Purmamarca Argentina: 7 Photogenic Spots for the Perfect Instagram Shots

Purmamarca, a charming village located in the province of Jujuy, Argentina, is a stunning destination for photographers, travelers, and Instagram enthusiasts. The town is renowned for its vibrant landscapes, colonial architecture, and rich cultural heritage, all of which combine to create the perfect setting for beautiful, Instagram-worthy photos. Whether you’re an amateur photographer or a social media influencer looking to capture the essence of Argentina’s northwestern beauty, Purmamarca is filled with photogenic spots that will elevate your feed. Here are 7 photogenic spots in Purmamarca you can’t miss for the perfect Instagram shots.

1. The Hill of Seven Colors (Cerro de los Siete Colores)

No trip to Purmamarca is complete without a visit to the Hill of Seven Colors, one of the most iconic landmarks in Argentina. This breathtaking mountain range, which gets its name from the layers of vibrant colors that adorn its slopes, is a photographer’s dream. From deep reds to earthy yellows and rich greens, the hill offers a natural canvas that changes with the light, creating the perfect backdrop for any photo.

Best time to capture it: Sunrise or sunset are the best times to photograph the Hill of Seven Colors. The golden light adds warmth to the already colorful terrain, making the colors pop.
Instagram tip: Stand on the path that leads to the viewpoint for the best angle, and try capturing the full width of the hill to capture its stunning gradient of colors.

2. Purmamarca’s Main Square (Plaza 9 de Julio)

The Main Square, or Plaza 9 de Julio, is another picturesque spot in Purmamarca that offers a delightful mix of local life and cultural charm. The square is surrounded by colonial-era buildings with classic adobe architecture and a backdrop of the stunning Cerro de los Siete Colores. The vibrant green trees and the historical church add to the charm of this central gathering spot.

Best time to capture it: During the late morning or early afternoon, when the square is lively with locals and visitors, and the light highlights the buildings and surrounding nature.
Instagram tip: Focus on the historical Iglesia de Santa Rosa de Lima, the main church, with the mountains as a backdrop. You can also experiment with wide-angle shots to capture the full essence of the square.

3. The Traditional Adobe Houses

One of the most charming aspects of Purmamarca is its well-preserved traditional adobe houses, which reflect the region’s cultural history and Andean influence. The warm, earthy tones of the adobe walls provide a perfect contrast to the vibrant natural landscape. The homes, many with quaint wooden doors and windows, add an authentic touch to the village’s aesthetic.

Best time to capture it: Throughout the day, but especially in the early morning when the sunlight creates beautiful shadows on the adobe walls.
Instagram tip: Frame your shot with one of the houses in the foreground, capturing the rustic simplicity of Purmamarca’s architecture against the colorful hills in the background.

4. The Purmamarca Market

For those seeking a more dynamic and cultural shot, the Purmamarca Market is a vibrant spot filled with artisan goods and local color. The market offers an array of handicrafts, textiles, jewelry, and fresh local produce, all beautifully displayed against the backdrop of the village’s stunning natural landscape. The bright colors of the textiles, coupled with the traditional items sold by friendly local vendors, provide a lively, cultural photo opportunity.

Best time to capture it: The market comes alive during the morning hours when the vendors set up their stalls and begin showcasing their goods.
Instagram tip: Focus on the intricate details of the colorful textiles or the friendly faces of the vendors. You can also photograph the products arranged in an aesthetic display for a perfect, vibrant shot.

5. The Purmamarca Desert Road

For a more adventurous and dramatic photo, take a drive or a walk along the Purmamarca Desert Road. This road offers an isolated, almost surreal landscape with panoramic views of the rugged desert terrain, scattered cactus, and distant mountain peaks. The quiet emptiness of this location, combined with the contrasting colors of the mountains, makes it an ideal place for capturing the vastness and raw beauty of the region.

Best time to capture it: The late afternoon, when the warm light creates long shadows and highlights the rugged desert textures.
Instagram tip: Capture the sense of scale by photographing yourself or a friend walking along the road with the vast desert stretching behind them. This will emphasize the dramatic beauty of the landscape.

6. The Salinas Grandes (Great Salt Flats)

A short drive from Purmamarca will lead you to the Salinas Grandes, a surreal landscape of vast salt flats that stretch out as far as the eye can see. The reflective surface of the salt flats creates the perfect opportunity for striking photos, especially when the sky is clear and the salt shines brightly in the sunlight. This is one of the most photogenic spots in the entire region and offers an otherworldly experience.

Best time to capture it: Early morning or late afternoon, when the light is soft, and the reflections are at their most striking.
Instagram tip: Create optical illusions by using the vast space for fun and creative shots. Try perspective shots, such as someone appearing much larger or smaller than the landscape, which is a popular technique for photographing the salt flats.

7. The Purmamarca Gorge (Quebrada de Purmamarca)

The Purmamarca Gorge is another breathtaking spot that provides a unique perspective on the region’s natural beauty. This narrow canyon, which winds through the colorful mountains, is perfect for those looking to capture the dramatic contrasts of the rugged cliffs against the bright colors of the surrounding hills. The gorge is a stunning reminder of nature’s power and beauty.

Best time to capture it: During midday, when the sun casts bold shadows in the narrow gorge, highlighting the textures and depth of the landscape.
Instagram tip: Use a drone to capture aerial shots of the gorge for a stunning bird’s-eye view of the vibrant landscape. If you’re capturing the gorge from the ground, focus on the patterns in the rocks to show the layers of color and texture.

Conclusion

Purmamarca is undoubtedly one of Argentina’s most photogenic destinations, offering a variety of stunning landscapes, cultural experiences, and historical charm. Whether you’re wandering through the town’s adobe streets, capturing the colors of the Hill of Seven Colors, or exploring the vast Salinas Grandes, Purmamarca provides endless opportunities for incredible photos. Every corner of this magical village is a feast for the eyes, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to add some stunning, authentic shots to their Instagram feed.
From sweeping mountain vistas to close-up shots of local markets, Purmamarca combines natural beauty with a rich cultural heritage that is sure to captivate anyone with a camera. So, pack your camera, charge your phone, and get ready to explore the best photogenic spots Purmamarca has to offer!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. When is the best time to visit Purmamarca for photography?

The best times to visit for photography are during the early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and golden, creating dramatic contrasts and enhancing the colors of the landscape.

2. Are the Salinas Grandes accessible for visitors?

Yes, the Salinas Grandes are easily accessible by car from Purmamarca. The road is well-maintained, and there are several viewpoints along the way to stop and take photos.

3. Can I visit the Hill of Seven Colors and the Purmamarca Gorge in one day?

Yes, both the Hill of Seven Colors and Purmamarca Gorge are relatively close to each other, and you can visit both in a day. It’s best to start early in the morning to make the most of the daylight hours.

4. Is it necessary to hire a guide to explore Purmamarca?

While it’s not necessary to hire a guide, it can enhance your experience, especially if you want to learn more about the local culture, history, and geology of the region. Many guides offer walking tours of the town and nearby attractions.

5. What should I bring to Purmamarca for the perfect Instagram shots?

To capture the perfect Instagram shots, make sure you have a good camera or smartphone with a wide lens for sweeping landscapes. Don’t forget a tripod for stable shots, especially for sunset or sunrise photography. Comfortable shoes and a water bottle are also essential for exploring the area.

Also read : Tuambia Cuba: 10 Stunning Locations You Can’t Miss