Adventurous Journey through Quebrada de Humahuaca with Friends

Painted Skies and Mountain Highs

Today was nothing short of spectacular. As I sit here, the cool night air of Humahuaca seeping through the cracks in the window, I can't help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the experiences this journey has already offered. The landscapes here are simply breathtaking, and today was a masterclass in nature's artistry.

The day began, as most do when traveling with friends, with a slight scramble to get everyone moving. We managed to rally at Julieta Limón y Sal for breakfast. I opted for some local pastries and strong coffee, a perfect start to fuel our adventures. The plan was ambitious: Hornocal in the morning and Mirador de Lipan in the afternoon. I was particularly excited about Hornocal, having seen countless photos, but nothing truly prepares you for the real thing.


Discover authentic Argentinian and vegetarian cuisine at Julieta Limón y Sal in Humahuaca - a culinary gem in Jujuy Province.

The drive to Hornocal was an adventure in itself. The road wound its way up, each turn revealing increasingly dramatic vistas. The landscape transformed from arid plains to rugged mountain terrain. As we climbed higher, I could feel the air thinning, a stark reminder of the altitude. I made sure to drink plenty of water, remembering the tips I’d read about avoiding altitude sickness. Finally, we reached the viewpoint, and the sight that greeted us was simply awe-inspiring.


Explore the stunning Hornocal in Jujuy Province, Argentina, where vibrant colored hills create a breathtaking natural spectacle and unforgettable memories.

Hornocal, or the ‘Fourteen Coloured Mountain,’ is a geological marvel. The layers of rock are tilted at a sharp angle, exposing a breathtaking array of colors – ochre, yellow, green, and red – all painted across the mountainside. The scale of it is immense, dwarfing everything around it. I spent a long time just taking it all in, wandering along the edge of the viewpoint, snapping photos, and trying to capture the sheer grandeur of the scene.

The colors of Hornocal are a reminder that the Earth is a living canvas, constantly being painted and repainted by the forces of nature.

My friends were equally mesmerized. We walked around in silence, each lost in our own thoughts, occasionally pointing out a particularly striking hue or a unique rock formation. It’s moments like these that make traveling with friends so special – sharing these incredible experiences, creating memories that will last a lifetime. I know that even years from now, we’ll be reminiscing about the day we saw Hornocal together.

After soaking in the views at Hornocal, we began our descent, making our way towards Mirador de Lipan. The drive was equally stunning, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. The light was beginning to soften as the afternoon wore on, casting long shadows across the landscape. We stopped several times along the way, simply to admire the scenery and take a few more photos.


Discover the stunning vistas of Jujuy Province at Mirador de Lipan, a must-visit viewpoint for every traveler seeking natural beauty in Argentina.

Mirador de Lipan is another incredible viewpoint, offering a different perspective on the Quebrada de Humahuaca. From here, you can see the winding road snaking its way through the mountains, a testament to the ingenuity of human engineering. The vastness of the landscape is truly humbling, a reminder of our place in the world. I felt a sense of peace and tranquility wash over me as I gazed out at the horizon.

As the sun began to set, the sky transformed into a riot of colors – pink, orange, and purple – painting a breathtaking backdrop to the already stunning landscape. We stood there in silence, watching the day fade away, feeling grateful for the opportunity to witness such beauty. It was the perfect end to an already incredible day.

For dinner, we headed to Restaurante Humahuaca. I savored every bite, reflecting on the day’s adventures. The food was hearty and flavorful, a perfect complement to the stunning scenery we had witnessed. We shared stories and laughed, already planning our adventures for tomorrow. Walicho resto pub was calling our names for a nightcap. I decided on a local beer, the perfect way to unwind and reflect on the day. The pub was cozy and inviting, filled with locals and travelers alike. The atmosphere was warm and friendly, and I felt a sense of camaraderie with everyone around me.


Discover authentic Argentinian flavors at Restaurant Humahuaca in Jujuy Province - where local ingredients meet traditional recipes.


Discover the lively flavors and vibrant atmosphere of Walicho Resto Pub in Humahuaca, where authentic Argentine cuisine meets local charm.

Tomorrow, we’re planning to revisit Serranías del Hornocal, because once wasn't enough! We're also hoping to catch Vista Panorámica de la Cuesta de Aparzo - Camino al Hornocal for a different perspective. Breakfast will be at Pachananka Restaurante, and I'm already excited to try their local specialties. I’m also hoping to pick up a few souvenirs at Arte Guanuco.

As I finally settle into bed, I can’t help but think about how fortunate I am to be here, experiencing these incredible landscapes with my friends. It’s moments like these that make life so rich and rewarding. And as I drift off to sleep, I know that tomorrow will bring even more adventures and unforgettable experiences.

Despite having remembered all of my essentials, I realized that I had forgotten my sunglasses, which made the glare at high altitude quite intense! I'll need to find a pair tomorrow. Also, I really need to get a power adapter, because charging my phone is proving difficult.

Goodnight from Humahuaca!