

Full-Day Salinas Grandes Tour from Salta
About this activity
Discover Argentina's most otherworldly salt flats on this 13-hour expedition from Salta, traversing high-altitude landscapes and traditional Andean villages. This full-day immersion combines geology, culture, and visual spectacle—you'll witness vast expanses of crystalline salt stretching to the horizon while passing through charming colonial towns.
Experience the ‘Salinas Grandes’ is a magical collection of salt flats in Northwest Argentina, during this 13-hour day trip from Salta. Explore some of the area’s picturesque small towns before reaching this surreal landmark, an area where a landscape of shiny-white salt seems to extend to the horizon. You’ll also stop by the village of Purmamarca on your way back to Salta.
Highlights
- ✓Walk across the shimmering white expanse of Salinas Grandes salt flats at 3,656m elevation
- ✓Visit traditional salt-harvesting villages and learn about centuries-old extraction methods
- ✓Stop in picturesque Purmamarca with its iconic 14-colour mountain backdrop
- ✓Drive through dramatic Andean gorges and high-altitude desert scenery
- ✓Experience authentic Argentine Andean culture in small towns along the route
Insider tips
- ★Wear sunscreen and sunglasses—salt flats are highly reflective; bring a hat for UV protection
- ★Dress in layers; high altitude means significant temperature swings between sun and shade
- ★Arrive early in the morning for the best light and fewer crowds at the salt flats
- ★Bring a camera with fast shutter speed to capture the surreal white landscape without overexposure
Good to know
- •Tour duration is 13 hours total; early morning pickup from Salta required
- •High altitude (3,656m) may affect some travellers—allow time for acclimatisation
- •Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection; facilities are limited at the flats
- •Comfortable walking shoes essential; terrain is salt crust and uneven in places
- •Spanish-language guide typical; confirm English availability when booking
Who it's for
Best time to visit
May to October offers clearest skies and comfortable temperatures; December to February brings occasional rain that can make the salt flats slippery. Start early (6–7am) to maximise daylight and catch the best photographic light on the white salt.








