Quebrada de Humahuaca and Purmamarca
Description
Explore the sculptured mountain valley landscapes of the Quebrada de Humahuaca, a UNESCO World Heritage–listed gorge, on this full-day tour from Salta. Traveling the same route as the Incans once did, marvel at the serrated canyons and the ever-changing array of colors rippling down unusual rock formations. Stop at indigenous villages dotting this valley, including Purmamarca, Tilcara and Humahuaca, and visit adobe churches and ancient ruins. See sights in San Salvador de Jujuy before returning to Salta via the scenic and adventurous Route 9.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Early in the morning we will be picked up from our selected hotels in Salta
Embark on a captivating journey through the Quebrada de Humahuaca, a 95-mile-long (155-km) mountain valley and ravine in Argentina's Jujuy province. As the Río Grande flows through during summer, explore its rich history as an Incan caravan road, colonial commercial route, and battleground in the Argentine War of Independence. Experience centuries of heritage in this UNESCO World Heritage site, where each step reveals its breathtaking beauty and storied past.
Upon arrival in the picturesque village of Purmamarca, walk by the church, noting its unique roof covered in organ-pipe cacti, and peruse the jewelry and wool rugs at the craft market.
The most remarkable sight lies just ahead, dominating the skyline: Cerro de los Siete Colores (Seven Colors Hill). With its striking striated hues spanning from creamy tones to vibrant greens to deep plums, it offers a mesmerizing display of natural beauty that's sure to captivate your senses.
Continue north to Tilcara in the heart of the quebrada. Just outside the town, climb a hilltop to see the pre-Incan fortress ruins of Pucará, and enjoy sweeping views of the valley. Then head back to the town square to visit the archeological museum.
Our next stop brings us to Huacalera, where we'll traverse the Tropic of Capricorn. From this vantage point, we'll be greeted by the picturesque colors of the Pollera de la Colla Hill, adding another layer of beauty to our adventure.
At Tropic Of Capricorn - Sundial we will make a descent to take pictures.
Then head back to the town square to visit the archeological museum. Pass through Huacalera, and while crossing the Tropic of Capricorn road, admire the multicolored La Pollera de la Coya hill.
In Uquía, take a journey through time as you admire the intricate 17th-century paintings created by indigenous students of the prestigious Cuzco School. This celebrated Roman Catholic artistic institution, founded in Peru, showcases the remarkable talents and cultural fusion of these artists, offering a captivating glimpse into the artistic heritage of the region.
Around midday, arrive at Humahuaca, your northernmost stop and the most densely populated town in the quebrada. Stroll past white colonial buildings lining the cobblestoned streets, climb a flight of steps to see the Monument of Independence built in 1950 and gaze out onto the Río Grande valley. Visit the local cathedral and observe more Cuzco School paintings, and then enjoy lunch in town (own expense); feel free to ask your knowledgeable guide for recommendations on where to eat.
After lunch, head back south and pass by La Paleta del Pintor (Painter’s Palette), a series of triangular jags in distinct stripes of rose, green and ocher that form a natural tableau framing the town of Maimará.
Keep heading south via the narrow and winding Route 9 for views of subtropical vegetation, the Santa Laura Pass, the dam of La Cienaga (the Swamp), Las Maderas and Campo Alegre, and travel through Vaqueros before arriving back at your hotel in Salta.
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
The pick up transfer is only from selected centrally located hotels. If your hotel is outside the geographic area, we will confirm you the closest meeting point. Indicate the name and address of your hotel.
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- It is recommended that you wear comfortable clothes and shoes and bring a jacket/sweater and sunscreen
- You may bring your own food and drinks
Reviews(75)
I wanted to visit the provinces of Salta and Jujuy for a long time, and it turned out to be an absolutely fabulous trip! The tour on February 3rd was exceptionally organized by our guide, Abel, and our driver, Antonio. Having travelled the world and participated in hundreds of excursions across more than 60 countries, I can confidently say that Abel is by far the best guide I have ever encountered! Throughout the journey from Salta to Humahuaca, which took about 2.5 hours, Abel continuously shared fascinating insights about northern Argentina. The group comprised travellers from various countries, including many locals, and the atmosphere was incredibly friendly, thanks to Abel's unique approach and the kindness of the Argentinians. We also visited extraordinary places, such as the multi-colored mountains in Purmamarca and the Serranías del Hornocal and nothing about this excursion was ordinary. Additionally, we stopped at a traditional restaurant in Humahuaca where the atmosphere was again great. I highly recommend this tour, and kudos to Abel and Antonio for their kindness and professionalism!
the scenery was spectacular. Pamela, our guide was excellent. Small group and very enjoyable. The tour company was very professional. A tour worth taking!
The whole trip was amazing!! The places we went to were fantastic!!👍👍👍👍 The tour guide Gaucho Mike and the driver were both great - fun - and full of great information!! WAS A GREAT DAY!!! Thanks! Dean (William) and Dora Klemme
Beautiful place. The view of the hill from the route is beautiful, it is not appreciated being on site. Make it light on luggage. Excellent crafts for the one who likes to buy. You can eat on site. In half a day it can be done quietly. There are lodgings but the truth is I don't do much research about it. Worth the trip!!! Travel in September 2015
Brilliant landscape and scenery, good guide but could explain more in English. The guide and driver were friendly and helpful
Although it was a long day in a bus the scenery was exceptional in both directions. The tour is nicely paced with appropriate rest stops. Our guide, Cesar, was exceptional. His English was good and he shared many stories including information about the indigenous cultures in the area.
It was a long day but I enjoyed learning about the cultures and natural history of the area. Emilia was a great guide and, although I was the only English speaker, she took care to ensure I received the same explanations as the Spanish speakers. Mariano was a careful driver. I appreciated the size of the group - less than 20, I think.
I learned alot about the history of the Andes, the geology of the mountain ranges and the history. Mauricio was very patient and spoke good english. I would definitely recommend going on this tour but also plan to stay in Tilcara for the next trip or at least so you can visit the places for longer.
Very good (although somewhat dizzying) one-day tour of Quebrada de Humahuaca, Tilcara and Purmamarca. Now that we know, the ideal would be to take a 2 or 3 day tour staying in one of the three towns; just as Iván Bianchi, a very good guide from Uquía Turismo, Salta, very wisely suggested to us. Anyway, the experience was worth it. Guille y Ale, Tigre, Buenos Aires, Argentina
We could not do the excursion by cutting route in jujuy. The bad thing is that the Enterprise knew the situation in advance, we were not given the option to change the destination. We were warned of the cut, when we were already in the Traffic, and knowing that you could not reach Purmamarca, still we were driven up to kilometers before the road cut. We were never offered another excursion there, or postpone the date. They charged the cost and did not give us the excursion, only a walk x the route, making time to jump back capital approx in the estimated schedule and give the impression that q was fulfilled c the commitment. Conclusion did not meet the commitment and to my judgment and most passengers charged us and did not give us the excursion. Too bad.
