Tolar Grande and the Arita Cone: A Hidden Gem in Argentina’s Puna
Tolar Grande is a remote village in the heart of the Salta highlands, part of the Los Andes Department in northern Argentina. Located at 3,500 meters above sea level, it lies 380 km from Salta City and 214 km from San Antonio de los Cobres. This high-altitude desert is a land of salt flats, volcanoes, and surreal landscapes, where the silence and immensity of nature leave a lasting impression.
A Journey into the Puna
Tolar Grande is surrounded by some of the most extraordinary scenery in Argentina. Not far from the town is the Llullaillaco Volcano, famous for the discovery of the Inca “Children of Llullaillaco.” This region offers a deep connection to Andean culture and nature.
One of the most fascinating natural wonders near Tolar Grande is the Ojos de Mar. These small, intensely blue lagoons are home to living stromatolites, among the few found on Earth at such a high altitude. These microorganisms resemble some of the earliest life forms on the planet.
Every year, on the third Saturday of November, locals climb Cerro Macón, a sacred 5,500-meter peak. There, they leave offerings to Pachamama, honoring ancient traditions at an Inca ceremonial site.
Weather in Tolar Grande
The climate is harsh and dry. Winters can reach -15°C, while summer days are mild with highs around 25°C and lows below zero. The landscape is defined by red sands, salt flats, vicuñas, and llamas set against distant volcanoes.
How to Get There
From Salta, take Route 51 through the Quebrada del Toro, passing through San Antonio de los Cobres. Then continue along Provincial Route 27 and the Salar de Pocitos to reach Tolar Grande.
The town was originally built around a railway station during a mining boom. Today, it’s a base for exploring the region’s stunning natural circuits.
What to See Around Tolar Grande
Here are some of the must-see highlights in the area:
Ojos de Mar
These small saltwater lagoons are rich in color and contrast, located in the Tolar Grande salt flat. They originate from underground water sources flowing from the Serranía del Macón. The mix of fresh and salt water creates a unique ecosystem.
El Arenal
Just 8 km from town, this area features massive red sand dunes. Climbing to the top offers spectacular views of the Andes. The feeling of isolation is surreal—like walking on another planet.
The Arita Cone
The Cono de Arita is an almost perfect pyramid rising from the Salar de Arizaro, one of the largest salt flats in the world. The cone is about 80 km from Tolar Grande and sits at 3,460 meters above sea level.
Its origin remains a mystery. Some believe it was used for Inca ceremonies. The surrounding salt flat resembles an endless white sea, broken only by this natural formation. The best time to visit is between November and April. Binoculars and sun protection are strongly recommended.
Salt Mines and the Dead Man Tunnel
This eerie tunnel is 180 meters long and includes four chambers and a salt bridge. Inside, you’ll see stalactites and salt columns in stunning formations. Walking through it offers a mix of vertigo and wonder.
The Mirador Circuit
This viewpoint gives a panoramic look over the Arizaro Salt Flat and surrounding volcanoes, including Llullaillaco, Socompa, Aracar, and Macón. You’ll also spot salt hills and gypsum formations along the way.
Santa María Lagoon
Located 65 km from Tolar Grande, this lagoon is a perfect spot to observe Andean flamingos, locally known as parinas, with the impressive Incahuasi Volcano in the background. It’s a paradise for nature photographers.
Final Thoughts
Tolar Grande is not a typical tourist destination. It’s a journey into the extreme beauty of Argentina’s Puna, where silence, space, and high-altitude air offer a travel experience like no other. From salt flats to sacred peaks and Martian-like dunes, this remote outpost is ideal for explorers and nature lovers.
Want to book an excursion to Tolar Grande and the Arita Cone?
If you want to book an excursion to Tolar Grande and Arita Cone, please contact us: info@ripioturismo.com
Other amazing activities and excursions in Salta
We have many options to discover Salta, Jujuy, and the Argentinian northwest. These are two of the most interesting, but we have many.
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Tours to visit the Argentinian Northwest
We have a great variety of tours to visit these amazing places, most of them including Salta, Jujuy and the Northwest in general, combined with many other amazing destinations in Argentina such El Calafate, Ushuaia, Iguazu Falls, Mendoza, Bariloche… Check one of my favorites, the 104 tour; The Argentinian North in 12 amazing nights
Tours to visit the Argentinian North and other amazing destinations
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