Things To Do
in Humahuaca
Humahuaca is a small town located in the Jujuy province of Argentina. It is known for its stunning landscapes, including the colorful mountains that surround the town. The town is famous for its traditional Andean culture and hosts a vibrant market where locals sell handicrafts and traditional foods.
Visitors can also explore historical sites like the Monumento a los Heroes de la Independencia and the Santa Barbara Chapel.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $80
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $1.50 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $25 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Humahuaca Gorge, where you can enjoy the breathtaking landscapes. Take a short hike to appreciate the colorful rock formations.
After lunch, explore the local artisan markets to find unique handmade crafts and souvenirs. Engage with local artisans to learn about their traditional techniques.
End the day with a traditional Argentinian dinner at a cozy local restaurant. Savor the flavors of regional dishes, accompanied by a glass of Malbec.
Head to the Huerta Grande viewpoint for panoramic views of the valleys. This is a perfect spot for some stunning sunrise photography.
Take a leisurely walk around the town to visit the local museums. Learn about the fascinating history of Humahuaca and its people.
Enjoy a quiet evening walk along the riverside. Consider catching a sunset by the water, it’s a peaceful way to end the day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Breathtaking natural scenery with stunning landscapes, including the Quebrada de Humahuaca, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Rich cultural heritage with indigenous influence and colorful festivals throughout the year.
- Opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, climbing, and exploring local wildlife.
- Charming, small-town atmosphere with vibrant markets and local crafts.
- Delicious local cuisine featuring traditional Argentine dishes and regional specialties.
- Remote location that may require significant travel time to reach.
- Limited access to modern amenities and services compared to larger cities.
- Potential language barrier for non-Spanish speakers.
- High altitude may cause discomfort for visitors not acclimated to the elevation.
- Weather can be extreme, with hot days and cold nights, impacting travel plans.
Best Activities in Humahuaca
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning landscapes and colorful rock formations of the Quebrada de Humahuaca, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with various trails catering to different skill levels.
Take a day trip to see the breathtaking Cerro de los Siete Colores in Purmamarca, famous for its vibrant, multi-colored hills.
Visit the impressive salt flats of Salinas Grandes, where you can take guided tours, enjoy unique photo opportunities, and learn about salt extraction.
Wander through the local markets in Humahuaca, where you can find artisanal crafts, local foods, and traditional clothing while enjoying the lively atmosphere.
Join guided cultural tours that explore the rich history of the region, including visits to ancient ruins, colonial churches, and indigenous communities.
Take advantage of Humahuaca's diverse ecosystems for birdwatching. Look out for native species in their natural habitats.
Rent a bike and take the scenic routes through the valleys and mountains, enjoying the breathtaking views while experiencing the thrill of mountain biking.
Explore historical landmarks such as the Independence Monument and the Church of Our Lady of Candelaria, learning about the area's significant history.
Tours
Uncover the best of Humahuaca with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Humahuaca
Visit one of these nice places.
This stunning mountain features stripes of vibrant colors, offering breathtaking panoramic views and excellent photo opportunities.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this valley is renowned for its dramatic landscapes and unique geological formations, perfect for landscape photography.
The central square is surrounded by colonial architecture and lively markets, making it a great spot for capturing the local culture and atmosphere.
A viewpoint that offers sweeping vistas of the Humahuaca canyon, ideal for sunsets and capturing the changing colors of the landscape.
This historic church features a beautiful façade and is set against a backdrop of the stunning mountains, offering great photography opportunities.
A spot where you can admire the 'Seven Colors Hill' at sunset, renowned for being a phenomenal location for dramatic photographs.
An ancient fortress located on a hill that provides a historical context as well as impressive views of the surrounding landscape.
Food in Humahuaca
Humahuaca Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty stew made with corn, beans, meat, and Andean spices. It's a popular dish often enjoyed during festivals and celebrations. It can be found at local eateries and traditional food fairs.
Must-Try!
A traditional dish made from fresh corn, onions, and spices, wrapped and steamed in corn husks. It's a delicious and filling treat commonly available at street food stalls and local markets.
Savory pastry filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, often accompanied by spicy sauces. They are a staple snack, and visitors can sample them at various restaurants, cafes, and street food vendors.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling traditional market where visitors can immerse themselves in the local food scene. It offers an array of street food options, including freshly prepared empanadas, grilled meats, and corn-based specialties like humitas.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Humahuaca is rich in indigenous culture and traditions. It is essential to be respectful towards local customs, such as festivals and traditional ceremonies. Participate with an open mind and show appreciation for their heritage.
When meeting people, a friendly greeting is important. A simple 'Hola' with a smile is generally accepted. It’s polite to greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact to show sincerity.
Clothing can convey respect in Humahuaca. While casual attire is acceptable for tourists, it's wise to dress modestly when visiting local communities or sacred sites, as this demonstrates respect for their culture and values.
Safety
Tipping in Humahuaca
Ensure a smooth experience
In Humahuaca, tipping is customary in restaurants and cafes, typically ranging from 10% to 15% of the total bill. It is appreciated but not mandatory. In informal settings or small businesses, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.
Payments in Humahuaca can be made in cash, with Argentine pesos being the preferred currency. While some establishments accept credit and debit cards, many local vendors and small shops may only accept cash. It's advisable to have enough cash on hand, especially in more remote areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Humahuaca is a beautiful time to visit, with mild temperatures and blooming landscapes. Visitors can expect pleasant weather, ideal for exploring the stunning mountains and cultural sites. This season is also marked by various local festivals, showcasing traditional music and dance.
Summer brings warm temperatures, making it a popular time to visit. However, afternoon rains are common, so travelers should be prepared for unpredictable weather. The vibrant colors of the scenery are at their peak, and outdoor activities such as trekking are widely enjoyed.
Autumn features cooler temperatures and clearer skies, making it an excellent time for sightseeing and outdoor adventures. The changing foliage adds stunning colors to the landscape, and the harvest season leads to local festivals celebrating traditional foods and crafts.
Winter in Humahuaca can be quite cold, especially at night, but daytime temperatures are usually manageable. This season offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists. Visitors can enjoy the stunning landscapes, unique geological formations, and cultural experiences without the crowds.
Humahuaca at Night
Hiking in Humahuaca
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning mountain range featuring vibrant colored hills and unique geological formations, perfect for hiking and photography.
Located near Purmamarca, this area offers various trails that provide panoramic views of the famous Seven Colors Hill and surrounding landscapes.
A network of paths that winds through the breathtaking valleys of the Quebrada de Humahuaca, ideal for both novice and experienced hikers.
A scenic lagoon surrounded by mountains, offering trails and opportunities for bird watching and appreciating local flora.
A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring a range of hiking paths that take you through stunning landscapes, traditional villages, and ancient ruins.
Aiports
How to reach Humahuaca by plane.
Located in Jujuy Province, this airport serves as the main international airport for the region, facilitating flights to and from major cities.
Located in Salta Province, this airport offers both domestic and international flights, serving as a hub for travelers in the northern part of Argentina.
Situated near Tucumán, this airport provides connections to various domestic and international destinations, serving the northwestern region of Argentina.
A smaller airport that offers limited services, primarily domestic flights. It's closer to the Humahuaca area but has less international connectivity.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Includes various indigenous communities, notably the Quechua and Aymara, who maintain traditional customs and languages.
Predominantly of Spanish descent, these residents are involved in agriculture and tourism, contributing to the cultural fabric of the town.
People of mixed European and Indigenous ancestry, representing a significant part of the demographic landscape.
Visitors from both national and international locations interested in the region’s cultural heritage, natural beauty, and historical significance.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Humahuaca, with many local teams and leagues engaging the community.
Basketball is also popular among the youth, with several courts available for practice and matches.
Volleyball enjoys popularity, especially among women, and is played in schools and community centers.
Rugby has a growing following in Humahuaca, with local clubs forming to promote the sport.
Athletics is popular, particularly running events, thanks to the stunning landscapes that inspire outdoor activities.
Traditional games and sports, including various local forms of competition, are also important in preserving cultural heritage.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Humahuaca.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Andean cuisine heavily features meat, many restaurants and cafes in Humahuaca offer vegetarian and vegan versions of classic dishes, along with creative plant-based options.
Visitors following a gluten-free diet can enjoy a range of options at select eateries, including cafes that serve gluten-free pastries and bread, as well as restaurants that accommodate gluten-free preferences.