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Salinas Grandes Jujuy

4.8
·8k reviews·, Argentina

A vast, surreal expanse of white salt stretching to the horizon, offering otherworldly landscapes and breathtaking photo opportunities.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Afternoon

Golden hour for stunning photos

CrowdMedium
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Salinas Grandes - Image 1

Salinas Grandes Jujuy

Best Time

Afternoon

Golden hour for stunning photos

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vast, surreal expanse of white salt stretching to the horizon, offering otherworldly landscapes and breathtaking photo opportunities.

4.8
(8k reviews)

"An unusual and surreal place with unique landscapes! Highly recommend!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Hire a Local Guide

Follow a local guide on a motorcycle for unique photo ops & history. Essential for the best experience!

💰 Bring Cash for Fees

Entrance fees and bathroom facilities often require cash. ATMs are scarce, so come prepared.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vast Salt Flats

Vast Salt Flats

The main expanse of Salinas Grandes

An otherworldly landscape of pure white salt stretching to the horizon. Perfect for surreal photos.

Instagram+1
Salt Exploitation Pools

Salt Exploitation Pools

Designated areas within the salt flats

Geometric patterns of salt pools used for extraction, creating unique visual lines and textures.

Instagram
Reflections on Flooded Salt

Reflections on Flooded Salt

Areas with shallow water after rain

When flooded, the salt flats become a giant mirror, reflecting the sky for breathtaking, surreal images.

Instagram
Cuesta del Lipán Viewpoints

Cuesta del Lipán Viewpoints

Along RN52 approaching Salinas Grandes

Scenic overlooks offering panoramic views of the winding mountain road and the vast salt desert below.

Instagram+1
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Planning Your Visit

Altitude Acclimatization is Key

Salinas Grandes sits at over 3,450 meters (11,300 ft). Take it easy on arrival, stay hydrated, and consider chewing coca leaves to combat altitude sickness. Many travelers report no issues if they prepare properly. Reddit

Prepare for Intense Sun and Reflection

The sun is fierce at this altitude, amplified by salt reflection. Pack high SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and consider long sleeves. An umbrella can also be helpful. Reddit

Best Times

When
Afternoon
Why
Golden hour for stunning photos
Crowd
Medium
When
After rain
Why
Mirrored reflections appear
Crowd
Low
When
Dry season (May-Oct)
Why
Less chance of flooded salt
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

😢Se termino el carnaval en Jujuy y los diablos lloran por las calles de Humahuaca. Sabias de esta costumbre? 😳 #humahuaca_jujuy🌵🇦🇷❤️ #carnaval2024 #carnavaljujeño #humahuaca
@viajeras_por_ahi
121.3K likes • 1.5M views

🚗 Hire a Local Guide

Follow a local guide on a motorcycle for unique photo ops & history. Essential for the best experience! InstagramReddit

💰 Bring Cash for Fees

Entrance fees and bathroom facilities often require cash. ATMs are scarce, so come prepared. InstagramReddit

Ahora Descubrí Jujuy desde el Tren Solar 🚆 Por Increíble Quebrada de Humahuaca de manera sostenible y única ✨ 🎟️ Boleto Único, 12 Horas para poder usarlo : Desde la primera estación en VOLCÁN, el tren solar te llevará a través de los encantadores pueblos de la región, estos son: VOLCAN - TUMBAYA - PURMAMARCA - TILCARA . Permitiéndote bajar y subir en cualquiera de las 4 estaciones a lo largo de...
@maiteporelmundo
84.8K likes • 1.1M views
Fuimos a ver el atardecer a las Salinas Grandes en Jujuy y nos quedamos hasta que se hizo de noche. Flasheamos con una luz led y este es el resultado 🤯💕🇦🇷
m.j.fotografia
98.8K likes • 1.4M views

☀️ Sun Protection is Crucial

High SPF sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and long sleeves are a must due to intense sun & reflection. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water to combat the high altitude. Coca leaves can also help with acclimatization. Reddit

❤ Salinas grandes, Jujuy. 😍 📷 @theadventurerguy Si conoces este lugar contanos tu experiencia o etiqueta a la persona con la que irías allí! 👉Mira nuestro canal de YouTube “Viajestips” Link en bio #argentina #viajar #viajes #jujuy #jujuyargentina #salinas #salinasgrandes #salar #salinasgrandesjujuy #salta #Saltaargentina #turismo #argentinaturismo #tourism
viajestips
8.3K likes • 171.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Hire a Local Guide

Follow a local guide on a motorcycle for unique photo ops & history. Essential for the best experience! InstagramReddit

💰 Bring Cash for Fees

Entrance fees and bathroom facilities often require cash. ATMs are scarce, so come prepared. InstagramReddit

☀️ Sun Protection is Crucial

High SPF sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and long sleeves are a must due to intense sun & reflection. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water to combat the high altitude. Coca leaves can also help with acclimatization. Reddit

📸 Unique Photo Ops

Take advantage of the salt blocks, signs, and reflections for memorable, creative photos. TikTokInstagram

What Travellers Say

4.8
(8k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Salinas Grandes for its surreal, otherworldly beauty and incredible photo opportunities, especially during sunset or after rain. The unique landscape and the experience of exploring the vast salt flats are highly recommended. Some travelers note the importance of preparing for high altitude and intense sun.

"Sept.25: we passed the Salinas Grandes on our way to the Chilean border.

We booked on the spot a tour with a guide for ARS12.000 = a bit more than €7 p.p. Even the kiosk where we bought our tickets was made from salt blocks.

The road to getting here from Jujuy is an incredibly high altitude mountain driving. Once there we followed a local guide (Anibal): he was on a white motorcbike & you follow in your car.

Such an unusual & surreal place. The guide was fantastic explaining the history.

We stopped @2 different places, 1st were the long rectangular shaped basins; were we took pictures with signs of Jujuy, dinosaur & with banana.

A few minutes drive further we arrived @a salt lake; again some posing pictures with reflections in the water. These salt lakes are @height of 3.450 meters above sea level.

There’s also local food for sale which was incredibly delicious! Wonderful experience with unique landscapes! Highly recommend!

There is a paid clean bathroom for only ARS500 = €0.30 & you get some toilet paper."

Petra (Pitch)

"Northern Argentina will always be a beautiful place to discover and visit again. Salinas Grandes in Jujuy is a magical place. The guides we had were very kind and patient!! We enjoyed it as a family!! 😍🥰"

Shulamit Marín

"Unmissable place to visit. You can do a tour guide with your véhicule , a local will explain everything and take the best pictures 🤙 not to forget there is a spot where you can park, camp, run on the Salar and even do a wild salt bath , enjoy !"

Estelle Ohanian

What People Like

Surreal white landscape
Incredible photo opportunities
Unique salt extraction pools

What People Dislike

Intense sun and reflection
High altitude effects

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Salinas Grandes is accessible via RN52 from Purmamarca (approx. 65km) or from Salta. The drive involves high-altitude mountain roads like the Cuesta del Lipán, offering scenic viewpoints. Renting a car is a popular option for flexibility. Instagram+1

Yes, Salinas Grandes can be visited as a day trip from Salta, though it's a long drive. Many tours depart from Salta, or you can drive yourself if you have a rental car. Instagram

The road, particularly the Cuesta del Lipán, is a high-altitude mountain road with many curves and steep inclines. It's paved but requires careful driving. InstagramReddit

Yes, organized tours are widely available from Purmamarca, Tilcara, and Salta. These tours often include stops at scenic points along the way. Instagram

From Purmamarca, the drive is about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on stops. From Salta, it's a longer journey, typically 3-4 hours one way. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, there is typically an entrance fee to access the main areas of Salinas Grandes. It's advisable to have cash on hand as payment methods can vary. Reddit

For independent travel, no advance booking is usually required for entry. If you opt for a guided tour, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season. Reddit

Salinas Grandes is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no strict opening or closing times for the natural landscape itself, but tours operate on set schedules. TikTok

Yes, there are bathroom facilities available, but they are usually paid. It's recommended to carry small denominations of cash for these services. Reddit

While not a designated campground, some visitors have mentioned the possibility of wild camping. However, it's best to check local regulations and be prepared for remote conditions. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography. If it has rained recently, the flooded salt flats create incredible mirror-like reflections. TikTokInstagram

You can capture vast, surreal landscapes, unique geometric patterns of salt pools, reflections on flooded salt, and creative shots using the salt blocks and signs. Instagram+1

Yes, many local guides offer photography assistance, helping you find the best angles and capture stunning shots, especially during sunset. TikTokReddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscape. A polarizing filter can help manage glare from the salt. Don't forget extra batteries as the cold can affect them. Instagram

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or your tour operator before flying a drone to ensure compliance. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, local food is often for sale at Salinas Grandes, with vendors offering delicious regional specialties. It's a great way to experience local cuisine. Reddit

Expect hearty regional dishes. Some visitors have enjoyed incredibly delicious local food offerings. Reddit

While there might not be formal restaurants, there are usually local vendors selling food directly within the salt flats. Reddit

It's always a good idea to bring some snacks and plenty of water, especially given the remote location and altitude. Reddit

Yes, you can bring your own food for a picnic. It's a unique setting for a meal, but remember to pack out all your trash. Reddit

🎫 💡 Onsite Experience

The main activities include marveling at the vast salt flats, taking unique photos, learning about salt extraction, and enjoying the surreal landscapes. Instagram+1

Absolutely! It's a unique and surreal natural wonder, offering incredible photo opportunities and a memorable experience of the Puna region. InstagramReddit

Wear comfortable, layered clothing. Include warm layers as temperatures can change, and sturdy shoes for walking on the salt. Don't forget sun protection! Reddit

A visit to Salinas Grandes typically takes 2-3 hours, but you could easily spend longer if you're enjoying the photography or taking a guided tour. Instagram

Yes, there are unique glamping experiences like Pristine Camps offering luxury domes right in the heart of the salt flats for an unforgettable stay. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Salinas Grandes offers a unique and educational experience for families. The vast, flat salt surface is fascinating for children to explore, and the surreal landscape sparks imagination. Bring plenty of snacks and water, as options can be limited. Ensure kids are well-protected from the sun with hats, sunscreen, and long sleeves, as the reflection off the salt is intense. Reddit

Consider hiring a local guide who can make the experience more engaging for younger visitors with stories and interactive photo opportunities. The drive up the Cuesta del Lipán also offers exciting views and a sense of adventure. While the altitude might require some adjustment, many families report enjoyable visits. InstagramReddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Salinas Grandes is a dream destination. The key is to time your visit for the golden hours (sunrise/sunset) for dramatic lighting and long shadows. If you're lucky enough to visit after rain, the flooded salt flats create incredible mirror effects, offering unparalleled reflection photography opportunities. TikTokInstagram

Utilize local guides who can lead you to the most photogenic spots and assist with creative compositions. Don't forget your wide-angle lens to capture the immense scale and consider a polarizing filter to manage glare. Be prepared for the intense sun and bring extra batteries for your camera. InstagramReddit

🚗 Road Trippers & Adventurers

Salinas Grandes is a must-stop on any Northern Argentina road trip. The drive itself, especially the Cuesta del Lipán, is an adventure with stunning mountain scenery. Renting a car offers the most flexibility to explore at your own pace and stop at viewpoints. Instagram+1

Be prepared for high-altitude driving and ensure your vehicle is in good condition. Consider hiring a local guide upon arrival for a more insightful experience and unique photo opportunities. The surreal landscape offers a stark contrast to other destinations in the region, making it a memorable part of any itinerary. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Journey: Cuesta del Lipán

The drive to Salinas Grandes from Purmamarca is an adventure in itself, primarily via the RN52 which ascends the dramatic Cuesta del Lipán. This winding mountain road climbs to an altitude of over 4,170 meters (13,680 ft) at its highest point, Abra Potrerillos. Along the way, you'll encounter breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Andes and the vast salt desert unfolding below. Several viewpoints offer perfect spots to stop, take photos, and acclimatize to the increasing altitude. Instagram+1

Travelers often describe the drive as spectacular, with hairpin turns and stunning vistas at every bend. It's crucial to drive cautiously and be aware of the changing road conditions. The air becomes thinner as you ascend, so taking it slow and drinking plenty of water is highly recommended. Many tours make specific stops at designated miradors (viewpoints) for photo opportunities and to admire the sheer scale of the landscape. Reddit

Altitude Considerations on the Cuesta



As you climb the Cuesta del Lipán, the altitude can become noticeable. Symptoms of altitude sickness can include headaches, nausea, and dizziness. Travelers are advised to chew coca leaves, stay hydrated, and avoid strenuous activity upon arrival. The journey is as much a part of the experience as the destination itself, offering a dramatic prelude to the stark beauty of Salinas Grandes. Reddit

Photography Magic in the Salt Flats

Salinas Grandes is a photographer's paradise, offering a canvas of stark white and endless horizons. The vast expanse of salt creates a surreal, almost lunar landscape that is incredibly photogenic. When the salt flats are flooded after rains, they transform into a giant mirror, reflecting the sky and clouds with astonishing clarity. This phenomenon, often captured by photographers like Daniel Kordan, creates breathtaking images of walking on water. Instagram+1

Local guides play a crucial role in enhancing the photographic experience. Many guides, often on motorcycles, will lead visitors to the best spots for unique shots. They can help you pose with salt blocks, signs, or within the geometric patterns of the salt extraction pools. The golden hour around sunrise and sunset provides the most dramatic lighting, casting long shadows and painting the sky with vibrant colors, making it an ideal time for capturing stunning images. TikTokReddit

Essential Photography Tips



To make the most of your photography session, consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the immense scale of the salt flats. A polarizing filter can help manage the intense glare from the salt and water. Protect your camera gear from dust and the elements. Remember to also protect yourself with sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as the sun's reflection off the salt is extremely intense. InstagramReddit

Unique Stays: Glamping in the Salt

For an unforgettable experience, consider staying overnight amidst the Salinas Grandes. Pristine Camps offers a unique glamping experience with luxury domes situated directly in the heart of the salt flats. This allows visitors to immerse themselves in the serene, otherworldly environment and witness the stars in an incredibly dark sky. Instagram

These glamping sites provide a comfortable and sustainable way to experience the Puna. Imagine waking up to the vast white expanse stretching out before you, with the silence broken only by the wind. It's an opportunity to disconnect and reconnect with nature in a truly unique setting. While not for everyone, this type of accommodation offers a profound connection to the landscape. Instagram+1

Planning Your Overnight Stay



If you're considering an overnight stay, be prepared for remote conditions. While glamping offers comfort, the surrounding environment is wild and exposed. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak seasons. This experience is perfect for those seeking tranquility and a deep immersion in the stark beauty of Salinas Grandes. Instagram

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