Serranías al atardecer
1 / 10

Serranía de Hornocal

4.9
·1k reviews·, Argentina

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late Afternoon

Colors intensify with the sun

CrowdHigh
Loading map...
Serranías al atardecer

Serranía de Hornocal

Best Time

Late Afternoon

Colors intensify with the sun

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.9
(1k reviews)

"Pictures cannot do the place justice; it's one of the most amazing places I have ever visited."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The 14-Color Mountain

The 14-Color Mountain

Mirador del Hornocal

Witness a geological marvel with bands of ochre, red, yellow, and white painting the slopes.

Sunset Spectacle

Sunset Spectacle

Mirador del Hornocal

Watch as the changing light transforms the mountain's hues, creating a truly unforgettable spectacle.

Local Community Experience

Local Community Experience

Finca Doña Guadalupe

Connect with local traditions, enjoy regional cuisine, and experience rural life at the foot of the colorful mountain.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Altitude Awareness is Key

At over 4,300 meters, altitude sickness is a real concern. Take it easy, stay hydrated, and consider acclimatizing in Humahuaca or Tilcara before ascending. Listen to your body!

Timing for Peak Color

The mountain's 14 colors are most vibrant in the late afternoon as the sun begins to set. Plan your visit to catch this magical light show, but be prepared for crowds during peak times.

Best Times

When
Late Afternoon
Why
Colors intensify with the sun
Crowd
High
When
Early Morning
Why
Fewer crowds, softer light
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

¡Cosas que debes saber si visitas la Serrania del Hornocal! 🌈 Jujuy, un destino de pelicula 🎬🍿 #hornocal #pelicula #jujuy #visitjujuy #travel #viajes #turismo #argentina #paisajes #vacaciones
@visitjujuyok
60.4K likes • 1.2M views

🚗 Getting There Options

Rent a 4x4, join a tour from Humahuaca, or hire a local driver. The gravel road is challenging! InstagramReddit

⬆️ Altitude Sickness Prep

Acclimatize in Humahuaca first. Stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activity upon arrival. TikTokReddit

🏔 Serranía de Hornocal 🏔 📍Ubicada a 25 km de la ciudad de Humahuaca, esta serranía es una formación única , por su dimensión y cantidad de colores, los cuales varían estre blanco , ocre , amarillo, rojo , entre otros. 📍Está serranía puede apreciarse por completo desde el mirador ubicado al frente, a una altura de 4.344 metros sobre el nivel del mar .¿Ya lo visitaste? ¡Es increíble! 🤩🙌🏾#visitjujuy ...
@visitjujuyok
14.5K likes • 492.1K views
🌈 SERRANÍA DEL HORNOCAL, JUJUY 🌈 ¿QUÉ ES? 🌵 Un cerro de 14 colores que es parte de la formación calcárea llamada Yacoraite que se extiende desde la provincia de Salta, atravesando la Quebrada de Humahuaca y luego el Altiplano boliviano hasta Perú. ¿ALTURA? 🌵 Tiene una altura de 4761 metros sobre el nivel del mar. El mirador del estacionamiento nos marcaba que estábamos a 4338. ¿DÓNDE ESTÁ? 🌵 A...
pasaje.en.mano
3.6K likes • 93.9K views

💰 Entry Fee Support

A small fee supports the local community. It's worth it for this incredible view! TikTokReddit

📸 No Filter Needed!

The natural colors are astounding. Bring your camera, but prepare to be amazed without any edits. TikTok

AL CORAZON DEL HORNOCAL ❤️ Les invitamos a una experiencia rural en la finca de doña Guadalupe, el corazón del Hornocal. Usted podrá visitarnos, conectarse con las tradiciones de nuestra comunidad, degustar su exquisita gastronomía y vivenciar las actividades que llevamos a diario al pie del cerro de 14 colores. Finca Doña Guadalupe, se ubica al pie de la Serranía de Hornocal, a 65 Km de la ciud...
trcom.jujuy
341 likes • 9.5K views

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! InstagramReddit

⬆️ Altitude Sickness Prep

Acclimatize in Humahuaca first. Stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activity upon arrival. TikTokReddit

💰 Entry Fee Support

A small fee supports the local community. It's worth it for this incredible view! TikTokReddit

📸 No Filter Needed!

The natural colors are astounding. Bring your camera, but prepare to be amazed without any edits. TikTok

🧥 Dress in Layers

Temperatures can fluctuate wildly. Be prepared for sun, wind, and cooler temperatures, especially at sunset. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.9
(1k reviews)

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

Spectacular 14 colors
Unforgettable sunset views
Unique geological formation

What People Dislike

High altitude effects
Rough road conditions

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. TikTokInstagramReddit

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. InstagramReddit

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. Instagram

Yes, numerous tours depart from Humahuaca. These often include transportation in 4x4 vehicles and can be booked in the town's market square. Reddit

The drive typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on road conditions and your vehicle. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, there is an entrance fee, usually around $1000 pesos per person, which contributes to the local community. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

Yes, there are basic facilities available at the top, including restrooms. Reddit

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. TikTokInstagram

🎫 ⛰️ Onsite Experience

The viewpoint is located at approximately 4,350 meters (over 14,000 feet) above sea level. InstagramReddit

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. TikTokInstagram

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. TikTokReddit

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. TikTok

Yes, it's possible to spot vicuñas in the surrounding areas, adding to the natural beauty of the experience. Reddit

📸 📸 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. TikTokReddit

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. Instagram

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and respect any restrictions to avoid issues. Instagram

Experiment with different angles and times of day. The colors shift dramatically with the light, so patience and observation are key. Reddit

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. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting Serranía de Hornocal with children requires careful planning due to the high altitude. It's crucial to ensure children are well-acclimatized before the visit, perhaps by spending a few days in Humahuaca. TikTokReddit

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. Reddit

🚗 Independent Travelers

For those who prefer to explore on their own, reaching Serranía de Hornocal requires a 4x4 vehicle due to the challenging gravel road. Renting a car in Humahuaca or arranging a private driver is a viable option. TikTokInstagram

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. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Serranía de Hornocal is a photographer's dream, offering unparalleled opportunities to capture dramatic landscapes. The '14 Colors' are most vibrant in the late afternoon light, making sunset a prime time for stunning shots. TikTokReddit

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. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding the Colors

The Serranía de Hornocal, often called the 'Mountain of 14 Colors,' is a breathtaking geological formation. Its vibrant hues are a result of a complex sedimentary process that occurred over millions of years. The different mineral compositions within the rock layers create the distinct bands of color, ranging from whites and yellows to reds and purples. TikTokInstagram+1

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. TikTokReddit

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. Instagram+1

Navigating the Altitude

Visiting Serranía de Hornocal means ascending to a significant altitude, typically around 4,350 meters (over 14,000 feet) above sea level. This high altitude can pose a risk of altitude sickness, characterized by headaches, nausea, and dizziness. InstagramReddit

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. TikTokReddit

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. Reddit

Experiencing Local Culture

Beyond the stunning natural landscape, Serranía de Hornocal offers an opportunity to connect with the local communities. Finca Doña Guadalupe, located at the foot of the mountain, provides an immersive rural experience. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. TikTok

You may also like