From Jujuy: Serranías del Hornocal and the hill of 14 colors

An Authentic Day Exploring the Serranías del Hornocal and the Hill of 14 Colors

If you’re seeking a full-day experience that combines breathtaking scenery, cultural insights, and a touch of adventure, this tour from San Salvador de Jujuy is hard to beat. For $64.50 per person, you’ll spend around 8 to 9 hours exploring some of the most iconic sights of northern Argentina, including the hill of 14 colors (Hornocal), the Cerro de los 7 Colores in Purmamarca, and charming villages like Tilcara and Humahuaca. The trip is well-paced, with enough stops to appreciate the scenery without feeling rushed, and it’s perfect for those who want authentic moments and stunning landscapes.

Two particular features stand out. First, the magnificent panoramic views as you ascend toward Hornocal with a transfer in a 4×4 vehicle — a real highlight. Second, the cultural stops at places like Uquía and Huacalera, where you can see ancient paintings and stand at the Tropic of Capricorn. One small consideration: there’s no dedicated restaurant stop in Humahuaca, so bringing your own lunch ensures you won’t go hungry.

This tour suits travelers who love visual beauty and local culture, prefer a small group setting (maximum 23 people), and are comfortable with a full-day journey. It’s especially recommended for those who want to capture unique photos and experience the region’s vivid landscapes firsthand.

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: From the winding roads at high altitude to the colorful Hornocal, the scenery is unforgettable.
• Cultural Stops: Authentic visits to villages, churches, and a ceramics factory add depth beyond just the natural beauty.
• Comfortable Transport: An air-conditioned vehicle and a 4×4 transfer to Hornocal make the journey smooth.
• Value for Money: With all fees included, you get a comprehensive experience at a reasonable price, though food isn’t included.
• Small Group Feel: Limited to 23 travelers, the tour feels intimate and allows for more personal attention.
• Flexible Stops: Numerous brief pauses at key sites and viewpoints make the day relaxed.

Exploring the Route in Detail

Starting in San Salvador de Jujuy

Your day begins early at around 9:30 am in Jujuy, where you meet your guide and fellow travelers. The bus ride out of the city sets the tone, offering glimpses of local life and landscapes. Your first stop is at the Quebrada de Humahuaca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its striking landscapes and colorful hills.

Passing Through Iconic Towns

The first major stop is Purmamarca, home to the Cerro de los 7 Colores. We loved how this village’s vibrant hues of red, yellow, and green perfectly complement the surrounding mountains. Here, you have about 40 minutes—enough time to take photos, walk around, and soak in the views. It’s a favorite spot for many, and the landscape’s beauty makes it worth the early rise.

Next, the visit to Tilcara introduces you to indigenous culture with the Pucará, an ancient fortress. The 35-minute stop allows us to explore the ruins and enjoy local arts. Then, in Uquía, you’ll see the church with old paintings and visit a ceramics factory. These stops offer a glimpse into traditional life and craftsmanship that define the region.

The Highlights: Hornocal and the Colorful Mountains

Once in Uquía, you transfer to a 4×4 vehicle for the ascent to the Serranías del Hornocal. This is the true star of the tour, with panoramic views of the mountains with 14 distinct colors. The drive is a bit of an adventure, winding up to 4,350 meters altitude, but the views are absolutely worth it. The two-hour stop here gives ample time for photos and appreciating the natural palette.

The Pink Pallet of Maimará is next, where we stop for a quick snapshot at the “Paleta del Pintor”—a striking geological formation that looks like an artist’s color palette. Then, at Huacalera, you stand at the Tropic of Capricorn marker, a fun spot for a quick photo and a reminder of how geography shapes cultures.

Brief Town Visits and Return Journey

The tour includes a quick 20-minute visit to Humahuaca, the largest town in the ravine, providing a chance to explore a bit or get a snack (bring your own lunch, as there’s no restaurant stop). The return journey passes through Tumbaya and other scenic spots, with technical stops along the way for bathroom breaks or souvenir shopping.

The journey wraps up back in San Salvador de Jujuy around 6 pm, with memories of vibrant colors, mountain vistas, and warm culture.

The Experience and Value

This tour is designed to maximize the best of northern Argentina in one day. The price of $64.50 seems reasonable given the included all fees and taxes, the air-conditioned vehicle, and the expert guidance. The only thing you’ll need to budget for separately is lunch. Our review from a traveler notes that Soledad, the guide, was “informative and attentive,” which makes the experience smoother and more engaging.

The stops are carefully chosen to highlight different facets: natural beauty, indigenous culture, and geological wonders. We especially appreciated that the itinerary avoids overly long drives and provides enough time at each location to truly appreciate the sights, especially the Hornocal with its 14 colors—a landscape that images simply cannot do justice.

What’s Great?

The scenic views are genuinely stunning, especially the high-altitude vistas of Hornocal and the colorful hills. The cultural stops provide meaningful context, connecting travelers with local traditions and history. Many travelers have raved about the good value and the small-group atmosphere that makes the journey more personal.

What Could Be Better?

The main consideration is lunch — there’s no included meal, and no restaurant stop in Humahuaca, so bringing snacks or a light lunch is advised. Plus, the ascent to Hornocal, while beautiful, involves rougher roads and a significant altitude change, which might be challenging for some travelers sensitive to high elevations.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits adventurous travelers who enjoy scenic drives, photography, and cultural exploration. It’s perfect for those with a day to spare and a curiosity for the landscapes that make northern Argentina so striking. It’s also ideal for travelers who appreciate small-group tours and want to avoid the hassle of planning multiple stops themselves.

Final Thoughts

This full-day tour from Jujuy offers more than just a list of sights—it’s an opportunity to see some of Argentina’s most iconic mountain landscapes, learn about local culture, and enjoy the thrill of a mountain drive in a small group. The stunning views at Hornocal, combined with the cultural stops, make it a well-balanced experience. While packing your own lunch is a small extra effort, the overall value and authenticity make it a worthwhile day out.

Whether you’re a landscape enthusiast, a culture seeker, or just someone wanting a memorable adventure, this tour delivers on those promises with a good dose of natural beauty and local charm.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
It begins at 9:30 am from the meeting point in San Salvador de Jujuy.

How long is the total duration?
The trip lasts about 8 to 9 hours, including all stops and return to Jujuy.

Are all fees included in the price?
Yes, the admission tickets and transportation costs are included; only lunch and personal expenses are not.

What kind of vehicle is used for the ascent to Hornocal?
A 4×4 vehicle is used to navigate the road to Hornocal, providing a more comfortable and safe ascent.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but the high-altitude drive and some walking might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility limitations.

Can I bring my own food?
Yes, it’s recommended to bring a light lunch or snacks since there are no restaurant stops in Humahuaca.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour typically groups up to 23 travelers, maintaining an intimate atmosphere.

What should I wear or bring?
Bring layers for changing temperatures, water, sun protection, and your camera. The high altitude may require extra warmth.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This detailed review should help you decide whether this tour fits your travel plans. It’s a genuine chance to get a taste of the spectacular landscapes and cultural richness that make Jujuy a special destination.