Purmamarca (northern Argentina)

Alex Burridge
MD South America Travel Centre March 2026

180kms to the north of Salta is the small town of Purmamarca.  Its history dates back to the Conquistadors; the church at the North of the small main square was built in 1648.  The church of Saint Rose of Lima was constructed of adobe and has a roof made of cardon (cactus wood) and was declared a National Historic Monument in 1941.

Church of Saint Rose – Purmamarca

Street art

Purmamarca market

The Cerro de los Siete Colores (Hill of seven colours) forms a stunning back-drop to Purmamarca.  The streets remain un-paved and the local artisans market and shops have some beautiful locally made products.  I’d suggest a couple of nights here will give you time to enjoy the town and also take some walks nearby.

There are several beautiful, small and boutique, places to stay:

Hotel el Manantial del Silencio (20 rooms) which has an excellent restaurant Calandria) , Marques de Tojo (10 rooms) and La Comarca Hotel (20 rooms).

Purmamarca works well if you are heading north into Bolivia and to the Uyuni Salt Flats or a stay that includes Salta, Cachi and Cafayate (which has some excellent wineries) and perhaps Mendoza in the north of Argentina.

Call 1300 784 794 to speak with one of our specialist consultants.

Road North to Bolivia