Nestled in the heart of Argentina’s northwest, the Quebrada de Humahuaca beckons travelers with its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. A day trip from Salta promises an enriching 13.5-hour adventure, inviting visitors to explore UNESCO World Heritage sites, admire the vibrant Seven Colors Hill, and uncover the history of the Pucará de Tilcara. With convenient hotel pickup, knowledgeable guides, and flexible cancellation options, this tour offers an exceptional opportunity to take in the captivating landscapes and traditions of the Andean region.
Key Points
- A day trip from Salta exploring the Quebrada de Humahuaca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring highlights like the Seven Colors Hill and Pucará de Tilcara.
- The tour is priced at $39.00 per person, with a duration of 13.5 hours and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Hotel pickup and transportation via bus or minivan are included, with guides available in English and Spanish.
- The guided experience provides insights into the historical, cultural, and geological significance of the sites visited along the way.
- The tour is highly rated by travelers for its scenic views, knowledgeable guides, and comfortable transportation.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The day trip to Quebrada de Humahuaca from Salta is priced from $39.00 per person, offering a 13.5-hour adventure.
A 13.5-hour adventure from Salta to Quebrada de Humahuaca, priced from $39.00 per person.
Travelers can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, as well as a "reserve now & pay later" option.
The excursion includes hotel pickup from centrally located accommodations and transportation via bus or minivan, depending on group size.
A live tour guide in English and Spanish is available, and admission to the El Pucará de Tilcara Archaeological Site is included.
Reviews highlight the scenic views, knowledgeable guides, and enjoyable stops, though some delays due to police checks have been noted.
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Itinerary and Highlights
The day trip to Quebrada de Humahuaca explores the region’s rich cultural and natural heritage.
Visitors start in Purmamarca, admiring the colorful Seven Colors Hill. Next, they uncover Pucará de Tilcara, a 12th-century fortification.
In Maimará, the Monolith Painter’s Palette captivates with its unique geological formations. The journey continues to Uquía, where a historic church displays paintings of gun-toting angels.
Crossing the Tropic of Capricorn, the tour arrives in Humahuaca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Throughout the day, travelers enjoy the region’s stunning landscapes and gain insights from the knowledgeable tour guide.
Pickup and Transportation
Hotel pickup is available from centrally located accommodations within an 8-block radius of Plaza 9 de Julio. The pickup time is between 6:30 and 7:15 AM, so guests should be ready 15 minutes prior. Transportation is provided via bus or minivan, depending on the group size. The table below outlines the pickup and transportation details:
| Category | Details |
| — | — |
| Pickup Time | 6:30 – 7:15 AM |
| Pickup Location | Within 8 blocks of Plaza 9 de Julio |
| Arrival Time | Guests should be ready 15 minutes prior |
| Vehicle Type | Bus or minivan, based on group size |
The tour guides are available in both English and Spanish to ensure a seamless and informative experience for all participants.
Guided Experience
A knowledgeable live guide accompanies participants throughout the day trip, providing insights in both English and Spanish.
The guide offers:
Detailed commentary on the historical and cultural significance of each site, engaging explanations about the unique geological formations and landscapes.
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Detailed commentary on the historical and cultural significance of each site
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Engaging explanations about the unique geological formations and landscapes
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Recommendations on the best photo opportunities and local delicacies to try
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Assistance with navigating the different towns and villages along the route
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Responsive answers to any questions or curiosities that arise during the excursion
This guided experience ensures travelers gain a comprehensive understanding and appreciation for the Quebrada de Humahuaca region.
More Great Tours NearbyTraveler Reviews and Ratings
Travelers have generally rated this day trip to Quebrada de Humahuaca quite favorably, with an overall score of 4.2 out of 5 based on 46 reviews. Guides received a 4.5 rating for their knowledge and expertise, while the transportation was praised with a 4.6 score. Reviewers noted the scenic views, enjoyable stops, and good value for money. However, some delays due to police checks were mentioned. Here’s a breakdown of the key traveler ratings:
| Metric | Rating |
| ——- | —— |
| Overall | 4.2/5 |
| Guides | 4.5/5 |
| Transport| 4.6/5 |
| Value | 4.3/5 |
Scenic Vistas of Quebrada De Humahuaca
As one traverses the scenic Quebrada de Humahuaca, the landscape unfolds into a mesmerizing tapestry of vibrant hues and dramatic geological formations.
The towering ochre-colored cliffs, known as the "Painter’s Palette," create a striking contrast against the azure sky. Visitors can admire the iconic Seven Colors Hill, where the layered bands of sedimentary rock showcase a kaleidoscope of earth tones.
Further along, the rugged peaks of the Andes command attention, while the winding river below reflects the surrounding beauty.
Exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a truly breathtaking experience.
Exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a truly breathtaking experience.
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Vibrant ochre cliffs known as the "Painter’s Palette"
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Iconic Seven Colors Hill with layered sedimentary bands
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Rugged Andean peaks reaching skyward
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Meandering river reflecting the stunning landscape
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Designated UNESCO World Heritage Site
Cultural Immersion in Andean Villages
Beyond the breathtaking landscapes, the day trip to Quebrada de Humahuaca offers a chance to take in the vibrant Andean culture.
Visitors explore the charming village of Purmamarca, admiring the iconic Seven Colors Hill and browsing local artisanal shops.
At Pucará de Tilcara, they discover a 12th-century fortification, gaining insights into the region’s rich history.
In Maimará, the Monolith Painter’s Palette captivates with its striking colors.
Uquía’s historic church, adorned with paintings of gun-toting angels, provides a unique cultural experience.
Throughout the journey, travelers engage with the local communities, gaining a deeper appreciation for the Andean way of life.
Practical Considerations for the Day Trip
Although the day trip to Quebrada de Humahuaca promises an immersive cultural experience, there are practical considerations travelers should keep in mind.
The early departure time, between 6:30 and 7:15 AM, requires an early start. Hotel pickup is available from centrally located accommodations, but travelers need to be ready 15 minutes prior.
The tour includes transportation via bus or minivan, depending on group size. Admission to the Pucará de Tilcara Archaeological Site is included, but visitors may encounter delays due to police checks.
Lastly, free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance allows flexibility.
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Early morning departure time
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Hotel pickup from central locations
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Bus or minivan transportation
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Admission to archaeological site
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Flexible cancellation policy
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lunch Included in the Tour Price?
The tour price does not include lunch. Travelers are responsible for their own meals during the day trip. However, the itinerary provides ample opportunities to purchase food and refreshments at the various stops along the way.
Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Water?
Passengers can bring their own snacks and water on the tour. The tour price doesn’t include meals, so packing a picnic lunch or bringing drinks and snacks is allowed and recommended to enjoy throughout the day.
Is There Any Flexibility in the Pickup Time?
The tour offers some flexibility in the pickup time, with guests being asked to be ready between 6:30 and 7:15 AM. This allows for adjustments based on group size and location. Guests should be prepared to be picked up within this window.
How Many Stops Are There Throughout the Day?
The tour makes several stops throughout the day, including visits to Purmamarca village, Pucará de Tilcara, Maimará, Uquía, the Tropic of Capricorn, and the UNESCO-listed town of Humahuaca, providing a comprehensive exploration of the region’s highlights.
Is Photography Allowed at All Sites?
Photography is generally allowed at the various sites visited during the day trip. However, visitors should respect any signage or instructions from the guide regarding restrictions at certain locations to preserve the sites and ensure an enjoyable experience for all.
The Sum Up
The "From Salta: Day Trip to Quebrada De Humahuaca" is an exceptional opportunity to take in Argentina’s stunning northwest region. With its captivating landscapes, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and knowledgeable guides, this affordable day trip offers an enriching cultural experience. Whether you’re seeking natural beauty or historical insights, this tour provides a convenient and flexible way to explore the breathtaking Quebrada De Humahuaca.
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