Adventurous Journey through Quebrada de Humahuaca with Friends

First Impressions: Quebrada de Humahuaca
The journey has begun, and what a start it has been! Landing in Jujuy and immediately diving into the heart of Quebrada de Humahuaca was nothing short of spectacular. Today was all about experiencing the raw, unadulterated beauty and history that this region holds. From the dizzying heights of Hornocal's painted mountains to the ancient walls of Pucará de Tilcara, Argentina has already left an indelible mark. This is going to be an unforgettable trip with my friends!

Our day began bright and early, fueled by anticipation and a hearty breakfast at Aisito in Humahuaca. Aisito was a cozy little spot, perfect for loading up on energy before our first adventure. The traditional Argentine breakfast of medialunas (crescent-shaped pastries) and strong coffee hit the spot. I even managed to practice my Spanish with the friendly staff, a definite plus as I try to become more fluent during this trip. I made a mental note to buy a power adapter, since I forgot mine and had to ask the restaurant to charge my phone. After breakfast, we piled into our rented car, ready to tackle the winding roads leading to Mirador A la cercanía de los 14 Colores del Hornocal.

Chasing the Colors of Hornocal

The drive to Hornocal was an adventure in itself. The landscape transformed dramatically as we ascended, from dusty plains to rugged mountain terrain. The air grew crisper, and the views became increasingly panoramic. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe as we approached the famed Mirador.

Reaching the Mirador A la cercanía de los 14 Colores del Hornocal was like stepping onto another planet. The Serranía del Hornocal unfolded before us in all its glory – a breathtaking panorama of vibrant colors layered across the mountains. The geological formations, shaped over millennia, displayed hues of ochre, green, yellow, and red, creating a surreal and unforgettable sight.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Argentina's Rainbow Mountain from this easily accessible viewpoint near Humahuaca.

The altitude was definitely a factor, though. At over 4,000 meters (around 13,123 feet), even walking a few steps left me slightly breathless. Taking it slow and steady was key, and I made sure to drink plenty of water. Despite the slight discomfort, the sheer beauty of the landscape made it all worthwhile. We spent a good hour soaking in the views, taking photos, and simply marveling at the natural wonder before us. I tried to capture the immensity of the landscape with my camera, but some things just can't be adequately translated through a lens. It’s something you have to experience firsthand.

Sometimes, the most breathtaking views come after the most challenging climbs.

As we descended from Hornocal, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the experience. It was a reminder of the incredible beauty that exists in our world and the importance of taking the time to appreciate it. Plus, I managed to snag a few handcrafted souvenirs from a local artisan at the Paseo de los artesanos humahuaqueños, a vibrant little shop filled with unique treasures. I picked up a colorful woven bracelet and a small ceramic llama to remind me of this incredible day.


Discover the vibrant artisan market in Humahuaca, Jujuy, where local crafts, flavors, and culture come together in a colorful tapestry of experiences.

Stepping Back in Time at Pucará de Tilcara

Our next stop was Pucará de Tilcara, an ancient pre-Inca fortress located just outside the town of Tilcara. After the vastness of Hornocal, Pucará offered a more intimate, historical experience. The Pucará is perched on a hill, providing strategic views of the surrounding Quebrada de Humahuaca. The views were a bonus, but the real draw was the chance to explore the ruins of this ancient settlement.


Explore the historic Pucarás de Tilcara in Jujuy, Argentina—an ancient fortress offering stunning views and a glimpse into Andean heritage.

The history of Pucará de Tilcara is fascinating. Originally built by the Omaguaca tribe in the 12th century, it served as an important administrative and military center. Later, the Incas used it as a military outpost. Walking through the reconstructed stone walls and buildings, I could almost feel the presence of the people who once lived here. The site includes living quarters, ceremonial spaces, and even burial grounds, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of its inhabitants.

The reconstruction efforts, while helpful for understanding the layout of the fortress, also felt a bit too polished at times. I found myself wondering what the site looked like before the archaeologists arrived. Still, it was an enriching experience, and I learned a lot about the pre-Columbian history of this region. I also made sure to visit the small museum on-site, which housed a collection of artifacts discovered during the excavations.

After exploring the Pucará, we were ready for a late lunch. We found a great spot called Restaurant El Fortín in Tilcara. I opted for a traditional Argentine parrillada (grilled meat platter), which was absolutely delicious. The meat was tender and flavorful, and the chimichurri sauce added the perfect kick. I shared stories and laughs with my friends, already reminiscing about the incredible sights we'd seen that day.


Experience the essence of Argentinian cuisine at Restaurant El Fortín in Humahuaca - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

A Taste of Humahuaca's Nightlife

Back in Humahuaca, as the sun began to set, we decided to check out La Puerta Verde Hostel & Bar for dinner. This place had a cool, laid-back vibe, with a mix of locals and travelers. The menu featured traditional Northern Argentine cuisine, and I decided to try the locro, a hearty stew made with beans, corn, and meat. It was the perfect comfort food after a long day of exploring.


Discover La Puerta Verde Hostel & Bar: A vibrant fusion of local culture, delicious food, and cozy accommodations in Humahuaca.

The bar also had a surprisingly good selection of local wines. I sampled a few different varieties, each with its unique flavor profile. As the night wore on, the atmosphere grew livelier. The bar staff put on some classic rock tunes, and we found ourselves chatting with fellow travelers from all over the world. It was a great way to unwind and share our experiences from the day.

Before heading back to our guesthouse, we made a quick stop at Ginebra Bar, a cozy little spot known for its craft cocktails. I ordered a gin and tonic made with local herbs and botanicals, a refreshing end to a perfect day. Sipping my drink, I reflected on all that we had seen and done. From the awe-inspiring colors of Hornocal to the ancient echoes of Pucará de Tilcara, today had been a true feast for the senses. I couldn't wait to see what tomorrow would bring. We plan to explore Quebrada de las Señoritas and Garganta del Diablo, and I'm already excited for the adventure. I'm also looking forward to trying the local cuisine at La Vieja Cazona for breakfast, Peña de Fortunato for lunch, and La Tuna Restaurante for dinner. Plus, I'm hoping to find some unique souvenirs at Manos Andinas Jujuy.


Experience the culinary delights of Ginebra Bar in Humahuaca, where traditional Argentine flavors meet a modern gastropub atmosphere.

As I drifted off to sleep, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for this opportunity to explore Argentina with my friends. It's moments like these that make life so rich and rewarding. I'm excited to continue this journey, to learn more about the culture and history of this beautiful country, and to share my experiences with all of you.

And I really need to buy sunglasses tomorrow – the sun here is intense!