The Quebrada de Humahuaca in Argentina’s Jujuy province is a remarkable destination, offering visitors a chance to enjoy the region’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. This comprehensive tour takes travelers on a journey through picturesque towns, ancient fortresses, and the breathtaking Tropic of Capricorn, promising an unforgettable experience. With knowledgeable guides and ample time to explore, the tour provides a unique opportunity to uncover the secrets of this UNESCO-recognized wonder.
Key Points
- The tour explores the UNESCO-recognized Quebrada de Humahuaca region, including stops in Purmamarca and Tilcara.
- Highlights include visits to the Hill of the 7 Colors, the ancient Pucará fortress, and the Tropic of Capricorn.
- The tour provides insights into the region’s natural wonders, such as the vibrant mineral-colored landscape, as well as its cultural heritage.
- Transportation is provided via bus, sprinter, or minibus, with pickup from hotels or central addresses within 10 blocks of Route 9.
- The tour has an overall rating of 4/5 from 21 reviews, with positive feedback on the tour guides, transportation comfort, and value for money.
Tour Overview
The tour explores the captivating region of Jujuy, Argentina, including the UNESCO-recognized Humahuaca City and the vibrant towns of Purmamarca and Tilcara.
Priced from $37.50 per person, the 10-hour tour covers 128 km and reaches a maximum height of 3012 meters. Bilingual guides lead the journey, with stops at the Hill of the 7 Colors, Pucará, and a 17th-century church.
A 10-hour tour exploring 128 km, reaching heights of 3012 meters, led by bilingual guides with stops at the Hill of the 7 Colors, Pucará, and a 17th-century church.
Highlights include lunch and sightseeing in Humahuaca, the largest town, and photo opportunities at the Tropic of Capricorn and Paleta del Pintor.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers a chance to immerse in the region’s cultural and natural wonders.
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Itinerary Highlights
Starting at Av. Dr. Joaquín Carrillo 386, the tour embarks on an immersive journey through northern Argentina’s Quebrada de Humahuaca region. Visitors first admire the Hill of the 7 Colors in Purmamarca, followed by exploring the ancient Pucará fortress in Tilcara. A photo stop at the Tropic of Capricorn provides a unique vantage point. In Uquía, the group marvels at the 17th-century church paintings. The largest town, Humahuaca, offers a leisurely lunch and sightseeing. Lastly, photo opportunities arise at the Paleta del Pintor and a break in Tumbaya before returning to the starting point.
| Stops | Duration |
| — | — |
| Purmamarca: Hill of the 7 Colors | 40 minutes |
| Tilcara: Pucará | 35 minutes |
| Tropic of Capricorn: Photo stop | 10 minutes |
| Uquía: Church with 17th-century paintings | 35 minutes |
| Humahuaca: Lunch and sightseeing | 2 hours |
Cultural and Natural Significance
Quebrada de Humahuaca, a World Heritage Site recognized by UNESCO, showcases the region’s unique natural and cultural significance.
The landscape’s vibrant colors, formed by mineral oxidation over thousands of years, create a breathtaking visual experience. This area also holds immense cultural value, with a focus on local towns, traditions, and people.
Visitors can enjoy the vibrant Carnival celebrations in Humahuaca, gaining insights into the rich heritage of the region. The tour’s emphasis on cultural aspects provides a well-rounded experience, allowing travelers to appreciate both the natural wonders and the enduring traditions of this remarkable location.
Transportation and Logistics
To facilitate the logistics of the tour, the transportation is provided by a bus/coach, sprinter, or minibus. Pickup is arranged from hotels or central addresses within 10 blocks of Route 9, and the meeting point is the Vea Supermarket in Ciudad de Nieva at 9:30 a.m.
| Transportation Type | Pick-up | Meeting Point | Duration |
| — | — | — | — |
| Bus/coach, sprinter, or minibus | From hotels or central addresses (within 10 blocks of Route 9) | Vea Supermarket in Ciudad de Nieva at 09:30 a.m. | Approximately 10 hours |
The transportation and logistics are designed to ensure a smooth and convenient experience for tour participants.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Experience
Based on the overall rating of 4/5 from 21 reviews, the tour generally provides a positive customer experience.
The tour’s highlights include:
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The knowledgeable and supportive tour guides, who earn a 4.4/5 rating for their organization and assistance during the excursion.
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The comfortable transportation, with a 4.2/5 rating for the buses, sprinters, and minibuses used throughout the tour.
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The overall value for money, which receives a 3.8/5 rating, suggesting a generally fair price for the experiences offered.
While there’s room for improvement, particularly in the transportation comfort, the tour offers a memorable exploration of the Quebrada de Humahuaca region.
Exploring Purmamarca: The Hill of the 7 Colors
One of the highlights of the tour is the visit to Purmamarca and its iconic Hill of the 7 Colors. This natural wonder showcases a breathtaking display of hues, from deep reds to vibrant yellows, all caused by the oxidation of different minerals in the rock.
Visitors can wander along the trails, taking in the stunning vistas and snapping photos to capture the beauty. The town of Purmamarca itself is a charming destination, with its traditional adobe buildings and lively markets.
Exploring the Hill of the 7 Colors is a true feast for the senses on this captivating tour.
Discovering Tilcara: The Pucará Fortress
After exploring the vibrant colors of Purmamarca’s Hill of the 7 Colors, the tour continues on to the captivating town of Tilcara, home to the impressive Pucará fortress.
The Pucará, an ancient pre-Inca fortified settlement, sits atop a hill overlooking the town.
The Pucará, an ancient pre-Inca fortified settlement, sits atop a hill overlooking the captivating town of Tilcara.
Visitors can:
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Wander through the remnants of the stone structures and learn about the site’s rich history.
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Admire the panoramic views of the Quebrada de Humahuaca from the fortress’s strategic vantage point.
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Discover the ongoing archaeological excavations and preservation efforts at this important cultural heritage site.
Discovering Humahuaca: The Largest Town in the Gorge
Next, the tour makes its way to Humahuaca, the largest town within the Quebrada de Humahuaca gorge. Visitors spend 2 hours exploring the town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Highlights include a lunch stop and sightseeing. The town’s vibrant Carnival celebrations are also a focus, showcasing the area’s rich cultural traditions.
| Things to See in Humahuaca | |
|——————————|—|
| Main Square | |
| 17th-Century Church | |
| Artisan Markets | |
| Carnival Celebrations | |
| Panoramic Views | |
The tour then continues with a photo stop at the Paleta del Pintor, followed by a short break in Tumbaya before returning to the starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Restroom Stops Along the Tour Route?
The tour includes restroom stops in Purmamarca, Humahuaca, and Tumbaya. Visitors can use facilities during the 40-minute visit to Purmamarca, the 2-hour lunch break in Humahuaca, and the 10-minute break in Tumbaya.
Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks on the Bus?
Yes, you can bring your own snacks and drinks on the bus. The tour allows passengers to bring their own refreshments to enjoy during the journey through the scenic Quebrada de Humahuaca region.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
Yes, the tour duration can be extended for an additional fee. Travelers can inquire about options to extend the tour when booking or speaking with the tour operator. Extended tours may include additional stops or more time at each location.
Can I Customize the Itinerary to Visit Specific Sites?
Yes, travelers can customize the itinerary to visit specific sites. The tour operator offers flexibility to adjust the stops and duration based on the group’s interests, though additional costs may apply for personalized arrangements.
How Accessible Is the Tour for Travelers With Disabilities?
The tour is generally accessible for travelers with disabilities, with wheelchair-friendly transportation and select stops. However, the uneven terrain and high altitudes may pose challenges. Customers are advised to discuss any special needs with the tour provider prior to booking.
The Sum Up
This comprehensive tour offers an immersive experience in Argentina’s stunning Jujuy province. Visitors will be captivated by the vibrant landscapes, ancient cultural sites, and vibrant traditions of the UNESCO-recognized Quebrada de Humahuaca region. With knowledgeable guides, ample time for exploration, and breathtaking photo opportunities, this tour provides an enriching window into the rich heritage and natural beauty of this remarkable destination.
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