Hornocal: Tour of the 14 Colors Mountain & Humahuaca’s Gorge

Nestled in the stunning landscapes of northwestern Argentina, Hornocal and the Humahuaca Gorge captivate visitors with their natural wonders. This comprehensive tour offers an immersive experience, inviting travelers to witness the vibrant hues of the 14 Colors Mountain and explore the rich history of the ancient Pucara de Tilcara ruins. With comfortable transportation and an expert guide, the journey promises to unveil the region’s captivating beauty and cultural heritage. Prepare to be awed by the sheer scale and diversity of this remarkable destination.

Key Points

• Comprehensive exploration of Hornocal’s 14 distinct colors and the Humahuaca Gorge, including pre-Inca ruins and picturesque villages, in a 9-12 hour excursion.
• Priced from €59.30 per person with hotel pickup, round-trip transportation, and an English/Spanish-speaking guide included.
• Option to book now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Tour itinerary covers highlights such as the Tropic of Capricorn, Pucara de Tilcara, and the 7-color hill in Purmamarca.
• Overall tour rating of 4.1 out of 5 based on 75 reviews, with guides praised for their knowledge and helpfulness.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Hornocal, the hill of 14 colors, and the captivating Humahuaca’s Gorge. Priced from €59.30 per person, the 9-12 hour excursion includes hotel pickup, round-trip transportation, and an English/Spanish-speaking guide.

Travelers can freely cancel with a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. The tour also allows booking now and paying later, providing flexibility.

Highlights include visiting Hornocal, Humahuaca Gorge, Pucara de Tilcara ruins, and the scenic villages of Purmamarca and Maimará, with a stop at the Tropic of Capricorn.

Highlights and Itinerary

Visitors will first explore Hornocal, a remarkable hill known for its 14 distinct colors. This natural wonder offers a breathtaking display of hues, ranging from vibrant reds and oranges to deep purples and blues.

Hornocal, a remarkable hill with 14 distinct colors, offers a breathtaking display of vibrant hues.

The tour then moves on to the Humahuaca Gorge, where travelers can witness the 12th-century pre-Inca ruins of Pucara de Tilcara.

Plus, the itinerary includes:

• Exploring the picturesque village of Purmamarca and the famous 7-color hill

• Traversing scenic routes through charming villages like Maimará and Uquía

• Stopping at the iconic Tropic of Capricorn

The diverse landscapes and cultural experiences make this tour a must-do.

Transportation and Pickup

Hotel pickup is available for centrally located accommodations within 8 blocks of the 9th of July central square.

The pickup time is between 6:30 AM and 7:15 AM, so it’s recommended to arrive 15 minutes early.

For the Hornocal visit, the tour will switch to a 4×4 all-terrain vehicle in Humahuaca to access the mountain.

The transportation is round-trip, and the guide will be Spanish/English-speaking throughout the day’s activities.

Inclusions and Requirements

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off (if selected), round-trip transportation, and a Spanish/English-speaking guide.

Visitors are required to bring:

• Passport or ID

• Comfortable shoes

• Weather-appropriate clothing

Admission to El Pucará de Tilcara is also included. This helps travelers explore the 12th-century pre-Inca ruins at Humahuaca Gorge.

The tour provides a comprehensive experience, ensuring travelers have the necessary resources and information to make the most of their journey through the stunning 14 Colors Mountain and Humahuaca’s Gorge.

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Customer Reviews and Ratings

According to the available reviews, the tour has an overall rating of 4.1 out of 5 based on 75 reviews.

The guide rating stands at 4.2, while the transportation and value for money ratings are both 4 out of 5.

Reviewers praise the knowledgeable and helpful guides, though some recommend a two-day trip for a more comfortable experience.

The guides are praised as knowledgeable and helpful, though a two-day trip is recommended for a more comfortable experience.

The stunning final destination at Hornocal is consistently highlighted as worth the travel effort, despite the long journey involved.

Exploring Hornocal: The Hill of 14 Colors

Though the journey to Hornocal may take several hours, visitors are invariably rewarded with a breathtaking sight. The 14-color mountain is a geological marvel, showcasing vibrant hues that range from reds and oranges to greens and blues.

Visitors can:

• Admire the striking contrast of the multi-colored slopes against the clear blue sky

• Hike along the winding paths to capture stunning panoramic views of the valley below

• Witness the sun’s rays cast a mesmerizing glow over the landscape as it rises and sets

• Explore the unique rock formations and learn about the region’s fascinating geological history.

Discovering Humahuaca’s Captivating Gorge

After captivating visitors with the remarkable Hornocal, the tour moves on to explore Humahuaca’s captivating gorge.

The UNESCO-listed Humahuaca Gorge is a dramatic, winding canyon carved by the Río Grande. Travelers will discover the pre-Incan ruins of Pucara de Tilcara, an important fortified settlement dating back to the 12th century.

The tour also stops in the charming villages of Purmamarca, Maimará, and Uquía, where visitors can appreciate the local culture and scenery.

Along the way, the tour reaches the Tropic of Capricorn, an iconic geographical landmark.

Humahuaca’s natural beauty and rich history make it a must-see destination on this comprehensive tour.

Experiencing Purmamarca and the 7-Color Hill

As the tour proceeds, visitors arrive in the charming town of Purmamarca, where they’re greeted by the stunning sight of the 7-Color Hill. This natural wonder is a photographer’s dream, with its vibrant hues of red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet.

Visitors can:

• Wander the town’s quaint streets, lined with colorful adobe buildings

• Explore the local artisan market, showcasing traditional Andean crafts

• Hike to the base of the 7-Color Hill for a closer look at its mesmerizing striations

• Capture the breathtaking panoramic views from the hilltop

This stop in Purmamarca offers a truly immersive cultural experience within the Humahuaca Gorge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?

The tour includes restroom breaks at various stops along the itinerary, allowing travelers to use facilities during the excursion. Specific restroom locations and frequency are not detailed, but breaks are provided throughout the multi-hour journey.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. There are stops along the way where travelers can enjoy their personal snacks and beverages during the excursion.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children or Elderly Participants?

The tour seems suitable for children and elderly participants, though the long duration and terrain may pose challenges. Guests should consider their fitness level and consult the tour operator about any special accommodations needed.

Can I Extend the Tour to Spend More Time at Each Location?

Yes, the tour can be extended to spend more time at each location. Participants can opt for a two-day tour, which allows for a more comfortable and in-depth exploration of the sites, as recommended by past customer reviews.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available for the Tour?

Unfortunately, the tour provider doesn’t currently offer any discounts or special offers. The standard price is €59.30 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Extending the tour length may be possible for an additional fee.

The Sum Up

This comprehensive tour of Hornocal and the Humahuaca Gorge offers an unforgettable adventure. Travelers will be captivated by the vibrant 14 colors of Hornocal, explore ancient pre-Inca ruins, and discover the charming village of Purmamarca. With comfortable transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and a focus on maximizing the experience, this excursion is a must-do for anyone seeking to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of northern Argentina.

You can check availability for your dates here: