From Salta: Full-Day Tour to Humahuaca, Purmamarca and Tilcara

Embarking on a full-day tour from Salta to the captivating Quebrada de Humahuaca region is an opportunity to witness the area’s breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can marvel at the vibrant hues of the Cerro de los Siete Colores in Purmamarca, explore the ancient Pucará ruins in Tilcara, and enjoy the history of Humahuaca, a town perched high in the Andes. With knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation, this journey promises to be an unforgettable experience. But what makes this tour truly remarkable? Delving deeper into the tour’s highlights and customer feedback might just reveal the answer.

Good To Know

The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Quebrada de Humahuaca region is explored, including key stops like Purmamarca, Maimará, Tilcara, Uquía, and Humahuaca.
The full-day tour provides an immersive journey through Salta’s northern countryside, featuring exceptional landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
The tour is operated by La Quebrada Turismo with air-conditioned vehicles, pickup service, and scheduled stops for bathroom breaks and snacks.
The tour guides are praised for their friendliness, humor, and informative style, though some travelers desire deeper historical insights.
The tour offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, ancient ruins, colonial architecture, and local artisan markets, providing a comprehensive exploration of the region.

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Tour Overview and Highlights

Offering a comprehensive exploration of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Quebrada de Humahuaca region, this full-day tour takes travelers on a captivating journey through Salta’s northern countryside.

Highlights include the picturesque town of Purmamarca, known for the Cerro de los Siete Colores, the Paleta del Pintor in Maimará, the ancient Pucarás ruins in Tilcara, the 17th-century chapel in Uquía, and the highest point in Humahuaca at 2,940 meters.

Along the way, visitors will see the Independence Monument, Cathedral Church, and Municipal Building, seeing the area’s exceptional landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

Tour Logistics

The tour is operated by La Quebrada Turismo and accommodates a maximum of 23 travelers.

Air-conditioned vehicles are provided for the journey.

Pickup is available from designated points within 15 blocks of Plaza 9 de Julio, between 7:00 a.m. and 7:45 a.m.

Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and free cancellation is possible up to 24 hours before the tour.

Stops are made for bathroom breaks and snacks during the day.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

With 23 reviews and an overall rating of 4.0, the tour has received a mix of feedback from travelers.

While 12 reviewers gave 5 stars, 6 others rated it 4 stars. However, 3 travelers left 3-star reviews, with one each for 2 and 1 star.

Positive comments highlight the tour’s beautiful scenery, friendly guides, and enjoyable experiences.

Critiques mention issues with time allocation in towns, language barriers, and seating comfort.

Guide Performance

According to the reviews, the tour guides have been praised for their friendliness and humor.

Travelers specifically highlighted the performance of guides like Leo, Hernán, and Dario, who were described as engaging and informative.

While some travelers expressed a desire for more historical context during the journey, the guides were generally deemed effective in bringing the destinations to life.

Tour Experience

Scenic landscapes are reported as stunning throughout the tour route, captivating travelers with the region’s exceptional natural beauty.

The tour experience offers a diverse array of highlights:

Short time allocated in towns (20-30 minutes) for shopping and exploration, allowing visitors to experience the local culture and atmosphere.
Travelers appreciated the opportunity to visit multiple locations, despite the time constraints.
Mixed experiences regarding vehicle comfort and seating arrangements, with some travelers noting discomfort during the lengthy journey.
Stops for bathroom breaks and snacks are included, helping to maintain energy and comfort throughout the day.
The tour provides an immersive glimpse into the natural and cultural wonders of the Humahuaca region.

Exploring Purmamarca

One of the first stops on the tour is the picturesque town of Purmamarca, renowned for its iconic Cerro de los Siete Colores (Hill of Seven Colors). Visitors are enchanted by the breathtaking display of vibrant hues adorning the mountainside.

The town itself is a vibrant cultural hub, with traditional adobe houses, local artisan markets, and the quaint Plaza de San Francisco. Travelers have the opportunity to wander the charming streets, browse the handicrafts, and soak in the serene atmosphere.

While the time allocated is limited, Purmamarca leaves a lasting impression with its stunning natural beauty and authentic Andean ambiance.

Discovering Tilcara

Next, the tour continues to the vibrant town of Tilcara, another highlight of the journey.

Tilcara is home to the impressive Pucarâ ruins, an ancient pre-Inca fortified settlement. Visitors can explore the archaeological site and gain insights into the region’s rich history.

The town itself offers a charming blend of local culture and architecture, inviting travelers to wander its streets and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Key attractions in Tilcara include:

The Pucarâ ruins, a major archaeological site
The local artisan markets, showcasing traditional crafts
The quaint colonial-style plazas and churches
Stunning views of the surrounding mountains
Opportunities to interact with the friendly local community

Reaching Humahuaca

After exploring the vibrant town of Tilcara, the tour now makes its way to the historic town of Humahuaca.

Situated at an impressive altitude of 2,940 meters, Humahuaca is the highest point reached during the tour. The town is renowned for its Independence Monument, which commemorates the region’s role in Argentina’s fight for independence.

Visitors will also have the opportunity to admire the Cathedral Church and the Municipal Building, both of which showcase the area’s rich architectural heritage.

With its striking scenery and cultural significance, Humahuaca provides a fitting climax to this immersive journey through the Quebrada de Humahuaca region.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Combine This Tour With Other Day Trips From Salta?

Yes, this tour can be combined with other day trips from Salta. Many visitors opt to take additional excursions to explore the region’s diverse landscapes and cultural attractions during their stay in Salta.

What Is the Weather Like on the Tour and What Should I Pack?

The weather can be variable, with cool temperatures and possibility of rain. Prepare for layered clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a light jacket or windbreaker. Checking the forecast before the tour is recommended to ensure you pack appropriately.

Are There Any Additional Costs Beyond the Tour Price?

The tour price generally covers the transportation and guide services. However, travelers may incur additional costs for meals, souvenirs, and optional activities like visiting museums or archaeological sites during the stops. These additional expenses aren’t included in the tour price.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Travelers are typically allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour operator includes stops for bathroom breaks and snacks, but bringing personal provisions is generally permitted and encouraged to ensure a comfortable experience.

How Accessible Is the Tour for Travelers With Disabilities?

The tour has some accessibility features, but may pose challenges for travelers with disabilities. The air-conditioned vehicle provides transportation, but the tour’s stops at historic sites and uneven terrain may limit accessibility. Travelers should inquire about specific accommodations.

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The Sum Up

This full-day tour from Salta to the Quebrada de Humahuaca region offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Visitors marvel at the vibrant towns, ancient ruins, and breathtaking landscapes, seeing the rich history and traditions of this remarkable part of Argentina. With knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation, this journey provides an unforgettable experience for anyone seeking to explore the wonders of the Humahuaca region.