Salinas Grandes | Salta

Salinas Grandes

Salinas Grandes is one of the most spectacular natural landscapes in Argentina and is located in the northwestern region of the country, spanning the provinces of Salta and Jujuy. This massive salt flat is often compared to other world-famous salt flats, such as Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia, and is one of Argentina’s most visited tourist destinations due to its unique beauty and remote location.

Description

• Salinas Grandes is a vast salt desert that covers an area of about 12,000 square kilometers (4,633 square miles). It is located at a high altitude of approximately 3,450 meters (11,320 feet) above sea level in the Andean Puna, a high-altitude desert region.
• The salt flat is a dry, flat plain covered with a thick layer of salt crust, which gives the area a surreal, almost otherworldly appearance. The white expanse of salt stretches as far as the eye can see, interrupted only by the occasional salt formations, piles of salt extracted by local workers, and the distant, snow-capped Andes Mountains.

Geological Formation

• The Salinas Grandes region is the result of ancient geological processes that began millions of years ago. Originally, the area was a lake that gradually evaporated, leaving behind large deposits of salt. Over time, these salt deposits solidified and formed the salt flats that exist today.
• The salt crust on the surface can be several meters thick in some areas, and beneath the surface, there are large reserves of lithium-rich brine and other minerals, which have attracted interest for mining purposes.

How to Visit

1. Access

• Salinas Grandes is accessible via Ruta 40 (Route 40), a famous Argentine highway that runs through the Andean regions of the country. It is located approximately 60 kilometers (37 miles) from Purmamarca, a small town in Jujuy, and around 130 kilometers (80 miles) from the city of Salta.
• Travelers can either take a guided tour or drive on their own, but it’s important to note that the roads leading to the salt flat can be difficult, especially during the rainy season, so a 4x4 vehicle is recommended for those choosing to travel independently.

2. Best Time to Visit

• The best time to visit Salinas Grandes is during the dry season (typically from April to November), when the salt flat is accessible and the weather is clear and dry. The rainy season (from December to March) can make travel more difficult, as the salt crust can become soft and muddy.
• The salt flats take on a dramatic appearance when they are covered by a thin layer of water, reflecting the sky and creating stunning mirror-like surfaces. This phenomenon is most common after rains in the region, but visitors should be cautious as roads and conditions may be more challenging during the wet months.

Things to Do and See

1. Photographic Opportunities

• Salinas Grandes offers some of the most incredible photographic opportunities in Argentina. The vast, flat salt plains create striking visuals, especially when the sun is low on the horizon, casting long shadows and highlighting the stark contrast between the white salt and the blue sky.
• The salt flats are especially popular for perspective photography, where visitors can create images that make objects appear much larger or smaller than they are, taking advantage of the flat, featureless landscape.

2. Salt Extraction

• Local workers still extract salt from the flat using traditional methods, and visitors can see how salt is harvested and processed into blocks. Some tours offer a glimpse of the process and explain the significance of the salt flats to the region’s economy.
• Visitors can also purchase locally harvested salt and other artisan products made from the salt, such as salt lamps and salt sculptures, as souvenirs.

3. Nearby Attractions

• Purmamarca, a small town near Salinas Grandes, is famous for its colorful hills known as the Cerro de los Siete Colores (Hill of Seven Colors), which are a striking geological feature formed by layers of different colored rocks.
• The Cuesta de Lipán, a winding mountain road that leads to Salinas Grandes, provides spectacular views of the Andes and valleys below. This drive offers a chance to see alpacas, llamas, and guanacos, as well as enjoy panoramic views of the desert and mountains.

4. Cultural Experience

• The area surrounding Salinas Grandes is home to indigenous Quechua and Aymara communities. Visitors can learn about the local culture, including traditional agriculture and crafts, and interact with local artisans who sell their products along the way.

Practical Information

1. Accessibility

• While Salinas Grandes is a remote and rugged area, it is a well-established tourist destination with enough infrastructure to support visitors. There are basic services available near the salt flats, such as small tourist shops, restaurants, and bathrooms. However, there are few accommodations directly on the salt flats, so visitors typically stay in Purmamarca, Tilcara, or Salta and make day trips to the salt flat.

2. Safety Tips

• Visitors should be prepared for the high-altitude environment. Bring sun protection (sunscreen, hats, sunglasses) as the high-altitude sun can be intense, and wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on rough, uneven surfaces.
• It’s important to carry sufficient water and snacks, as there are limited services in the area. Also, make sure to check the weather and road conditions before setting off, as weather can change rapidly in the region.

Conclusion

Salinas Grandes is an otherworldly and stunning natural wonder that offers visitors a chance to experience the grandeur of Argentina’s high-altitude deserts and Andes mountains. Whether you're traveling for the photographic opportunities, the geological marvels, or to explore the local culture, Salinas Grandes is a must-see destination for anyone visiting northwestern Argentina. Its vast, salt-covered landscape and breathtaking views make it a truly unique place in the world.