortable and informative experience.
Highlights of the tour include learning about the salt harvesting process at Salinas Grandes and immersing in the local culture and artisanal markets of Purmamarca.
The tour is not wheelchair accessible but suitable for most visitors, with a recommended early 7 AM departure to maximize exploration time.
While the pacing of the tour has received some mixed reviews, the overall experience is highly praised for its breathtaking scenery and immersive cultural insights.

Overview of the Excursion

This excursion offers a full-day exploration of two iconic destinations in Salta, Argentina: the Salinas Grandes salt flats and the picturesque town of Purmamarca.

Known as the ‘Tour Name’, the excursion departs from Salta Capital and is highly rated by travelers, with a 4.5/5 score from 45 reviews.

The tour accommodates up to 23 participants and is priced from $31.00.

Travelers will enjoy air-conditioned transportation, WiFi, meals, and knowledgeable guides fluent in English and Spanish.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for most visitors seeking to enjoy the region’s stunning natural landscapes and vibrant cultural experiences.

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Inclusions and Transportation

The tour includes air-conditioned, private transportation to ensure a comfortable journey for participants. Onboard amenities, such as WiFi and meals, are provided to enhance the overall experience.

Pickup options are flexible, with the choice to meet at the designated meeting point or get hotel pickup within a 1 km radius of Plaza 9 de Julio. The excursion starts at 7:00 am, allowing ample time to explore the day’s highlights.

Travelers should note the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but stroller access and infant seats are available.

The cancellation policy offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, providing flexibility for unforeseen circumstances.

Pickup Options and Start Time

Travelers can choose to be picked up either directly at the meeting point of Caseros 420 in Salta or from their hotel within a 1 km radius of Plaza 9 de Julio, offering convenient options to start the excursion.

The tour departs promptly at 7:00 am, allowing ample time to explore the highlights of Salinas Grandes and Purmamarca.

This early start ensures visitors make the most of the day, as the journey takes them through picturesque landscapes and allows for in-depth discovery of the region’s unique cultural and natural attractions.

The pickup and departure times are designed to provide a seamless and efficient start to the full-day adventure.

Highlights and Tour Guide

Comprising the core of the excursion, visitors explore the stunning Salinas Grandes salt flats and the charming town of Purmamarca, both led by knowledgeable guides fluent in English and Spanish.

At the Salinas Grandes, travelers marvel at the expansive, blindingly white salt plains, learning about the salt harvesting process from their expert guide.

In Purmamarca, the group delves into the town’s vibrant local culture, visiting artisanal markets and sampling regional cuisine.

Throughout the day, the friendly and informative guides provide insightful commentary, bringing the destinations to life and ensuring a well-rounded, immersive experience for all participants.

Accessibility and Health Recommendations

While the excursion offers an immersive cultural experience, it may not be suitable for all travelers.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though stroller accessibility and infant seats are available. Plus, the tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with serious medical conditions, as the day involves extended periods of walking and exposure to the elements.

Travelers should carefully consider their physical capabilities before booking this adventure. Those with any health concerns should consult their medical professionals to ensure they can safely participate.

The tour operator prioritizes the wellbeing of all guests, so they advise individuals to review the accessibility details and health recommendations before reserving their spot.

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Traveler Feedback: Positive Experiences

Overwhelmingly, travelers raved about the excursion’s breathtaking vistas and well-orchestrated nature, lauding the guides’ extensive knowledge and warm hospitality.

Visitors were captivated by the stunning beauty of Salinas Grandes, the largest salt flat in Argentina, and the colorful town of Purmamarca, nestled in the Andes.

Reviewers praised the guides’ ability to bring the local culture and history to life, enriching the experience.

Many highlighted their enjoyment of exploring the vibrant markets and sampling regional cuisine in Purmamarca.

Traveler Feedback: Negative Experiences

Despite the overwhelming praise, a handful of travelers reported a few issues with the excursion’s logistics.

Some travelers noted a sense of rushed pacing, with limited time allotted at the striking Salinas Grandes salt flats. Plus, a small number of reviews mentioned concerns over the comfort and organization of the transportation provided.

While the majority of travelers thoroughly enjoyed the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to explore the local markets and cuisine in Purmamarca, a minority felt that the tour could have been better paced and more attentive to the comfort of participants.

Recommendation

The excursion to Salinas Grandes and Purmamarca is highly recommended for travelers seeking to explore the scenic beauty and unique cultural experiences of Salta, Argentina.

Despite a few logistical issues reported by some travelers, the tour’s positive reviews and high ratings make it an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy the region’s stunning landscapes and vibrant local culture.

With knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and thoughtful inclusions like meals, the excursion offers an engaging and well-rounded experience.

Whether you’re interested in the iconic white salt flats of Salinas Grandes or the charming town of Purmamarca, this full-day tour provides an opportunity to discover the best of what Salta has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Travelers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on tours, as long as they don’t disrupt the experience. However, it’s best to check the tour’s policy, as some providers may include meals or have restrictions.

Is Photography Allowed at the Salinas Grandes Salt Flats?

Photography is generally allowed at the Salinas Grandes salt flats. Visitors can freely take photos throughout the expansive white salt expanse, capturing the stunning scenery and unique geological formations. However, it’s advisable to check for any local restrictions before taking photos.

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

The best time to visit Salinas Grandes is during the dry season, typically from April to October. This provides the clearest views of the vast, white salt flats and avoids the region’s rainy season when the area can become muddy and less accessible.

Are There Any Safety Precautions I Should Take During the Hike?

When hiking, it’s important to take safety precautions such as wearing proper footwear, bringing plenty of water and snacks, and being aware of the weather and terrain. Hikers should also let others know their planned route and expected return time.

Can I Extend My Stay in Purmamarca After the Tour Ends?

Travelers can typically extend their stay in Purmamarca after the tour ends. However, they’ll need to make their own arrangements for accommodations and transportation, as the tour package doesn’t include an extended stay. Checking with the tour provider about options may be advisable.