What to Expect from a Full-Day Trip to Salinas Grandes and Purmamarca in Salta

Are you planning a trip to Salta, Argentina and looking for the best way to explore the region’s vibrant culture and sights? Then a full-day trip to Salinas Grandes and Purmamarca is the perfect choice for you. This exquisite excursion will give you an amazing view of the stunning salt flats of Salinas Grandes, located in the middle of the humid lowlands of Salta, followed by a visit to the beautiful village of Purmamarca with its impressive seven-colored hill. On this excursion, you’ll get to take in all the beauty of these two areas, which are both rich in history and culture. You’ll begin with a drive from Salta to the peaceful Salt Flats of Salinas Grandes, where you can take in the incredible view of the salt pans stretching for hundreds of miles. From here, you’ll head to the nearby breathtaking village of Purmamarca, where you’ll have a guided tour of the colorful houses and seven-colored hill, learn about the area’s history, and take in its amazing views of the surrounding Andes Mountains. This full day tour is a great introduction to Salta’s stunning landscapes and gives travelers an incredible insight into two of its most famous locations. Here are some of the highlights you can expect to experience while taking this tour:

A Tour of Salinas Grandes

At Salinas Grandes, you’ll have an amazing view of the sparkling white salt pans stretching as far as the eye can see. This immense expanse of salt is remarkable not only for its size but also for its incredible shades and terrain variations, making it an ideal spot for photography and exploration. During your visit here, you’ll have the chance to observe local women collecting salt from the pans, which is then processed for human consumption, adding to its unique cultural significance.

A Visit to Gorgeous Purmamarca

From Salinas Grandes, your excursion will continue on to Purmamarca, an idyllic village situated in northwestern Argentina between two rivers and near the Argentine-Chile border. This charming village is known mostly for its beautiful houses surrounded by multicolored hills, which contain red, yellow, and greenish rocks of different shapes. You’ll get to take a leisurely walk through this scenic village and also have the chance to visit traditional shops and restaurants in its historic center. The highlight of your visit here is sure to be seeing the famous “Cerro de los Siete Colores” (Seven-Colored Hill), which is the area’s most famous attraction.

Conclusion

A full-day tour from Salta to Salinas Grandes and Purmamarca is a great way to experience some of northern Argentina’s most stunning natural wonders and cultural hotspots. On this tour, you’ll get to take in the stunning views of Salinas Grandes and explore the traditional village of Purmamarca, complete with its breathtaking seven-colored hill. If you’re looking for a great way to experience northern Argentina’s best attractions, then this full-day tour is definitely something worth considering. For those looking to book a full-day tour from Salta to Salinas Grandes and Purmamarca, GetYourGuide offers a great option that includes round-trip transport to both locations and informative tour guides who are passionate about sharing their knowledge about these beautiful areas. So if you’re looking for an unforgettable experience in northern Argentina, be sure to book your full-day excursion from Salta to Salinas Grandes and Purmamarca today!

Insider’s Guide to Salta: Exploring the Best of Salinas Grandes and Purmamarca

Salta is a city in northern Argentina known for its colonial architecture, unique culture, and stunning natural landscapes. One of the must-visit destinations in Salta is the Salinas Grandes and Purmamarca tourist circuit. This full-day trip takes you through the highlands, alpine deserts, and hidden villages of Salta province, giving you an insight into the rich traditions and heritage of this part of Argentina.

Local Attractions

Salinas Grandes is an immense salt flat located in the Salta and Jujuy provinces. Spanning over 20,000 hectares, Salinas Grandes is a natural wonder that offers breathtaking views of the white salt flats and the Andes mountains. You can take a guided tour of the salt flats, walk on the salt surface, and admire the mesmerizing changing colors of the sky over the salt flat.

On the other hand, Purmamarca is a traditional Andean village located in the Quebrada de Humahuaca valley. This charming village is known for the Cerro de los Siete Colores, a hill with striking colors of the rainbow visible on its slopes. You can enjoy the views of the hill from afar or hike to the base for a closer look. The village is also home to artisanal markets where you can buy local handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs.

Dining Spots

Salta is famous for its traditional cuisine, where you can find a mix of Spanish, indigenous, and gaucho influences. One of the best places to try the local delicacies is at La Casona del Molino, a restaurant located in a restored mill from the 18th century. The restaurant serves empanadas, locro, tamales, and other Argentinian classics.

If you’re in Purmamarca, don’t miss the chance to try the food at El Nuevo Progreso. This family-run restaurant offers delicious homemade food, including fresh corn tortillas, guacamole, and grilled meat. The views from the restaurant terrace are also stunning, as you can see the Cerro de los Siete Colores while you eat.

Cultural Experiences

Salta is an excellent destination for those seeking cultural experiences. The Museum of High Altitude Archaeology is a must-visit. The museum features ancient Incan artifacts found in the high-altitude regions of the Andes Mountains. The artifacts include mummies, ceramics, textiles, and other objects that showcase the Incan way of life.

The Catedral Basilica de Salta, located in the city center, is another cultural landmark you shouldn’t miss. The cathedral dates back to the 18th century and boasts stunning colonial architecture. You can admire the intricate interior decoration, ornate wooden furniture, and the striking bell tower.

Local History

Salta has a long and rich history that has influenced its culture, architecture, and traditions. One of the best ways to discover Salta’s history is by visiting the Historic Quarter, a neighborhood filled with colonial buildings, plazas, and museums. You can stroll the streets and view the colonial architecture, ornate balconies, and street sculptures. The Museum of Northern History includes ancient maps, documents, and photographs that explain the history of Salta and the surrounding areas.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you have extra time to explore Salta province, consider going on a trek to the Quebrada del Toro. This spectacular canyon is located roughly an hour from Salta City and takes you on a scenic train journey high into the Andes mountains. The trip takes approximately six hours and takes you through gorges, bridges, and ravines, giving you breathtaking views of the scenery.

Another option is the Cabra Corral Dam, located a few kilometers from Salta City. This man-made lake offers water sports such as kayaking and rafting, as well as fishing and swimming. The surrounding hills offer hiking trails and a chance to see local wildlife such as condors and pumas.

In conclusion, Salta is a city that offers an excellent mix of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and historical landmarks. Be sure to plan a day trip to Salinas Grandes and Purmamarca for an unforgettable adventure, and explore all the hidden gems that this unique and wonderful city has to offer.