
Serranía de Hornocal
A geological marvel in Jujuy, Argentina, featuring a mountain painted with 14 vibrant natural colors.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Colors intensify with the sun

Serranía de Hornocal
Best Time
Colors intensify with the sun

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A geological marvel in Jujuy, Argentina, featuring a mountain painted with 14 vibrant natural colors.
"Pictures cannot do the place justice; it's one of the most amazing places I have ever visited."

🚗 Getting There Options
Rent a 4x4, join a tour from Humahuaca, or hire a local driver. The gravel road is challenging!
⬆️ Altitude Sickness Prep
Acclimatize in Humahuaca first. Stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activity upon arrival.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The 14-Color Mountain
Mirador del Hornocal
Witness a geological marvel with bands of ochre, red, yellow, and white painting the slopes.

Sunset Spectacle
Mirador del Hornocal
Watch as the changing light transforms the mountain's hues, creating a truly unforgettable spectacle.

Local Community Experience
Finca Doña Guadalupe
Connect with local traditions, enjoy regional cuisine, and experience rural life at the foot of the colorful mountain.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Altitude Awareness is Key
Timing for Peak Color
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Getting There Options
Rent a 4x4, join a tour from Humahuaca, or hire a local driver. The gravel road is challenging!
⬆️ Altitude Sickness Prep
Acclimatize in Humahuaca first. Stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activity upon arrival.
💰 Entry Fee Support
A small fee supports the local community. It's worth it for this incredible view!
📸 No Filter Needed!
The natural colors are astounding. Bring your camera, but prepare to be amazed without any edits.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Getting There Options
Rent a 4x4, join a tour from Humahuaca, or hire a local driver. The gravel road is challenging!
⬆️ Altitude Sickness Prep
Acclimatize in Humahuaca first. Stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activity upon arrival.
💰 Entry Fee Support
A small fee supports the local community. It's worth it for this incredible view!
📸 No Filter Needed!
The natural colors are astounding. Bring your camera, but prepare to be amazed without any edits.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Temperatures can fluctuate wildly. Be prepared for sun, wind, and cooler temperatures, especially at sunset.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently rave about the breathtaking, otherworldly beauty of the Serranía de Hornocal, calling it a must-see in Northern Argentina. The changing colors at sunset are particularly magical, making the challenging journey worthwhile. Some note the significant altitude and the rough road, recommending preparation and tours for comfort.
"Amazing nature experience. The magnificent view of the multicolored mountain in the 4.350 meters height and all of the vicuñas should be a must see if you are traveling around Argentinas north parts."
Philip Løfberg
"Just wonderful. Best things to do is to come for sunset and don’t hesitate to walk to go closer the mountain. The moment is unique, the colors change quickly.
When the sun disappears, go back to you car, drive a bit, and stop after some minutes to observe the end of the sunset from the mountain. You will see, that’s sensational"
Virgil Dejean
"We bought 4x4 tickets on the market square in Humahuaca for $15000 pesos each. They packed 6 adults into a Toyota Landcruiser. 25 km gravel road climbing 5000ft (we didn't fancy the drive ourselves). There is also a $1000 pesos per person entry fee to pay when almost at the top.
Once up there the discomfort of the journey is forgotten. Truly a spectacle unlike any other.
Facilities at the top should you need them. We didn't walk down to the lookout as the climb back up seemed too steep, with so little air, at over 14,000ft.
Highly recommended
@grandrovervoyager."
Nikki Johnson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is to take Provincial Route 73, a 25km gravel road from Humahuaca. You can drive yourself if you have a 4x4 vehicle, hire a taxi or tour from Humahuaca, or join an organized tour. Some travelers recommend hiring a 4x4 for the challenging road.
Yes, the road is primarily gravel and can be challenging, especially after rain. Many visitors opt for a 4x4 vehicle or a guided tour for a safer and more comfortable journey.
It's not recommended. A regular car may struggle with the gravel road and steep inclines. A 4x4 vehicle is highly advised for this route.
Yes, numerous tours depart from Humahuaca. These often include transportation in 4x4 vehicles and can be booked in the town's market square.
The drive typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on road conditions and your vehicle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an entrance fee, usually around $1000 pesos per person, which contributes to the local community.
The site is generally accessible during daylight hours. The best time to visit for the colors is late afternoon, but it's advisable to check for any specific closing times or seasonal variations.
Advance booking is generally not required for the entrance fee, which is paid upon arrival. However, if you're booking a tour, it's wise to do so a day or two in advance, especially during peak season.
Yes, there are basic facilities available at the top, including restrooms.
Yes, you can visit independently if you have a suitable vehicle (4x4) and are comfortable with the road conditions. However, many visitors find a guided tour beneficial for understanding the geology and local culture.
🎫 ⛰️ Onsite Experience
The viewpoint is located at approximately 4,350 meters (over 14,000 feet) above sea level.
The primary attraction is the stunning Serranía de Hornocal, also known as the 'Mountain of 14 Colors,' due to its vibrant geological formations. The changing colors at sunset are also a major draw.
The main viewpoint is accessible directly from the parking area. However, some visitors choose to walk down to closer viewpoints, which can be steep and challenging due to the altitude.
Dress in layers as temperatures can change significantly. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, along with sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) and a warm jacket, especially for sunset visits.
Yes, it's possible to spot vicuñas in the surrounding areas, adding to the natural beauty of the experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoon, leading up to sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting as the sun's rays illuminate the mountain's colors. However, early morning can provide softer light and fewer crowds.
While any camera will capture the beauty, a wide-angle lens can be useful to encompass the vastness of the landscape. A good zoom can also capture details of the colorful strata.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and respect any restrictions to avoid issues.
Experiment with different angles and times of day. The colors shift dramatically with the light, so patience and observation are key.
The main viewpoint offers a panoramic vista. For different perspectives, consider walking down the path (if you're acclimatized) or exploring slightly off the main path with caution.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep the visit brief and focus on the main viewpoint, as strenuous walking or prolonged exposure to the altitude might be challenging for younger ones. Bring plenty of snacks and water, and be prepared for fluctuating temperatures. The sheer visual spectacle of the colorful mountain can be captivating for children, but monitor their well-being closely.
🚗 Independent Travelers
Be sure to check road conditions beforehand, especially if traveling during or after rainy periods. While the drive is an adventure, the payoff is the freedom to explore at your own pace and linger at the viewpoints. Remember to factor in the entrance fee and potential for crowds, especially during peak hours.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with wide-angle lenses to capture the grandeur of the mountain range and telephoto lenses to highlight the intricate details of the colorful strata. Be prepared for changing light conditions and consider bringing a tripod for sharper images, especially during the golden hour.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Colors
These colors are not static; they change dramatically throughout the day, especially during sunrise and sunset. The low-angle sunlight accentuates the textures and depths of the mountain, making late afternoon the most popular time for visitors seeking the most vivid displays.
While the exact geological explanations can be complex, the visual impact is undeniable. It's a natural masterpiece that draws visitors from around the world to witness its unique beauty. The mountain is part of the Yacoraite formation, which stretches across a significant portion of South America.
Navigating the Altitude
To mitigate these risks, it's highly recommended to spend at least one or two nights in lower-altitude towns like Humahuaca (around 3,000 meters) or Tilcara before heading to Hornocal. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoiding alcohol and heavy meals on the day of your visit can also help.
Listen to your body. If you start feeling unwell, take it easy, rest, and consider descending if symptoms worsen. While the views are spectacular, your health and safety should always be the priority. Many visitors find the experience well worth the effort, but preparation is key.
Experiencing Local Culture
Visitors can engage with the traditions of the community, savor authentic regional gastronomy, and participate in daily activities. This offers a deeper understanding of the life and culture that thrives in this unique environment, making the trip more than just a sightseeing excursion.
Supporting these local initiatives through visits and purchases not only enriches your travel experience but also contributes directly to the well-being of the people who call this extraordinary region home.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit