Adventurous Journey through Quebrada de Humahuaca with Friends

Painted Mountains and High-Altitude Wonders

Today was a day of vibrant colors and stunning vistas as we ventured into the heart of the Quebrada de Humahuaca. Leaving behind the familiar streets of Humahuaca, we set out to witness the famed 14-colored mountain and the majestic Hornocal mountain range. It was a day filled with natural beauty, and a reminder of the geological wonders that exist right here on our planet.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at La Tuna Restaurante. I opted for a traditional Argentine breakfast of medialunas (sweet croissants) and café con leche. Fueled up, we were ready to tackle the day's adventures. I met up with the guys and we headed out in our rental, ready to explore the region's geological wonders.

First on our agenda was the Mirador bajo del cerro de los 14 colores. The drive there was an adventure in itself, a winding road that climbed higher and higher, offering panoramic views of the valley below. As we approached the mirador, the landscape transformed into a canvas of colors. Reds, oranges, yellows, greens, and purples swirled across the mountain, each layer telling a story of mineral deposits and geological history.

The Mirador bajo del cerro de los 14 colores, also known as Serranías del Hornocal, stands at an impressive 4,761 meters (15,620 ft) above sea level. The altitude definitely made itself known, as we all felt a slight shortness of breath upon arrival. We took it slow, admiring the view and snapping photos to capture the surreal beauty. The sun was shining, highlighting the different hues, and it felt like we were standing on another planet.


Experience the vibrant beauty of Argentina's 'Mountain of 14 Colors' from this easily accessible viewpoint in Jujuy Province. A geological masterpiece!

The earth has music for those who listen.

After soaking in the views at the mirador, we drove towards the Sierras del Hornocal. The road was unpaved, a mix of gravel and dirt, and I was grateful for the sturdy rental car we had chosen. The landscape was starkly beautiful, with towering mountains on either side. We passed small villages and herds of llamas grazing on the sparse vegetation. The air was crisp and clean, and the silence was broken only by the sound of the wind.

The Sierras del Hornocal, also known as the Hill of 14 Colors, did not disappoint. The mountain range was even more vibrant than what we had seen at the mirador. According to locals, after rainfall, you can distinguish up to 32 colors. It was truly a sight to behold.


Explore the vibrant hues of Sierras del Hornocal, a breathtaking natural wonder in Jujuy Province, where geology and beauty collide.

We spent a good couple of hours exploring the area, hiking along the trails, and simply taking in the grandeur of the landscape. The guys were particularly impressed with the geological formations, and we spent some time discussing the forces that had shaped this unique corner of the world. I tried my hand at capturing the perfect shot, experimenting with different angles and filters. Photography is a passion of mine, and the Sierras del Hornocal provided endless opportunities for creativity.

For lunch, we stopped at Las Glorias Resto Bar in Humahuaca. This charming little spot was recommended by a local we met at the mirador. The restaurant had a cozy ambiance and a menu filled with regional specialties. I decided to try the pique macho, which was a hearty dish of llama meat, potatoes, and vegetables. It was the perfect fuel for our afternoon adventures.


Discover authentic Argentine flavors at Las Glorias Resto Bar in Humahuaca – where every meal tells a story.

After lunch, we made a stop at Yanallama, Libros y Café de especialidad. As a software developer, I appreciate a good café, and this place did not disappoint. I grabbed a cappuccino and browsed their selection of books, most of which were in Spanish. It was a welcome break from the day's activities, and a chance to recharge before heading back out.


Discover the perfect blend of specialty coffee and literature at Yanallama, a cozy café in Humahuaca's vibrant Plaza Mirador Inclusiva.

For dinner, we opted for a casual meal at Las mejores empanadas. This local spot is known for its delicious and affordable empanadas, and it was the perfect way to end our day. I tried a variety of flavors, from the traditional beef to the more adventurous cheese and onion. Each empanada was a burst of flavor, and it was a satisfying way to cap off our culinary journey.


Discover authentic Argentine empanadas at Las Mejores Empanadas in Humahuaca – a culinary delight that embodies local flavors and traditions.

As the sun began to set, we made our way back to our accommodation. The sky was ablaze with color, and the mountains were silhouetted against the horizon. It was a perfect end to a perfect day. I felt a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to witness such natural beauty, and a renewed appreciation for the wonders of our planet.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Vista Panoramica Camino a Iruya, limite Jujuy Salta and Camino a la Garganta del Diablo. I'm looking forward to more stunning landscapes and cultural experiences. We'll also be having breakfast at La Vieja Cazona, lunch at Pachamanka Restaurante, and dinner at Restaurante La Cacharpaya. And, if we have time, we might stop by Cerveza artesanal quebrada de Humahuaca for a local beer.

Reflecting on today, I am reminded of why I love to travel. It's not just about seeing new places, but also about experiencing new cultures, meeting new people, and challenging myself in new ways. The Quebrada de Humahuaca has been a truly transformative experience, and I am grateful for every moment. As I continue my journey, I will carry these memories with me, and I will continue to seek out the beauty and wonder that exists in our world.

Even though I missed my power adapter and sunglasses, the experiences I've had with my friends have made it worthwhile. It is experiences like these that remind me how far I've come since leaving Ocala and settling in Berlin. It's a journey of continuous discovery, and I wouldn't trade it for anything.