What is included in the tour price?

The tour includes round-trip transport by minibus from Salta, guided stops at Cerro de los Siete Colores and Purmamarca town, and free time at Salinas Grandes and the Purmamarca craft market. Salt flat entry fees are paid separately directly to local residents.

How much altitude will I reach?

The maximum elevation is 4,170 metres at Salinas Grandes. The route climbs steadily through Cuesta del Lipán and over high Andean passes. Travellers sensitive to altitude should bring medication or acclimate beforehand.

Is there time for photos and shopping?

Yes. You'll have 40 minutes to 1 hour at Salinas Grandes for photography and exploring the salt flats, plus 2 hours free time in Purmamarca to visit the artisan market and explore the town.

Bring high-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, plenty of water, and warm/layered clothing. The salt flats reflect intense UV, and temperatures drop significantly at altitude.

How long is the bus journey?

The full itinerary covers 460 km round-trip over 12 hours, including stops. Expect 5–6 hours of actual driving time; the rest is divided between sightseeing and free time.

What time does the tour start and end?

Pickup begins at 07:00 from central Salta (within approximately 15 blocks of the agency). Return to Salta is between 20:00 and 20:30.

Excursión a Salinas Grandes con Purmamarca 2

Salta, Argentina

Bus & Minivan Tours

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About this activity

A full-day road trip from Salta to two of northwestern Argentina's most photogenic landscapes: the iconic rainbow-striped Cerro de los Siete Colores in Purmamarca and the vast white salt flats of Salinas Grandes at 4,170 meters elevation. Perfect for capturing dramatic scenery and discovering regional crafts in one immersive journey.

Esta excursión de día completo desde Salta descubrirá los lugares más interesantes. Maravíllese, con el Cerro de los Siete Colores, posa para las fotos en las sorprendentes salinas blancas de Salinas Grandes y comprende recuerdos en el famoso mercado de artesanía de Purmamarca.

Déjese sorprender por maravillas naturales. Busque coloridas artesanías en el mercado de Purmamarca Esta excursión.

Comienzo de búsqueda 07:00hs (rango de 15 cuadras de la agencia). Recorrido: Salta, Güemes por autopista, San Salvador de Jujuy, Volcán (parada técnica), Purmamarca, Cuesta del Lipán, Abra del potrerillo, Nevado de Chañi, 40 minutos a 1 hora libre en Salinas Grandes. Regreso a Purmamarca y 2 horas libres. Regreso a Salta entre las 20:00 y 20:30hs. Recorrido total: 460 km. Altura máxima: 4170 mts. Duración: 12 Hs

ACLARACIÓN IMPORTANTE: LA ENTRADA A LAS SALINAS GRANDES ES POR APARTE, SE ABONA A LOS LUGAREÑOS DE LA REGIÓN

Highlights

✓Cerro de los Siete Colores—the famous seven-coloured mountain backdrop of Purmamarca
✓Salinas Grandes—sprawling white salt ponds with panoramic mountain views
✓Purmamarca artisan market—traditional handicrafts and local souvenirs
✓High-altitude Andean landscape and dramatic geological formations
✓460 km scenic loop through Salta and Jujuy provinces
✓Free time to explore at own pace at both main stops

Insider tips

★Bring plenty of water and sunscreen—the high altitude (4,170m) and salt flats intensify UV exposure and dehydration risk
★Wear layers; mountain temperature swings are significant, especially at peak elevation
★Arrive early at Purmamarca market (during the 2-hour free time) before tour crowds build up
★Negotiate salt flat entrance fees directly with local landowners—not included in tour price

Good to know

•Early pickup from central Salta area (within ~15 blocks of agency) at 07:00; return 20:00–20:30
•Total distance is 460 km; expect extended time on minibus/coach
•Salt flat entry fee paid separately to local residents—ask guide for current rates
•Altitude reaches 4,170m; those with altitude sensitivity should acclimate or consult guides
•Technical stop en route (Volcán); dress comfortably for extended time outdoors

Who it's for

Landscape and nature photographersAdventure and outdoor enthusiastsCulture seekers interested in indigenous crafts and Andean heritageHigh-altitude trekkers and mountain explorers

Best time to visit

Visit during dry season (April–October) for stable weather and clear skies ideal for photography. Early morning light favours mountain colours; aim for clear-sky days to avoid cloud cover over Cerro de los Siete Colores.