Paseo de los Colorados Purmamarca
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Paseo de los Colorados Purmamarca

4.6
·491k reviews·Purmamarca, Argentina

A mesmerizing walk through naturally painted mountains, offering surreal colors and panoramic views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early morning

Golden light, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Paseo de los Colorados Purmamarca

Paseo de los Colorados Purmamarca

Best Time

Early morning

Golden light, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A mesmerizing walk through naturally painted mountains, offering surreal colors and panoramic views.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"The colors here are unreal, like walking on another planet!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Sturdy walking shoes are essential for navigating the varied terrain of the trail. :athletic_shoe:

Bring Plenty of Water

Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. The sun can be intense. :droplet:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Painted Mountains

The Painted Mountains

The entire trail

Witness a breathtaking panorama of naturally colored rock formations that seem to glow under the sun.

Panoramic Vistas

Panoramic Vistas

Various viewpoints along the trail

Capture postcard-perfect shots of Purmamarca and the surrounding Quebrada de Humahuaca from elevated spots.

Unique Rock Formations

Unique Rock Formations

Along the walking path

Marvel at the unique geological shapes and textures sculpted by nature over millennia.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Paseo de los Colorados

The Paseo de los Colorados is a stunning natural attraction, but its popularity means crowds can build. Consider visiting early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday rush and capture the best light for photos. Check local conditions, as accessibility can change.

What to Bring for Your Hike

Comfortable walking shoes are a must for the Paseo de los Colorados. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat, as the sun can be intense. Some visitors recommend carrying cash for potential small entry fees or local purchases, as cell signal can be spotty.

Best Times

When
Early morning
Why
Golden light, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Soft light, beautiful shadows
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Magia pura 🧡 Los Colorados, Purmamarca, Jujuy #shooting #moda #fashion #nuevacoleccion #foryou #silvinaledesmastore #viral #fy
@silvinaledesmastore
59.3K likes • 693.9K views

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Sturdy walking shoes are essential for navigating the varied terrain of the trail. :athletic_shoe:

Bring Plenty of Water

Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. The sun can be intense. :droplet:

Los colorados en purmamarca! Subi toda la data de mi viaje a Jujuy en mi ig iarasnei 🌵🦙⛰️ #foryou #hotel #viral #wow
@iarasnei
49.4K likes • 972.3K views
Entre amigas con poca experiencia animate a realizar un paseo de ensueños Paseo Los colorados #cerrodelossietecolores #jujuyenergiaviva #paseosacaballo #purmamarca #norteargentino #cabalgatas #destinopurmamarca #visitjujuy
purmamarcaactivay
15 likes • 344 views

Carry Cash

Some sources mention a small entry fee; signal can be weak for card payments. :moneybag:

Go Early or Late

Avoid midday crowds and enjoy the best light for photography. :camerawithflash:

Si vas a Jujuy anotate en la lista hacer el Paseo de los Colorados. ✔️Es un recorrido de dificultad media/ baja y se hace en 45 minutos aprox ( yo que no soy muy amante de los trekkings lo hice casi sin quejarme🤣) 💰La entrada nos salió 450 pesos ( se paga justo antes de iniciar el sendero). Tener efectivo a mano por las dudas porque hay poca señal. ☀️Clave ponerse protector solar porque el so...
carosanchezpach
6K likes • 107.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Sturdy walking shoes are essential for navigating the varied terrain of the trail. :athletic_shoe:

Bring Plenty of Water

Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. The sun can be intense. :droplet:

Carry Cash

Some sources mention a small entry fee; signal can be weak for card payments. :moneybag:

Go Early or Late

Avoid midday crowds and enjoy the best light for photography. :camerawithflash:

Check Trail Conditions

Accessibility can change; confirm if walking or driving is permitted. :information_desk:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Paseo de los Colorados for its breathtaking natural beauty and vibrant, otherworldly colors. The relatively easy walking trail makes it accessible for most, offering stunning photo opportunities. Some mention a small entry fee and the importance of carrying cash.

What People Like

Spectacular colorful mountains
Easy walking trail
Great photo opportunities

What People Dislike

Occasional small entry fee
Can get crowded midday

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Paseo de los Colorados is conveniently located just a few blocks from the center of Purmamarca. You can easily walk there. Some sources mention that previously it was accessible by car, but currently, it's primarily a walking trail. The walk is approximately 1.5 km if you take shortcuts, or 2.5 km if you follow the car route. TikTokInstagram

While there isn't direct public transport to the trailhead itself, Purmamarca is well-connected by bus to other towns in the region. From the Purmamarca terminal, you can easily walk to the start of the Paseo de los Colorados. TikTok

In the past, it was possible to drive the entire route, which is about 2.5 km. However, recent information suggests that walking is the primary way to access it now, with shorter walking paths available. TikTokInstagram

Purmamarca is accessible by bus from major cities like Salta and San Salvador de Jujuy. The journey offers scenic views of the Quebrada de Humahuaca. TikTok+1

The trail is generally well-known and accessible from Purmamarca. Some visitors suggest entering near the 'El Porito' viewpoint. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Some visitors have reported a small entrance fee, around 450 pesos, which is paid just before starting the trail. It's advisable to have cash on hand, as cell signal can be unreliable for electronic payments. Instagram

While some sources indicate a small fee, others mention the circuit is free. It's best to be prepared for a potential small charge, but many enjoy it without paying. TikTokInstagram

The Paseo de los Colorados is a natural attraction and is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no strict opening or closing times posted, allowing for flexible visits. TikTok

No advance booking is typically required for the Paseo de los Colorados. Entry is usually on a walk-in basis, especially if there is a fee. Instagram

The main restriction is the mode of access, which is primarily walking. The trail is generally open to all, but it's a natural environment, so respecting the surroundings is key. TikTok

🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience

The walking trail is about 1.5 km with shortcuts, or 2.5 km if following the old car route. Most visitors complete the walk in around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on their pace and how often they stop for photos. TikTokInstagram

The Paseo de los Colorados is generally considered a medium to low difficulty hike. It's suitable for most fitness levels, including those who aren't avid trekkers. Instagram+1

Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots are highly recommended. Light, breathable clothing is also advisable, along with sun protection like a hat and sunscreen. TikTokInstagram

While not explicitly mentioned, local guides might be available in Purmamarca. However, the trail is straightforward enough to explore independently. TikTok

Absolutely! The colorful mountains and unique rock formations make it a photographer's paradise. Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light. Drones are also used to capture aerial views. TikTokInstagram+1

📸 📸 Photography Tips

The golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, provide the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for the colorful mountains. Midday sun can be harsh and wash out the colors. TikTokInstagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating interesting rock formations. Don't forget a polarizing filter to enhance the colors and reduce glare. Instagram

Some videos show drone footage, suggesting it's possible. However, always check local regulations regarding drone usage before flying. Instagram+1

The entire trail offers stunning views, but look for areas with unique rock textures and vibrant color contrasts. The panoramic viewpoints overlooking Purmamarca are also highly recommended. TikTokInstagram

Experiment with different angles, including low-angle shots to emphasize the scale of the mountains. Look for leading lines in the rock formations to guide the viewer's eye. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Paseo de los Colorados is a fantastic option for families. The walking trail is generally considered easy to moderate in difficulty, making it manageable for children. The vibrant colors and unique rock formations are sure to capture their imagination. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, and consider visiting during cooler parts of the day to ensure comfort. TikTokInstagram

Encourage kids to look for different shapes in the rocks and talk about the colors they see. It's a great opportunity for them to learn about geology and nature in a fun, engaging way. The relatively short duration of the walk also means it won't be too taxing for younger attention spans. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, the Paseo de los Colorados is a dream destination. The naturally occurring colors in the rock formations create stunning visual compositions. Aim for the golden hours – early morning or late afternoon – to capture the most dramatic light and shadows. TikTokInstagram

Bring a wide-angle lens to encompass the vastness of the landscape and a telephoto lens to focus on intricate details. Experiment with different angles and perspectives to capture the unique textures and patterns. Drone photography can offer breathtaking aerial views, but always be mindful of local regulations. Instagram+1

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers

Solo travelers will find the Paseo de los Colorados to be a rewarding and accessible experience. The trail is well-defined and generally safe, allowing for independent exploration. It's a perfect opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy the solitude of the stunning landscape. Instagram

Consider joining a guided tour if you prefer company or want to learn more about the area's geology and history. However, the trail is straightforward enough that navigating it alone is easy. Remember to inform someone of your plans and carry essentials like water and sun protection. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Geology of the Painted Mountains

The striking colors of the Paseo de los Colorados are a result of a complex geological history. These mountains are composed of sedimentary rocks that have been uplifted and eroded over millions of years. The distinct hues – reds, yellows, purples, and greens – are due to the presence of various minerals and oxides within the rock layers. Iron oxides, for instance, are responsible for the vibrant reds and oranges, while other minerals contribute to the diverse palette. This natural artistry makes the area a visual spectacle. TikTokInstagram

These colorful strata are part of the larger geological formations found in the Quebrada de Humahuaca, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The erosion patterns create fascinating textures and shapes, inviting exploration and wonder. For geology enthusiasts, the Paseo de los Colorados offers a tangible connection to the Earth's ancient past. The sheer variety of colors is what truly sets this place apart. Instagram

Understanding the geological processes that formed these mountains adds another layer of appreciation to the visit. It’s a reminder of the powerful forces of nature that have shaped our planet. The accessibility of these formations allows visitors to get up close and personal with this natural wonder. TikTok

Experiencing Paseo de los Colorados: Walking vs. Driving

Historically, the Paseo de los Colorados was accessible by car, offering a 2.5 km route through the colorful landscape. This allowed visitors to cover more ground and experience the scenery with less physical exertion. However, recent observations indicate a shift towards prioritizing walking access. TikTokInstagram

Currently, the trail is best explored on foot, with shorter walking paths of approximately 1.5 km available. This pedestrian-friendly approach allows for a more intimate experience with the natural beauty, enabling visitors to stop frequently, take photos, and truly absorb the surroundings. It also means the trail is more accessible to a wider range of visitors, including those who enjoy a moderate hike. Instagram+1

While the car route might still be technically possible in parts, the emphasis on walking encourages a slower, more mindful exploration. This aligns with the desire of many travelers to connect with nature and appreciate the details of the landscape. The walking experience offers a more immersive way to appreciate the vibrant colors and unique rock formations. TikTok

Purmamarca: A Gateway to Natural Wonders

Purmamarca itself is a charming adobe village nestled in the heart of Jujuy province, renowned for its iconic Cerro de los Siete Colores (Hill of Seven Colors). The town serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding natural attractions, including the Paseo de los Colorados. Its tranquil atmosphere and traditional architecture add to the overall appeal of the region. TikTokInstagram

The Paseo de los Colorados is just one of many natural wonders in the vicinity. Visitors often combine a trip here with excursions to the Salinas Grandes (Great Salt Flats), the Hill of Seven Colors, and other scenic spots within the Quebrada de Humahuaca. This makes Purmamarca a strategic starting point for a comprehensive exploration of northern Argentina's breathtaking landscapes. TikTok+1

The combination of the charming village atmosphere and the proximity to spectacular natural sites makes Purmamarca an unforgettable destination. The local culture, artisan markets, and delicious regional cuisine further enhance the travel experience. Instagram

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