Top 15 Must-See Attractions in Humahuaca, Argentina

A colonial town situated along the stunning Quebrada de Humahuaca, Humahuaca was established in the late 1500s; however, indigenous people have resided in this region for thousands of years. Over time, Humahuaca emerged as a hub for trade and subsequently played a significant role during Argentina’s War of Independence. Today, tourists frequently utilize it as a starting point for further exploration of the surrounding area.

As you walk through its narrow cobblestone streets, you will encounter a whitewashed church adorned with religious art, a cabildo featuring a distinctive clock tower, and nearby archaeological ruins. For those in search of authentic llama wool blankets, Andean accessories, or artisan handicrafts, the products available in local craft fairs tend to be more economical compared to other towns in the Quebrada.

The hiking trails surrounding the Río Grande offer breathtaking views, the town plaza is charming, and the ascent to the Monumento de la Independencia presents a moderate challenge due to the high altitude. If you visit during one of the local festivals or the Carnival season, you will be treated to a vibrant display of dancing, music, masks, and costumes filling the streets during these cultural festivities!

Let’s explore the best activities to engage in while visiting Humahuaca:

1. Quebrada de Humahuaca

This UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases a vivid and multicolored panorama crafted by nature, which serves as the primary attraction for visitors to Humahuaca.

The mountainous gorge, or quebrada, extends nearly 100 miles (155 kilometers) along the Río Grande and into Bolivia.

You have the option to hire a private guide, join a bus tour, or navigate independently (the roads in this region are accessible and car rentals are available); just ensure that you include this site in your itinerary.

Begin your journey in Purmamarca with its Cerro de los Siete Colores, then travel along Ruta 9 for more striking red rock formations.

This route was once part of ancient Inca trade paths, allowing for stops to capture photographs of remarkable geological formations and other colonial towns such as Tilcara, Uquía, and Iruya during your travels.

2. Taste the Regional Cuisine

While visiting the Quebrada, take the opportunity to savor the regional delicacies of Northern Argentina.

Popular dishes include empanadas, locro (a hearty stew of corn and meat), tamales, charqui (dried, salted meat), humitas (corn pudding wrapped in husks), and llama meat.

Pacha Manka presents local specialties such as grilled goat cheese, marinated llama fillet, and coca leaf mousse in a welcoming setting.

Aisito offers menu items like quinoa empanadas, llama stew, and grilled llama steaks.

Los Patios de Lucia features charming outdoor dining with an emphasis on locally sourced organic ingredients, serving empanadas, tamales, and llama prepared in a red wine reduction sauce.

3. Serranía del Hornocal

A significant attraction for visitors to Humahuaca, these jagged and colorful mountains are located just 15 miles (25 kilometers) outside the town, showcasing a natural marvel.

The journey to this site involves winding and rugged roads; thus, consider taking a shared tour van or a camioneta (four-wheel-drive truck) with a local driver.

Most large bus tours tend to skip this destination, which is unfortunate as the limestone formations are extraordinarily stunning and dramatic.

The colors are most captivating in the afternoon and early evening as the sun sets in the western sky.

Most drivers will allocate 30 to 40 minutes at the viewpoint prior to returning; however, if you choose to drive yourself, you may explore on foot for as long as desired.

We recommend bringing coca leaves or candies with you due to the altitude, which may affect some visitors.

4. Visit Tilcara

Arguably the most vibrant pre-Hispanic village within the Quebrada de Humahuaca, spending a day (or a few nights) in Tilcara is highly recommended.

The village features an inviting town square, numerous lively bars and restaurants, as well as various historical and natural attractions.

Explore the ruins of the Pucará, visit the archaeological museum within the town, or tour the local alfajor factory, El Molle, to view the production process of these traditional Argentine treats.

If you enjoy trekking, be sure to hike the Garganta del Diablo, an impressive trail alongside a waterfall-lined gorge just outside of the village.

In the afternoon, the main plaza is bustling with street vendors, performers, and musicians, or you can opt for one of the town’s bars or peñas to experience authentic live music.

5. Monumento a los Héroes de la Independencia

This remarkable monument, constructed from over 70 tons of bronze, was erected in tribute to the Army of Northern Argentina and the indigenous peoples who fought during the country’s war for independence.

Ascend the stone steps leading up the hill to the monument for panoramic views of the town below; however, remember to apply sunscreen and bring coca leaves as the heat and altitude can be challenging! The bronze statues constituting the monument appear deceptively large, as do the cacti that now surround them.

Over 14 battles occurred in and around Humahuaca, and this monument is commonly believed to honor the indigenous messenger Pedro Socompa, who delivered the news of independence; however, others argue that it actually commemorates Diego Viltipoco, the Omaguacan chief who supported General Belgrano during the war.

6. San Francisco Solano de la Bendición

This picturesque Franciscan church, located in the main plaza, is known for its distinctive clock tower situated nearby.

Arrive at noon to witness a small figure of Saint Francisco Solano emerging from the clocktower, accompanied by music and the tolling of the hour. He performs the sign of the cross, bestowing blessings upon believers and passersby before retreating to his small abode within the clocktower.

The whitewashed Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria, built in Spanish colonial style with local materials such as adobe and cactus wood nearly 400 years ago, is notably well-preserved. Visitors are welcome to enter and observe the altar and paintings of the prophets, but photography is prohibited inside.

7. Shop for Handicrafts

Adjacent to the main plaza and the Monumento a la Madre is an artisan market similar to those in other villages across the Quebrada.

If you are seeking that ideal hat, sweater, or blanket crafted from llama wool, prices here are generally lower than most places.

In addition, you will discover an array of coca leaves, tapestries, drawings, nativity scenes, paintings, and pottery.

Food vendors are present, serving offerings such as empanadas and tamales, perfect for enjoying while you explore.

Additionally, the Centro de Artesanías Tantanahue in town allows local craftsmen to showcase their work and explain their production methods.

8. Catch Some Traditional Music and Dancing at a Peña

If you have not yet experienced live music performed with regional instruments by local artists, consider attending a peña during your stay.

Unlike the tango performances found in Buenos Aires, a traditional “peña” is a communal gathering characterized by folkloric music, dancing, and storytelling, commonly found in Northern Argentina.

While certain local venues may tend to be a bit rowdy, many restaurants throughout the Quebrada offer evening shows tailored to tourists eager to embrace the lively atmosphere.

La Peña de Fortunato, located in Humahuaca, features regional cuisine alongside performances by the well-known and charismatic musician Fortunato Ramos. If he is not available during your visit, consider exploring nearby Tilcara or Purmamarca for additional peña options.

9. See How Local Pottery is Made

Regardless of whether you plan to purchase traditional pottery crafted by a local artisan, you can visit a studio to observe the production process.

Clay plates and bowls are among the most popular handicrafts originating from Humahuaca. While varying in size, shape, and color, they are all handmade.

Composed of locally sourced mud and clay, you can witness the artist mix materials and shape the pottery (often taking requests) before kiln drying and painting the finished product.

Occasionally, you may have the opportunity to purchase the piece you just observed being created! Numerous artist studios are present within the town; however, Arte Guanuco is a larger establishment and factory where you can request insights into the pottery-making process—you will recognize it by the grand guanaco statues (and occasionally actual llamas) situated outside.

10. Hike to Peñas Blancas

If you enjoy trekking, embark on this straightforward hike to the archaeological site of Peñas Blancas starting from the town’s outskirts.

Follow Salta street and cross the Río Grande, where you will start to observe steppe-like vegetation, including carob trees and cacti along the path.

Ascend via a narrow trail, passing the altar dedicated to the Virgin of Medalla Milagrosa, and upon reaching the summit, you will enjoy views of the Quebrada, the town, and the Independence Monument.

As you proceed along the ravines, you will notice crop lines created by the ancient Omaguaca people along with their oval-shaped underground silos.

11. Visit the Town’s Archaeological Museum

Small yet informative, the Municipal Archaeological Museum provides insights into the development and lifestyle of native tribes in the Quebrada region.

Located on Santa Fé Street, this museum is conveniently located for a visit before or after your hike to the Independence Monument.

Explore four rooms displaying rocks, axes, tools, and petroglyphs crafted or shaped by indigenous people over the centuries.

Among the most intriguing exhibits are the mummies, showcasing remains of delicate fabrics and ornamental dyed llama wool attached to their preserved bodies.

Exhibits outline the evolution of these peoples, from the advent of agriculture to the phase between 800 to 1100 AD when metallurgy flourished, utilizing natural copper and bronze deposits to produce chisels, bracelets, and rings.

12. Visit Iruya

Perched precariously amidst the mountains, this quaint town, established in 1750, once served as a vital stop for horses transporting goods from the puna to Upper Peru.

Today, Iruya is a serene village that hosts various festivals celebrating Pachamama and its patron saint, Our Lady of the Rosary.

Beautiful and somewhat remote, it may be slightly off the main Quebrada route, but many regard it as a hidden treasure in Northern Argentina.

The journey to Iruya offers breathtaking views, along with excellent hiking opportunities to the Rio Iruya, Mirador de la Cruz, and Mirador el Condor.

Visitors can engage in horseback riding, explore the local church, or visit the nearby small village of San Isidro.

13. Celebrate Carnival

If you are fortunate to be in Humahuaca during Carnival, you will participate in one of Argentina’s most celebrated festivals.

Join the lively dancing, singing, and revelry that fills the streets during this vibrant nine-day celebration.

Carnival occurs annually in late February and early March, commencing with participants making a raucous march into the hills to excavate the pujllay (little devil) buried the prior year.

The legend suggests that the devil beckons idle hands (i.e., everyone) to join the festivities.

Groups of musicians known as comparsas gather to provide entertainment, while both locals and tourists dress in gypsy and devil costumes complete with masks to kick off the celebrations.

14. Chill in Plaza San Martin

From the town’s main square, you can observe the church, the unique clock tower featuring the automated Saint Francisco, and the Cabildo Histórico de Humahuaca.

Be sure to visit the Cabildo, which has been converted into a museum showcasing archaeological artifacts, paintings, and photographs.

Stroll through the craft fair lining the plaza, interact with artisans, and appreciate the scenic views of the surrounding mountains from the cobblestone streets.

A small park with benches and trees offers a shaded area for relaxation.

The bus station is conveniently located nearby, alongside a few bars where you can enjoy a refreshing beverage.

This plaza serves as an excellent spot for people-watching, with vendors selling their wares and many locals adorned in traditional Andean attire.

15. Visit Purmamarca and the Cerro de los Siete Colores

One of the most beloved and picturesque towns along the Quebrada, Purmamarca invites visitors to admire the magnificent Cerro de los Siete Colores (Hill of the Seven Colors). Stroll along the Paseo de los Colorados to view this vibrant, layered rock formation showcasing myriad colors—it’s an essential experience in the region.

Following your exploration, visit the daily handicraft market in the plaza, acknowledged as one of the largest within the Quebrada.

With an extensive selection of goods, you are likely to find the Andean-style souvenirs you desire.

This charming town is also home to adobe structures, colorful streets, a quaint old whitewashed church, and an abundance of Spanish colonial architecture.