From Salta: Hornocal Hills and the Hill of 14 Colors

Experience the stunning natural beauty of Argentina’s northwest on a tour from Salta. Witness the vibrant, layered hues of the Hornocal Hills and the Cerro de los 7 Colores in Purmamarca, both part of the UNESCO-protected Quebrada de Humahuaca. Enjoy the region’s rich indigenous culture as you explore picturesque towns and marvel at the dramatic Andean landscapes. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or a photographer, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through some of Argentina’s most breathtaking geological wonders.

Key Points

• The tour departs from Salta and visits the UNESCO-recognized Quebrada de Humahuaca, including the Hornocal Hills and the Hill of 14 Colors in Purmamarca.
• The Hornocal Hills showcase a stunning array of colors at an elevation of 4,350 meters, offering breathtaking vistas and photography opportunities.
• The Hill of 14 Colors in Purmamarca is a geological formation displaying a vibrant array of hues, including reds, oranges, greens, and purples.
• The tour also includes visits to traditional towns like Tilcara and Humahuaca, allowing for exploration of pre-Inca ruins and colonial architecture.
• The tour provides an immersive experience in the unique landscape and culture of Argentina’s northwestern region, with flexible booking and cancellation options.

Overview of the Tour

The tour to the Hornocal Hills, known as the Serranías del Hornocal, departs from Salta and ventures into the Jujuy Province.

Highlights include visits to the Quebrada de Humahuaca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as the vibrant towns of Volcán, Purmamarca, Tilcara, Humahuaca, Uquía, and Huacalera.

Travelers will also see the ancient paintings in Uquía and the Tropic of Capricorn marker in Huacalera.

The final stop is the stunning Paleta del Pintor in Maimará, offering breathtaking views of the 14-color mountain range.

The tour provides an immersive experience in the Northwestern Argentinian landscape, showcasing the region’s rich cultural and natural wonders.

Itinerary and Schedule

The tour begins promptly at 7:00 AM, with pickup locations conveniently situated within 15 blocks of Plaza 9 de Julio in Salta.

Technical stops are made for bathroom breaks and snacks in Salta and Volcán. On the return trip, travelers enjoy a 20-minute stop in Humahuaca.

As no restaurant stops are planned, it’s recommended to bring your own lunch.

The air-conditioned vehicle transports you, with a transfer to a 4×4 vehicle for the Hornocal access.

The tour accommodates a maximum of 23 travelers and isn’t wheelchair accessible, though strollers are allowed, and infants can sit on laps.

Transportation and Accessibility

Air-conditioned vehicles transport visitors on the tour, with a transfer to 4×4 vehicles for the access to the Hornocal Hills. The tour accommodates a maximum of 23 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and personalized experience. While the tour is not wheelchair accessible, it is stroller accessible, though infants must sit on laps.

Accessibility	Details
Wheelchair	Not Accessible
Stroller	Accessible
Infants	Must Sit on Laps

The transportation arrangements cater to the unique terrain and provide visitors with the opportunity to fully enjoy the stunning Hornocal landscape.

Highlights of the Quebrada De Humahuaca

One of the highlights of the tour is the Quebrada de Humahuaca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning geological formations and rich cultural heritage.

This dramatic valley, carved over millennia by the Río Grande, boasts a tapestry of vibrant hues, from ochre and vermillion to shimmering greens and blues.

Visitors can explore the ancient Inca Trail, marvel at pre-Columbian ruins, and enjoy the traditions of the indigenous Kolla people.

The tour also includes stops in charming towns like Purmamarca, with its iconic Cerro de los 7 Colores, and Humahuaca, known for its colonial architecture and lively markets.

Exploring the Hornocal Hills

Beyond the vibrant landscapes of the Quebrada de Humahuaca, the tour ventures into the heart of the Hornocal Hills, also known as the Serranías del Hornocal.

At an elevation of 4,350 meters, these breathtaking mountains showcase a stunning array of colors, ranging from deep reds and oranges to vibrant greens and blues.

Travelers are transported to a different world as they explore the unique geological formations carved by wind and water over millennia.

The Hornocal Hills offer a truly awe-inspiring experience, with the opportunity to capture the stunning vistas and take in the raw beauty of the Argentinian Andes.

The Hill of 14 Colors in Purmamarca

Nestled within the Quebrada de Humahuaca, a UNESCO World Heritage site, lies the captivating Cerro de los 7 Colores, also known as the Hill of 14 Colors, in the charming town of Purmamarca.

This iconic geological formation showcases a breathtaking display of hues, ranging from earthy reds and oranges to vibrant greens and purples.

Visitors can hike up the hill, taking in the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and adobe-style buildings.

The Hill of 14 Colors is a must-visit destination, offering a unique and visually striking experience that highlights the natural beauty of Argentina’s northwestern region.

Visiting Tilcara and Humahuaca

The tour continues to the vibrant town of Tilcara, where visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins of the Pucarás de Tilcara, an ancient pre-Inca fortified settlement situated atop a hill.

The site offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and provides insights into the region’s rich cultural history.

Next, the group travels to Humahuaca, a charming town known for its colorful colonial architecture and the iconic 20-meter-tall "Jujuy’s Shaft" monument.

Visitors can stroll through the lively Plaza Gral. Manuel Belgrano, home to artisanal markets and local cafés, before heading back to Salta.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

All fees and taxes are included in the tour price.

Booking this Hornocal Hills tour is straightforward. The company offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, so travelers can plan with flexibility. Upon booking, confirmation is received immediately.

The tour has a maximum of 23 travelers, so it’s wise to reserve early.

Here’s what you need to know about the booking and cancellation policy:

1. All fees and taxes are included in the tour price.
2. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start.
3. Confirmation is received at the time of booking.
4. The tour has a maximum of 23 travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Difficult Is the Hike to the Hornocal Viewpoint?

The hike to the Hornocal viewpoint is moderately challenging. It involves a 45-minute ascent along a steep, rocky trail with an elevation gain of around 150 meters. The trail is narrow and can be slippery in parts, requiring a good level of fitness and caution.

Can I Book This Tour From Outside of Salta?

Yes, the tour to the Hornocal Hills can be booked from outside of Salta. The tour provider offers pickup and transportation services from various locations, making it accessible to travelers not staying in Salta.

Is There an Option to Book a Private Tour?

Yes, there’s an option to book a private tour of the Hornocal Hills. This allows for a more personalized experience with a flexible schedule and group size. Booking a private tour can be arranged directly with the tour operator.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour does not offer any specific discounts for seniors or students. However, travelers can often find general discounts or promotions when booking through the tour provider directly or through third-party websites.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The itinerary doesn’t include any restaurant stops, so bringing a packed lunch is recommended to enjoy the scenic views during the day.

Recap

The Hornocal Hills and the Hill of 14 Colors tour from Salta offers an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and photographers. Visitors will be captivated by the stunning geological formations, vibrant colors, and immersive views of the Argentinian Andes. This UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases the region’s rich indigenous culture, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking to explore the breathtaking beauty of Quebrada de Humahuaca.