Quebrada de Humahuaca and Purmamarca

4.3
(75 reviews)

12 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English and 1 more

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.

What's Included

Hotel pickup and drop-off
Professional guide
Air-conditioned vehicle
Food and drinks
Gratuities
Entrance fee to Tilcara Ruins

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

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.

OR
Meeting point
Salta

The pick up transfer is only from selected centrally located hotels.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 12 hours (approximately)
  • Salta (Pass by)

    Early in the morning we will be picked up from our selected hotels in Salta

    Admission ticket free
  • 1

    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.

    2 hours Admission ticket free
  • 2

    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.

    1 hour Admission ticket free
  • 3

    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.

    20 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 4
    Pucara de Tilcara

    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.

    1 hour Admission ticket free
  • 5

    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.

    30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    At Tropic Of Capricorn - Sundial we will make a descent to take pictures.

    Admission ticket free
  • 6

    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.

    30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 7

    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.

    30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 8

    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.

    2 hours Admission ticket free
  • 9

    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.

    1 hour Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    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.

    Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • 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
Supplied by Tangol

Tags

Day Trips
Nature and Wildlife Tours
Full-day Tours
Bus Tours
Likely to Sell Out
Excellent Quality
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

4.3 Based on 75 75 reviews
5 stars
43
4 stars
18
3 stars
8
2 stars
3
1 star
3
Likely to sell out
from per person
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