Humahuaca Argentina is a high Andean town of adobe houses and cobbled lanes. It sits nearly 3,000 meters above sea level in a dramatic desert valley. Meanwhile, the rainbow-striped Hornocal hills rise just outside town. So, this guide covers what to see, how to get there and when to go.
Quick Facts About Humahuaca, Argentina
| Country | Argentina |
| Region | Jujuy Province, northwest Argentina |
| Known For | The Independence Monument, adobe streets and the colorful Hornocal hills |
| UNESCO Status | UNESCO World Heritage Site, Quebrada de Humahuaca, since 2003 |
| Founded | Spanish town founded in the late 16th century on an older Indigenous settlement |
| Best Time to Visit | April to November |
| Getting There | Fly to Jujuy or Salta, then take a bus north |
| Time Needed | Two to three days |
| Continent | South America |
Where Is Humahuaca?
Humahuaca lies in Jujuy Province, in the far northwest of Argentina. It sits near the northern end of the Quebrada de Humahuaca, a long valley that once linked the Andes with the lowlands. San Salvador de Jujuy is about two to three hours south by bus. In addition, the border with Bolivia is a few hours further north.
Why Visit Humahuaca?
First, the landscapes are spectacular, with red, green and purple mountains. Second, the town keeps strong Andean traditions in its food, music and markets. Also, it is less busy than Purmamarca or Tilcara. However, the altitude is high. So, take it easy on your first day and drink plenty of water.
Things to Do in Humahuaca
Climb to the Independence Monument
The Monument to the Heroes of Independence towers over the town. A long stone staircase leads up to it. From the top, you get wide views of rooftops and hills. In fact, it is the symbol of Humahuaca.
Visit the Cathedral and Cabildo
The main square is home to a colonial church and the old town hall, or Cabildo. At noon, a figure of Saint Francis Solanus appears in the Cabildo clock tower. Visitors gather each day to watch.
See the Hornocal
The Serranía de Hornocal is a mountain range with zigzag stripes of many colors. Locals say it shows 14 colors. A gravel road climbs to a viewpoint at over 4,000 meters. Go in the afternoon, when the sun lights up the slopes. Then wrap up warm, since the wind can be strong.
Explore the Markets
Small markets sell llama wool, woven textiles, herbs and corn. Also try local dishes such as humitas, tamales and llama stew.
Experience Carnival
Carnival in the Quebrada is famous across Argentina. Music, dancing and colorful costumes fill the streets for days. As a result, rooms book up fast during this season.
Tips for your visit:
- Spend a night in Jujuy or Tilcara first to adjust to the altitude.
- Hire a local driver or tour for the Hornocal road.
- Bring sun protection, a hat and warm layers.
- Carry cash, as cards are not always accepted.
Day Trips From Humahuaca
Tilcara has a reconstructed pre-Inca fort called the Pucará. Meanwhile, Purmamarca sits below the famous Hill of Seven Colors. Adventurous travelers can also take the bumpy road to the remote village of Iruya.
One Historical Fact About Humahuaca
The Quebrada de Humahuaca has been used as a trade route for about 10,000 years. Later, it became part of the Inca road network. That long history is why UNESCO protects the whole valley as a cultural landscape.
How to Get to Humahuaca
- Flying in: The nearest airports are in San Salvador de Jujuy and Salta.
- Bus: Buses run from Jujuy north through the Quebrada, stopping at Purmamarca and Tilcara.
- Driving: National Route 9 runs through the valley and offers great views.
Best Time to Visit Humahuaca
April to November is the dry season, with clear skies and cold nights. Meanwhile, December to March brings summer rain, which can cause landslides on mountain roads. However, carnival also falls in the summer months. So, choose based on whether you want festivals or clear views.
Is Humahuaca Worth Visiting?
Yes. Humahuaca offers some of the most striking scenery in South America. In fact, few places combine Andean culture and colorful mountains so well. For a coastal contrast, visit Valparaíso in Chile.
Final Thoughts on Humahuaca
Humahuaca is a place of color, culture and thin mountain air. Climb the monument, watch the clock at noon and see the Hornocal at sunset. Then explore another historic town in the region with our guide to Colonia del Sacramento.
Image Credits
Unsplash
- Florian Delée: The striped hills of the Hornocal, Unsplash License
- Jonas Wurster: High Andean peaks near the Hornocal, Unsplash License
Wikimedia Commons
- Galio: Provincia de Jujuy – Humahuaca – Escalinatas del Monumento al Indio, CC BY-SA 3.0
- Bernard Gagnon: AR378-Quebrada de Humahuaca, CC BY-SA 4.0
- Roblespepe: Jujuy-Humahuaca-Carnaval-4, CC BY-SA 3.0
