Puna de Atacama

A vast high-altitude desert plateau offering otherworldly landscapes with colorful mountains, salt flats, and extreme geological formations. This remote region is ideal for adventurous travelers seeking pristine wilderness and unique natural wonders.

Things to do

• Salinas Grandes — Explore one of Argentina's largest salt flats, a brilliant white expanse stretching across the high plateau with stunning geometric patterns and mountain views.
• Serranías del Hornocal (14 Colors Mountain) — Trek to this iconic multicolored mountain featuring layers of mineral-rich rock in shades of red, purple, green, and gold at 4,895 meters elevation.
• Laguna Cejar hot springs — Soak in naturally heated geothermal pools nestled in the volcanic landscape, a unique thermal experience in the high-altitude desert.
• Peñas de Chani viewpoint — Drive or hike to dramatic rock formations offering panoramic views of the surrounding puna landscape with colorful geological stratification.
• Purmamarca village and Cerro de los Siete Colores — Visit the charming colonial town and hike to its iconic seven-colored mountain, accessible in a few hours and offering cultural immersion.
• Laguna de Pozuelos wildlife viewing — Observe high-altitude wildlife including flamingos, Andean geese, and vicuñas at this pristine saltwater lagoon near the Chilean border.
• Maimará Palette of the Painter — Photograph the layered mountain cliffs displaying brilliant bands of color reflected in the Río Grande during early morning light.

Food to try

• Locro — A hearty slow-cooked stew combining corn, beans, potatoes, and meat, essential comfort food in the cold high-altitude climate.
• Empanadas tucumanas — Crispy pastry pockets filled with seasoned ground meat, onions, and spices, a regional specialty found throughout the province.
• Humita — A traditional corn-based tamale wrapped in fresh corn husks, combining corn, cheese, and peppers with indigenous roots.
• Charqui (dried llama meat) — Thinly sliced and dried llama meat, a high-protein traditional food essential for sustenance at extreme altitudes.
• Quinoa dishes — Ancient grain preparations featuring locally grown quinoa, often served in soups or as a side, highly nutritious at high altitude.

Local customs & good to know

• Altitude acclimatization is essential — Most activities occur above 3,500 meters; allow at least one day to acclimate, stay hydrated, and be aware of altitude sickness symptoms.
• Respect indigenous communities — The region is home to Kolla and other indigenous peoples; ask permission before photographing people or sacred sites, and support local artisans.
• Extreme weather preparedness — Temperatures swing dramatically from blazing sun to freezing nights; pack layers, sunscreen, and quality gear for safe travel.
• Limited services and self-sufficiency — Towns are sparse and remote; ensure you have adequate fuel, supplies, and a reliable vehicle, as help may be hours away.