Exploring the Argentine Puna (Altiplano): Argentina’s High Andean Plateau
The Puna, also known as the Altiplano or High Plateau, stretches across the provinces of Jujuy, Salta, Catamarca, La Rioja and northern San Juan in Argentina. But mostly Jujuy, Salta, and Catamarca. This breathtaking region, with its stunning landscapes and unique geological formations, is a treasure trove for adventurous travelers seeking unparalleled beauty and tranquility. Here’s an overview of some of the main attractions in each province within the Puna Argentina.
Puna in Jujuy
Cusi Cusi, a hidden pearl in the Altiplano
Located in the province of Jujuy, Cusi Cusi is a quaint village situated at an altitude of approximately 3,700 meters above sea level. The area is renowned for its colorful hills and the unique rock formations that create a dramatic and picturesque landscape, known as the “Moon Valley”. This is not the Moon Valley from Ischigualasto (San Juan) nor the one from Atacama, which gives a plus of being a not “touristic” place. The high plateau here offers a serene escape and a chance to connect with nature in its most pristine form.
Salta: A High Plateau Adventure
San Antonio de los Cobres
At an altitude of 3,775 meters, San Antonio de los Cobres is one of the highest villages in Argentina. It serves as a gateway to several natural wonders in the Puna, including the famous viaduct “Train to the Clouds”, the Route 40 that runs to Jujuy (North) and Tucumán / Catamarca (South), the famous “Abra El Acay”, Tolar Grande, Salinas Grandes, and other attractions.
Abra El Acay
This is one of the highest mountain-passes in the whole world, reaching near 5000 meters above the sea level. It’s located in La Poma, Salta province, and is part of the iconic “Ruta 40”. It’s one of the ways to go from San Antonio de los Cobres to Cachi.
Salinas Grandes
Situated at an elevation of about 3,450 meters, Salinas Grandes is a vast salt flat that dazzles with its stark white landscape against the deep blue sky. It’s a must-visit destination for those exploring the Altiplano. It’s near Purmamarca, in the Humahuaca’s Gorge.
Tolar Grande
Nestled at 3,500 meters (11,483 feet) above sea level, Tolar Grande is known for its breathtaking scenery, including the Puna de Atacama and the nearby estromatolitos, ancient rock formations that date back billions of years. One of the ways to reach this area is through San Antonio de los Cobres, Route 51, crossingthe Abra del Chorrillo at 4,800 meters, passing then by the Pocitos salt flat, Devil’s Desert, 7 Curves, and abandoned stations of the C-14 branch. The “Desierto del Laberinto” and “Cono de Arita” are also near Tolar Grande.
Cono de Arita
This striking cone-shaped hill rises majestically from the surrounding salt flats at an altitude of 3,500 meters (11,483 feet). Its unique shape and the surrounding landscape make it a highlight of the Salta Puna. This formation is in the Arizaro Salt Flat, one of the largest on the planet, and is visited from Tolar Grande. Near this area (and in other areas of the Puna) we can find the Ojos de Mar (springs of fresh water), which are quite picturesque!
Puna de Atacama (Chile and Argentina)
Part of the larger Atacama Desert, the Puna de Atacama is a high plateau that spans both Argentina and Chile. Its arid landscape and high altitude create a unique environment perfect for exploration. This is also great for stargazing!
Catamarca: one of the less visited parts of Puna Argentina
Antofalla and Antofallita
Antofalla, one of the longest salt flats in the world, is located at an altitude of around 4,000 meters (13,123 feet). Nearby, Antofallita offers similar scenic beauty with its tranquil environment. Both areas are considered oases within the arid expanse of the Puna, providing stunning vistas and a unique blend of geological features. Many travelers combine this place with Tolar Grande, joining the provinces of Catamarca and Salta through the Puna Argentina.
Antofagasta de la Sierra
This charming village, located at 3,440 meters, is surrounded by stunning volcanic landscapes and offers a gateway to exploring the volcanic fields and high plateau regions.
Balcón de Pissis
From this viewpoint, visitors can marvel at the stunning panorama of Mount Pissis, one of the highest volcanoes in the world. The altitude here reaches over 4,000 meters (13,123 feet), providing an unparalleled view of the Puna landscape.
Campo de Piedra Pómez
This surreal field of pumice stone formations, located at an altitude of 3,000 meters (9,843 feet), offers a lunar-like landscape that is both fascinating and otherworldly.
La Rioja & San Juan:
Although La Rioja and San Juan are not as widely known for its altitude regions in the Puna Argentina, the still offer access to the breathtaking landscapes of the high plateau. Exploring the high-altitude areas in these province can lead to discovering hidden gems and unique natural beauty. Some of the highlights are Corona del Inca, Laguna Brava, and El Leoncito National Park.
Tours in Puna Argentina
The Puna Argentina, with its mesmerizing high plateau landscapes and diverse attractions, is a haven for those seeking adventure and tranquility. From the salt flats of Salinas Grandes in Salta to the volcanic wonders of Antofagasta de la Sierra in Catamarca, and the colorful hills of Cusi Cusi in Jujuy, each province offers a unique glimpse into the stunning beauty of the Altiplano.
Whether you’re trekking through the Desierto del Laberinto or marveling at the Cono de Arita, the Puna promises an unforgettable journey through one of the most unique regions in Argentina.
We offer a local travel agency based in Argentina, that offers custom tours in Argentina and Chile.
As a kick off, we invite you to explore our following tours:
Tolar Grande and the Altiplano Tour
Tours in Salta, Jujuy, and Northern Argentina
Catamarca, La Rioja, Salta, and Jujuy tour
Northwest of Argentina Holidays: Salta and Jujuy
We also offer other regions of Argentina and Chile, and we invite you to explore them. For intance, our Patagonia Tour.
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