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Campo Quijano

4.6
·491k reviews·Campo Quijano, Argentina

Discover the vibrant geological wonders and vast salt flats of Campo Quijano, a breathtaking region in Argentina's Northwest.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring (September-November)

Pleasant weather, blooming flora

CrowdMedium
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Campo Quijano - Image 1

Campo Quijano

Best Time

Spring (September-November)

Pleasant weather, blooming flora

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover the vibrant geological wonders and vast salt flats of Campo Quijano, a breathtaking region in Argentina's Northwest.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A photographer's paradise with landscapes that paint the sky and earth with unbelievable colors."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Rent a Car for Flexibility

Having your own vehicle offers the most freedom to explore at your own pace. :car:

💧 Stay Hydrated

The altitude can be deceiving; drink plenty of water. :droplet:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cerro de los Siete Colores

Cerro de los Siete Colores

Purmamarca

Witness the breathtaking 'Hill of Seven Colors,' a geological marvel showcasing vibrant, layered rock formations.

Salinas Grandes

Salinas Grandes

High-altitude salt flats

Explore the vast, dazzling white expanse of the Salinas Grandes, a surreal landscape perfect for unique photos.

Quebrada de Humahuaca

Quebrada de Humahuaca

UNESCO World Heritage Site

Journey through this stunning ravine, dotted with charming villages and ancient pre-Inca ruins.

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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit to Campo Quijano

Campo Quijano offers a unique blend of natural beauty and adventure. Researching local transport options and booking tours in advance can enhance your experience, especially during peak seasons. Consider the weather, as it can change rapidly in the mountains.

What to Pack for Campo Quijano

Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the trails. Layers of clothing are recommended due to fluctuating temperatures. Don't forget sun protection, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated during your adventures.

Best Times

When
Spring (September-November)
Why
Pleasant weather, blooming flora
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn (March-May)
Why
Crisp air, vibrant foliage
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🚗 Rent a Car for Flexibility

Having your own vehicle offers the most freedom to explore at your own pace. :car: Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

The altitude can be deceiving; drink plenty of water. :droplet: Reddit

☀️ Sun Protection is Key

High altitude means strong sun. Pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. :sunwithface: Reddit

🥾 Comfortable Footwear Essential

You'll be doing a lot of walking and hiking. :athletic_shoe: Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Rent a Car for Flexibility

Having your own vehicle offers the most freedom to explore at your own pace. :car: Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

The altitude can be deceiving; drink plenty of water. :droplet: Reddit

☀️ Sun Protection is Key

High altitude means strong sun. Pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. :sunwithface: Reddit

🥾 Comfortable Footwear Essential

You'll be doing a lot of walking and hiking. :athletic_shoe: Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Campo Quijano for its stunning natural beauty, particularly the colorful hills and vast salt flats. The unique geological formations and the serene atmosphere are major draws. Some travelers mention the altitude can be challenging, and recommend planning accordingly.

What People Like

Breathtaking colorful landscapes
Unique geological formations
Serene and vast salt flats

What People Dislike

High altitude effects
Limited public transport

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common way to reach Campo Quijano from Salta is by car, taking National Route 51. The drive is scenic and takes approximately 40-50 minutes. Buses also run from Salta's main bus terminal, offering a more budget-friendly option. Reddit

Yes, Campo Quijano is an excellent destination for a day trip from Salta. You can explore the main attractions like the Cerro de los Siete Colores and the town itself within a few hours. Reddit

While Campo Quijano itself is walkable, renting a car or hiring a taxi is recommended for exploring the surrounding areas like the Salinas Grandes or Quebrada de Humahuaca. Reddit

Many tour operators in Salta offer day tours that include Campo Quijano and other nearby attractions in the Quebrada de Humahuaca. This is a convenient option if you prefer not to drive. Reddit

The Salinas Grandes are accessible via National Route 52 from Campo Quijano. It's a longer drive, so consider starting early if you're doing it as a day trip. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, there are no entrance fees for the town of Campo Quijano itself or for most natural viewpoints like the Cerro de los Siete Colores. However, some specific attractions or museums within the region might have small admission fees. Reddit

Most natural attractions are accessible at any time. For specific museums or cultural centers in the town, it's best to check their individual operating hours, which can vary. Reddit

There are typically no entrance fees for the Salinas Grandes itself. However, some local guides or services might offer tours or experiences within the salt flats for a fee. Reddit

Yes, booking tours in advance, especially during peak season, is highly recommended to secure your spot and potentially get better rates. Reddit

Discounts are not commonly advertised for natural sites. However, if visiting any museums or cultural sites, inquire about potential student or senior discounts. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The absolute must-sees include the iconic Cerro de los Siete Colores, the vast Salinas Grandes, and the scenic Quebrada de Humahuaca. The charming town of Campo Quijano itself is also worth exploring. Reddit

Activities include hiking, photography, exploring local artisan markets, visiting historical sites, and enjoying the stunning natural landscapes. Reddit

Absolutely! Campo Quijano is a photographer's paradise with its colorful hills, vast salt flats, and unique geological formations. Golden hour is particularly magical. Reddit

Campo Quijano is at a high altitude. It's advisable to take it easy on your first day, stay hydrated, and avoid alcohol to prevent altitude sickness. Reddit

Yes, there are several hiking opportunities in the surrounding areas, offering incredible views of the unique landscapes. Research local trails based on your fitness level. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Don't miss trying regional specialties like 'locro' (a hearty stew), 'empanadas salteñas,' and 'tamales.' Local llama meat dishes are also a unique experience. Reddit

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, often featuring corn, beans, and local vegetables. Empanadas can often be ordered with cheese or vegetable fillings. Reddit

Campo Quijano offers a range of dining options, from casual local eateries serving traditional dishes to more established restaurants. Reddit

Dining in Campo Quijano is generally affordable, especially if you opt for local 'comedores' or 'peñas' that serve traditional meals. Reddit

While the focus is on regional cuisine, you might find some places offering basic international dishes, but it's not the primary offering. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Cerro de los Siete Colores is iconic. The Salinas Grandes offer surreal, minimalist shots. The Quebrada de Humahuaca provides dramatic landscapes and charming village scenes. Reddit

Golden hours (sunrise and sunset) offer the most dramatic lighting for the colorful hills and salt flats. Midday can be harsh but good for capturing the stark white of the Salinas. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for capturing details in the hills. Don't forget a polarizing filter for the salt flats. Reddit

Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone, especially in protected natural areas. Reddit

Shoot during the morning or late afternoon when the sun highlights the different mineral layers. Experiment with different angles to showcase the spectrum. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Campo Quijano offers a unique educational and adventurous experience for families. The vibrant colors of the Cerro de los Siete Colores are captivating for children, and the vastness of the Salinas Grandes sparks imagination. Consider a guided tour that can make the history and geology more engaging for younger minds. Reddit

When traveling with kids, prioritize comfort and hydration. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and ensure everyone has sun protection. Shorter excursions and frequent breaks are recommended due to the altitude. The local markets offer colorful souvenirs that kids often enjoy picking out. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Campo Quijano is a dream destination. The Cerro de los Siete Colores offers incredible opportunities for capturing vibrant landscapes, especially during the golden hours. The Salinas Grandes provide a minimalist canvas for creative shots, playing with light, shadow, and perspective. Reddit

Bring a wide-angle lens for sweeping vistas and a telephoto lens to zoom in on the intricate details of the rock formations. A polarizing filter is highly recommended for the salt flats to enhance contrast and reduce glare. Be mindful of the harsh midday sun and plan your shoots for early morning or late afternoon for the best light. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Quebrada de Humahuaca

The Quebrada de Humahuaca is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its dramatic landscapes and rich cultural history. This stunning ravine stretches for over 150 kilometers and is characterized by its vibrant, multi-colored rock formations, sculpted by wind and water over millennia. Visitors can explore charming indigenous villages like Purmamarca, famous for its Cerro de los Siete Colores (Hill of Seven Colors), and Tilcara, known for its pre-Inca ruins and archaeological museum. Reddit

Getting around the Quebrada is best done by car, allowing you to stop at various viewpoints and small towns at your leisure. Public buses connect the main towns, but they operate on a fixed schedule. The best times to visit are during the dry season (May to October) for clearer skies and pleasant temperatures, though the landscape is beautiful year-round. Reddit

Beyond the iconic sights, the Quebrada offers opportunities for hiking, visiting local artisan markets for unique handicrafts, and immersing yourself in the local culture. The geological formations are a testament to millions of years of history, making it a fascinating destination for both nature lovers and history buffs. Reddit

The Surreal Beauty of Salinas Grandes

The Salinas Grandes are one of Argentina's largest salt flats, offering a surreal and otherworldly experience. Located at an altitude of over 3,000 meters, this vast expanse of white salt stretches as far as the eye can see, creating a stunning visual spectacle. The stark white landscape, contrasted with the brilliant blue sky, makes for incredible photographic opportunities. Reddit

When visiting, be prepared for the intense brightness and the dry, high-altitude air. It's crucial to wear sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen, even on cloudy days. The salt crust can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is recommended. Many visitors enjoy taking playful photos that play with perspective on the flat, featureless terrain. Reddit

Access to the Salinas Grandes is typically via National Route 52, which offers breathtaking views as you ascend into the Puna region. While there are no formal entrance fees, local guides may offer tours or assistance, especially for those interested in learning about salt extraction or the unique ecosystem. Visiting during the dry season (typically May to November) ensures the salt flats are fully exposed and accessible. Reddit

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