The Salinas Grandes Desert

Salinas Grandes is a snow-white desert of Argentina, located in a tectonic depression between the ridges of the Sierra de Ancasti and Sierra de Cordoba in Argentina. The total area of the Salinas Grandes salt desert is approximately 8,500 square kilometers.

The soil of this desert is completely lifeless and suitable only for the extraction of mineral salt. The temperature in the Argentine Salinas Grandes salt desert can reach +45 degrees Celsius. If we talk about the size of Salinas Grandes, the desert extends 250 kilometers in length and 110 kilometers in width and is at an altitude of 3,500 meters above sea level. Minerals are extracted on its territory - there are endless deposits of soda and potash. Soda chloride and sulfate, potash and borax are converted into crystals here, right on a hard white crust. Everywhere rises hills of salt, sometimes reaching 3-4 meters in height. Salinas Grandes was formed 20–30 thousand years ago on the site of a dried up ancient lake. And looking at these white expanses now, it seems that they are covered with snow, but it is not snow, it is salt. Salinas Grandes is considered a popular tourist destination. Guides that accompany excursions to the salt marsh require the presence of closed clothing, dark glasses, and sunscreen. The mirror surface of Salinas Grandes is so reflective of solar radiation that an unprepared person risks severe burns or damage to their eyes.