This small town in Argentina's Quebrada valley sits at 3,000 meters altitude. Adobe buildings line its narrow streets, while the nearby hills display 14 different mineral colors.
At 3,000 meters above sea level in Argentina's Jujuy province, Humahuaca welcomes visitors with its colonial clock tower, vibrant market life, and distinctive mountain landscapes. Walk the narrow cobblestone streets to find local artists weaving llama wool textiles, smell fresh-made humitas wrapped in corn husks, or climb to the Independence Monument for views across the Rio Grande valley's multicolored peaks.
Getting to Humahuaca
Take a bus from San Salvador de Jujuy (3 hours) to reach Humahuaca, with additional connections running to Salta and La Quiaca on the Bolivian border. From Horacio Guzmán International Airport in San Salvador de Jujuy, the journey spans 126 kilometers. The compact town center makes walking the easiest way to get around.
Weather and Climate Considerations
At this altitude, temperatures vary dramatically throughout the day. During summer (December to March), afternoons reach 25°C with frequent thunderstorms, while winter days stay clear and dry. Winter mornings often drop to -5°C, so bring warm layers and prepare for temperature changes of up to 20°C between day and night.
The Clock Tower and Main Square
The central plaza's Iglesia de la Candalaria y San Antonio dates from colonial times and contains a gold-leafed altarpiece from the 1600s. Each day at noon, the mechanical figure of Saint Francisco Solano emerges from the clock tower playing a violin. From the plaza, look up to spot the white Independence Monument perched on the hillside.
Local Food Scene
Sample northern Argentine specialties in restaurants around the main square. Warm up with locro, a thick stew made with corn, beans, and meat, or try humitas - steamed corn paste wrapped in husks. Many restaurants serve llama meat in stews or grilled. Local empanadas come filled with meat, cheese, or corn.
Hiking and Mountain Views
Drive 25 kilometers to see the Serrania del Hornocal's striped mountains, with layers of rock in 14 distinct colors. Take a morning hike to Peñas Blancas archaeological site, following a 2-kilometer trail along the Rio Grande. For city views, climb the 284 steps to the Independence Monument.
Arts and Crafts
Browse the daily market on the monument steps, where weavers sell ponchos and scarves made from llama and sheep wool. At the Tantanahue Crafts Centre (276 Buenos Aires Street), watch potters shape local clay and see textiles from nearby villages including Coctaca, Iruya, and Rodeo.
Carnival and Festivals
During Carnival (February-March), join street parties with traditional copla singers and dancers wearing devil masks. The celebration continues for nine days with parades, music, and regional food. Throughout the year, religious festivals bring similar celebrations, with processions and local music filling the streets.
