Paleta del Pintor Maimará
A natural masterpiece where hills display vibrant, layered colors, resembling a painter's palette in the heart of Jujuy.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Colors pop with the sun
Paleta del Pintor Maimará
Best Time
Colors pop with the sun
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A natural masterpiece where hills display vibrant, layered colors, resembling a painter's palette in the heart of Jujuy.
"Breathtaking (and not just because of the altitude ;-)"
Park Smartly
GPS might lead you astray; park along the road and look for paths to the best views. :car:
Wear Comfy Shoes
A short hike is needed for the best photos. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Painted Hills
Maimará, Jujuy
Witness a geological masterpiece where hills display a spectrum of vibrant, layered colors, resembling a painter's palette.
Panoramic Viewpoint
Above the main road
Ascend to a higher vantage point for breathtaking, sweeping views of the colorful landscape and surrounding Quebrada de Humahuaca.
Maimará Cemetery
Below Paleta del Pintor
A unique and colorful cemetery offering a different perspective on local culture and traditions, often visited alongside the painted hills.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Paleta del Pintor
Navigating to the Viewpoint
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Park Smartly
GPS might lead you astray; park along the road and look for paths to the best views. :car:
Wear Comfy Shoes
A short hike is needed for the best photos. :athletic_shoe:
Capture the Colors
Visit in the morning or late afternoon for the most vibrant hues. :camerawithflash:
Combine with Cemetery
Don't miss the unique Maimará cemetery nearby. :world_map:
Tips
from all over the internet
Park Smartly
GPS might lead you astray; park along the road and look for paths to the best views. :car:
Wear Comfy Shoes
A short hike is needed for the best photos. :athletic_shoe:
Capture the Colors
Visit in the morning or late afternoon for the most vibrant hues. :camerawithflash:
Combine with Cemetery
Don't miss the unique Maimará cemetery nearby. :world_map:
Best Photo Spots
Look for paths above the road for the most impressive panoramic views. :iphone:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking, painterly colors of the hills, calling it a must-see natural wonder. The viewpoints offer spectacular panoramas, especially during sunrise and sunset. Some find the access to the best spots a bit unclear, requiring a short hike, and suggest El Hornacal as a more expansive alternative.
"Google took us right below so we thought we had to climb the hill to reach it but there is definitely a pathway above leading directly to the statue and view. We felt silly but it was a nice workout up the hill. The view is beautiful but definitely check out El Hornacal in Humahuaca for a more impressive more of something like this.
photos taken by @alejandroseveriniph"
Acrotravels Acroyoga
"Very nice scenic view, just hard to find it's place to stop. Just park along the road and climb a little mountain to have an upper view."
Marcos Domingues
"It was a great pit stop. I stopped, stretched my legs, saw a beautiful spot and continued on the adventures with my partner, Alex. Make sure to check out the cemetery right below (or passing Maimara to Tilcara)."
Sammm Next Door
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Paleta del Pintor is located near the town of Maimará in Jujuy, Argentina, along the famous Quebrada de Humahuaca. If driving, you can park along the main road (RN9) and look for paths leading up to the viewpoints. Public buses also run along this route, stopping in Maimará. +1
Parking can be a bit tricky as there isn't a dedicated lot. Many visitors park along the side of the RN9. Be sure to pull over safely and be aware of other traffic.
Absolutely! Paleta del Pintor is a perfect stop between towns like Purmamarca and Tilcara. It's easily accessible by car or bus and makes for a great photo opportunity during your journey through the Quebrada de Humahuaca.
Many travelers opt to rent a car for flexibility, allowing them to stop at various attractions like Paleta del Pintor at their own pace. Alternatively, public buses connect the main towns, and guided tours are also available.
Yes, you can reach Maimará by public bus, which is a common mode of transport for exploring the Quebrada de Humahuaca. From the bus stop in Maimará, it's a short walk or taxi ride to the base of the painted hills.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Paleta del Pintor is a natural landscape and does not require an entrance ticket. You can visit and admire the colorful hills freely.
As a natural attraction, Paleta del Pintor is accessible at any time. However, for the best viewing experience and photography, it's recommended to visit during daylight hours, especially during sunrise or sunset.
There is no entrance fee for the main viewpoints of Paleta del Pintor. The beauty of this natural wonder is freely accessible to all visitors.
Yes, guided tours are available, especially for trekking and exploring the area more deeply. Local guides in Maimará can offer insights into the geology and history of the region.
While technically accessible, visiting Paleta del Pintor at night is not recommended due to safety concerns and the inability to appreciate the colors. Daylight hours are essential for experiencing its beauty.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
The best times for photography are during the 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset. The low-angle sunlight accentuates the colors and textures of the hills, creating stunning photographic opportunities. 
The most iconic photos are taken from viewpoints above the main road. Look for marked trails or follow other visitors to find elevated spots that offer panoramic views of the entire colorful expanse.
Any camera, from a smartphone to a DSLR, can capture the beauty of Paleta del Pintor. However, using a polarizing filter can help enhance the saturation of the colors and reduce glare.
While drone usage might be restricted in certain areas, if permitted, flying a drone from a safe distance can offer unique aerial perspectives of the vast, colorful landscape. Always check local regulations before flying.
The natural layering of minerals in the hills creates a spectrum of colors, from reds and purples to greens and yellows, resembling a painter's palette. This unique geological formation makes it one of the most photogenic spots in Northern Argentina.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend about 1-2 hours at Paleta del Pintor, allowing time for short hikes to viewpoints and taking photos. If you plan to explore the nearby Maimará cemetery or enjoy a meal, allocate more time.
Yes, to reach the best viewpoints, you'll need to do some walking and light hiking. The terrain can be uneven, so comfortable footwear is essential. +1
There are limited amenities directly at Paleta del Pintor itself. You'll find basic services like restaurants and accommodation in the nearby town of Maimará. +1
While the views are spectacular, the hiking involved might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues. Parents should assess the terrain and their children's capabilities.
Bring water, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes. A camera or smartphone is essential to capture the stunning colors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the town of Maimará, located very close to Paleta del Pintor, offers several dining options. Cafés and restaurants serve local specialties. +1
You can expect traditional Argentine cuisine, often with regional influences. Dishes like locro, empanadas, and hearty stews are common. Some places offer unique local ingredients like goat cheese and llama meat.
While there are no designated picnic areas, you can bring your own food and find a scenic spot to enjoy a picnic, provided you clean up thoroughly afterward.
Maimará has several well-regarded eateries. For example, Maima Café Resto Bar is known for its delicious food, including soups, pasta, and unique desserts. +1
Options can vary, but many restaurants in tourist areas are becoming more accommodating. It's advisable to inquire about vegetarian or vegan dishes when ordering.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pairing the visit with the nearby Maimará Cemetery can also be an engaging experience for older children, offering a unique cultural insight. Ensure children wear appropriate footwear for uneven terrain.
📸 Photographers & Art Lovers
+1Beyond the main viewpoint, explore different angles and compositions. Consider visiting the Maimará Cemetery for unique photographic subjects, or look for local artisans in Maimará who draw inspiration from the surrounding landscape.
🚶 Hikers & Adventure Seekers
Consider booking a trekking tour with local guides in Maimará to explore more challenging routes and learn about the area's geology and flora.
Remember to wear sturdy hiking shoes and carry plenty of water. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of the Painted Hills
+1This geological marvel is part of the larger Quebrada de Humahuaca, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its dramatic landscapes and rich cultural history. The erosion patterns, sculpted by wind and water, further enhance the visual appeal, creating undulating forms that catch the light beautifully. Experiencing this landscape is like stepping into a living painting, a testament to the powerful forces of nature.
For visitors, understanding this geological context adds another layer of appreciation to the visual spectacle. It's not just a pretty view; it's a window into the Earth's ancient past and the ongoing processes that shape our planet.
Experiencing Maimará and its Surroundings
Many travelers recommend combining a visit to Paleta del Pintor with other nearby attractions. The Paseo de Los Colorados in Purmamarca, the Cuesta del Lipán with its winding roads, and the iconic Hill of Seven Colors in Purmamarca are all within a reasonable driving distance. This makes Maimará an excellent base or stopover point for exploring the broader region.
For those seeking a more immersive experience, consider staying in Maimará. Accommodations like Hostería La Paleta del Pintor offer stunning views right from your room, allowing you to wake up to the painted hills.
+1 This allows for a more relaxed pace and the opportunity to witness the changing light on the landscape throughout the day. 
Social
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