Humahuaca Gorge and Iruya 2 Days Journey From Salta

Exploring the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Argentina’s northwest is an unforgettable experience. The 2-day journey from Salta to Humahuaca Gorge and Iruya offers travelers a chance to marvel at the stunning Hill of Seven Colors, explore ancient history, and enjoy local culture. From the vibrant Purmamarca to the enchanting 7th-century village of Iruya, this itinerary promises an adventure that will leave a lasting impression. What surprises and insights await those who embark on this captivating exploration?

This experience made our list of the 9 Best 2 Day Tours In Salta.

Good To Know

• A 2-day tour exploring the Humahuaca Gorge and the 7th-century village of Iruya, including highlights like the Hill of Seven Colors and Pucarás archaeological site.
• Includes transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off, and a knowledgeable guide providing commentary on the history and culture of the region.
• Visits to Purmamarca, Tilcara, Uquía, and Huacalera offer insights into the cultural heritage and natural wonders of the Quebrada de Humahuaca.
• Overnight stay in the charming and well-preserved Iruya village, allowing for a glimpse into the traditional way of life.
• The return journey from Iruya to Salta showcases the stunning landscapes of the Quebrada de Humahuaca.

Tour Duration and Location

The tour spans a duration of 2 days, focusing on the captivating Humahuaca Gorge and the quaint village of Iruya, both located in the Salta region of Argentina.

This immersive experience takes travelers on a journey through stunning landscapes, visiting highlights like the Hill of Seven Colors in Purmamarca, the Pucarás archaeological site in Tilcara, and the historic Iglesia San Francisco de Paula in Uquía.

The route also includes the scenic Quebrada de Humahuaca and the charming town of Humahuaca.

Travelers will have the opportunity to explore the 7th-century Iruya Village during their overnight stay before returning to Salta the following day.

Highlights of the Journey

One of the key highlights of this journey is the captivating Iruya Village, which dates back to the 7th century. This quaint mountain village offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region. Plus, the tour takes visitors to Uquia, known for its Cuzco-style art in the Iglesia San Francisco de Paula, and the vibrant Tilcara, home to the ancient Pucarà fortification and an engaging archaeological museum.

Highlight	Duration (Approx.)	Admission
Iruya Village	–	Free
Uquia Church	30 minutes	Free
Tilcara Pucarà and Museum	1 hour	Free
Humahuaca Gorge	8 hours	Free
Humahuaca Monument	30 minutes	Free

Transportation and Guide

This journey provides climate-controlled coach transportation, ensuring a comfortable experience for travelers.

Hotel pickup and drop-off from select Salta hotels are included, allowing for seamless logistics.

An engaging and knowledgeable guide accompanies the group, providing commentary on the history, culture, and significance of the key sites along the way.

The maximum group size is 20 travelers, fostering an intimate and personalized atmosphere.

Whether it’s exploring the colorful Purmamarca, the ancient Pucara in Tilcara, or the charming Iruya Village, the guide’s expertise enhances the overall discovery of this captivating region.

Day 1: Salta to Iruya

Typically, the tour departs from Salta, Argentina’s northwest, bound for the captivating Humahuaca Gorge and the charming village of Iruya. The first stop is Purmamarca, where travelers explore the Hill of Seven Colors, the local church, and the artisan market. Next, the group ventures to Tilcara to discover the Pucará and Archaeological Museum. Crossing the Tropic of Capricorn, they admire the Pollera de la Colla Hill in Huacalera before visiting the Cuzco-style art at Iglesia San Francisco de Paula in Uquía. The scenic drive through the Humahuaca Gorge culminates in Humahuaca, where the church and Monument to Independence await. Finally, the group arrives at their overnight destination, the quaint village of Iruya.

Location	Duration	Admission
Purmamarca	1 hour	Free
Tilcara	1 hour	Free
Huacalera	30 minutes	Free
Uquía	30 minutes	Free
Humahuaca	30 minutes	Free
Iruya	Overnight stay	Accommodation not included

Visiting Purmamarca and Tilcara

The tour begins with a visit to the picturesque town of Purmamarca, nestled at the base of the Hill of Seven Colors.

Travelers explore the town’s charming church and browse the lively artisan market.

Next, the group heads to Tilcara, where they discover the ancient Pucarás fortress and the renowned Archaeological Museum.

These sites provide insights into the region’s rich history and cultural heritage.

The tour then continues through the stunning Humahuaca Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as the group makes its way to the charming town of Uquía, known for its Cuzco-style art in the Church of San Francisco de Paula.

Exploring Huacalera and Uquía

As the tour continues along the scenic Humahuaca Gorge, travelers reach the town of Huacalera, where they pause to take in the views of the Pollera de la Colla Hill.

Just a short stop, this allows visitors to cross the Tropic of Capricorn and appreciate the dramatic landscapes.

Continuing on, the group arrives at Uquía, home to the Iglesia San Francisco de Paula.

This church features notable Cuzco-style art, a testament to the region’s history and cultural influences.

The guide provides insights into the significance of these sites, enriching the overall experience.

With each destination, the journey through the Humahuaca Gorge reveals more of the area’s captivating heritage.

Arriving at Iruya for Overnight Stay

Journeying further into the captivating Humahuaca Gorge, the tour arrives at the quaint village of Iruya, where travelers will spend the night.

Dating back to the 7th century, Iruya’s remote location and well-preserved architecture create a magical atmosphere. Guests will have time to explore the charming streets, visit the local church, and observe the traditional way of life.

After a day of discovering the region’s highlights, they’ll settle into their accommodations for a restful overnight stay before continuing the journey the next day.

The peaceful ambiance of Iruya provides a tranquil contrast to the dramatic landscapes of the Humahuaca Gorge.

Day 2: Iruya to Salta

Departing from the tranquil village of Iruya, the tour makes its way back to Salta.

The journey takes travelers through the scenic Quebrada de Humahuaca, where they’ll stop in San Salvador de Jujuy for a brief visit.

After the stop, the tour continues its descent, arriving back in Salta in the afternoon.

The return trip provides another opportunity to admire the stunning landscapes of the region.

With the experience of Iruya and the Humahuaca Gorge now etched in their memories, the travelers can reflect on the unique cultural and natural wonders they’ve discovered during this two-day journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Pack for the Journey?

For this journey, it’s recommended to pack comfortable walking shoes, layers of clothing, sun protection, a water bottle, snacks, and any necessary medications. Bringing a small backpack or daypack will make it easier to carry essentials throughout the trip.

Are There Any Restrictions on Luggage Size?

The tour allows for standard-sized luggage, though there are no explicit restrictions. It’s recommended to pack lightly, as the vehicle has limited storage space. Travelers should ensure their bags are easy to manage during the journey.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Halal Meal?

Yes, you can request a vegetarian or halal meal for the tour. The tour company provides this dietary accommodation, so be sure to specify your preference when booking to ensure your meal needs are met.

Is There Wi-Fi Available During the Tour?

The tour doesn’t mention Wi-Fi availability. While some accommodations may offer internet access, it’s best to check with the tour operator directly for specific details on connectivity during the journey.

Can I Extend My Stay in Iruya Village?

Yes, you can extend your stay in Iruya Village. The tour package doesn’t include accommodation in Iruya, so you’ll need to arrange any extra nights directly with the local lodging options there.

The Sum Up

The journey from Salta to Humahuaca Gorge and Iruya offers a captivating exploration of Argentina’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Travelers can marvel at the Hill of Seven Colors, explore ancient history, and enjoy the enchanting village of Iruya. This two-day adventure promises an unforgettable experience amidst Argentina’s breathtaking natural and cultural wonders.