Did you know that Humahuaca sits at a breathtaking 2,939 meters (9,642 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest tourist destinations in Argentina? This small town in the country’s northwestern Jujuy province might not be on every traveler’s radar, but it’s home to some of Argentina’s most spectacular landscapes, including the famous 14-colored mountain, Serranía de Hornocal. Often called “Argentina’s Rainbow Mountain,” this geological wonder alone makes the journey worthwhile.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Humahuaca is tucked away in the remote northwestern corner of Argentina, but don’t let that deter you. The journey to reach this hidden gem is part of the adventure, with stunning landscapes unfolding along the way.
From Buenos Aires
The most efficient route is to fly from Buenos Aires to either Salta or Jujuy (San Salvador de Jujuy), then continue by bus or rental car:
- Flight to Jujuy: Approximately 2 hours, followed by a 2-hour drive to Humahuaca
- Flight to Salta: Approximately 2 hours, followed by a 3.5-hour drive to Humahuaca
Ready to book your flights to Northern Argentina?
Find the best deals on flights to Salta or Jujuy and start your Humahuaca adventure!
From Salta or Jujuy
Once in either city, you have two main options to reach Humahuaca:
By Bus
- From Jujuy: 2-hour journey, tickets cost approximately 140-200 ARS ($1.50-$2.20)
- From Salta: 3.5-4 hour journey, multiple departures daily
- Buses are comfortable and affordable, making them popular with backpackers
By Rental Car
- Highly recommended for flexibility to explore the region
- Drive along scenic Route 9 (Ruta Nacional 9)
- Manual transmission vehicles are most common, so specify automatic if needed
Explore at your own pace
Rent a car in Salta or Jujuy to discover all the hidden gems of Northern Argentina.
Best Time to Visit Humahuaca
Humahuaca’s high-altitude location means it experiences distinct seasons with significant temperature variations between day and night.
| Season | Months | Weather | Recommendation |
| Dry Season (Best) | April to October | Sunny days (15-20°C/59-68°F), cold nights (often below 0°C/32°F) | Ideal for hiking and photography |
| Rainy Season | November to March | Afternoon showers, warmer temperatures (20-25°C/68-77°F) | Roads may be affected, but fewer tourists |
| Carnival | Late February | Variable, within rainy season | Vibrant cultural experience, book accommodations well in advance |
Pro Tip: Pack layers regardless of when you visit! Even during summer months, temperatures can drop significantly at night due to the high altitude. Always bring a warm jacket, hat, and gloves, especially if visiting Serranía de Hornocal.
Getting Around Locally
Humahuaca itself is a small, walkable town where most attractions within the center can be reached on foot. However, to explore the surrounding areas and main attractions like Serranía de Hornocal, you’ll need transportation.
On Foot
The town center, including Plaza 25 de Mayo, the Independence Monument, and most restaurants, can be easily explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes as streets are often cobblestone or uneven.
By Car
Having your own vehicle provides the most flexibility for exploring attractions outside town, especially Serranía de Hornocal (40 minutes away) and nearby towns like Tilcara and Purmamarca.
Local Tours
If you don’t have your own transportation, several local agencies offer tours to the main attractions:
- Tours to Serranía de Hornocal depart daily from the town center
- Full-day excursions to nearby towns can be arranged through your accommodation
- Prices typically range from 2,000-4,000 ARS ($22-$44) depending on the destination
Discover the best of Humahuaca
Book guided tours with local experts to make the most of your visit.
Where to Stay
Despite being a small town, Humahuaca offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Most places are small, family-run establishments that provide an authentic experience.
Budget Options
- Giramundo Hostel – Lively hostel with free breakfast and communal areas
- La Humahuacasa – Relaxed hostel with a bohemian vibe and helpful staff
- Buena Vista Hostel – Simple rooms with great views of the surrounding mountains
Prices range from 1,500-2,500 ARS ($16-$27) per night for dorm beds.
Mid-Range Options
- La Chakana Humahuaca – Comfortable rooms with traditional decor
- Tikay Humahuaca – Charming hotel with a central location
- Cabaña Kenty Wasy – Private cabins with kitchenettes
Expect to pay 4,000-7,000 ARS ($44-$77) per night for double rooms.
Upscale Options
- Hotel Boutique Urku Wasi – Stylish rooms with mountain views
- Cielo Arriba Casa – Elegant property with terrace and garden
- Hotel Huacalera (near Humahuaca) – Sophisticated hotel with a vineyard
Prices range from 8,000-12,000 ARS ($88-$132) per night.
Find your perfect stay in Humahuaca
Book early, especially during high season and Carnival, as options are limited.
Dining & Local Cuisine
Humahuaca offers a wonderful opportunity to sample authentic Northern Argentinian cuisine, which differs significantly from what you’ll find in Buenos Aires or other parts of the country. The region’s indigenous heritage is reflected in dishes featuring local ingredients like quinoa, llama meat, and Andean potatoes.
Must-Try Local Dishes
- Llama Steak – Leaner than beef, with a mild, slightly sweet flavor
- Locro – A hearty stew made with corn, beans, and meat
- Empanadas Salteñas – Local-style empanadas with spiced meat filling
- Humitas – Fresh corn dough stuffed with cheese, wrapped in corn husks
- Tamales – Similar to humitas but with meat filling
- Quinoa Soup – A nutritious regional specialty
Best Restaurants in Humahuaca
Pacha Manka
The go-to restaurant for authentic local cuisine, featuring excellent llama dishes and regional specialties. Located near Plaza 25 de Mayo, it offers a cozy atmosphere with reasonable prices.
Price range: $$
Aisito
Not just a restaurant but a cultural experience, hosting traditional peñas (folk music gatherings) in the evenings. Great food and an even better atmosphere make this a must-visit.
Price range: $$
La Abuela Teo
A cozy spot serving homestyle cooking, including excellent empanadas and tamales. The desserts are particularly noteworthy.
Price range: $-$$
Local Tip: For an inexpensive and authentic meal, head to Mercado Municipal de Humahuaca where you can sample various local dishes at food stalls for half the price of restaurants.
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
1. Serranía de Hornocal (Argentina’s Rainbow Mountain)
The crown jewel of the region, this stunning 14-colored mountain range is located about 25 km (15.5 miles) from Humahuaca town. The limestone formations display vibrant bands of reds, greens, purples, and whites, creating a truly spectacular natural wonder.
Visiting Serranía de Hornocal:
- Located 40 minutes from town via a winding gravel road
- Entrance fee: 500 ARS (approximately $5.50)
- Best visited in late afternoon (after 4 PM) when the sunlight enhances the colors
- Altitude: 4,350 meters (14,271 feet) – be prepared for possible altitude sickness
- Transportation options: rental car, taxi, or organized tour from town
2. Plaza 25 de Mayo & Town Center
The heart of Humahuaca, this charming main square is surrounded by colonial buildings, cafes, and artisan shops. Don’t miss the San Francisco Solano Church with its mechanical saint that emerges at noon to strike the clock.
3. Monumento a Los Héroes De La Independencia
This impressive monument dedicated to Argentina’s northern army and indigenous allies offers spectacular views of the town and surrounding valley. Climb the stone steps to appreciate both the monument and the panoramic vistas.
4. Hiking Trails
Two popular hiking options near Humahuaca:
- Peñas Blancas – A 5 km (3-mile) loop trail accessible from town, perfect for sunset views
- Inca Cueva – An 8 km (5-mile) trail leading to ancient petroglyphs, requires transportation to the trailhead
5. Nearby Towns Worth Visiting
Tilcara (45 min south)
- Visit Pucará de Tilcara, a pre-Incan fortress
- Hike to Garganta del Diablo waterfall
- Explore the Altura Botanical Garden
Purmamarca (1 hr south)
- See the Hill of Seven Colors (Cerro de los Siete Colores)
- Browse the artisan market at Plaza 9 de Julio
- Hike the Paseo de los Colorados trail
Iruya (2.5 hrs north)
- Experience one of Argentina’s most remote villages
- Enjoy spectacular mountain scenery
- Hike to viewpoints like Mirador del Condor
Explore the wonders of Quebrada de Humahuaca
Book guided tours to Serranía de Hornocal and other nearby attractions.
Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals
Cultural Attractions
- Archaeological Museum – A small but informative museum displaying artifacts from indigenous cultures that inhabited the region
- Iglesia de la Candelaria – The oldest building in town, dating back to 1631
- Manos Andinas Jujuy – A fair-trade shop selling authentic llama wool products and handicrafts
Experience a Peña
One of the most authentic cultural experiences in Humahuaca is attending a peña, a traditional gathering featuring folk music, dancing, and storytelling. These events typically start late (after 9 PM) and continue into the early hours of the morning.
Where to experience a peña:
- Aisito – The most popular venue for tourists and locals alike
- La Peña de Fortunato Ramos – For a more traditional experience
Festivals
If your visit coincides with these dates, you’re in for a special cultural treat:
| Festival | Date | Description |
| Carnival (Carnaval) | Late February | Eight days of celebrations with music, dancing, and colorful parades |
| Pachamama (Mother Earth) | August 1 | Indigenous ceremony honoring Mother Earth with offerings and rituals |
| Independence Day | July 9 | Patriotic celebrations with parades and special events at the Independence Monument |
Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences
Hiking and Trekking
The dramatic landscapes surrounding Humahuaca offer excellent opportunities for hiking enthusiasts of all levels:
- Peñas Blancas – An easy 2-3 hour hike with great views of the town
- Inca Cueva Trail – Moderate difficulty, featuring ancient rock art
- Hornocal Viewpoint Extension – A short but challenging high-altitude hike from the main viewpoint
Photography
Humahuaca is a photographer’s paradise, offering countless opportunities to capture stunning landscapes:
- Golden Hour at Hornocal – Visit between 4-6 PM for optimal lighting on the rainbow mountains
- Sunset from Peñas Blancas – Capture the town bathed in golden light
- Cactus Landscapes – The surrounding hills offer dramatic compositions with giant cacti
Salinas Grandes (Salt Flats)
Located about 2 hours from Humahuaca, the Salinas Grandes salt flats offer a completely different landscape experience. These vast white plains create surreal photo opportunities, especially after rain when they form a perfect mirror.
Stargazing
The high altitude, dry air, and minimal light pollution make Humahuaca an excellent location for stargazing. On clear nights, the Milky Way is clearly visible to the naked eye, creating unforgettable experiences for astronomy enthusiasts.
Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs
Health and Safety
- Altitude Sickness – Humahuaca sits at nearly 3,000 meters (9,842 feet), and attractions like Hornocal are even higher at 4,350 meters (14,271 feet). Take time to acclimatize, stay hydrated, and consider altitude sickness medication if you’re sensitive.
- Sun Protection – The high altitude means stronger UV radiation. Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, even on cloudy days.
- Water – Tap water is generally not recommended for drinking. Stick to bottled water.
- Medical Facilities – Healthcare in Humahuaca is basic. For serious issues, you may need to travel to Jujuy or Salta.
Important: Travel insurance that covers high-altitude activities and emergency evacuation is strongly recommended when visiting this remote region.
Local Customs and Etiquette
- Greetings – Argentinians typically greet with a kiss on the cheek, even when meeting for the first time.
- Mate Culture – If offered mate (a traditional herbal tea), it’s considered polite to accept. The same straw is shared among all participants.
- Indigenous Heritage – The region has strong indigenous roots. Be respectful when visiting sacred sites or participating in cultural events.
- Photography – Always ask permission before photographing local people, especially during ceremonies or rituals.
Language
Spanish is the primary language in Humahuaca. Unlike Buenos Aires, where many people speak English, in this remote region, English speakers are less common. Learning a few basic Spanish phrases will greatly enhance your experience:
- “Hola” – Hello
- “Gracias” – Thank you
- “Por favor” – Please
- “¿Cuánto cuesta?” – How much does it cost?
- “¿Dónde está…?” – Where is…?
Practical Travel Tips
Money Matters
- ATMs are limited in Humahuaca – bring cash from larger cities
- Many small businesses don’t accept credit cards
- The Argentine peso fluctuates significantly – check current rates
- Tipping 10% is standard in restaurants
Connectivity
- Wi-Fi is available in most accommodations but may be slow
- Mobile coverage can be spotty outside of town
- Download offline maps before your trip
- Consider an e-SIM like Airalo for data access
Packing Essentials
- Layers for temperature changes
- Warm jacket, hat, and gloves (even in summer)
- Comfortable hiking shoes
- High SPF sunscreen and sunglasses
- Reusable water bottle
Planning Your Stay
- Duration – 2-3 full days is ideal for exploring Humahuaca and its surroundings
- Itinerary Suggestion:
- Day 1: Explore the town center, visit the Independence Monument, attend a peña in the evening
- Day 2: Visit Serranía de Hornocal in the afternoon, hike Peñas Blancas for sunset
- Day 3: Day trip to nearby towns (Tilcara, Purmamarca) or Salinas Grandes
Local Insight: Businesses in Humahuaca often close for siesta between 1-5 PM. Plan your activities accordingly, using this time to rest or explore outdoor attractions.
Ready for an Unforgettable Adventure?
Humahuaca may be off the beaten path, but that’s precisely what makes it special. From the breathtaking rainbow mountains to the authentic cultural experiences, this hidden corner of Argentina offers travelers a chance to connect with both natural wonders and living traditions. Whether you’re hiking to panoramic viewpoints, savoring local cuisine, or dancing at a traditional peña, Humahuaca promises memories that will last a lifetime.
Start planning your Humahuaca adventure today!
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