Salinas by Purmamarca + Humahuaca in 2 Days

Exploring the mesmerizing Salinas Grandes, the world’s largest salt flats, is a captivating two-day adventure. Traversing the shimmering expanse, visitors can enjoy the region’s vibrant culture, from the charming adobe town of Purmamarca to the lively markets of Humahuaca. But the true highlight lies in uncovering the unexpected delights that await along this remarkable journey.

Key Points

• Explore the vast Salinas Grandes salt flats and capture breathtaking photos against the bright blue sky.
• Visit a local pottery workshop in Humahuaca to witness artisans crafting traditional pottery and gain cultural insights.
• Tour the iconic Tropic of Capricorn and learn about the charming Andean architecture and lively markets of Tilcara and Humahuaca.
• Discover the highlights of Tilcara and Humahuaca, including the ancient Pucara fortress and the bustling handicraft market.
• Spend an overnight stay in Purmamarca to explore the local music scene, visit the Cerro de los Siete Colores, and purchase handmade souvenirs.

Exploring the Stunning Salinas Grandes

When travelers arrive at the Salinas Grandes, they’re greeted by a breathtaking natural wonder. The vast salt flats stretch out as far as the eye can see, their pristine white surface reflecting the bright blue sky above.

The brightness can be dazzling, so sunglasses are a must. Visitors can stroll across the crusty salt, posing for memorable photos that capture the surreal landscape.

The Salinas Grandes offer a unique and photogenic experience, a highlight of any visit to the region. Travelers should be sure to allocate sufficient time to fully enjoy this stunning natural attraction.

Pottery Workshop and Cultural Insights

One of the cultural highlights on this tour is the opportunity to visit a local pottery workshop.

Travelers can observe artisans crafting traditional pottery pieces, learning about the techniques and cultural significance. The workshop provides a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage.

Plus, the tour includes dining experiences in Humahuaca, allowing visitors to sample local cuisine and further enjoy the area’s cultural traditions.

While some reviews note variable quality and cleanliness, these activities aim to offer a more authentic cultural experience beyond the stunning natural landscapes.

Tropic of Capricorn and the Village Charm

The tour route takes visitors to the iconic Tropic of Capricorn, where they can stand at the geographic line marking this significant latitude.

Along the way, the tour highlights the charm of the region’s villages:

1. Tilcara, a vibrant town featuring Andean architecture and a lively market.

2. Humahuaca, a quaint village known for its colorful adobe buildings and rich cultural heritage.

3. Purmamarca, a picturesque town nestled in the Jujuy province, offering a vibrant live music scene at night.

These village stops provide opportunities to immerse in the local way of life and appreciate the region’s unique character.

Tilcara and Humahuaca: Highlights of the Tour

Along the tour’s route, visitors are treated to the highlights of Tilcara and Humahuaca, two charming villages that showcase the region’s unique Andean character.

In Tilcara, the ancient Pucara fortress offers panoramic views of the valley. Nearby, the bustling market in Humahuaca draws visitors with its traditional handicrafts and lively atmosphere.

The pottery workshop here provides a glimpse into the local artisanal traditions. While some reviews note issues with the quality of dining experiences, the cultural insights gained from these stops make them worthwhile highlights of the immersive two-day tour.

Overnight Stay in Purmamarca

Travelers who embark on this two-day tour find themselves spending the night in the charming village of Purmamarca.

The overnight stay in Purmamarca offers several advantages:

The overnight stay in Purmamarca offers opportunities to explore local music, visit the Cerro de los Siete Colores, and interact with friendly townspeople.

1. Opportunity to explore the vibrant local music scene in the evenings.

2. Chance to visit the iconic Cerro de los Siete Colores (Mountain of Seven Colors) at a more leisurely pace.

3. Time to wander the picturesque streets and interact with the friendly townspeople.

4. Ability to purchase local handicrafts and souvenirs directly from artisans.

However, some reviews note inconsistencies in the quality of accommodations and dining experiences during the Purmamarca stay.

Navigating Accessibility and Participation

Although the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it remains stroller accessible, and infant seats are available, catering to families with young children.

However, the tour isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with heart conditions. Most travelers can participate, though, as the activities tend to be relatively moderate.

Visitors should keep in mind the extensive travel distances of approximately 500 km each day and plan accordingly.

Feedback and Recommendations

The reviews for this tour present a mixed picture. While some travelers found the tour structure too long with limited activities, others enjoyed the overnight stay in Purmamarca.

To enhance the experience, the following recommendations may be considered:

1. Book locally for potentially lower prices.

2. Carry personal hygiene supplies due to variable restroom conditions.

3. Consider skipping the second day or modifying the itinerary for a more satisfying experience.

4. Be prepared for language barriers and unaddressed concerns regarding seating and comfort, despite the generally knowledgeable guides.

The Sum Up

Exploring the Salinas Grandes, visiting a pottery workshop, and immersing oneself in the vibrant towns of Purmamarca and Humahuaca create an unforgettable two-day adventure. The breathtaking salt flats, local cultural insights, and cozy overnight stay in Purmamarca make this tour a must-do for those seeking to discover the unique beauty and charm of Argentina’s northern region.