From Salta: Serranías Del Hornocal & Hill of 14 Colors Tour

Set out on a captivating 12-hour tour from Salta, Argentina that promises an unforgettable exploration of the region’s natural beauty and rich history. This excursion takes visitors through picturesque villages, showcasing the breathtaking Cerro de los 7 Colores and the archaeological wonders of El Pucará de Tilcara. Enjoy the vibrant hues of the Serranías Del Hornocal’s sedimentary rock formations and the mesmerizing Hill of 14 Colors. With hotel pickup and a bilingual guide, this adventure offers an opportunity to discover Argentina’s hidden gems.

Key Points

• A comprehensive 12-hour day trip from Salta, Argentina, showcasing picturesque villages, archaeological sites, and the breathtaking Hornocal Mountain Range.
• Highlights include the Cerro de los 7 Colores, Paleta del Pintor, and the Pucará de Tilcara ruins, a pre-Inca fortified town.
• The tour offers a transition to a 4WD vehicle for the Hornocal viewpoint, known for its vibrant hues from sedimentary rock formations.
• Uquía features Cuzco paintings, and the tour includes a brief stop in Humahuaca before returning to Salta.
• The trip involves a bumpy ride on gravel roads, especially from Humahuaca to the Hornocal viewpoint, at an elevation of 4,359 meters (14,300 feet).

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Serranías del Hornocal & Hill of 14 Colors tour is a comprehensive day trip from Salta, Argentina, that showcases the region’s stunning natural landscapes.

The 12-hour excursion takes travelers to picturesque villages, archaeological sites, and the Hornocal Mountain Range, known for its vibrant, multi-colored layers.

A 12-hour excursion to picturesque villages, archaeological sites, and the vibrant, multi-colored Hornocal Mountain Range.

Highlights include the Cerro de los 7 Colores, the Paleta del Pintor, and the Pucará de Tilcara ruins.

Guests switch to a 4WD vehicle to reach the Hornocal viewpoint.

The tour includes hotel pickup, a bilingual guide, and transportation, making it an easy way to explore this breathtaking area.

Itinerary Highlights

As travelers embark on the Serranías del Hornocal & Hill of 14 Colors tour, they’ll visit a series of picturesque villages, including San Salvador de Jujuy, Tumbaya, Purmamarca, Maimará, Tilcara, Uquía, and Huacalera. Key stops along the way include the Cerro de los 7 Colores, Paleta del Pintor, the El Pucará de Tilcara archaeological ruins, and the Uquía Cuzco paintings. The tour then switches to a 4WD vehicle for the stunning views of the Hornocal range before a brief stop in Humahuaca prior to returning to Salta.

| Site | Highlights |

|————————-|————————————-|

| Cerro de los 7 Colores | Colorful layered mountain |

| Paleta del Pintor | Vibrant, multicolored hillside |

| El Pucará de Tilcara | Pre-Columbian archaeological ruins |

| Uquía Cuzco paintings | Colonial-era religious artworks |

Traveling to Serranías Del Hornocal

After departing from Salta, the tour travels through a series of picturesque villages, including San Salvador de Jujuy, Tumbaya, Purmamarca, Maimará, Tilcara, Uquía, and Huacalera.

Key stops include the Cerro de los 7 Colores, Paleta del Pintor, and El Pucará de Tilcara archaeological ruins. In Uquía, visitors can see the Cuzco paintings.

Cerro de los 7 Colores, Paleta del Pintor, and El Pucará de Tilcara ruins await visitors. Cuzco paintings can be seen in Uquía.

The tour then switches to a 4WD vehicle for the journey to the stunning Hornocal viewpoint.

Finally, the group makes a brief stop in Humahuaca before returning to Salta. Travelers should expect a bumpy ride on gravel roads, particularly from Humahuaca to Hornocal.

Exploring the Hill of 14 Colors

Situated at an impressive elevation of 4,359 meters (14,300 feet), the Hill of 14 Colors, or Serranías del Hornocal, is a remarkable natural wonder that captivates visitors with its vibrant and diverse hues. The stunning geology of this site is the result of millions of years of sedimentary rock formations, which have been sculpted by wind and water over time. Visitors can marvel at the striking contrast of colors, ranging from vivid reds and oranges to deep purples and greens, creating a breathtaking panoramic vista.

| Dominant Colors | Geological Explanation | Elevation |

| — | — | — |

| Red, Orange | Iron Oxide | 4,359 m (14,300 ft) |

| Green | Copper Oxide | 4,359 m (14,300 ft) |

| Purple | Manganese | 4,359 m (14,300 ft) |

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Archaeological Wonders of Tilcara

The tour takes visitors to the ancient ruins of El Pucará de Tilcara, one of the most significant archaeological sites in the region. This pre-Inca fortified town dates back to the 10th century and provides a glimpse into the region’s rich history.

Visitors can explore:

1. The impressive stone walls and terraces that once protected the town’s inhabitants.

2. The archaeological museum, which houses an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits.

3. The panoramic views of the Quebrada de Humahuaca valley from the site’s elevated position.

The tour allots limited time at this stop, but the opportunity to connect with the area’s past makes it a worthwhile experience.

Uquía and the Cuzco Paintings

As the tour continues, visitors have the opportunity to explore the town of Uquía and admire the impressive Cuzco paintings housed in the local church. These 16th-century paintings, originating from Cuzco, Peru, depict various religious figures and scenes. The paintings are a unique blend of European and indigenous artistic styles, showcasing the cultural exchange that occurred during the colonial era. Visitors can marvel at the intricate details and vibrant colors that have been preserved over centuries, providing a glimpse into the region’s rich history and artistic heritage.

| Painting Title | Artist | Year | Medium | Significance |

|—————-|——–|——|——–|————–|

| Virgen de Copacabana | Unknown | 1580 | Oil on Canvas | Depicts the Patron Saint of Bolivia |

| Adoración de los Reyes Magos | Unknown | 1600 | Oil on Canvas | Showcases the Adoration of the Magi |

| Anunciación | Unknown | 1650 | Oil on Canvas | Illustrates the Annunciation of Mary |

| Resurrección de Lázaro | Unknown | 1580 | Oil on Canvas | Portrays the Resurrection of Lazarus |

| Última Cena | Unknown | 1650 | Oil on Canvas | Represents the Last Supper of Jesus |

Lunch and Local Cuisine

After exploring the captivating Cuzco paintings in Uquía, the tour takes a break for a delightful lunch showcasing the local cuisine.

Travelers enjoy a spread of traditional dishes, including:

1. Empanadas, savory pastries filled with beef, chicken, or vegetables.

2. Locro, a hearty stew made with beans, corn, and various meats.

3. Humitas, corn tamales steamed in leaves.

The lunch provides a chance to savor the flavors of the region and learn about the local culinary heritage.

With live music and a relaxed atmosphere, the midday break energizes the group for the remainder of the day’s adventures.

Traveler Experiences and Recommendations

What do travelers say about their experiences on the Serranías del Hornocal & Hill of 14 Colors tour? Reviewers report incredible scenic views and helpful guides.

They note the importance of adjusting expectations, as English proficiency is limited. The long travel distance means time at each stop is brief.

Travelers also mention the bumpy ride on gravel roads, particularly from Humahuaca to Hornocal. Despite the challenges, most consider the tour well worth the effort, praising the live music and local cuisine during lunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Hill of 14 Colors?

The best time to visit the Hill of 14 Colors is during the dry season between May and September when the vibrant hues are most prominent. The cooler temperatures also make for a more comfortable sightseeing experience.

Can We Take Photos at the Cerro De Los 7 Colores?

Yes, visitors can take photos at the Cerro de los 7 Colores (Hill of 7 Colors). The tour includes time to explore this vibrant, multicolored geological formation and capture stunning photos of the natural landscape.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There’s no option to extend the tour duration. The tour lasts 12 hours, and that’s the standard length. Travelers should be prepared for the full-day experience, as the itinerary covers several key stops across a wide area.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Included Lunch?

The tour doesn’t mention any specific dietary restrictions for the included lunch. However, it’s recommended to bring your own snacks and lunch, as there are no food stops in Humahuaca during the tour.

Is There Wifi Available on the Tour Bus?

The tour does not provide WiFi on the bus. Travelers should plan to be disconnected during the 12-hour tour, as there’s limited connectivity in the remote areas visited. Bringing a portable charger is recommended to stay connected when possible.

The Sum Up

This captivating tour from Salta showcases Argentina’s natural wonders and rich cultural heritage. Witness the stunning Serranías Del Hornocal, the vibrant Hill of 14 Colors, and the archaeological marvels of Tilcara. With a bilingual guide, travelers can enjoy the region’s breathtaking landscapes and vibrant history, making for an unforgettable adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: