Quebrada de Humahuaca
A UNESCO World Heritage site, this valley boasts vibrant, multi-hued mountains and ancient indigenous villages.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Sunny days, clear skies
Quebrada de Humahuaca
Best Time
Sunny days, clear skies
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A UNESCO World Heritage site, this valley boasts vibrant, multi-hued mountains and ancient indigenous villages.
"This was one of our favorite times in all of Argentina. 10/10 experience!"
🚗 Drive Yourself to Hornocal
Don't believe the hype! You can drive to Hornocal in a sedan, just go slow on the gravel road.
💧 Altitude Sickness Prep
Drink coca tea and stay hydrated to combat the high altitude.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cerro de los Siete Colores
Purmamarca
A vibrant, multi-hued mountain that forms the backdrop of the charming village of Purmamarca.
Cerro del Hornocal (14 Colors)
Near Humahuaca
Witness the 'Rainbow Mountain' with its astonishing 14 distinct mineral colors, a truly unique geological wonder.
Tilcara's Pucará
Tilcara
Explore the ancient pre-Inca ruins and learn about the region's rich indigenous history at this archaeological site.
Quebrada de las Señoritas
Near Iruya (accessible from Humahuaca)
Hike through striking red rock formations and experience otherworldly landscapes perfect for photography.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Quebrada Independently
Altitude Awareness is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive Yourself to Hornocal
Don't believe the hype! You can drive to Hornocal in a sedan, just go slow on the gravel road.
💧 Altitude Sickness Prep
Drink coca tea and stay hydrated to combat the high altitude.
🚶♀️ Explore by Foot
Many villages and trails are best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes!
💰 Budget-Friendly Travel
Consider public transport or self-driving to save on expensive tours.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive Yourself to Hornocal
Don't believe the hype! You can drive to Hornocal in a sedan, just go slow on the gravel road.
💧 Altitude Sickness Prep
Drink coca tea and stay hydrated to combat the high altitude.
🚶♀️ Explore by Foot
Many villages and trails are best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes!
💰 Budget-Friendly Travel
Consider public transport or self-driving to save on expensive tours.
📸 Capture the Colors
The vibrant landscapes are a photographer's dream. Bring extra batteries!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Quebrada de Humahuaca for its breathtaking, otherworldly landscapes and vibrant colors, particularly the Cerro de los Siete Colores and Hornocal. The charming indigenous villages and rich cultural heritage are also major draws. Some travelers note the challenging unpaved roads to certain sites and the need to be mindful of high altitude.
"Careful! This is not a view point. There is nothing but an arid landscape. The inly thing is true is that the road ends there and you need to return back."
Silvia Garrido López
"Quebrada de Humahuaca is the entire area where Hornocal is the name of the actual "Rainbow Mountain" in Quebrada de Humahuaca.
My wife and I stayed in Tilcara which is an AMAZING small town with literally the best food we had after staying for 3 months in Argentina!
We preferred the town of Tilcara over Humahuaca personally. Better housing options as well.
The people are super nice. Culturally it seems more similar to Bolivia which you are not too far from the border.
It's a fairly easy drive from the Salta Airport to Tilcara or even just all the way to Hornocal or Humahuaca.
This was one of our favorite times in all of Argentina.
It's much larger in person than we thought and the colors are fairly vibrant.
Keep in mind the elevation is higher than Machu Picchu so drink some local coca tea and bring chocolate before you go!
Ali (my wife) almost fainted so that's the one down side. There's literally an ambulance waiting at the top because heart problems are so frequent.
Also, people will tell you that you need to rent a tour from Humahuaca but that's a lie - you can DEFINITELY drive yourself.
The roads are gravel from Humahuaca to Hornocal but absolutely doable even in a sedan like we had. Just drive a bit slow and you'll get there in 40 min - 1 hour.
Between the food, local arts & crafts, views, and overall vibe this is a 10/10 experience in Argentina and HIGHLY recommend!
Full video review @Hobarts Abroad YouTube and TikTok"
Sumner Hobart
"This is one of the most beautiful natural sceneries in the world. The drive to Hornocal is a bit long and uncomfortable (unpaved road for 20km) but the view of the "cierro de los 14 colores" is all worth it (picture attached). Absolutely stunning, a must see if you are in the area."
Gilberto Gaeta
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can explore the Quebrada de Humahuaca using public buses that connect the main towns like Purmamarca, Tilcara, and Humahuaca. Many travelers also find it easy to travel independently by bus and then walk or take local transport to specific sites. +1
Yes, it is absolutely possible to drive to Hornocal. The road from Humahuaca is unpaved but manageable even for sedans if driven slowly. It takes about 40 minutes to an hour.
Buses are a common and affordable way to travel between towns. For more flexibility, renting a car allows you to stop at viewpoints and smaller villages at your own pace.
The Quebrada de Humahuaca is approximately a 3-hour drive from Salta Airport. Many visitors make it a day trip or a multi-day excursion from Salta.
While there isn't a traditional train service directly into the heart of the Quebrada, Jujuy operates the Tren Solar, a solar-powered train that offers a unique way to experience parts of the region.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Quebrada de Humahuaca itself is free as it's a vast natural region. However, specific attractions like the Pucará de Tilcara have entrance fees.
Opening hours vary by attraction. The Pucará de Tilcara is generally open daily, but it's best to check locally or online for specific sites. Natural viewpoints are accessible anytime.
The Cerro de los Siete Colores is viewed from Purmamarca village, and there isn't a direct entrance fee to see the mountain itself. However, there might be small fees for accessing certain viewpoints or walking paths.
There is no official entrance fee for Hornocal, but local guides may offer their services for a fee, especially if you don't have your own vehicle. The drive itself is free.
While larger hotels and restaurants in towns like Tilcara and Humahuaca may accept credit cards, it's advisable to carry cash for smaller shops, markets, and entrance fees in more remote areas.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Key highlights include Purmamarca and its Cerro de los Siete Colores, Tilcara with its Pucará, the town of Humahuaca, and the stunning Cerro del Hornocal. Don't miss the Quebrada de las Señoritas for unique rock formations. 
Activities include hiking to natural wonders like Garganta del Diablo and Laguna Esmeralda, exploring indigenous villages, visiting archaeological sites, enjoying local cuisine, and photography.
Yes, there are many hiking opportunities, from short walks in villages to more challenging treks like Garganta del Diablo. Trails are generally well-marked, but be prepared for elevation changes.
The elevation varies significantly. Towns like Purmamarca are around 2,300 meters, while Hornocal reaches nearly 4,700 meters. Be mindful of altitude sickness.
Pack layers of clothing for changing temperatures, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, comfortable walking shoes, and a reusable water bottle. A camera is essential for the stunning landscapes.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Must-try local specialties include 'locro' (a hearty stew), 'tamales', 'empanadas jujeñas', and 'tortillas' (a type of flatbread, often filled).
Tilcara is highly recommended for its food scene, offering excellent dining options. Humahuaca and Purmamarca also have restaurants serving regional cuisine.
While traditional cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants are becoming more accommodating. Look for vegetable-based empanadas, salads, and ask about vegetarian preparations.
Tortillas here are typically made from corn or wheat flour, often cooked on a griddle and can be served plain or filled with cheese or other ingredients. They are a popular local snack.
While local and regional Argentine cuisine is dominant, some larger towns like Tilcara might offer a few international options, but it's not the main focus.
📸 📸 Photography
The Cerro de los Siete Colores, Cerro del Hornocal, Quebrada de las Señoritas, and the general landscapes offer incredible photographic opportunities due to their vibrant colors and unique formations.
Early morning and late afternoon (golden hours) provide the best light for capturing the rich colors of the mountains and landscapes, minimizing harsh shadows.
A good quality camera or smartphone with a decent camera is sufficient. The natural beauty is the main attraction. Consider a wide-angle lens for landscapes.
While dedicated photography tours might be less common, many local guides can take you to the best viewpoints. Independent travel also allows ample time for photography.
Altitude can be a factor, so ensure your equipment is stable. The intense sun can also be challenging, so protect your gear and yourself.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The Pucará de Tilcara provides a tangible link to history, allowing kids to explore ancient ruins. 🚶♀️ Adventure Seekers & Hikers
The Laguna Esmeralda hike from Volcán is another beautiful option. 📸 Photographers & Art Lovers
Capture the unique textures of the Quebrada de las Señoritas and the charming architecture of the villages. Golden hours offer the most spectacular light for capturing the intense hues of the landscape. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Villages of the Quebrada
Tilcara stands out with its well-preserved Pucará (pre-Inca fortress) and a vibrant cultural scene, making it a popular base for exploring the region. These villages are not just picturesque; they are living communities where traditions are preserved. You can find local crafts, sample regional cuisine like 'tamales' and 'empanadas', and experience the warmth of the Quechua culture. Many travelers find the cultural immersion to be as rewarding as the stunning natural scenery.
The Geological Wonders: Mountains and Colors
Further north, the Cerro del Hornocal, often called the 'Hill of 14 Colors', presents an even more complex and breathtaking palette of mineral strata. The vibrant colors are a result of millions of years of geological activity and the presence of various minerals. Beyond these famous peaks, the Quebrada offers other unique geological sites. The Quebrada de las Señoritas features striking red rock formations that create an almost alien landscape, perfect for hiking and photography.
+1 The Garganta del Diablo (Devil's Throat) near Tilcara is another impressive natural formation, accessible via a scenic hike. These natural wonders are a testament to the powerful forces that shaped this UNESCO World Heritage site.Sustainable Travel in the Quebrada
Many visitors choose to explore independently using public transport or by driving their own vehicles, which can be more sustainable than organized tours that might involve larger groups and more emissions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit