Salinas Grandes
Where is Salinas Grandes
Salinas Grandes are located in northern Argentina, spanning parts of the Jujuy and Salta provinces. Nestled in the Andes Mountains, this expansive salt flat sits at an altitude of about 3,450 meters (11,319 feet) above sea level.
Salinas Grandes is part of Argentina’s scenic northwest, an area known for its dramatic landscapes, Andean culture, and vibrant natural beauty.
The nearest town is Purmamarca (Jujuy province) and is often used as a base to visit Salinas Grandes. It’s about 66 km (41 miles) away via the stunning Cuesta de Lipán mountain road.
What exactly is Salinas Grandes
Salinas Grandes is Argentina’s most famous salt flats, covering a whopping 6,000 km² (about 2,300 square miles). It it one of the largest salt plains in South America. Bolivia’s, Salar de Uyuni, stretches over 10,582 km² (about 4,086 square miles) as is, in fact, the largest salt plain in the world.
That said, Salinas Grandes has its own attraction. Consequently, if you’re in this part of Argentina, it is a must visit to enjoy this natural phenomenon.
A Little Backstory
Salinas Grandes wasn’t always the flat, glimmering expanse it is today. Millions of years ago, it was a vast prehistoric lake. Over time, the water evaporated, leaving behind layers of salt crust that now form this spectacular natural marvel.
The area around Salinas Grandes is home to indigenous communities that have been living and thriving here for centuries. These communities protect, care for, and mine salt from the land. They’ve got traditional ways of living and are all about harmony with nature.
Salinas Grandes is Not Just a Tourist Attraction
Today, it is not only a visually stunning attraction but also a hub of traditional salt harvesting, blending natural beauty with cultural heritage. From the salt pools, the salt crystallises directly from the water, much like the Dead Sea. It’s a fascinating process. If you’re lucky, you might catch locals harvesting salt.
The salt harvested here goes towards a multitude of uses, from making chlorine and sodium hydroxide to spicing up your dinner and even softening water.
Argentina’s HIdden Gem
Salinas Grandes is often visited en route driving north from Argentina to Bolivia or vice versa driving south. However, if you are only visiting Argentina, then it might not be on your regular Argentina itinerary. Please make an easy “add-on” to discover this dramatic, often overlooked region of Argentina.
This hidden gem and its majestic surrounds make for a great “northern Argentina itinerary”. Please look at my personal itinerary on my trip to this area to discover more.
In short, Salinas Grandes is located within easy access to the towns below :
- Approx: 66 km (41 miles) from Purmamarca
- Approx: 120 km (75 miles) from San Salvador de Jujuy
- Approx: 126 km (78 miles) from Tilcara
- Approx: 190 km (118 miles) from Salta City
Travelling to Salinas Grandes
You can reach Salinas Grandes by car or through guided tours from towns like Purmamarca, Tilcara, or even Salta. However, my recommendation would be to most definitely hire a car. The journey offers breathtaking views of the Andes and a unique high-altitude adventure. Driving yourselves allows you to stop and enjoy the views at your leisure.
The journey to Salinas Grandes really is as stunning as the destination itself. The winding mountain roads, such as the Cuesta de Lipán, offer a plethora of panoramic views of jagged peaks, deep valleys, and colourful rock formations.
Arriving at Salinas Grandes
If you’re driving yourself, there’s no parking fee. However, local guides are generally available on-site, and they may offer to explain the salt harvesting process or show you around. While this isn’t mandatory, it’s a great way to learn more about the flats, and its a small price for the value added.
There are some stands in this area selling salt sculptures and other handmade crafts. You can also grab some snack, drinks and use the basic toilet facilities! The local community is always very grateful for any support.
Driving out into Salinas Grandes
If you are not on an organised tour and have therefore driven yourselves to the salt plains, you will have to take a local guide with you. They jump in the back of your car and guide you out into the Salinas Grandes. It’s only a small cost ARS5,000 (£4/$6).
Whilst a regular car can drive out on the salt plains, if you plan to venture deeper beyond the designated tourist areas, a 4×4 may be necessary. The terrain can be uneven, and parts of the flats may be soft, particularly during the rainy season.
Best Time to Visit Salinas Grandes
Salinas Grandes are open to visitors year-round and do not have specific opening or closing hours. This natural landscape is accessible at any time. However, it’s advisable to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the scenery and for safety reasons, as the area lacks artificial lighting.
Expect some significant temperature swings from day to night at Salinas Grandes, with daytime temps hovering around 28°C (82°F) and night temps ranging from around 0°C (32°F) to 10°C (50°F).
Whether you visit during the dry season (April to October), when the flats resemble a giant cracked mosaic, or after rainfall, when they transform into a massive natural mirror, Salinas Grandes offers a unique, almost magical connection to nature’s beauty.
During the rainy season (typically November to March), parts of the salt flats may be covered with a thin layer of water, making it slippery and potentially hazardous for regular vehicles. A 4×4 is more reliable in these conditions, but most tourists stick to safer zones during this time.
How long does it take to visit Salinas Grandes?
You can spend anywhere from 1 to 3 hours at Salinas Grandes. You can walk across the crunchy salt crust, explore shallow pools of brine that shimmer in the sunlight, and learn about the traditional salt-harvesting methods practiced by local communities.
The shallow pools, Ojos de Salar, are natural springs which have formed little lakes. If you dip your feet or hands in them, expect them to turn snow-white with salt. NB If you have an open graze/wound this is definitely NOT recommended!
Photographer’s Dream
If the above is not reason enough to visit this part of Argentina, then you will be totally hooked if you like your photography. This is a photographers paradise. The perspectives and quirky optical illusions on the flat, reflective surface are phenomenal.
Even for those of us who are not blessed in the photography department will appreciate the fun to be had with your camera or phones in this miraculous landscape. The guides, themselves, are now self-taught pro photographers as they position and advise you accordingly to achieve the best results.
Warning
The region’s high altitude and intense sunlight make sunglasses, sunscreen, and plenty of water essential.
Accommodation Options
There are no accommodations directly on the Salinas Grandes salt flats, as it is a remote natural area, but you can stay in nearby towns or villages that provide easy access to this stunning destination. Here are some popular options:
1. Purmamarca (Jujuy Province)
Purmamarca is a village known for the Cerro de los Siete Colores (Hill of Seven Colours). It offers boutique hotels, hostels, and cozy accommodations with a blend of rustic and modern amenities.
2. Tilcara (Jujuy Province)
Tilcara is a slightly larger town with more accommodation and dining options. It’s also home to archaeological sites, such as the Pucará de Tilcara, and cultural experiences.
3. San Salvador de Jujuy (Jujuy Province)
The provincial capital offers more urban accommodations, restaurants, and services. It’s a good option if you’re looking for a larger city base before heading to the flats.
4. Salta City (Salta Province)
While farther away, Salta offers an international airport, excellent infrastructure, and a range of high-quality hotels. You can arrange day trips too.