The Puna Argentina

Puna Argentina, also known as the Altiplano or High Plateau, stretches across the provinces of Jujuy, Salta, Catamarca, La Rioja, and northern San Juan, although it is primarily associated with Jujuy…

The Puna ArgentinaTraveler walking beside a turquoise pool on the white salt flats of Salinas GrandesTraveler sitting on the hexagonal salt crust of Salinas Grandes under a deep blue Puna sky

Exploring Puna Argentina: Argentina’s High Andean Plateau

Puna Argentina, also known as the Altiplano or High Plateau, stretches across the provinces of Jujuy, Salta, Catamarca, La Rioja, and northern San Juan, although it is primarily associated with Jujuy, Salta, and Catamarca.

This breathtaking region, known for its dramatic landscapes and unique geological formations, is a paradise for adventurous travelers seeking remote beauty, high-altitude scenery, and unforgettable road trips.

Below, we explore some of the main attractions of the Argentine Puna in each province.

Puna in Jujuy

Cusi Cusi: A Hidden Gem in the Altiplano

Located in Jujuy province, Cusi Cusi is a small village situated at approximately 3,700 meters above sea level.

The area is famous for its colorful mountains and striking rock formations known as the “Valle de la Luna” (Moon Valley). Unlike the more famous Moon Valleys in Ischigualasto or Atacama, this destination remains largely untouched by mass tourism, making it an ideal place to experience the raw beauty of the high plateau.

The peaceful atmosphere and remote setting allow travelers to connect deeply with nature.

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 towns in Argentina and serves as a gateway to many attractions in the Puna.

From here, travelers can access the famous Train to the Clouds viaduct, Ruta 40, Abra del Acay, Tolar Grande, Salinas Grandes, and several other iconic destinations.

Abra del Acay

Abra del Acay is one of the highest mountain passes in the world, reaching nearly 5,000 meters above sea level.

Located near La Poma in Salta province, it forms part of the legendary Ruta 40 and connects San Antonio de los Cobres with Cachi through spectacular mountain scenery.

Salinas Grandes

Situated at approximately 3,450 meters above sea level, Salinas Grandes is one of the most spectacular salt flats in Argentina.

The brilliant white landscape contrasts beautifully with the deep blue sky, creating one of the most photogenic locations in the Altiplano. It is located near Purmamarca and the Humahuaca Gorge.

Straight highway across the Puna leading to the Salinas Grandes salt flat

Tolar Grande

Nestled at 3,500 meters above sea level, Tolar Grande is surrounded by extraordinary scenery, including the Puna de Atacama and ancient stromatolites dating back billions of years.

One of the routes to reach this remote destination follows Route 51 from San Antonio de los Cobres, crossing Abra del Chorrillo at 4,800 meters above sea level and passing through the Pocitos salt flat, Devil’s Desert, the Seven Curves, and abandoned railway stations along the C-14 branch.

Nearby attractions include the Desierto del Laberinto and the Cono de Arita.

Cono de Arita

This striking cone-shaped hill rises dramatically from the Arizaro Salt Flat at approximately 3,500 meters above sea level.

Its perfectly symmetrical shape and surreal surroundings make it one of the most iconic landmarks in Puna Argentina.

In this region, visitors can also find the picturesque Ojos de Mar, freshwater springs that contrast beautifully with the surrounding desert landscapes.

The symmetrical Cono de Arita rising from the white Salar de Arizaro near Tolar Grande

Puna de Atacama (Argentina and Chile)

Part of the greater Atacama Desert, the Puna de Atacama extends across both Argentina and Chile.

Its arid environment, volcanic scenery, and extreme altitude create a unique atmosphere ideal for exploration, photography, and stargazing.

Catamarca: One of the Least Visited Areas of Puna Argentina

Antofalla and Antofallita

Antofalla, one of the world’s longest salt flats, lies at approximately 4,000 meters above sea level.

Nearby Antofallita offers similarly breathtaking scenery, with colorful lagoons, volcanic formations, and isolated desert landscapes.

Many travelers combine this area with Tolar Grande, crossing between the provinces of Salta and Catamarca through remote sections of the Altiplano.

Antofagasta de la Sierra

This charming village, located at 3,440 meters above sea level, serves as the gateway to volcanic fields, lava formations, lagoons, and some of the most dramatic landscapes in northwestern Argentina.

Andean volcano above a salt flat and a dirt track in the Puna of CatamarcaTwo travelers beside a high-altitude lagoon reflecting snow-capped volcanoes in Catamarca

Balcón de Pissis

From this spectacular viewpoint, visitors can admire Mount Pissis, one of the highest volcanoes in the world.

The viewpoint rises above 4,000 meters and offers panoramic views of volcanoes, salt flats, and turquoise lagoons.

Campo de Piedra Pómez

This surreal field of pumice stone formations resembles a lunar landscape.

Located at around 3,000 meters above sea level, Campo de Piedra Pómez is one of the most unique geological formations in Argentina.

La Rioja and San Juan

Although La Rioja and San Juan are less associated with the Puna Argentina, they also feature extraordinary high-altitude landscapes and hidden natural treasures.

Some highlights include Corona del Inca, Laguna Brava, and El Leoncito National Park.

Tours in Puna Argentina

The Argentine Puna offers a fascinating combination of colorful deserts, volcanoes, salt flats, and remote villages.

Whether exploring the Salinas Grandes, crossing the Desierto del Laberinto, or admiring the Cono de Arita, this region promises one of the most unique travel experiences in South America.

We are a local travel agency based in Argentina specializing in custom tours throughout Argentina and Chile.

As inspiration for your next journey, we invite you to explore some of our featured tours:

Tolar Grande and the Altiplano Tour

Tours in Salta, Jujuy, and Northern Argentina

Catamarca, La Rioja, Salta, and Jujuy Tour

Northwest Argentina Holidays: Salta and Jujuy

Argentina Road Trips

Argentina Tours

We also offer tours in many other regions of Argentina and Chile, including our Patagonia Tours.

Let's plan your personalized experience

Beyond BA Latam is a local travel agency based in Argentina that designs personalized tours in Argentina, Chile and Antarctica. We are very proud to work with a knowledgeable team capable to design trips based on your interests and traveling style. We are able to bring you a different and more enjoyable experience.

Related Articles

  • Northwest Argentina: Best Things to Do in Salta and JujuyNorthwest Argentina: Best Things to Do in Salta and Jujuy

    With so many things to do in Salta and Jujuy, planning your trip can feel overwhelming, especially given the region’s vast territory, diverse attractions, and limited travel time. For a first visit…

  • Abra Del AcayAbra Del Acay

    Located in the province of Salta, Abra del Acay is one of the highest drivable mountain passes in the world, reaching a breathtaking altitude of 4,895 meters (16,060 feet) above sea level. Abra del…

  • Northern Argentina Travel Guide

    Northern Argentina is one of the country's most fascinating regions, offering a unique combination of spectacular landscapes, colonial heritage, indigenous culture, and world-class wine experiences.…

  • Purmamarca & Cerro de los 7 Colores: An Incredible Andean LandscapePurmamarca & Cerro de los 7 Colores: An Incredible Andean Landscape

    The lovely village of Purmamarca is located in the Jujuy Province of northwestern Argentina, surrounded by the magnificent Andes Mountains and the colorful hills of the Quebrada de Humahuaca. This…

  • Quebrada de HumahuacaQuebrada de Humahuaca

    In northwestern Argentina, the magnificent Quebrada de Humahuaca is known for its breathtaking beauty and extensive cultural history. About 150 kilometers of this canyon are enclosed by soaring…

  • Andean Flamingo: A Spectacular High-Altitude BirdAndean Flamingo: A Spectacular High-Altitude Bird

    The Andean Flamingo (Phoenicoparrus andinus) is one of the most fascinating birds of South America. Native to the high-altitude wetlands of the Andes Mountains, this elegant species has become a…

  • Andean Cat (Leopardus jacobita) – The Ghost of the High Andes

    The Andean Cat (Leopardus jacobita) is one of the rarest and most elusive wild cats on Earth. Revered by Indigenous communities and surrounded by mystery, this remarkable feline inhabits the remote…

Inspiring Tours

Trips by Destination

In the following sections, you'll find tours focused on the main region you want to visit. They include traditional & thematic tours, interesting articles, and relevant information.

Tours by Travel Style

In the following sections, you'll find tours focused on the main region you want to visit. They include traditional & thematic tours, interesting articles, and relevant information. If your interest is focusing mainly in Chile or Antarctica, please visit our Chile and Antarctica sections.

Start planning your experience with us!