Magpie
5.0(4 reviews)

Safari to the Clouds: Salinas Grandes and Purmamarca Tour

FromARS 324
14 hours
Cafayate, Argentina

About this activity

Embark on a full-day adventure from Salta to the stunning Salinas Grandes salt flats and the picturesque Purmamarca village, featuring the iconic Hill of Seven Colors.

Highlights

  • Explore the vast Salinas Grandes salt flats
  • Marvel at the Hill of Seven Colors in Purmamarca
  • Experience the unique culture of Purmamarca village
  • Enjoy panoramic views of the Andes Mountains
  • Discover the rich history of Northwest Argentina

Full description

Join us on an unforgettable journey from Salta to the breathtaking Salinas Grandes salt flats, where you'll witness the vast, shimmering white expanse that stretches as far as the eye can see. Then, visit the charming village of Purmamarca, nestled at the foot of the Hill of Seven Colors, renowned for its vibrant, multi-colored slopes. This tour offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion, providing a unique glimpse into the heart of Northwest Argentina. Don't miss this opportunity to experience some of the region's most iconic landscapes and traditions in a single day.

Included / Excluded

  • Round-trip transportation from Salta
  • Guided tour of Salinas Grandes salt flats
  • Visit to Purmamarca village and the Hill of Seven Colors
  • Meals and beverages

Itinerary

1

Pass by: The tour departs from Salta at 06:15 am.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
2

You will go on a journey through three different areas, allowing you an opportunity to get to know the best of this remote region in just one day. Start the trip by exploring the "Road to the Clouds," which follows the famous railway track of the "Train to the Clouds" through the “Quebrada del Toro” (Bull’s Gorge) up to San Antonio de los Cobres. On our way we will make a stop at Alfarcito where we are going to enjoy breakfast at a educational community of Father Schiffrin.

Duration: 4 hoursAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
3

We will follow the tracks of the famous Train to the Clouds, admiring this engineering work begun in the 1920s. On this route we cross the Quebrada del Toro to San Antonio de los Cobres. We will make photo stops, for example at the La Polvorilla Viaduct.

Duration: 1 hourAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
4

After this, we will begin the tour along the route that will take us to Salinas Grandes. A completely different landscape from the one we saw in the first part of the trip and with many possibilities of seeing llamas and vicuñas. In Salinas, we will witness one of the most beautiful white expanses in Argentina with sporadic turquoise hues and almost perfect reflections. Here, with the help of a local guide, we will have time to explore this great sea of salt, the turquoise lagoons that impact everyone who visits them, and including a very special visit to the Ojos del Salar (subject to weather conditions or limited in the summer by the native communities that manage the visits). The local guide will also explain to us about the interesting process of extracting table salt. At this point, we can take the famous photos jumping, in perspective, and with the reflection of the pools and eyes of the salt flat.

Duration: 3 hoursAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
5

After enjoying this mirror of salt, we will begin the third section, crossing the Cuesta de Lipán, an unforgettable scenic route, with a descent of 2,000 meters in 35 km. There you will see the transition from the desert of the Puna to the fertility of the wettest valleys.

Duration: 3 hoursAdmission: YES
6

After this journey, we will arrive at the town of Purmamarca, where we will make a technical stop. Here you will see the famous Seven Colours Hill.

Duration: 1 hourAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
7

Pass by: In the way back, we will enjoy a snack at the bus. Your circuit route ends back in Salta, where you will be left at an agreed point.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE

Meeting point

Start Location

Unknown location

Important information

Know before you book

  • This tour is conducted in Spanish; English-speaking guides may not be available.
  • Meals and beverages are not included; consider bringing snacks and water.
  • The tour involves moderate walking; ensure you're comfortable with this level of activity.

Know before you go

  • Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear suitable for walking on uneven terrain.
  • Bring a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses to protect against the sun.
  • Carry a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and vibrant colors.

Cancellation policy

0

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Good to know

  • A minimum of 4 people is required to operate. In case the minimum number of participants is not reached, the activity will be canceled.
  • Consult your doctor because of heights over 4200 masl

Traveler reviews

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4 reviews
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Additional information

A minimum of 2 people per booking is required Consult your doctor because of heights over 4200 masl
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